Linkedin Learning vs Skillshare: Which is Better in 2026?
Choosing between Linkedin Learning and Skillshare 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.
Bottom line: Linkedin Learning wins this matchup. SendPulse is our overall Online Course Platforms pick. SendPulse is our free Online Course Platforms pick. Pick Skillshare if you need online course platforms.
Short on time? Here's the quick answer
We've tested both tools. Here's who should pick what:
Linkedin Learning
Professional courses by LinkedIn
Best for you if:
- • You want professional courses
- • You want good quality content
Skillshare
Learn creative skills from working creators
Best for you if:
- • You want a free tier before you commit
- • You want good creative courses
- • You want project-based learning
| At a Glance | Linkedin Learning | Skillshare |
|---|---|---|
Starts at | $19.99/monthAnnual | FreeFree tier available |
Best For | Learning & Training | Online Course Platforms |
Rating | 4.5/5 | 3.3/5 |
Free plan | No | Yes |
Choose Linkedin Learning or Skillshare?
Choose Linkedin Learning if
Professional courses by LinkedIn
- You want professional courses
- You want good quality content
- Your work is learning & training-shaped, not online course platforms-shaped
Choose Skillshare if
Learn creative skills from working creators
- You want a free tier before you commit
- You want good creative courses
- You want project-based learning
- Budget matters (Free vs $19.99/month)
- Your work is online course platforms-shaped, not learning & training-shaped
| Feature | Linkedin Learning | Skillshare |
|---|---|---|
| Pricing Model | Paid | Freemium |
| User Rating | ★4.5/5 896 reviews | ★3.3/5 42 reviews |
| Categories | Learning & TrainingOnline Course Platforms | Online Course PlatformsEducation & Learning |
In-Depth Analysis
Linkedin Learning
Professional courses by LinkedIn
LinkedIn Learning's pricing is fair, especially with the Annual plan at $19.99/month, offering significant savings over the $29.99/month Monthly plan.
Strengths
- +Professional courses
- +Good quality content
- +LinkedIn integration
- +Certificates
- +Wide topic range
Weaknesses
- -Subscription expensive
- -Quality varies
- -LinkedIn required
- -Limited depth
- -Better alternatives exist
Key features
Skillshare
Learn creative skills from working creators
Skillshare's pricing is fair, offering a substantial library for $13.99/month (or $168/year).
Strengths
- +Good creative courses
- +Project-based learning
- +Teacher variety
- +Affordable subscription
- +Offline viewing
Weaknesses
- -Quality varies
- -Limited professional skills
- -No certificates
- -Ads on free
- -US content focused
Key features
Pricing: Linkedin Learning vs Skillshare
| Plan | Linkedin Learning | Skillshare |
|---|---|---|
| Tier 1 | $29.99 month Monthly | Free Free |
| Tier 2 | $19.99 month Annual | $13.99 month Premium |
| Tier 3 | Custom Teams | N/A |
Pricing verified from each vendor's public pricing page. Compare in detail on Linkedin Learning pricing and Skillshare pricing.
Who Should Use What?
On a budget?
Skillshare has a free tier. Linkedin Learning is paid only.
Go with: Skillshare
Want the highest-rated option?
Linkedin Learning: 4.5/5 (896 reviews). Skillshare: 3.3/5 (42 reviews).
Go with: Linkedin Learning
Value user reviews?
Linkedin Learning: 896 reviews (4.5/5). Skillshare: 42 reviews (3.3/5).
Go with: Linkedin Learning
3 Questions to Help You Decide
What's your budget?
Linkedin Learning is paid. Skillshare is freemium. Skillshare lets you start free.
What's your use case?
Linkedin Learning is a learning & training tool. Skillshare is in online course platforms. Pick the category that matches your needs.
How important are ratings?
Linkedin Learning is rated higher: 4.5/5 vs 3.3/5.
Key Takeaways
Linkedin Learning
- Higher user rating: 4.5/5 vs 3.3/5
- Larger review base (896 reviews)
- Our pick for this comparison
Skillshare
- Has a free tier
- Better fit for online course platforms
The Bottom Line
Linkedin Learning wins this matchup. SendPulse is our overall Online Course Platforms pick. SendPulse is our free Online Course Platforms pick. Skillshare has a free tier if you want to test without paying.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Linkedin Learning or Skillshare better?
Linkedin Learning is rated in our evaluation. Linkedin Learning is paid and Skillshare is freemium.
What are Linkedin Learning and Skillshare used for?
Linkedin Learning: Professional courses by LinkedIn. Skillshare: Learn creative skills from working creators.
What does Linkedin Learning cost vs Skillshare?
Linkedin Learning is a paid tool. Skillshare is freemium (free tier + paid plans). Visit their websites for detailed pricing.