Skillshare vs Linkedin Learning: Which is Better in 2026?
Choosing between Skillshare and Linkedin Learning 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: Skillshare wins this matchup. SendPulse is our overall Online Course Platforms pick. SendPulse is our free Online Course Platforms pick. Pick Linkedin Learning if you need learning & training.
Short on time? Here's the quick answer
Based on published vendor pricing and features and on public review data, here's who should pick what:
Skillshare
Learn creative skills from working creators
Best for you if:
- • You want a free tier before you commit
Linkedin Learning
Professional courses by LinkedIn
Best for you if:
- • You want professional courses
| At a Glance | Skillshare | Linkedin Learning |
|---|---|---|
Starts at | Free Free plan | $19.99/month Annual |
Category | Online Course Platforms Education & Learning | Learning & Training Online Course Platforms |
Rating | 3.3/5 G2 3.3 42 reviews | 4.5/5 G2 4.4 · Capterra 4.6 896 reviews |
Free plan | Yes | No |
Choose Skillshare or Linkedin Learning?
Choose Skillshare if
- 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)
- You work in online course platforms, not learning & training
Choose Linkedin Learning if
- You want professional courses
- You want good quality content
- You work in learning & training, not online course platforms
In-Depth Analysis
Skillshare
Learn creative skills from working creators
Skillshare's pricing is fair, offering a substantial library for $13.99/month (or $168/year).
Strengths
- Pro: Good creative courses
- Pro: Project-based learning
- Pro: Teacher variety
- Pro: Affordable subscription
- Pro: Offline viewing
Weaknesses
- Con: Quality varies
- Con: Limited professional skills
- Con: No certificates
- Con: Ads on free
- Con: US content focused
Key features
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
- Pro: Professional courses
- Pro: Good quality content
- Pro: LinkedIn integration
- Pro: Certificates
- Pro: Wide topic range
Weaknesses
- Con: Subscription expensive
- Con: Quality varies
- Con: LinkedIn required
- Con: Limited depth
- Con: Better alternatives exist
Key features
Pricing: Skillshare vs Linkedin Learning
| Plan | Skillshare | Linkedin Learning |
|---|---|---|
| Tier 1 | Free Free | $29.99 month Monthly |
| Tier 2 | $13.99 month Premium | $19.99 month Annual |
| Tier 3 | N/A | Custom Teams |
Pricing verified from each vendor's public pricing page. Compare in detail on Skillshare pricing and Linkedin Learning pricing.
Key Takeaways
Skillshare
- Free tier available
- Our pick for this comparison
Linkedin Learning
- Higher user rating: 4.5/5 vs 3.3/5
- Larger review base (896 reviews)
- Better fit for learning & training
The Bottom Line
Skillshare wins this matchup. SendPulse is our overall Online Course Platforms pick. SendPulse is our free Online Course Platforms pick.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Skillshare or Linkedin Learning better in 2026?
Skillshare wins this matchup. SendPulse is our overall Online Course Platforms pick. SendPulse is our free Online Course Platforms pick. Pick Skillshare for online course platforms workflows (main strength: good creative courses). Pick Linkedin Learning for learning & training workflows (main strength: professional courses).
What are Skillshare and Linkedin Learning used for?
Skillshare: Learn creative skills from working creators. Linkedin Learning: Professional courses by LinkedIn.
What does Skillshare cost vs Linkedin Learning?
Skillshare's paid plans start at Free (Premium). Linkedin Learning's paid plans start at $19.99/month (Annual).
What's the main difference between Skillshare and Linkedin Learning?
Skillshare's main strength: good creative courses. Linkedin Learning's main strength: professional courses.