Scrimba vs Udemy: Which is Better in 2026?
Choosing between Scrimba 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.
Bottom line: Udemy wins this matchup. Hoxhunt is our overall Learning & Training pick. Mindtickle is our free Learning & Training pick. Pick Scrimba if you need learning & training.
Short on time? Here's the quick answer
We've tested both tools. Here's who should pick what:
Scrimba
Interactive coding courses with a unique 'scrim' experience.
Best for you if:
- • You want highly interactive and engaging learning experience
- • You want ability to practice coding directly within lessons
Udemy
Affordable online courses on virtually any topic
Best for you if:
- • You want huge course library
- • You want affordable sales
| At a Glance | Scrimba | Udemy |
|---|---|---|
Starts at | FreeFree tier available | FreeFree tier available |
Best For | Learning & Training | Online Course Platforms |
Rating | 4.6/5 | 3.3/5 |
Free plan | Yes | Yes |
Choose Scrimba or Udemy?
Choose Scrimba if
Interactive coding courses with a unique 'scrim' experience.
- You want highly interactive and engaging learning experience
- You want ability to practice coding directly within lessons
- Your work is learning & training-shaped, not online course platforms-shaped
Choose Udemy if
Affordable online courses on virtually any topic
- You want huge course library
- You want affordable sales
- Your work is online course platforms-shaped, not learning & training-shaped
| Feature | Scrimba | Udemy |
|---|---|---|
| Pricing Model | Freemium | Freemium |
| User Rating | ★4.6/5 87 reviews | ★3.3/5 2,610 reviews |
| Categories | Learning & TrainingEducation & Learning | Online Course PlatformsEducation & Learning |
In-Depth Analysis
Scrimba
Interactive coding courses with a unique 'scrim' experience.
Strengths
- +Highly interactive and engaging learning experience
- +Ability to practice coding directly within lessons
- +Focus on practical, project-based learning
- +Good for visual learners who also want hands-on practice
Weaknesses
- -May not cover as many advanced topics as some other platforms
- -Requires a stable internet connection for optimal experience
Key features
Udemy
Affordable online courses on virtually any topic
Udemy's pricing for instructors is generous, offering a free tier with a 37% revenue share, which is competitive for a marketplace.
Watch out
Instructor revenue share can drop to 37% without promotion.
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: Scrimba vs Udemy
| Plan | Scrimba | 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 Scrimba pricing and Udemy pricing.
Who Should Use What?
On a budget?
Both are freemium. Compare plans on their websites.
Go with: Scrimba
Want the highest-rated option?
Scrimba: 4.6/5 (87 reviews). Udemy: 3.3/5 (2,610 reviews).
Go with: Scrimba
Value user reviews?
Scrimba: 87 reviews (4.6/5). Udemy: 2,610 reviews (3.3/5).
Go with: Udemy
3 Questions to Help You Decide
What's your budget?
Both are freemium. Pricing won't help you decide here.
What's your use case?
Scrimba is a learning & training tool. Udemy is in online course platforms. Pick the category that matches your needs.
How important are ratings?
Scrimba is rated higher: 4.6/5 vs 3.3/5.
Key Takeaways
Udemy
- Larger review base (2,610 reviews)
- Free tier available
- Our pick for this comparison
Scrimba
- Higher user rating: 4.6/5 vs 3.3/5
- Better fit for learning & training
The Bottom Line
Udemy wins this matchup. Hoxhunt is our overall Learning & Training pick. Mindtickle is our free Learning & Training pick.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Scrimba or Udemy better?
Udemy is rated in our evaluation. Both are freemium.
What are Scrimba and Udemy used for?
Scrimba: Interactive coding courses with a unique 'scrim' experience.. Udemy: Affordable online courses on virtually any topic.
What does Scrimba cost vs Udemy?
Scrimba is freemium (free tier + paid plans). Udemy is freemium (free tier + paid plans). Visit their websites for detailed pricing.