Choosing between Skillshare and Udemy is like picking where to eat out. Think of Skillshare as that cozy café downtown where you can sip a coffee and learn to paint, take photos, or even knit. It’s all about getting those creative juices flowing in a relaxed, project-focused way. Perfect if you’re looking to add a splash of creativity to your life or just want to unwind with something fun.
Udemy? It’s more like that huge buffet with every dish you can think of. From tech and business skills to baking and yoga, it’s got a bit of everything. It’s the spot to go when you’re not exactly sure what you’re hungry for but know you want to leave full. Whether you’re aiming to boost your career or just explore new hobbies, Udemy’s got your back with its vast menu.
So, if your heart’s set on diving deep into creative waters, pull up a chair at Skillshare’s table. But if you’re in the mood to fill up your plate with a little bit of everything, Udemy’s buffet is waiting.
Table of Contents
- Skillshare vs Udemy—A 30,000-foot overview
- Skillshare at a Glance
- Udemy from Above
- Skillshare vs Udemy—Pricing
- Skillshare vs Udemy—Courses and Instructors
- Udemy Instructors
- Skillshare Instructors
- User Experience
- Skillshare and Udemy alternatives
- Udemy FAQ
- Skillshare FAQ
- Final Verdict: Udemy or Skillshare—which one is worth it?
When you’re trying to figure out whether Skillshare or Udemy is the better fit for you, it helps to zoom out and get the big picture. Let’s start by flying over Skillshare.
Imagine walking into a vibrant workshop filled with artists, photographers, and writers, all sharing what they know. That’s Skillshare for you. It’s less about traditional learning and more about joining a community where everyone’s keen to share tips and tricks. The courses are short, usually a couple of hours long, and are split into bite-sized lessons. Most of them end with a project, so you can put what you’ve learned into practice right away.
Skillshare Course Categories
• Creative (e.g., illustration, design, photography)
• Business (e.g., entrepreneurship, marketing, freelance)
• Technology (e.g., web development, data science)
• Lifestyle (e.g., culinary arts, crafts, home decor)
• Writing (e.g., creative writing, business writing, journalism)
• Film & Video (e.g., film production, video editing)
• Music (e.g., music production, music theory, performance)
• Fine Art (e.g., painting, drawing, sculpture)
• Animation (e.g., 3D animation, character animation, motion graphics)
• Productivity (e.g., time management, workflow, software utilization)
• Freelance & Entrepreneurship (e.g., building an online business, personal branding)
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Now, let’s hop over to Udemy.
Udemy from Above
Udemy feels like a giant library where you can find books on literally anything. With over 130,000 courses, there’s something for everyone, from learning to code to perfecting your baking skills. Courses can range from an hour to over 20 hours, and you can start and stop whenever it suits you. It’s a mix of professional development and personal interest courses, taught by experts, enthusiasts, and everyone in between.
Udemy Course Categories
• Development (e.g., web development, programming languages, game development)
• Business (e.g., finance, entrepreneurship, project management)
• IT & Software (e.g., IT certifications, network & security, operating systems)
• Office Productivity (e.g., Microsoft, Apple, Google)
• Personal Development (e.g., personal transformation, productivity, leadership)
• Design (e.g., graphic design, web design, user experience)
• Marketing (e.g., digital marketing, search engine optimization, social media marketing)
• Lifestyle (e.g., arts & crafts, beauty & makeup, travel)
• Photography & Video (e.g., digital photography, video design, commercial photography)
• Health & Fitness (e.g., fitness, general health, nutrition)
• Music (e.g., instruments, production, vocal)
• Teaching & Academics (e.g., language, science, math & science)
Both platforms have their strengths: Skillshare shines with its creative community and project-based learning, while Udemy stands out for its vast variety of courses and self-paced learning. It really comes down to what you’re looking for: a community vibe with hands-on projects, or a vast library of courses covering a wide range of topics.
When it comes to online learning, the cost can be a pivotal factor in choosing the right platform. Skillshare entices learners with a one-month free trial of its Premium membership, offering an all-access pass to a vast library of courses. Meanwhile, Udemy’s a la carte pricing model allows lifelong access to individual courses, accommodating learners who prefer a more focused approach. Both platforms cater to different preferences, whether you’re sampling a buffet of knowledge or ordering a specific dish to savor indefinitely.
Navigating Skillshare’s pricing can seem like a treasure hunt since the details aren’t immediately visible on their homepage. You typically need to dig a little deeper or hear from someone who’s joined their Premium membership. Luckily, I can give you the scoop on their current offerings.
Skillshare now leads with its Premium membership, which kicks off with a one-month trial period. While you will have to enter payment details to start this, the trial allows full access to their extensive library of over 35,000 classes. After the trial, if you choose to continue, there are two payment options:
- A monthly fee of $32
- An annual fee of $168, which breaks down to around $14 per month, offering significant savings compared to the monthly rate
Premium members not only get unlimited access to all classes but also have the benefit of downloading classes to mobile devices for offline learning.
Skillshare can be free, at least for the first month. It’s a great way to test-drive the platform’s courses at no cost. Just remember, if you don’t want to move on to a paid subscription, you’ll need to cancel before the trial month is up to avoid any charges. Skillshare is upfront about this option, clearly stating the need to cancel before the trial ends right on their sign-up page for the free trial.
Udemy Pricing
Udemy approaches pricing differently from Skillshare. Instead of a subscription model, Udemy allows you to purchase courses individually. This pay-as-you-learn approach means you can focus on exactly what you want to learn without the commitment of a subscription. Course prices on Udemy vary, typically ranging from about $10 to $200. However, Udemy is known for its frequent sales, often offering steep discounts on courses, which can be a great time to enroll.
The benefit of this model is that once you buy a course, you have lifetime access to it. This means you can revisit the material as often as you need, whether it’s for a quick refresher or an in-depth study session. Also, Udemy often provides additional resources along with the courses, such as downloadable PDFs, practice exercises, and sometimes even quizzes to test your knowledge.
Udemy does not currently offer a free trial, given its per-course pricing model, but they do have a selection of free courses available for those looking to learn without a financial commitment. Plus, if you ever decide a course isn’t right for you, Udemy offers a 30-day refund policy for added peace of mind.
Udemy Courses
Udemy is like a bustling city of learning, with courses covering everything under the sun. You can find classes tailored to professionals looking to enhance their job skills, hobbyists wanting to learn something new, and even students needing supplementary learning. What’s great is that you can often find several courses on the same topic, giving you the freedom to choose based on the teaching style, course content, and reviews.
Popular Udemy Courses
Udemy’s popularity stems from its variety, but here are a few standout courses that have gained attention:
• “2023 Complete Python Bootcamp From Zero to Hero in Python” for budding developers.
• “The Complete Digital Marketing Course – 12 Courses in 1” for marketing professionals.
• “Pianoforall – Incredible New Way to Learn Piano & Keyboard” for music enthusiasts.
Udemy Instructors
Udemy’s platform is home to a wide array of instructors from various industries and professions, each bringing their unique expertise and experience to the courses they teach. Here are a few notable examples:
• Rob Percival, a web developer who has taught coding to over a million students, known for his “Complete Web Developer Course.”
• Jose Portilla, a data scientist and one of Udemy’s most popular instructors, offering comprehensive courses in Python, data science, and machine learning.
• Phil Ebiner, a highly-rated instructor with a background in film and video production, sharing skills in photography, video editing, and content creation.
Skillshare fosters a community of learners who value interactive, hands-on learning experiences. Its courses are streamlined into concise lessons, making learning both efficient and engaging. Unlike Udemy’s extensive catalog, Skillshare narrows its focus, curating content that drives creativity and practical skill application.
Here are some courses on Skillshare that have resonated with learners:
• “Character Illustration: Drawing Faces, Figures & Clothing” for aspiring illustrators.
• “Creative Writing for All: A 10-Day Journaling Challenge” for those looking to enhance their writing.
• “iPhone Photography: How to Take Pro Photos On Your iPhone” for photography buffs.
Instructors on Skillshare are often luminaries in their creative fields. They bring real-world experience and a touch of star quality to their courses, which is part of the appeal for students. For example, you might find:
• Jessica Hische, a renowned lettering artist, teaching a course on typography.
• Roxane Gay, a celebrated author, guiding a workshop on crafting personal essays.
• Yuko Shimizu, an award-winning illustrator, sharing her process for creating striking imagery.
User Experience
Navigating Skillshare feels personal and intuitive. The platform’s design is modern and clean, emphasizing a seamless learning experience. It starts with a welcoming onboarding process, where Skillshare suggests courses based on your interests. As you scroll through the home page, you’ll find well-organized sections like “Staff Picks” and “Trending,” which feel like carefully crafted shelves in a bookstore, each inviting you to explore.
One of the hallmarks of the Skillshare experience is the project-based approach. Every course encourages you to create something—a tangible output that you can share within the course community. This interactive element is complemented by the platform’s responsive discussion forums where instructors and learners actively exchange ideas and feedback. It’s these community features that bring a workshop-like feel to the digital space.
Skillshare also offers a mobile app, which means your classes are as mobile as you are. You can download lessons to watch offline, perfect for learning on the go, whether you’re commuting or waiting in line.
Udemy User Experience
Udemy’s platform caters to a diverse, global audience with varying needs and goals. The user interface is designed to handle this diversity with ease. You can customize your learning experience by adjusting playback speed, setting bookmarks, and taking notes—all features aimed at enhancing your learning.
The course landing pages on Udemy provide detailed information, including course outlines, instructor qualifications, user ratings, and reviews. This transparency helps you feel confident about your choices. Plus, the ability to preview courses means you can get a feel for the instructor’s style and the course content before making a purchase.
Udemy also stands out with its course update feature. Instructors can update their content to keep it current, and you’ll have access to these updates, ensuring you’re always learning the latest in your field.
Both Skillshare and Udemy offer user experiences tailored to their audiences. Skillshare fosters a close-knit community vibe that encourages collaboration and hands-on learning. In contrast, Udemy provides a vast, well-structured library of knowledge with tools designed to tailor individual learning paths. The choice between them can often come down to personal preference: do you value a community-centric experience or a self-directed, comprehensive course selection?
When comparing Skillshare and Udemy with Coursera, you’re looking at the difference between skill-based learning and academic education. Skillshare’s strong suit is creative learning through projects, while Udemy offers a wide range of practical courses. Coursera stands out with its partnerships with universities, offering more structured coursework that often includes homework and grades, making it ideal for those who prefer a traditional academic setting.
In the context of Skillshare and Udemy versus edX, the lines are similar to those with Coursera. Skillshare and Udemy excel in offering personal development and skill acquisition. On the other hand, edX provides university-level courses that delve deeper into academic subjects and often include the opportunity to earn college credit, appealing to those who value an academic challenge alongside their learning.
Looking at Skillshare and Udemy in comparison with LinkedIn Learning, there’s a distinct professional edge. Both Skillshare and Udemy help learners gain new skills, with Skillshare leaning more towards creative skills and Udemy offering a broader range. LinkedIn Learning, however, aligns closely with professional development, especially for those who want their learning achievements to be visible to potential employers on LinkedIn.
MasterClass provides a unique contrast to both Skillshare and Udemy. While all three platforms provide video-based courses, Skillshare emphasizes interactive projects, and Udemy offers comprehensive knowledge on a variety of topics. MasterClass differentiates itself by offering lessons taught by world-renowned experts and celebrities, which are more about learning from the very best in a field rather than interactive or community-based learning.
Codecademy, as an alternative to Skillshare and Udemy, narrows the focus even further to cater specifically to those interested in coding and data science. Unlike Skillshare’s creative classes and Udemy’s extensive catalog, Codecademy offers an interactive, hands-on approach to learning programming, with a platform that’s designed to practice code and see immediate results.
Lastly, when comparing Skillshare and Udemy to Khan Academy, the key difference is the target audience and price point. Skillshare and Udemy cater to a broad adult audience with interests in a wide range of topics, whereas Khan Academy focuses on providing free educational content for school-aged students and those looking to revisit foundational topics in subjects like math, science, and the humanities.
Udemy FAQ
How often does Udemy have sales?
Udemy is known for its regular promotional events and sales, which can occur multiple times a month. These sales often reduce the prices of courses dramatically, sometimes by up to 90%, making it an opportune time for learners to enroll in courses they’ve been eyeing. Keeping an eye on the platform or signing up for Udemy’s newsletter can keep you informed about these sales.
What types of courses can I find on Udemy?
Udemy boasts an expansive catalog with over 130,000 courses in various categories. Whether you’re looking to advance in your career with courses in programming, data science, and project management, or you want to pick up a new hobby like photography, painting, or cooking, Udemy likely has a course for you. The platform’s diverse range of topics ensures that learners from all walks of life can find something that suits their interests and needs.
Is there a limit to how many courses I can buy on Udemy?
There’s no cap on the number of courses you can purchase on Udemy, allowing you to curate your learning path without constraints. Each course you buy is yours to keep indefinitely in your Udemy library, making it easy to manage your learning journey and revisit material whenever you need a refresher.
Can I access Udemy courses on my phone or tablet?
Udemy’s mobile application, available for both iOS and Android devices, offers a flexible learning experience. You can stream courses online or download them for offline viewing, making it convenient to learn whenever and wherever suits you best. The app maintains the quality and interactive features of the desktop platform, ensuring a seamless learning experience on the go.
Does Udemy offer certificates of completion?
Upon completing a course on Udemy, learners receive a certificate of completion. These certificates serve as a testament to your commitment and learning but are not formally accredited by educational institutions. They can still be valuable for personal satisfaction, professional development, and demonstrating your skills and knowledge in certain areas, especially when shared on professional networks like LinkedIn.
How does Skillshare’s membership work?
Skillshare operates on a subscription model, offering unlimited access to all its courses under one fee. Once you subscribe, you can explore and enroll in any class that catches your eye, from creative arts to business analytics. This model encourages exploration and continuous learning across a wide array of subjects.
What kind of courses does Skillshare offer?
Skillshare is particularly known for its strong emphasis on creative courses, such as illustration, photography, graphic design, and creative writing. However, it also offers courses in more technical areas like marketing, business, and technology. Skillshare’s classes are project-based, making learning hands-on and interactive.
Can I try Skillshare for free?
Yes, Skillshare offers a one-month free trial for new users, allowing full access to its course library. This trial period is an excellent way to explore what Skillshare has to offer and start learning new skills at no initial cost. Remember to cancel before the trial ends if you decide not to continue with a paid subscription.
Is Skillshare suitable for professional development?
While Skillshare is known for its creative courses, it also offers a range of classes suitable for professional development. Courses in fields like entrepreneurship, marketing, and web development can enhance your professional skills and knowledge. However, it’s worth noting that Skillshare focuses more on learning by doing and may not always provide traditional educational credentials like certificates.
What makes Skillshare different from other learning platforms?
Skillshare fosters a community-centric learning environment where students not only learn from instructors but also from each other. The project-based nature of its courses encourages students to apply what they’ve learned by completing and sharing projects. This interactive and community-driven approach sets Skillshare apart and makes it an attractive option for learners seeking a more engaging and collaborative learning experience.
Deciding between Udemy and Skillshare boils down to your learning preferences, goals, and the type of content you’re seeking. Here’s a breakdown to help you make an informed choice:
Content and Focus
Udemy offers a vast library with over 130,000 courses covering a wide array of topics, from business and technology to personal development and hobbies. If you’re looking for specific skills, especially in the tech or business fields, or if you enjoy exploring a broad range of subjects, Udemy might be the better fit.
Skillshare focuses more on creative, entrepreneurial, and lifestyle courses. If you’re inclined towards improving your creative skills, such as illustration, photography, design, and writing, or you’re interested in engaging in project-based learning within a community, Skillshare could be more up your alley.
Learning Experience
Udemy courses are comprehensive, often providing in-depth instruction on a subject. You’ll find a mix of shorter and longer courses, allowing for both quick learning and deep dives. The platform suits self-paced learning, where you can pick and choose exactly what you want to learn.
Skillshare emphasizes community learning and project-based courses. The courses are typically shorter, making them ideal for integrating learning into a busy schedule. If you value interacting with other learners and instructors and appreciate a hands-on approach, Skillshare offers a vibrant community.
Pricing
Udemy operates on a pay-per-course model, which means you pay for each course you want to take. This a la carte system can be cost-effective if you’re interested in only a few courses or if you catch courses during Udemy’s frequent sales.
Skillshare works on a subscription model, offering access to all its courses for a monthly or yearly fee. This can be a great value if you plan to take multiple courses across different areas or if you prefer the freedom to explore a wide range of content without paying for each course individually.
Final Verdict
Both Udemy and Skillshare have their unique strengths and cater to different types of learners. If you prefer a broad selection of topics, including professional development in technical and business areas, and enjoy learning at your own pace, Udemy might be the way to go. On the other hand, if you’re drawn to the creative arts, enjoy learning through projects, and value being part of a community, Skillshare could be the better choice for you.
Ultimately, the decision between Udemy and Skillshare should be based on how you like to learn, the topics you’re interested in, and how you prefer to pay for your online education. Both platforms offer high-quality content that can help you achieve your learning goals, so you might even consider using both, depending on your varied interests.
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