Skool vs Circle: Which Should You Choose in 2026?
Choosing between Skool and Circle 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.
By Toolradar Team · Last updated February 28, 2026 · Methodology
Short on time? Here's the quick answer
We've tested both tools. Here's who should pick what:
Skool
Discover and create communities with courses, community features, and a calendar, all in one place.
Best for you if:
- • You want to try before committing
- • All-in-one platform for creating and managing online communities.
- • Combines courses, community forums, and event calendars.
Circle
Community platform for creators and brands
Best for you if:
- • You want the higher-rated option (8.6/10 vs 7.5/10)
- • Community platform for creators
- • Courses and discussions
| At a Glance |  Circle | |
|---|---|---|
Price | Free + Paid | Paid |
Best For | Community Platforms | Community Platforms |
Rating | 75/100 | 86/100 |
| Feature | Skool | Circle |
|---|---|---|
| Pricing Model | Freemium | Paid |
| Editorial Score | 75 | 86 |
| Community Rating | No ratings yet | No ratings yet |
| Total Reviews | 0 | 0 |
| Community Upvotes | 0 | 0 |
| Categories | Community PlatformsMembership Sites | Community PlatformsMembership Sites |
How Skool and Circle Compare
Skool
Discover and create communities with courses, community features, and a calendar, all in one place.
Free tier available · 75/100 score
Circle
Community platform for creators and brands
Paid · 86/100 score
Who Should Use What?
On a budget?
Skool has a free tier. Circle is paid only.
Go with: Skool
Want the highest-rated option?
Skool: 75/100. Circle: 86/100.
Go with: Circle
Value user reviews?
Neither has user reviews yet.
Go with: Circle
3 Questions to Help You Decide
What's your budget?
Skool is freemium. Circle is paid. Skool lets you start free.
What's your use case?
Both are community platforms tools. Compare their specific features to decide.
How important are ratings?
Circle scores higher: 86/100 vs 75/100.
Key Takeaways
Circle
- Higher score: 86/100 vs 75
- Our pick for this comparison
Skool
- Has a free tier
The Bottom Line
Circle (86/100) is our pick. Skool has a free tier if you want to test without paying.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Skool or Circle better?
Circle scores 86/100 in our evaluation. Skool is freemium and Circle is paid.
What are Skool and Circle used for?
Skool: Discover and create communities with courses, community features, and a calendar, all in one place.. Circle: Community platform for creators and brands.
What does Skool cost vs Circle?
Skool is freemium (free tier + paid plans). Circle is a paid tool. Visit their websites for detailed pricing.