Laracasts vs Udemy: Which is Better in 2026?
Choosing between Laracasts and Udemy comes down to understanding what each tool does best. This comparison breaks down the key differences so you can make an informed decision based on your specific needs, not marketing claims.
Short on time? Here's the quick answer
We've tested both tools. Here's who should pick what:
Laracasts
Learn modern PHP and Laravel development through expert-led video tutorials and practical examples.
Best for you if:
- • You need learning & training features specifically
- • Comprehensive video tutorials for PHP and Laravel development.
- • Covers a wide range of web development topics.
Udemy
Affordable online courses on virtually any topic
Best for you if:
- • You want to try before committing
- • You need online course platforms features specifically
- • Udemy is an online learning marketplace with courses on any topic
- • It offers thousands of video courses from expert instructors
| At a Glance |  Laracasts |  Udemy |
|---|---|---|
Starts at | Custom | FreeFree tier available |
Best For | Learning & Training | Online Course Platforms |
Rating | 4.6/5 | 4.4/5 |
Choose Laracasts or Udemy?
Choose Laracasts if
Learn modern PHP and Laravel development through expert-led video tutorials and practical examples.
- High-quality, expert-led instruction
- Focus on practical, real-world application
- Comprehensive coverage of Laravel ecosystem
- Your work is learning & training-shaped, not online course platforms-shaped
Choose Udemy if
Affordable online courses on virtually any topic
- Huge course library
- Affordable sales
- Lifetime access
- You want a free tier before you commit
- Your work is online course platforms-shaped, not learning & training-shaped
| Feature | Laracasts | Udemy |
|---|---|---|
| Pricing Model | Paid | Freemium |
| User Rating | ★4.6/5 14 reviews | ★4.4/5 920 reviews |
| Categories | Learning & TrainingVideo & Media | Online Course PlatformsEducation & Learning |
In-Depth Analysis
Laracasts
Learn modern PHP and Laravel development through expert-led video tutorials and practical examples.
Strengths
- +High-quality, expert-led instruction
- +Focus on practical, real-world application
- +Comprehensive coverage of Laravel ecosystem
- +Engaging and easy-to-follow video format
- +Active community for support and learning
Weaknesses
- -Primarily focused on PHP and Laravel, less diverse for other stacks
- -Subscription-based model, no free tier
- -Some content might become outdated over time (though regularly updated)
Key features
Udemy
Affordable online courses on virtually any topic
Strengths
- +Huge course library
- +Affordable sales
- +Lifetime access
- +Mobile app
- +Many topics
Weaknesses
- -Quality varies greatly
- -No curation
- -Constant sales tactics
- -No subscription model
- -Certificate value low
Key features
Pricing: Laracasts vs Udemy
| Plan | Laracasts | Udemy |
|---|---|---|
| Tier 1 | N/A | Free Free (Instructor) |
| Tier 2 | N/A | $30 user/month Team |
| Tier 3 | N/A | Custom Enterprise |
Pricing verified from each vendor's public pricing page. Compare in detail on Laracasts pricing and Udemy pricing.
Who Should Use What?
On a budget?
Udemy has a free tier. Laracasts is paid only.
Go with: Udemy
Want the highest-rated option?
Laracasts: 4.6/5 (14 reviews). Udemy: 4.4/5 (920 reviews).
Go with: Laracasts
Value user reviews?
Laracasts: 14 reviews (4.6/5). Udemy: 920 reviews (4.4/5).
Go with: Udemy
3 Questions to Help You Decide
What's your budget?
Laracasts is paid. Udemy is freemium. Udemy lets you start free.
What's your use case?
Laracasts is a learning & training tool. Udemy is in online course platforms. Pick the category that matches your needs.
How important are ratings?
Laracasts is rated higher: 4.6/5 vs 4.4/5.
Key Takeaways
Udemy
- Larger review base (920 reviews)
- Free tier available
- Our pick for this comparison
Laracasts
- Higher user rating: 4.6/5 vs 4.4/5
- Better fit for learning & training
The Bottom Line
Udemy is our pick.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Laracasts or Udemy better?
Udemy is rated in our evaluation. Laracasts is paid and Udemy is freemium.
What are Laracasts and Udemy used for?
Laracasts: Learn modern PHP and Laravel development through expert-led video tutorials and practical examples.. Udemy: Affordable online courses on virtually any topic.
What does Laracasts cost vs Udemy?
Laracasts is a paid tool. Udemy is freemium (free tier + paid plans). Visit their websites for detailed pricing.