Introduction

Kajabi has emerged as a prominent platform for course creators and education businesses who seek to share their knowledge and drive revenue. Despite its robust functionality, Kajabi may not be the ideal solution for everyone.

Let's dive deep into the world of Kajabi alternatives. Whether you're dissatisfied with Kajabi’s pricing model, seeking more customization options, or need a platform with different strengths in community engagement or marketing tools, there is likely a perfect fit for you here. 

Why Consider Alternatives to Kajabi?

Kajabi is undeniably powerful, but it might not fit every course creator or education business perfectly. A variety of factors can drive the decision to seek alternatives, each significant depending on individual needs and circumstances. Understanding these can help you better assess which platform could be your ideal match.

1. Cost Efficiency 

One of the most common reasons educators seek an alternative to Kajabi is cost. Although Kajabi offers an all-in-one solution, its pricing structure can be prohibitive for new educators or small businesses just starting. It's the Basic plan which is for $119/mo* - Billed Annually is costly. 

Their newest plan KICKSTARTER $55/mo* - Billed Annually may look affordable at first glance. However, look closely enough and you'll soon find out heavy limitations on Products - Just 1, Contacts - 250 max, Active customers - 50, that's just insane.

What is an active customer?

The platform's plans are often more expensive compared to others in the market. For those on a tight budget, it’s crucial to find a platform that still delivers quality functionality at a lower price point.

2. Specific Feature Requirements

Each online platform has its own set of unique features, and what works well for one creator might not meet the needs of another. 

Kajabi provides a broad range of tools, but if you're looking for advanced capabilities in specific areas such as detailed analytics, native integrations with other tools, or more robust marketing features, you might find that another platform better aligns with your specific requirements. 

Additionally, some educators might prefer platforms that offer more flexibility in course design, better engagement tools, or branded mobile apps.

3. User Experience and Interface

The adoption of a platform is heavily influenced by its usability. Kajabi's user interface is designed to be easy to use, but it may be too simple or complex for some users.

If the workflow doesn't intuitively align with how you operate, or if you find the learning curve too steep, seeking an alternative that feels more natural and is easier to navigate can significantly improve your efficiency and satisfaction.

4. Scalability and Flexibility

As your business grows, your platform needs to scale with you. Perhaps Kajabi was a perfect fit at the beginning, but as you expand, you might require more customization, additional admin roles, or better pricing features. 

Platforms that scale with you can accommodate the growth of educational enterprises without the need to switch systems frequently.

5. Customer Support

Finally, the level of support can be crucial. If you feel that the support from Kajabi is lacking, finding an alternative with a strong support team can make a big difference in your experience and success.

By considering these factors, you can better understand what you need from an alternative to Kajabi and make a more informed choice that suits your specific situation.

Okay, now let's dive into which platform might be the best Kajabi substitute for your online education businesses.

Learnyst

Learnyst is tailored for educators and creators who aim to deliver online courses and tests securely from their own branded websites and mobile apps. Learnyst emphasizes strong content security and branding among all the alternatives, setting it apart as a platform ideal for serious educators looking to maintain control over their content and branding.

Key Features:

• Content Security: Utilizes DRM encryption (similar to Netflix) to protect courses from piracy, ensuring content remains secure.
• Advance Learner Insights - Identify which students have higher potential to buy from you in the near future. 
• Branded Mobile App and Website: You can have fully branded native apps in both the App Store and Google Play Store. Differentiate yourself from the competition
• Advanced Quiz and Assessments: Supports sophisticated testing conditions that are ideal for competitive exams and improve student learning outcomes. 
• Dynamic Pricing: Allows you to price your offerings based on your student location pricing strategies, catering to an international audience effectively.
  

Overview

Pros

• Superior protection against content piracy with the use of DRM, similar to OTT platforms like Netflix.
• Identify which students have higher potential to buy from you in the near future.
• Educators get to keep a 100% of their revenue. Learnyst takes 0% share. 
• The platform supports content formats such as advanced quizzes for better learning outcomes which engage and motivate learners.

Cons

• Requires a steeper learning curve for new users unfamiliar with Learnyst

Price - Starts at $35/month billed annually with 0% transaction fees

Teachable

Teachable is highly regarded in the online course platform industry for its ease of use and powerful tools that allow entrepreneurs, educators, and creatives to build and sell courses online. It is especially well-suited for individuals and small businesses looking to start quickly without the need for extensive technical knowledge.

Key Features

• Customizable Course Pages: Users can tailor their course landing pages to match their branding, enhancing the learner's experience and course marketability.
• Integrated Payment Processing: Teachable handles payments directly, enabling creators to accept money from students globally without third-party processors.
• Advanced Reporting Tools: Provides detailed analytics on student progress, course completion rates, and revenue insights.

Pros

• User-Friendly Interface: The platform is designed to be intuitive, making it easy for beginners to set up and manage their courses.
• Strong Marketing Tools: Includes affiliate programs, coupon codes, and promotional tools that help increase course sales.
• Comprehensive Customer Support: Teachable offers extensive support resources, including tutorials, webinars, and a responsive support team.

Cons

• Transaction Fees: Unlike some competitors, Teachable charges transaction fees on its lower-tier plans, which can add up for high-volume sellers.
• Limited Integration Options: While Teachable has essential integrations, it may lack the breadth of connectivity options offered by platforms like Kajabi.

Price - Starts at $39/month billed annually with 0% transaction fees

Teachable is an excellent alternative for those new to the online course space or those looking for a platform that simplifies the technical aspects of course creation and sales. It’s particularly favourable for creators who value ease of use and strong sales features.

Thinkific

Thinkific is a popular choice among online course creators who value flexibility and control over their course delivery and design. It stands out as a robust platform that empowers educators to create, market, and sell their courses with a high degree of customization and user engagement tools.

Key Features

• Customizable Course Templates: Offers a variety of templates that users can adapt to fit their branding and educational style.
• Interactive Learning Experiences: Supports quizzes, surveys, and discussions to enhance learner engagement.
• Comprehensive Marketing and Sales Tools: Includes features like coupons, promotions, email marketing integrations, and affiliate reporting.

Pros

• User-Friendly Interface: Thinkific boasts a clean and intuitive user interface, making it easy for beginners to get started without overwhelming them.
• Strong Customer Support: Known for its responsive and helpful customer support team, assisting various channels.
• No Transaction Fees: Unlike many other platforms, Thinkific does not charge transaction fees, which can lead to significant cost savings.

Cons

• Limited Course Reporting Features: While Thinkific offers basic analytics, it might not be sufficient for those who need deep insights into student performance and course effectiveness.
• No Built-in Email Marketing: Users have to rely on third-party integrations for email marketing, which can complicate setup and operations.

Price - Starts at $36/month billed annually with 5% transaction fees

Thinkific is ideal for course creators looking for a straightforward platform that offers strong customization options without the complexity of more integrated systems. Its focus on educational tools and customer support makes it a great Kajabi alternative for those starting or scaling their online course offerings.

Podia

Podia is a versatile all-in-one platform that enables creators to sell courses, memberships, and digital products without worrying about the technical complexities. Its streamlined approach makes it especially appealing for solopreneurs and small businesses that need a simple yet effective online selling solution.

Key Features

• Integrated Digital Storefront: Allows users to manage courses, memberships, and digital downloads from one central hub.
• Email Marketing Tools: Offers built-in email marketing functionalities to help creators engage and grow their audience.
• Unlimited Everything: Provides unlimited hosting for courses, digital downloads, and members, with no cap on the amount of content or sales.

Overview

Pros

• Ease of Use: Podia's interface is highly user-friendly, and designed to remove technical barriers for creators.
• Zero Transaction Fees: Podia does not charge any transaction fees, allowing creators to keep more of their earnings.
• Strong Customer Interaction Features: Includes live chat widgets and other tools to enhance direct interaction with customers.

Cons

• Limited Customization Options: While easy to use, Podia offers fewer customization options compared to platforms like Thinkific, which might be a drawback for those looking to tailor every aspect of their online presence.
• Basic Analytics: The analytics provided are somewhat basic, which may not be suitable for those who need detailed insights for strategic decision-making.

Price - Starts at $33/month billed annually with 5% transaction fees

Podia stands out as an excellent Kajabi alternative for those who value simplicity and integrated functionality, making it easy to manage and grow an online business with minimal fuss.

LearnWorlds

LearnWorlds stands out in the e-learning market with its strong emphasis on creating interactive learning experiences. It caters to educators and course creators who are looking to build more than just video content, integrating social learning and personalized touchpoints to enhance student engagement.

Key Features

• Interactive Video Capabilities: Allows creators to add quizzes, pop-ups, and interactive elements directly within their videos, making learning more engaging.
• Powerful Course Builder: Provides a versatile course builder that supports a wide range of content types and sophisticated testing scenarios.
• Social Learning Environment: Encourages students to learn from each other with built-in community features and discussion forums.

Overview

Pros

• High Degree of Customization: Creators can extensively customize their courses and the learning environment to match their brand and pedagogical approach.
• Engagement Tools: The platform includes advanced tools to boost learner interaction and retention, such as gamification and personalized certificates.
• Strong Analytics: Offers comprehensive analytics and insights, allowing creators to track learner progress and optimize their courses effectively.

Cons

• Complex Interface: The wide array of features and customization options can be overwhelming for beginners or those seeking simplicity.
• Higher Price Point: Compared to some other platforms, LearnWorlds can be more expensive, which might be a barrier for smaller businesses or individual educators.

Price - Starts at $24/month billed annually with $5 transaction fees on each sale. 

LearnWorlds is an excellent choice for course creators who prioritize deep engagement and interactive learning. Its capabilities make it a compelling alternative to Kajabi for those looking to provide a rich, community-focused educational experience.

Mighty Networks

Mighty Networks is unique among online course platforms in that it places a strong emphasis on building communities around courses and memberships. This platform is designed for creators and educators who want to foster a sense of community and engagement among their audience, going beyond simple course delivery.

Key Features

• Community Building Tools: Enables users to create vibrant, interactive communities that can engage alongside content like courses and memberships.
• Integrated Event Hosting: Offers tools to host live events and webinars directly within the community, enhancing real-time interaction.
• Multi-Tier Membership Options: Allows creators to set up various membership levels with distinct access privileges and content.

Overview

Pros

• Strong Emphasis on Engagement: Mighty Networks excels in creating a dynamic interactive environment, which is ideal for courses requiring active participation and community feedback.
• All-in-One Platform: Combines course creation, community management, and event hosting, reducing the need for multiple services.
• Mobile App: Provides a native mobile app, allowing members to access content and interact with the community from anywhere.

Cons

• Steep Learning Curve: The multitude of features and the focus on community can be overwhelming for new users or those who prefer simpler platforms.
• Limited E-commerce Features: While powerful for engagement, it lacks some of the advanced selling tools that platform like Kajabi offer, which could limit monetization options.

Price - Starts at $41/month billed annually with 3% transaction fees

Mighty Networks is an excellent choice for course creators who prioritize community engagement and interaction, making it a standout alternative for those whose courses thrive on participant collaboration and feedback.

Udemy Business

Udemy Business is part of the larger Udemy platform, which is renowned for its vast selection of courses across a myriad of subjects. This business-focused offering is tailored for corporate clients and organizations seeking to provide their employees with professional development opportunities. It leverages the extensive Udemy course library, which is constantly updated and curated to meet high-quality standards.

Key Features

• Extensive Course Library: Provides access to thousands of top courses covering various professional skills, from software development to personal development.
• Udemy's revenue-sharing model is 97% for sales from direct links and 37% for students who find you on their platform. 
• Engagement and Progress Tracking: Offers tools for your students to track their course completion. 

Overview

Pros

• No hand's on effort is required. Marketing is taken care of.
• Udemy enables your courses to reach to an extensive student base of 64 million.

Cons

• If you decide to charge for your courses then first you need to become a premium instructor. Even then you only get to keep 37% of your revenue, when students buy directly from Udemy. 
• No branding options: Organizations cannot brand or fully integrate courses into their training systems.
• Dependence on Marketplace: The quality and depth of courses can vary, and businesses must rely on Udemy's platform without the ability to host courses independently.
• No custom landing pages and email-sending capability.

Price - $0, however, they do take 63% of your revenue if a student buys directly from Udemy.

Kartra

Kartra distinguishes itself as an all-in-one business platform, integrating course creation with advanced marketing tools and business operations. It is designed for course creators who also need robust tools for marketing, sales funnel creation, and customer relationship management.

Key Features

• Integrated Course and Membership Platform: Enables users to create and manage courses alongside membership sites, all within the same ecosystem.
• Advanced Marketing Automation: Features powerful tools for email marketing, lead generation, and conversion optimization.
• Comprehensive Sales Funnel Builder: Allows for the creation of detailed, multi-step sales funnels that guide potential students from discovery to purchase.

Overview

Pros

• All-in-One Solution: By combining course creation with marketing and sales, Kartra provides a streamlined solution for managing all aspects of a digital business.
• Highly Customizable Funnels and Pages: Offers extensive options for customization, helping users create tailored experiences for their audience.
• Strong Analytics and Reporting: Delivers detailed insights into customer behavior, sales performance, and marketing effectiveness.

Cons

• Complexity: The range of features and capabilities can be overwhelming for beginners or those who prefer a more straightforward platform.
• Higher Cost: The all-inclusive nature of the platform means it comes at a higher price point compared to more focused course platforms.
• Limited E-Learning Specific Features: While excellent for marketing and sales, it might lack some of the specialized educational tools found in dedicated e-learning platforms.

Price - Starts at $99/month billed annually with 0% transaction fees

Kartra is best suited for seasoned entrepreneurs and businesses that require extensive marketing capabilities alongside their educational offerings. Its comprehensive approach makes it a potent alternative to Kajabi for those looking to control every aspect of their digital enterprise.

LearnDash

LearnDash is a premier Learning Management System (LMS) for WordPress, enabling educators, businesses, and institutions to create comprehensive e-learning courses directly on their websites. It is especially popular among users who prefer to keep their course delivery integrated within their existing WordPress environment, offering a range of tools that enhance the educational experience.

Key Features

• Drip-Feed Content: Allows creators to schedule lessons to be released sequentially or based on the users' progress.
• Advanced Quizzing: Includes a wide array of quiz types and settings to ensure comprehensive assessment capabilities.
• Dynamic Forums: Facilitates engagement by enabling the creation of course-specific forums where students can interact and discuss course material.

Overview

Pros

• Seamless WordPress Integration: Perfect for those who already use WordPress and want to expand into e-learning without switching platforms.
• Extensive Customization Options: Offers deep customization capabilities that can tailor every aspect of the course and user experience.
• Robust User Management: Provides powerful tools for managing users and tracking their progress, engagement, and performance in detail.

Cons

• Requires WordPress: Only usable with WordPress, which can be a limitation for those not using or familiar with this platform.
• Can Be Resource-Intensive: Depending on the complexity of the courses and the number of students, it might require significant server resources.
• Learning Curve: The extensive functionality means there's a steeper learning curve compared to more straightforward platforms.

Price - Starts at $25/month billed annually with 0% transaction fees

LearnDash is an excellent choice for those looking for a powerful, integrated solution to deliver online courses through their WordPress websites. It’s particularly well-suited for educational institutions, trainers, and businesses that demand a high degree of control over their course management and delivery.

Simplero

Simplero is a multifunctional platform designed for entrepreneurs and educators who want not only to create and sell courses but also to manage their entire online business within a single system. It integrates course creation with email marketing, website building, and automation tools to provide a comprehensive business solution.

Key Features

• All-in-One Platform: Combines course creation, email marketing, website hosting, and automation in one place.
• Marketing and Sales Tools: Features built-in capabilities for managing subscriptions, handling payments, and running promotional campaigns.
• Automation Functions: Offers powerful automation for sequences, workflows, and triggers to streamline operations and enhance learner engagement.

Overview

Pros

• Comprehensive Business Tools: Simplero includes everything needed to run an online business, reducing the necessity for multiple tools and subscriptions.
• High Customization Potential: Allows extensive customization of courses and marketing materials to align closely with brand identity.
• Excellent Support: Known for its dedicated customer support team, providing users with the guidance needed to maximize platform use.

Cons

• Complexity for Beginners: The extensive range of features might be overwhelming for beginners or those looking for a simple course platform.
• Higher Cost: With its all-in-one approach, Simplero comes at a higher price point, which may be prohibitive for smaller businesses or solo educators.
• Limited Third-Party Integrations: While robust within its ecosystem, it offers fewer integrations compared to platforms that specialize solely in course delivery.

Price - Starts at $59/month billed annually with 0% transaction fees

So now what?

Each of the platforms discussed—Thinkific, Podia, Teachable, Learnyst, and others—has its unique features, pricing models, and capabilities.

It's essential to consider what aspects are most crucial for your goals. For some, the ability to keep all earnings without revenue sharing might be critical, making platforms like Learnyst or Thinkific attractive options. Others might prioritize ease of use for which Podia or Teachable could be better suited.

We recommend taking advantage of any free trials or plans to test the platforms firsthand before committing. This approach allows you to explore each option and ensure it aligns with your business goals.