PaySimple vs Thinkific: Which Should You Choose in 2026?
Choosing between PaySimple and Thinkific 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:
PaySimple
All-in-one payment processing and business management for service-based businesses.
Best for you if:
- • You need payment processing features specifically
- • Integrated payment processing for service-based businesses.
- • Automates billing, accepts various payment types, and reconciles deposits.
Thinkific
Course creation platform
Best for you if:
- • You want the higher-rated option (8.5/10 vs 0.0/10)
- • You want to try before committing
- • You need online course platforms features specifically
- • Thinkific is a platform for creating and selling online courses
- • It provides course building, student management, and commerce features
| At a Glance | ||
|---|---|---|
Price | Paid | Free + Paid |
Best For | Payment Processing | Online Course Platforms |
Rating | —/100 | 85/100 |
| Feature | PaySimple | Thinkific |
|---|---|---|
| Pricing Model | Paid | Freemium |
| Editorial Score | — | 85 |
| Community Rating | No ratings yet | No ratings yet |
| Total Reviews | 0 | 0 |
| Community Upvotes | 0 | 0 |
| Categories | Payment ProcessingInvoicing | Online Course PlatformsLMS |
Understanding the Differences
Both PaySimple and Thinkific solve similar problems, but they approach them differently.PaySimple positions itself as "all-in-one payment processing and business management for service-based businesses." while Thinkificfocuses on "course creation platform". These differences matter depending on what you're trying to accomplish.
When to Choose PaySimple
PaySimple makes sense if you're looking for a comprehensive paid solution.
When to Choose Thinkific
Thinkific is worth considering if you need a flexible option with both free and paid tiers tool. Scoring 85/100, it edges ahead in our evaluation.
Who Should Use What?
Bootstrapped or small team?
Thinkific won't cost you anything to start, which is exactly what early-stage teams need.
We'd pick: Thinkific
Growing fast?
Your team doubled last quarter and you need tools that won't break when you add 50 more people. Thinkific is built for teams that are leveling up.
We'd pick: Thinkific
Enterprise with complex needs?
You need SSO, compliance certifications, and a support team that picks up the phone. PaySimple is built for organizations like yours.
We'd pick: PaySimple
Still not sure? Answer these 3 questions
How much can you spend?
Want to test first? Thinkific has a free tier to get you started.
Do you care what other users think?
Both have similar review counts. Read a few before you commit.
Expert opinion or crowd wisdom?
Our team rated Thinkific higher (85/100). But the community has upvoted Thinkific more (0 votes). Pick your source of truth.
Key Takeaways
What Thinkific Does Better
- Higher overall score (85/100)
- Our recommendation for most use cases
Consider PaySimple If
- Its specific features better match your workflow
- You prefer its interface or design approach
The Bottom Line
If we had to pick one, we'd go with Thinkific (85/100). But the honest answer is that "better" depends on your situation. Thinkific scores higher in our analysis, but PaySimple might be the right choice if its specific strengths align with what you need most. Take advantage of free trials to test both before committing.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is PaySimple or Thinkific better?
Based on our analysis, Thinkific scores higher with 85/100. PaySimple ispaid while Thinkific is freemium. The best choice depends on your specific needs and budget. We recommend testing both with free trials if available.
Can I switch from PaySimple to Thinkific easily?
Migration difficulty varies. Check if both tools support data export/import in compatible formats. Some tools offer migration assistance or have integration partners who can help with the transition.
Do PaySimple and Thinkific offer free trials?
Most software in this category offers free trials or free tiers. PaySimple is paid with potential trial.Thinkific is freemium with a free tier. Visit their websites for current trial offers.