# 10 Best Free Learning Management System Software 2026 | Capterra > Learn about and compare the 10 best free Learning Management System software in 2026. Understand the pros and cons and cost of each tool to narrow your choices. Source: https://www.capterra.com/learning-management-system-software/s/free --- # Best Free Learning Management System Software in 2025 Last updated on September 30, 2025 Written by [Brian Westfall](https://www.capterra.com/resources/author/bwestfall/) Writer Edited by [Caroline Rousseau](https://www.capterra.com/resources/author/caroline-rousseau/) Editor Whether you’re an academic institution operating on a tight budget, or a company with limited employee training resources, a free learning management system could be just the tool you need to digitize your curriculum without adding cost. Available as either forever free or free trial versions, these solutions offer basic functionality to administer courses and track learner progress. To help you find the right free learning management system software with either a free plan or free trial, we analyzed over 10,000 verified user reviews and 816 products, to identify the most important features, benefits, and limitations of free solutions.[\[1\]](#footnotes) ## 10 best free or free trial LMS software [ TalentLMS ](#e84c77a4-1ed5-480c-8ffd-a6d200b6e7b3) Highly rated for Ease of Use 4.7 (594) [ 360Learning ](#1e81972c-f341-4459-ac7f-a6d200b28511) Course Management 4.7 (482) [ LearnWorlds ](#fa27b0d0-6f24-487e-b0bc-a6d200b4e769) Training Management 4.7 (192) [ Canvas ](#3d80405e-97f3-42e1-bb3c-6bc92340c566) Highest Rated 4.6 (4308) [ Thinkific ](#f27f1408-8872-44ce-8a05-a6d200b6fb5c) Highly rated for Functionality 4.4 (205) [ Absorb LMS ](#48196b1a-c598-46c8-812a-a6d200b28512) Learner Portal 4.5 (328) [ Forma LMS ](#5eb269bc-49aa-4a07-a0b3-a6d200b41ffd) Highly rated for Value for Money 4.6 (186) [ Adobe Learning Manager ](#816283ac-3a5c-494b-bd74-a6d200b29cac) Self-paced Learning 4.3 (682) [ Moodle ](#58393d19-2db4-45d2-8103-a6d200b53c81) Highly rated for Customer Support 4.3 (3374) [ Blackboard ](#cc90f894-6de3-49d2-8070-a6d200b2ee7a) Content Management 4.1 (536) [Explore our full Learning Management System solutions](https://www.capterra.com/learning-management-system-software/) ## How we picked the software on this list All the tools listed below are featured in the [2024 Capterra Shortlist for Learning Management System](https://www.capterra.com/learning-management-system-software/shortlist/). To qualify, each tool offers either a forever free plan or free trial, at least 20 user reviews in the past two years as of November 2024, and an overall rating of 4 and above. Preference is given to products that are always free over those simply offering a free trial. Our analysis of thousands of user reviews highlights key insights about user experiences with these platforms, offering valuable feedback on functionality, ease of use, customer support, and value for money. * * * [### Canvas](https://www.capterra.com/p/127214/CANVAS/) [4.6 (4308)](https://www.capterra.com/p/127214/CANVAS/reviews/) Highest Rated Highest Rated [View Profile](https://www.capterra.com/p/127214/CANVAS/) Starting Price: Not provided by vendor Free Trial Free Version Top rated feature: Course Management Based on 220 reviews User rating: BD 64% of reviewers rated it 5 stars Canvas LMS provides a scalable way for teachers to connect with learners at educational centers, including high schools and universities. Teachers and students benefit from a broad range of features that include collaboration tools, a mobile app for on-the-go learning, and in-app messaging. Our analysis of popular products in this category shows that Canvas LMS is the best-rated learning management system among reviewers, with a rating of 4.6 out of 5. Features Features reviewers most value **Content management** Reviewers appreciate CANVAS's content management capabilities and rate this feature 4.6 out of 5. They report it allows for easy organization and storage of course materials, which can be used across multiple semesters. Users find it versatile, as it supports both HTML and regular text, and enables seamless content movement. They highlight its ability to secure data and provide 24/7 support. However, some mention difficulties in managing team projects due to the lack of direct chat features. Overall, they value the ease of navigation and content manipulation. **Course tracking** Users report that CANVAS's course tracking capabilities are highly valuable, rating this feature 4.6 out of 5. They indicate it helps both students and instructors monitor progress, track assignments, and manage grades. Reviewers appreciate the customizable dashboard, which allows for color-coding and organizing courses. They find it useful for identifying struggling students and providing timely support. Notifications and integrated agendas enhance the tracking experience. Some users mention occasional glitches with grade entries, but overall, they feel it significantly aids in staying organized and on track. **Interactive learning** Reviewers give this feature 4.5 out of 5. They highlight CANVAS's interactive learning capabilities as a key aspect. They say it increases student engagement through tools like quizzes, polls, and discussion forums. Users appreciate the ability to create dynamic and engaging activities, fostering better comprehension and participation. They find the integration with third-party applications beneficial for real-time interaction. However, some feel the platform could offer more options for interactive design. Overall, they value the enhanced learning experience and the ability to facilitate both synchronous and asynchronous learning. Pros & Cons CG Carly G. Education Management, 501-1,000 employees Used the software for: 2+ years "I also liked canvases capability to track several things about my users which include log in time, how long they were logged in, and if there were any required items to complete for assignments to complete, it would be able to track their progress and score which was essential for record keeping." BD Barrett D. Hospitality, 11-50 employees Used the software for: 1-2 years "I enjoy that I can email my instructors from the software instead of opening another tab for the email website. Plus, each course has its own link so the classes are nicely organized." CG Carly G. Education Management, 501-1,000 employees Used the software for: 2+ years "However, for some of my colleagues, they did have a harder time with that because of their lack of knowledge of coding and they were unable to achieve the kind of look that they wanted to do." DT Diana T. Medical Practice, 11-50 employees Used the software for: 6-12 months "On canvas sometimes the videos do not load when you start the videos on training on the start of the videos." Pricing Canvas LMS offers a free version with essential features and allows users to create content such as assignments, quizzes, discussions, and video conferences. For advanced features, interested parties should contact the company for price quotes. Integrations **Popular Integrations** - **Google Docs** is a cloud-native word processing service that integrates with Canvas so educators and learners can share written content. - **Google Drive** is an online file storage platform that integrates with Canvas, letting teachers and students share assignments. - **Microsoft 365** is a suite of applications, including OneDrive and Teams, that integrates with Canvas so educators and students can interact in ways that best fit their learning goals. [Learn more about Canvas](https://www.capterra.com/p/127214/CANVAS/) * * * [### Forma LMS](https://www.capterra.com/p/135235/Forma-Lms/) [4.6 (186)](https://www.capterra.com/p/135235/Forma-Lms/reviews/) Highly rated for Value for Money Highly rated for Value for Money [View Profile](https://www.capterra.com/p/135235/Forma-Lms/) Starting Price: $98.00 Usage Based, Per Month Free Trial Free Version Top rated feature: Learner Portal Based on 41 reviews User rating: KR 60% of reviewers rated it 5 stars Forma LMS is an open source learning platform that targets the needs of corporations. Users can adapt Forma LMS to meet unique needs through custom reporting, course management, skills management, and other features. Among the most popular products in this category, our analysis of reviews shows that Forma LMS has been rated the best value for money. Many users say they like Forma LMS’s flexibility, stability, and numerous integrations with useful apps. Features Features reviewers most value **Course management** Reviewers like Forma LMS's Course Management capabilities, and rate this feature 5 out of 5. They report that it saves time by automating many processes, and they find it easy to use for creating categories and assigning courses. Users indicate that it supports various course types and domains, and they can manage team progress effectively. They also mention the inclusion of a video conferencing aspect for hosting webinars, which they find valuable for remote learners. Overall, they describe the interface as simple, fast, and easily understandable. **Tests/assessments** Reviewers give this feature a rating of 4.4 out of 5, and appreciate Forma LMS's Tests/Assessments capabilities. They indicate that it helps determine the level of understanding in specific areas and provides an auditable trail for content communication. Users report that it is easy to add tests and assessments to courses and find it useful for assessing team training progress. They also mention the convenience of online assessments and the ability to generate personalized pdf certificates upon course completion, highlighting its ease of use and implementation. **Learner portal** Reviewers rate this feature 4 out of 5, and highlight the usefulness of Forma LMS's Learner Portal. They report that employees frequently access it to view assigned learning and track progress on technical and non-technical lessons. Users find it provides a central location for learners to complete courses and access training details. They describe the portal as inviting, well-designed, and encouraging participation. Additionally, they mention that it ensures all training targets are met and find it smoother than other platforms, with an intriguing nature. Pros & Cons VJ Vaibhav Kant J. Human Resources, 51-200 employees Used the software for: Less than 6 months "From a Founder’s Office perspective, its customization options, structured learning paths, and reporting features help track team progress and training outcomes efficiently." PS Prabhat S. Design, 51-200 employees Used the software for: 6-12 months "The reporting function was useful for monitoring the progress of learners, and it is compatible with SCORM files, which made uploading courses easier." SJ Shakshi J. Computer & Network Security, 1-10 employees Used the software for: 6-12 months "Administrative UI: The backend can feel a bit dated or complex, especially for those used to modern "drag-and-drop" SaaS interfaces." LS Lakshita S. Information Technology and Services, 51-200 employees Used the software for: 1-2 years "Some features require extra steps to configure, and occasional minor bugs or slow loading times can affect the overall experience." Pricing Forma LMS is free to download. Users can support the community by becoming members individually or as a company. Integrations **Popular Integrations** - **Zoom Workplace** is a videoconferencing app that integrates with Forma LMS so teachers and students can communicate virtually in real time. - **WooCommerce** is an eCommerce solution that integrates with Forma LMS to process payments. - **Adobe Connect** is a suite of collaboration and sharing apps that integrates with Forma LMS to help teachers and learners communicate in real time or asynchronously. [Learn more about Forma LMS](https://www.capterra.com/p/135235/Forma-Lms/) * * * [4.7 (594)](https://www.capterra.com/p/132935/TalentLMS/reviews/) Highly rated for Ease of Use Highly rated for Ease of Use Starting Price: $149.00 Flat Rate, Per Month Free Trial Free Version Top rated feature: Course Management Based on 58 reviews User rating: KR 71% of reviewers rated it 5 stars TalentLMS is an online learning platform that lets educators create detailed learning paths with unique courses. We analysed reviews for the most popular LMS products and found that TalentLMS is rated the best for ease of use, with reviewers giving it a 4.6/5 rating. Our reviewers speak highly of TalentLMS for its strong customer support, customizable reports, and intuitive interface. They also like that TalentLMS lets them take a white-label approach that emphasizes brand identities. Features Features reviewers most value **Certification management** Reviewers rate this feature 5 out of 5, and appreciate TalentLMS's Certification Management capabilities. They find the automated certification process valuable and highlight the ability to upload customized certificates. Users report that the system allows staff to print and submit certificates for state compliance, which is crucial for employment and professional memberships. They say TalentLMS simplifies the certification process for learners completing programs, and they like the option to add their own templates, enhancing user-friendliness and flexibility. **Assignment management** Reviewers give this feature a rating of 4.7 out of 5; they say TalentLMS's Assignment Management is straightforward and efficient. They find it easy to create, manage, and edit assignments within courses, which improves program efficiency. Users report receiving notifications upon assignment submission, facilitating quick processing. They appreciate the ability to set deadlines, provide feedback, and include automated messages. However, some feel the assignment process is not intuitive and requires basic tool knowledge. Overall, they value the dual-purpose functionality for both learners and instructors. **Learning management** Reviewers rate this feature 4.4 out of 5; they feel TalentLMS's Learning Management capabilities are user-friendly and efficient. They report it is easy to create, distribute, and track training modules, which streamlines processes. Users highlight the system's ability to manage onboarding, external domains, and organizational training needs. They appreciate the integration with Canva and the detailed progress tracking. However, some mention limitations in report customization and dashboard functions. They find the platform intuitive for both learners and admins, making monitoring and course creation seamless. Pros & Cons DK Dinesh K. Financial Services, 11-50 employees Used the software for: 1-2 years "It strikes a good balance between usability and functionality, making it a practical choice for organizations looking to streamline their learning processes. While there’s room for improvement in some areas, it delivers reliable performance and a generally smooth user experience." MC Mohamed C. Education Management, 1,001-5,000 employees Used the software for: Less than 6 months "TalentLMS is best known for its user-friendly dashboard that assembled plenty of intuitive features; a platform built to make easy for both learners and instructors thanks to a variety of tools even if without any previous knowledge at LMS platforms." KR Kyle R. Marketing and Advertising, 501-1,000 employees Used the software for: 2+ years "Limited customization for better branding of portals and homepages; limited sections per homepage; limited number of courses in course galleries; dual-interface results in broken links and causes confusion for users." Maria X. B. Government Administration, 501-1,000 employees Used the software for: 2+ years "Customization and reporting are somewhat limited, and there are occasional minor bugs." Pricing TalentLMS offers a free plan for up to 5 users; it allows the creation of 10 courses and comes with unlimited email support. To use more advanced features, users can choose from three paid plans: Core, Grow, and Pro. The Core plan costs $89 per month for one to 40 users (billed annually). It comes with unlimited courses, unlimited email support, a custom homepage, and a custom domain. The Grow tier costs $229 per month for up to 70 users. It offers everything from Core plus custom reports and LinkedIn Learning Integration. A Pro account costs $309 per month for up to 70 users. It gives you access to automations, live chat support, and priority email support. [Learn more about TalentLMS pricing plans](https://www.capterra.com/p/132935/TalentLMS/pricing/) Integrations **Popular Integrations** - **PayPal** is an online payment processing system that integrates with TalentLMS to offer an easy payment option. - **Slack** is a communication and collaboration platform that integrates with TalentLMS to encourage communication between educators and learners. - **Trello** is a Kanban-style project management app that integrates with TalentLMS to help educators and learners track tasks. [Learn more about TalentLMS](https://www.capterra.com/p/132935/TalentLMS/) * * * [### Moodle](https://www.capterra.com/p/80691/Moodle/) [4.3 (3374)](https://www.capterra.com/p/80691/Moodle/reviews/) Highly rated for Customer Support Highly rated for Customer Support [View Profile](https://www.capterra.com/p/80691/Moodle/) Starting Price: $130.00 Flat Rate, Per Year Free Trial Free Version Top rated feature: Course Management Based on 232 reviews User rating: 49% of reviewers rated it 5 stars Moodle is an open source learning platform that users can either access for free or via paid managed plans. It offers customized learning experiences and leverages artificial intelligence to help educators integrate the software with other systems. Our analysis of reviews from the past two years among popular LMS products shows that Moodle has been rated the best for customer support, with over 3,350 reviewers giving it an overall 4.3/5 rating. Moodle clients also say they appreciate the platform’s easy navigation. Features Features reviewers most value **Course management** Reviewers appreciate Moodle's course management capabilities for their intuitive interface and ease of use, rating this feature 4.5 out of 5. They report that it allows for effective organization and tracking of courses, assignments, and student progress. Users highlight the ability to create and manage content without needing coding skills, and the integration with Active Directory for easier course management. They also value the flexibility in designing learning scenarios and the centralized access to all course materials, which enhances both teaching and learning experiences. **Assignment management** Users give this feature a rating of 4.5 out of 5. They find Moodle's assignment management capabilities valuable for their flexibility and ease of use. They report that it supports various submission formats, including text, audio, and video, and allows for setting deadlines and providing feedback. Reviewers appreciate the calendar feature for tracking due dates and the automatic notifications upon submission. They also highlight the ability to manage individual and group assignments, which helps in maintaining academic integrity and efficient course management. **Learning portal** Reviewers indicate that Moodle's learner portal is essential for providing a centralized location for accessing courses and learning materials and rate this feature 4.4 out of 5. They find it easy to navigate and customize, allowing learners to track their progress, grades, and assignments. Users appreciate the personalized dashboards and the ability to communicate with instructors and peers. They also mention that the portal supports engagement through discussion forums and offers a seamless experience across different devices, although some suggest improvements in the user interface for better visual appeal. Pros & Cons Sarah C. Information Technology and Services, Self-employed Used the software for: 2+ years "I like that it's open source, which means I can get it for FREE if I have my own hosting solution. And it's not a cheap, minimal product either - it's a quality learning management system that supports a variety of assignment types with easy grading." Alexandre B. Higher Education, 10,001+ employees Used the software for: 2+ years "As a computer science student, I really value the learning platform because it serves as an all-in-one hub where I can access all my course materials, submit some of my assigments." Valery C. Education Management, 201-500 employees Used the software for: 6-12 months "It doesn’t open files the same way across different devices and causes a disruption as such. When new files are updated, they don’t always show up where they should and takes a while to shuffle through." Dhruv S. E-Learning, 1,001-5,000 employees Used the software for: 1-2 years "Some bugs issues while uploading the test paper with secondary application for plagiarism check." Pricing You can download Moodle for free and build your own Moodle site, or try Moodle's most popular features for free for 28 days. Rates for paid versions are not publicly available. Request a demo to learn more about its pricing options. [Learn more about Moodle pricing plans](https://www.capterra.com/p/80691/Moodle/pricing/) Integrations **Popular Integrations** - **Google Workspace** is a cloud-based suite of collaboration tools that integrates with Moodle to connect learners and educators. - **Microsoft 365** is a group of productivity and collaboration apps that integrates with Moodle so learners and educators can work together in the cloud. - **Meta for Business** integrates with Moodle so educators can create, schedule, and manage posts that drive social interaction. [Learn more about Moodle](https://www.capterra.com/p/80691/Moodle/) * * * [### Thinkific](https://www.capterra.com/p/132888/Thinkific/) [4.4 (205)](https://www.capterra.com/p/132888/Thinkific/reviews/) Highly rated for Functionality Highly rated for Functionality [View Profile](https://www.capterra.com/p/132888/Thinkific/) Starting Price: $49.00 Flat Rate, Per Month Free Trial Free Version Top rated feature: Learner Portal Based on 9 reviews User rating: AS 60% of reviewers rated it 5 stars Thinkific is a platform that lets educators create and sell online courses directly to learners and companies. Of the most popular products in this category, reviewers rated Thinkific the best for functionality. Verified reviewers also note that Thinkific has an intuitive interface that helps them design courses and connect with customers. Features Features reviewers most value **Course management** Reviewers appreciate Thinkific's course management capabilities, and give this feature a rating of 4 out of 5. They find it easy to create, edit, and set up courses, including standalone or subscription options. Users report that managing courses under different categories simplifies access and organization. They say these capabilities have helped grow their businesses. However, reviewers indicate that the inability to delete or archive courses, especially those with no registered users, is a drawback. They feel there is room for improvement in this aspect of Thinkific's course management. **Course publishing** Reviewers rate this feature 3.8 out of 5, and highlight Thinkific's course publishing capabilities. They find the course creator easy to use, comprehensive, and well-designed. Users report that publishing courses is straightforward, though some mention limitations in formatting options. They say this aspect of Thinkific is a primary reason for choosing the platform. However, some reviewers feel the overall process can be difficult and time-consuming, cautioning new users about the learning curve involved in course publishing with Thinkific. **Quizzes** Reviewers give this feature a rating of 3.8 out of 5, and appreciate the quiz capabilities in Thinkific. They find quizzes easy to create and implement into courses, enhancing the student experience. Users report that quizzes can be added to any lesson, making them a flexible tool for course engagement. However, they indicate that the quiz functionality is limited, primarily offering only multiple-choice options and a basic interface. They feel that while quizzes are fun and beneficial, there is potential for more advanced features in Thinkific's quiz capabilities. Pros & Cons MS Melina S. Non-Profit Organization Management, 11-50 employees Used the software for: 1-2 years "The platform gave me flexibility in structuring content, strong analytics to track learner progress, and reliable integrations that supported a smooth learning experience." NB Nina B. Professional Training & Coaching, 11-50 employees Used the software for: Less than 6 months "We needed a platform that could easily manage both on-demand and live courses, and the course builder in Thinkific gave us the felxibility that we needed to scale." PM Philip M. Non-Profit Organization Management, 1-10 employees Used the software for: Less than 6 months "Tracking the progress can be a little tricky as if you don't click the continue button, it won't register that you did the video." LT Libby T. Hospital & Health Care, 11-50 employees Used the software for: Less than 6 months "Some functions are limiting - like the ability to delete drafts of webinars and communities." Pricing Thinkific offers a 14-day free trial so you can test the tool before committing to a plan. It then offers three subscription options: Basic, Start, and Grow. Basic costs $31 per month (billed annually) and gives you access to unlimited courses, basic marketing tools, and several sales tools. Start costs $73 per month. It gives you everything from the Basic plan plus live lessons, unlimited coaching, and advanced CSS/HTML editing. The Grow tier costs $146 per month. Selecting it removes Thinkific branding from your content and gives you access to analytics. [Learn more about Thinkific pricing plans](https://www.capterra.com/p/132888/Thinkific/pricing/) Integrations **Popular Integrations** - **Salesforce Sales Cloud** integrates with Thinkific to help educators sell more courses and forecast future demand. - **Mailchimp** is an email marketing platform that integrates with Thinkific so content creators can stay in contact with learners. - **Zoom Workplace** is a video communication platform that integrates with Thinkific so course creators can provide video content easily. [Learn more about Thinkific](https://www.capterra.com/p/132888/Thinkific/) * * * [### Blackboard](https://www.capterra.com/p/14500/Blackboard-LMS-for-Business/) [4.1 (536)](https://www.capterra.com/p/14500/Blackboard-LMS-for-Business/reviews/) Content Management Content Management [View Profile](https://www.capterra.com/p/14500/Blackboard-LMS-for-Business/) Starting Price: $9500.00 , Per Year Free Trial Free Version Top rated feature: Course Management Based on 39 reviews User rating: 42% of reviewers rated it 5 stars Blackboard Learn, now part of Anthology, is an online learning management system often used by colleges, corporations, and other institutions to give learners access to course materials. More than 500 of our reviewers from the past two years give Blackboard Learn an overall 4.2/5 rating, also giving it high scores for its features, ease of use, and value for money. Among the most popular LMS products, our analysis of reviews shows Blackboard Learn’s has been rated the best for content management. Verified reviewers also mention its easy navigation, built-in calendar, and numerous integrations. Features Features reviewers most value **Assessment capabilities** Reviewers appreciate Blackboard Learn's robust tests and assessments capabilities, rating this feature 4.6 out of 5. They highlight the variety of question types, such as multiple choice, fill-in-the-blanks, and essay questions. Users report the convenience of features like autograding, Safe Assign for plagiarism detection, and the ability to set deadlines and time limits. They find the calendar view helpful for tracking test dates and descriptions. However, some users mention occasional platform malfunctions during exams, causing frustration. **Learner portal** Users give this feature a rating of 4.5 out of 5. They report that Blackboard Learn's learner portal provides a personalized interface for accessing course materials, submitting assignments, and viewing grades. They appreciate the ease of navigation and the organized display of subjects and assignments. Reviewers indicate that the portal allows for effective communication with teachers and easy access to feedback. However, some users feel the interface could be cleaner and less overwhelming. They also mention limited customization options and occasional menu overload. **Learning management** Reviewers rate this feature 4.5 out of 5 and indicate that Blackboard Learn's learning management capabilities help manage course content, assignments, and assessments efficiently. They appreciate the logical organization of subjects and the clear display of due dates and deadlines. They also note that Blackboard Learn supports online classes, quizzes, and plagiarism tests. However, some users feel the mobile version is outdated and needs improvement. Pros & Cons JN Jean-Pierre N. Higher Education, 501-1,000 employees Used the software for: 2+ years "It has strong features, including grading learners' assignments, communication, the management of assignments, and providing activity feedback." KB Kimberly B. Education Management, 1,001-5,000 employees Used the software for: 2+ years "Blackboard helps me organize my classes in a Week by Week format, while also keeping within the structure of other classes at the same school. " CG Carly G. Education Management, 501-1,000 employees Used the software for: 2+ years "What I like least about Blackboard was the lack of capability for page and template design." MC Mohamed C. Education Management, 1,001-5,000 employees Used the software for: I used a free trial "I still have something against cloud-based solutions as the file size with Blackboard Learn does not allow large files, which is weird, educators often need large files. " Pricing Blackboard offers a 30-day free trial, which gives you access to course building, assessment and grading, and collaboration and reporting tools.  Blackboard Learn doesn’t make its prices public, interested parties can request a quote. [Learn more about Blackboard pricing plans](https://www.capterra.com/p/14500/Blackboard-LMS-for-Business/pricing/) Integrations **Popular Integrations** - **Google Workspace** is a suite of online collaboration apps that integrate with Blackboard Learn to create an environment where educators and learners can work together. - **Microsoft OneDrive** is a cloud storage platform that integrates with Blackboard Learn, giving educators a convenient place to save files. - **Badgr** is a platform that integrates with Blackboard Learn so learners can earn credentials and demonstrate course completion. [Learn more about Blackboard](https://www.capterra.com/p/14500/Blackboard-LMS-for-Business/) * * * [### Absorb LMS](https://www.capterra.com/p/61763/Absorb-LMS/) [4.5 (328)](https://www.capterra.com/p/61763/Absorb-LMS/reviews/) Learner Portal Learner Portal [View Profile](https://www.capterra.com/p/61763/Absorb-LMS/) Starting Price: Not provided by vendor Free Trial Free Version Top rated feature: Learner Portal Based on 78 reviews User rating: JL 65% of reviewers rated it 5 stars Absorb LMS is an online learning management system that lets learners access premade and third-party course content. Based on analysis of our reviews data among the most popular LMS products, Absorb LMS has been rated the best for its learner portal, which makes it easy for students to access materials and communicate with instructors. Absorb LMS also has strong features for progress tracking, social learning, and asynchronous learning. Nearly 300 verified users give it an overall 4.5/5 rating. Features Features reviewers most value **Tests/Assessments** Reviewers rate this feature 4.7 out of 5; they appreciate Absorb LMS's Tests/Assessments capabilities. They highlight the ease of creating and managing tests, with options for multiple attempts and randomizing questions. Users report the ability to set up and customize question banks, though some mention a need for saving these banks for reuse. They find the inbuilt assessment tool significantly faster than other methods, despite some limitations with image integration. Reviewers value the variety of assessment options and the ability to track user knowledge and compliance effectively. **Training management** Reviewers give this feature a rating of 4.7 out of 5, and indicate Absorb LMS's Learning Management capabilities are user-friendly and highly customizable. They appreciate the automation of enrollments based on criteria like job title and location, which helps in consistently assigning and verifying training completion. Users find the system well-organized, with robust reporting and analytics features. They value the integration with other systems and the ability to deploy courses to specific employee groups. Reviewers feel the system simplifies tracking learning progress and distributing training resources. **Learning management** Reviewers give this feature a rating of 4.6 out of 5; they highlight Absorb LMS's Training Management capabilities, noting the ease of automating enrollments and managing various training needs. They appreciate the ability to create and assign courses, and the convenience of performing functions across different screens. Users report the system's effectiveness in managing live training and internal associates. They find the reporting feature particularly useful, though some see room for improvement in system design. Reviewers value the opportunity to submit improvement requests and receive direct responses. Pros & Cons PM Petra M. Consumer Goods, 201-500 employees Used the software for: 6-12 months "Absorb is great for our purposes of training our new employees, creating mandatory trainings, tracking their progress." Jessica M. Utilities, 201-500 employees Used the software for: 2+ years "Their CSM and Account Managers are always knowledgeable about upcoming rollouts, products and how this may fit into our training plans, with very reasonable costs that we can actively track ROI on." MB Michelle B. Government Administration, 1,001-5,000 employees Used the software for: 2+ years "There's no way for us to archive records we no longer need (like a user enrolled in a course they no longer need to take, but we still have to show they were enrolled for compliance), and we need more insights into which admin users are making enrollments." BB Brittney B. Non-Profit Organization Management, 11-50 employees Used the software for: 2+ years "I felt they lacked the ability to organize courses in my browsing/shopping friendly layouts." Pricing Absorb LMS offers a free trial; details are available by filling a form. Absorb LMS doesn’t make its prices public. Interested parties should contact Absorb for price quotes. [Learn more about Absorb LMS pricing plans](https://www.capterra.com/p/61763/Absorb-LMS/pricing/) Integrations **Popular Integrations** - **PayPal** is a payment processing solution that integrates with Absorb LMS to facilitate online payments. - **Salesforce Sales Cloud** integrates with Absorb LMS to help educators sell more courses and forecast future course demand. - **Google Workspace** is a suite of online collaboration tools that integrates with Absorb LMS to provide a collaborative environment for educators and learners. [Learn more about Absorb LMS](https://www.capterra.com/p/61763/Absorb-LMS/) * * * [4.7 (482)](https://www.capterra.com/p/230567/360Learning/reviews/) Course Management Course Management Starting Price: $8.00 Per User, Per Month Free Trial Free Version Top rated feature: Course Management Based on 88 reviews User rating: AP 70% of reviewers rated it 5 stars 360Learning is an online education and upskilling platform that encourages collaborative learning. Clients often choose 360Learning because they prefer its gamification, blended learning, and course authoring features. However, its approach to course management makes it a standout in the industry. More than 400 verified users give 360Learning an overall 4.6/5 rating, and our analysis of reviews data shows it has been rated the best for course management, thanks to this product’s easy collaboration, strong customer support, and useful course authoring tools. Features Features reviewers most value **Training management** Reviewers appreciate 360Learning's Training Management capabilities, and rate this feature 5 out of 5. They find the dashboard simple and easy to use, allowing quick access to necessary information and export to Excel. Users report that role delegation helps managers independently follow their team's training. They say it's easy to create and import courses, and they value the ability to update training models anytime. They also mention the academy as a beneficial aspect for learners. **Learner portal** Users give this feature a rating of 4.9 out of 5, and report that 360Learning's Learner Portal provides an exceptional learning experience with a clean, intuitive interface. They appreciate easy access to all enrolled courses, course materials, and progress tracking. Reviewers indicate that the collaborative features, like discussion boards and chat functionality, foster an interactive learning community. They find the portal ergonomic, intuitive, and visually pleasant, though some suggest improvements in the search functionality of the learning catalog. **Progress tracking** Reviewers rate this feature 4.9 out of 5, and highlight 360Learning's Progress Tracking capabilities as very easy and visual. They appreciate the ability to monitor individual and group progress, send reminders, and consult student progress at any time. Users report that the platform simplifies tracking progress and success, which was previously challenging. They also value the interface's ease of use and the ability to extract data to Excel files. Pros & Cons BQ Bich Tram Q. Leisure, Travel & Tourism, 501-1,000 employees Used the software for: 1-2 years "What I like most is the ease of creating content and uploading existing files, as well as the platform's ability to automatically suggest relevant content and quizzes." JV JEAN-MARC V. Automotive, 501-1,000 employees Used the software for: 2+ years "The content creation tool can be quickly mastered by employees who want to create training courses, and creating quizzes is very simple." Victoria S. Market Research, 51-200 employees Used the software for: 2+ years "The quizzes are normally too simple and cannot replace a practical exercise for a newcomer." Laura H. Hospital & Health Care, 1,001-5,000 employees Used the software for: 1-2 years "Additionally, like with any SaaS, there is always room for enhancement, and the scheduling can be annoying at times." Pricing 360Learning offers a 30-day free trial of the Team version. The Team plan then costs $8 per month per registered user (up to 100 monthly users). Businesses interested in advanced features can request a demo and a quote. [Learn more about 360Learning pricing plans](https://www.capterra.com/p/230567/360Learning/pricing/) Integrations **Popular Integrations** - **Google Drive** integrates with 360Learning to give educators and learners a reliable place to store content online. - **Slack** is a collaboration tool that integrates with 360Learning to help students and educators connect with each other. - **Salesforce Sales Cloud** integrates with 360Learning to help course creators drive engagement and forecast future demand. [Learn more about 360Learning](https://www.capterra.com/p/230567/360Learning/) * * * [4.7 (192)](https://www.capterra.com/p/143513/LearnWorlds/reviews/) Training Management Training Management Starting Price: $99.00 Flat Rate, Per Month Free Trial Free Version Top rated feature: Course Management Based on 42 reviews User rating: AS 80% of reviewers rated it 5 stars LearnWorlds is an AI-powered learning management system businesses can leverage to train employees and customers. Its flexible approach to training management lets clients curate course pathways to help learners reach important goals. Nearly 150 of our verified users give LearnWorlds an overall 4.7/5 rating, and our analysis shows it has been rated the best for training management. Features Features reviewers most value **Learning management** Users rate this feature 4.9 out of 5, and report that LearnWorlds' Learning Management capabilities are easy to use, even for those who are not tech-savvy. They find it smooth to sign-up, engage in class activities, complete exams, and receive certificates. Reviewers indicate that they can easily collect payments and monitor student progress. They say LearnWorlds supports managing both content and learners effectively, which is valuable for professionally accredited training programs. They appreciate the ease of creating courses and uploading content, highlighting its versatility and user-friendly style. **Quizzes** Reviewers give this feature a rating of 4.8 out of 5, and appreciate LearnWorlds' Quizzes capabilities for being user-friendly and effective for staff training courses. They highlight the variety of quiz types available and the ease of managing them. Users report that the recent layout update has made it even simpler to handle quizzes. They find it helpful for assessing learners' work and note that it integrates well with external tools for students with intellectual and developmental disabilities, enhancing its usability. **Course management** Reviewers rate this feature 4.6 out of 5, and highlight LearnWorlds' Course Management capabilities for allowing the creation of multiple courses and schools efficiently. They appreciate the ability to manage content quickly, clone lessons, and edit or delete courses as needed. Users report that creating new courses using templates is easy and quick, and they value the seamless tracking of activities and learners. They find the system intuitive, flexible, and suitable even for those with no IT experience, making course management straightforward and effective. Pros & Cons YC Yohiner C. E-Learning, 11-50 employees Used the software for: 1-2 years "In addition to the Learning Management Cababilities, it also has complete Content Management System features, making it possible to have your training content and marketing website in the same place." DF Denis F. E-Learning, 1-10 employees Used the software for: 2+ years "All my website is done on Learnworlds so i can promote my courses and my paid customers access to the courses with all kind of payment solutions." CE Claudia E. Non-Profit Organization Management, 51-200 employees Used the software for: 1-2 years "Creating and designing webpages and ebooks can also be tedious with their builder. And a big pitfall for our team has been the inability to define completion, meaning we decide which activities count towards completion, instead of all items having to be clicked on in order to count as completed." nH navid H. E-Learning, 1-10 employees Used the software for: Less than 6 months "The inability to set up dynamic payments, the lack of a simpler way to upload videos (having to go through Vimeo and add the link each time), and the need for a more robust quiz tool for mathematics." Pricing LearnWorlds offers a 30-day free trial. It then offers four plans to meet the needs of schools and corporations. The Starter plan costs $24 per month (billed annually) plus a $5 per-course enrollment fee. The Pro Trainer plan costs $79 per month and gives learners access to paid courses. The Learning Center plan costs $249 per month. It includes interactive videos, advanced assessments, automations, and other features. It also removes LearnWorlds branding from created content. Contact LearnWorlds to get a price quote for the High Volume & Corporate tier. [Learn more about LearnWorlds pricing plans](https://www.capterra.com/p/143513/LearnWorlds/pricing/) Integrations **Popular Integrations** - **PayPal** integrates with LearnWorlds to facilitate payments from clients and learners. - **Mailchimp** is an email marketing platform that integrates with LearnWorlds so educators can connect with students and encourage them to keep learning. - **Google Analytics 360** is a data-driven marketing platform that integrates with LearnWorlds so course creators can reach broader audiences. [Learn more about LearnWorlds](https://www.capterra.com/p/143513/LearnWorlds/) * * * [### Adobe Learning Manager](https://www.capterra.com/p/145872/Adobe-Captivate-Prime/) [4.3 (682)](https://www.capterra.com/p/145872/Adobe-Captivate-Prime/reviews/) Self-paced Learning Self-paced Learning [View Profile](https://www.capterra.com/p/145872/Adobe-Captivate-Prime/) Starting Price: Not provided by vendor Free Trial Free Version Top rated feature: Learner Portal Based on 13 reviews User rating: TB 50% of reviewers rated it 5 stars Adobe Learning Manager is a part of the Adobe Experience Cloud suite that delivers personalized learning experiences to customers and employees. Companies often use it to train employees and customers, which leads to better retention and compliance. Our analysis shows that Adobe Learning Manager is rated best for its self-paced learning features, which allow asynchronous learning and customizable learning paths. More than 650 verified users give Adobe Learning Manager an overall 4.3/5 rating. Features Features reviewers most value **Course management** Reviewers rate this feature 3.8 out of 5, and appreciate Adobe Learning Manager's course management capabilities. They find it allows easy managing of courses assigned to relevant learners and supports real-time updates during team meetings. Users report some complexity in checking the number of courses attempted and passed, and occasional issues with scores saving or certifications coming through. They say it helps in offering the best customer service and makes learning easier, despite some minor challenges. **Learning management** Reviewers give this feature a rating of 3.5 out of 5, and indicate that Adobe Learning Manager's learning management capabilities play a vital role in onboarding training for new employees. They feel it is the core offering of the product and is executed well. Users find it a good tool for teaching and learning projects, describing it as a very creative system that is simple to use. They say it makes learning management easy and basic, enhancing their overall experience. **Learner portal** Users rate this feature 3.4 out of 5, and report that Adobe Learning Manager's learner portal is a comprehensive learning platform tailored to individual needs. They highlight its attractive design and ease of use, though some newer employees find it less user-friendly. Reviewers indicate it allows easy tracking and testing of skills, adding value to Adobe. They find new employees can manage with little help, appreciating the portal's navigability and overall functionality. Pros & Cons BP Breona P. Hospital & Health Care, 201-500 employees Used the software for: 1-2 years "It can mix classroom, virtual, and self-paced content in a single program, It uses AI to recommend content tailored to a learner’s role, skill level, or interests." ap alissa p. Transportation/Trucking/Railroad, 1-10 employees Used the software for: 6-12 months "It's useful for delivering required training and monitoring completion, and once you get to know it, it helps make learning administration more efficient." JS Jazzmine S. Computer Software, 11-50 employees Used the software for: 1-2 years "The only thing I didn’t like about adobe learningmanager was that some times the software timed out unexpectedly" JW Jessica W. Chemicals, 51-200 employees Used the software for: 1-2 years "I lve and utilize a number of Adobe's products and while there can be frustrating moments, I typically find it's user error and not their applications themselves." Pricing Adobe doesn’t make its Learning Manager prices public. You can fill out a form to get a quote and request a free demo. Integrations **Popular Integrations** - **Microsoft Teams** is a collaboration tool that integrates with Adobe Learning Manager so educators and learners connect online. - **Microsoft Power BI** is a data visualization tool that integrates with Adobe Learning Manager so training managers can easily review task completion and other important statistics. - **Workday HCM** is a human capital management platform that integrates with Adobe Learning Manager to give managers better oversight of how learners progress. [Learn more about Adobe Learning Manager](https://www.capterra.com/p/145872/Adobe-Captivate-Prime/) * * * ## Top free LMS software at a glance Vendor Highly rated Starting Price [TalentLMS](https://www.capterra.com/p/132935/TalentLMS/)[4.7 (594)](https://www.capterra.com/p/132935/TalentLMS/reviews/) Ease of Use $149.00 Per Month [360Learning](https://www.capterra.com/p/230567/360Learning/)[4.7 (482)](https://www.capterra.com/p/230567/360Learning/reviews/) Course Management $8.00 Per Month [LearnWorlds](https://www.capterra.com/p/143513/LearnWorlds/)[4.7 (192)](https://www.capterra.com/p/143513/LearnWorlds/reviews/) Training Management $99.00 Per Month [Canvas](https://www.capterra.com/p/127214/CANVAS/)[4.6 (4308)](https://www.capterra.com/p/127214/CANVAS/reviews/) Highest Rated Not provided by vendor [Learn More](https://www.capterra.com/p/127214/CANVAS/) [Thinkific](https://www.capterra.com/p/132888/Thinkific/)[4.4 (205)](https://www.capterra.com/p/132888/Thinkific/reviews/) Functionality $49.00 Per Month [Learn More](https://www.capterra.com/p/132888/Thinkific/) [Absorb LMS](https://www.capterra.com/p/61763/Absorb-LMS/)[4.5 (328)](https://www.capterra.com/p/61763/Absorb-LMS/reviews/) Learner Portal Not provided by vendor [Learn More](https://www.capterra.com/p/61763/Absorb-LMS/) [Forma LMS](https://www.capterra.com/p/135235/Forma-Lms/)[4.6 (186)](https://www.capterra.com/p/135235/Forma-Lms/reviews/) Value for Money $98.00 Per Month [Learn More](https://www.capterra.com/p/135235/Forma-Lms/) [Adobe Learning Manager](https://www.capterra.com/p/145872/Adobe-Captivate-Prime/)[4.3 (682)](https://www.capterra.com/p/145872/Adobe-Captivate-Prime/reviews/) Self-paced Learning Not provided by vendor [Learn More](https://www.capterra.com/p/145872/Adobe-Captivate-Prime/) [Moodle](https://www.capterra.com/p/80691/Moodle/)[4.3 (3374)](https://www.capterra.com/p/80691/Moodle/reviews/) Customer Support $130.00 Per Year [Learn More](https://www.capterra.com/p/80691/Moodle/) [Blackboard](https://www.capterra.com/p/14500/Blackboard-LMS-for-Business/)[4.1 (536)](https://www.capterra.com/p/14500/Blackboard-LMS-for-Business/reviews/) Content Management $9500.00 Per Year [Learn More](https://www.capterra.com/p/14500/Blackboard-LMS-for-Business/) Explore our 957 Learning Management System solutions[Browse Directory](https://www.capterra.com/learning-management-system-software/) ## Our methodology Our independent and objective research is based on market demand signals along with analysis of our proprietary data, including product information and verified user ratings and reviews as of November 2024. To be considered for this list, products had to: - Appear in the [Capterra Shortlist for Learning Management System](https://www.capterra.com/learning-management-system-software/shortlist/). - Show evidence of offering required functionality for a given software category as demonstrated by publicly available sources, such as the vendor’s website. - Offer either a forever free version or a free trial period. - In certain cases, depending on the market, we may expand the criteria for selection of products based on our market insights to ensure we’re providing the best options for buyers.  We took the highest rated products in each of the listed parameters a product is “best for”, unless that product already appeared on our list. In these cases, we feature the next highest rated product.  In our descriptions of each featured product, we include the following details:  - **Most valued features:** Our research team analyzed verified LMS software reviews on Capterra to identify each product’s highest rated features (among features with at least 5 reviews). We then summarized user sentiment using real reviews for each feature. Please note some of the highest rated features for a given product may not be included in its free version.  - **Review excerpts selection**: Review excerpts are passages extracted from longer reviews written by verified reviewers. We obtain these excerpts by applying an algorithm that considers factors including, but not limited to, length, sentiment, topic coverage, and thematic relevance. Excerpts represent user opinion and do not represent the views of, nor constitute, an endorsement by Capterra or its affiliates. Excerpts are not edited for clarity or grammar. - **Popular integrations:** We identified integrations from our internal database and selected products considered as “most popular” based on how often they were cited by users as integrating with products in the category. ## What is learning management system software? [Learning management system](https://www.capterra.com/learning-management-system-software/) software, also known as LMS software, helps organizations create and administer digital learning courses. Used by businesses to train employees or schools to teach students, learning management system software offers course management, learner tracking, and testing/assessment features that can help organizations manage their learning assets and improve learner outcomes. Depending on which type of organization you are, common LMS integrations include [accounting software](https://www.capterra.com/accounting-software/), [higher education systems](https://www.capterra.com/higher-education-software/), and [performance management platforms](https://www.capterra.com/performance-appraisal-software/). ## Common types of “free” learning management system software There are two types of free learning management system software: forever free systems and free trial systems. Some vendors may offer both options. ### Forever free options (free version with limited features) A forever free learning management system gives you unlimited access to basic LMS features without a set time limit or cost. Besides feature limits, forever free options may have limitations on the amount of storage you can use or the number of learners you can have. For example, a forever free option may let you create and store different learning courses, curate simple curriculums with them, then administer them to a small roster of learners at no cost. But if you want additional features, like gamification or advanced reporting, or want to increase the number of learners in your courses, you have to upgrade to a paid plan. If you have limited teaching needs, and your roster of learners is relatively small (single digits), a forever free learning management system can be a great option. With 272 forever free LMS systems on our site, there are a lot of options available if you’re looking for a learning management system that is truly zero cost. ### Free trial options (time-limited free access) Free trials of learning management system software will typically give you access to all the features the system has to offer, but only for a limited time (anywhere from one week to one month). While free trials don’t have the same limitations as forever free systems, once the free trial period has ended, your only option is to upgrade to a paid plan or lose access to the software entirely. Successful software buyers are 25% more likely to factor free trial periods into their final purchase decision than those who ultimately regret their software purchase, so we recommend that all buyers take advantage of them.[\[2\]](#footnotes) On our site, you will find 760 learning management system products with a free trial period, giving you many options to try out before purchasing. ## Features included with free learning management system software All learning management software systems have core features like course management, course tracking, and tests/assessments. Beyond that, you’ll find that some common features found in paid systems aren’t available in free offerings.  To help, here is a breakdown of the features that typically are and are not included in free learning management system packages, along with analysis of our user reviews to learn which features matter most to them. ### Core features available in free learning management system software - **Basic course management**: Create, store, and assign learning courses. 90% rate this feature as critical or highly important. - **Limited course tracking**: Track learners' progress through assigned courses, including completion and pass/fail rates. 85% rate this feature as critical or highly important. - **Simple tests/assessments**: Create and administer simple assessments to test learner knowledge retention. 77% rate this feature as critical or highly important. ### Common features of free learning management system software - **Learner portal**: Gives learners access to materials and allows them to communicate digitally with instructors. 92% rate this feature as critical or highly important.  - **Progress tracking**: Track the progress of a specific learner, group, or course. 83% rate this feature as critical or highly important.  - **Asynchronous learning**: Gives users the flexibility to engage with training course content at their own pace and schedule, without an instructor present. 74% rate this feature as critical or highly important. - **Learning paths/tracks**: Arrange courses in a specific order to be completed. ### Features not typically included in free learning management system software - **Mobile learning**: Allows administrators and learners to access the system through a mobile app. - **Gamification**: Add gamified elements like leaderboards and point systems to courses in order to engage learners. - **Blended learning**: Keep track of curriculums that combine in-person and online learning experiences. - **Extended enterprise**: Deliver learning courses to external users (like customers), complete with custom branding - **Advanced reporting and analytics**: Generate custom dashboards and reports, while tracking more granular learner and course data. ## Benefits of using free learning management system software Even free learning management systems offer benefits over more manual methods like pen and paper. For example, nearly half (45%) of the learning management system buyers we talk to who are currently using manual methods say they’re inefficient.[\[3\]](#footnotes) By leveraging a free LMS to digitize your learning content, it becomes easier to track learner progress and scale your courses. A learning management system also offers a better learning experience. Learners have more flexibility to consume learning content on their own time (as opposed to being in an instructor-led classroom), and courses can be made more engaging through videos and animations. Our analysis of user reviews reveals some other benefits that you can get from learning management system software, even if it’s free: ### Improved collaboration and knowledge sharing Features like course forums and user-generated content tools allow learners to discuss learning materials more seamlessly and contribute their own knowledge to the program. ### More targeted learning content Reviewers say they can leverage pre-made assets or create their own to customize their learning courses for specific needs. Customizable learner paths also ensure learners get a specific sequence of courses that best suits their learning preferences and goals. ### Better insights All the data on course completion rates and learner progress is at your fingertips, making it easier to identify trends and areas for improvement. ## What to look for in free learning management system software When evaluating different free learning management system options, here are some things we recommend you should look for beyond the “free” label: ### Hidden costs and fees Even if the software is free, the surrounding services may not be. For example, things like customer support, user training, or access to premade content assets can carry a cost. It’s also important to know what the limits are with your free system in terms of the maximum number of users you can have, the amount of courses you can store, etc. and what the penalties are for going over them. ### Open source Some free learning management systems are open source, which means you can download the source code and customize it to your needs. The tradeoff is that open source software vendors don’t often offer support, which means you may need to use your own IT resources to maintain and update the software over time. ### Upgrade pathway If you plan to upgrade to a paid system down the line, take note of any free offerings that allow you to upgrade without switching over to a new system—saving you the time and effort needed to migrate and start over with customization. ## How to choose free learning management system software Selecting the right free learning management system software requires an assessment of both your current and future learning needs. Here are some tips for how to approach this decision: ### 1\. Do an audit of your learning content If you already have a tool you like for creating learning content assets and courses, don’t adopt a learning management system that requires you to use its creation tools. Conversely, if you don’t have any content assets at all or the means to create them, seek out learning management systems with creation tools and a library of premade assets you can leverage. ### 2\. Take your growth plans into account If you consistently have a small number of students or employees doing learning courses, a forever free learning management system makes sense. If, on the other hand, you expect to grow either the number of courses you offer or the number of learners enrolled in them in the near future, a free trial option is the better investment. ### 3\. Create a researched shortlist Once you understand your needs better, research different free options and try to come up with a shortlist to engage with further (talk to vendors, attend demos, etc.). We find that successful buyers average no more than three options on their shortlist. [Capterra’s Shortlist](https://www.capterra.com/learning-management-system-software/shortlist/) is a great tool to do research, as is our [software comparison tool](https://www.capterra.com/resources/capterra-software-comparison-tool/). ## Common limitations of using free learning management system software Just because the software is free doesn’t mean there aren’t limitations. With free learning management system software, you can expect to run into at least one of the following: - A cap on the number of courses you can create or store - A limit on the number of learners you can enroll in courses at one time - Restrictions on external usage or the ability to sell your courses externally With open source systems, specifically, you can also expect costs with maintaining and updating the software on your own servers. For example, one of our reviews on open source LMS software says, “Even though the software is free, running it can cost money since it demands serious skills to manage.” Feature limits are common as well. For example, you may get access to basic stock reports with a free system, but in order to customize your own, you need to upgrade to a paid version. The same goes for assessments and course creation tools: you’ll get access to stock assets but have to pay to custom-make your own. ## When to consider free vs paid learning management system software Free learning management system software is a great option for small businesses that only need to train a handful of employees, schools and other academic institutions with small classroom sizes, or solo entrepreneurs interested in selling a few courses online. However, you should consider upgrading to a paid solution when you: - Reach double digits on the number of courses you offer - Enroll more than five learners at a time - Need more customizable creation tools and reports - Want to increase course engagement (through features like gamification) Depending on your needs, you may want to consider investing in a more comprehensive [talent management system](https://www.capterra.com/talent-management-software/) or [classroom management software](https://www.capterra.com/classroom-management-software/). These products have LMS functionality, alongside other applications useful to businesses and schools. ## What is the cost to upgrade from free learning management system software to a paid package? There are many paid learning management systems on the market that can be purchased for an affordable price. Most systems are priced on a per-month subscription basis that scales based on the number of users you have, the amount of course storage you need, and how advanced the functionality is. Typical pricing plans look like this:[\[4\]](#footnotes) - **Entry-level** plans average $219/month, and give you access to core features for less than 100 users. - **Mid-tier** plans average $676/month, netting you more user slots (up to 999) and nice-to-have features like gamification. - **Higher-end** plans average $1,084/month, allowing for thousands of users and access to advanced features like extended enterprise. For context, 27% of the buyers our advisors have talked to who have been looking for learning management system software in the past year budget less than $625/month for their purchase, while 34% budget between $625-$1,250. ## FAQs What are questions to ask in demos with free LMS vendors? Some questions to ask in demos with free LMS vendors are: - What are your user or course storage limits? - What features do I get access to with your free plan? - Do I need to maintain and update the software myself? - What does the upgrade path look like, if there is one? What features should a learning management system have? All learning management software systems should have core features like course management, course tracking, and tests/assessments. Many also have common features like mobile learning, customizable learning paths, and course creation tools. Are open source LMSs really free? While downloading and using open source LMS software is often free, there are costs associated with updating and maintaining the software on your own server. What are the benefits and ROI of using free LMS software? Even free LMS software products offer benefits over more manual methods like pen and paper. Digitizing and administering your courses through a free LMS can make you more organized and efficient while delivering a better learning experience. The ROI of a free system will depend on your use case and key performance indicators. What is the best free learning platform? [CANVAS](https://www.capterra.com/p/127214/CANVAS/) is the highest-rated free learning platform, according to our reviews. **Sources** 1. **Capterra reviews data**: Capterra reviews are collected from verified users for individual software products. For this report, we analyzed reviews from the past two years as of the research. Research was conducted in November 2024. [Read the complete methodology](https://www.capterra.com/resources/proprietary-data-research/#software-buyers-guides-methodology). 2. **Capterra’s 2025 Tech Trends Survey** was conducted online in August 2024 among 3,500 respondents in the U.S. (n=700), U.K. (n=350), Canada (n=350), Australia (n=350), France (n=350), India (n=350), Germany (n=350), Brazil (n=350), and Japan (n=350), at businesses across multiple industries and company sizes (five or more employees). The survey was designed to understand the timeline, organizational challenges, adoption & budget, vendor research behaviors, ROI expectations and satisfaction levels for software buyers. Respondents were screened to ensure their involvement in business software purchasing decisions. 3. **Capterra advisor call notes**: Findings are based on data from telephonic conversations that Capterra’s advisor team had with small-to-midsize businesses seeking HR tools. For this report, we analyzed phone interactions from the past year as of the research. Research was conducted in November 2024. [Read the complete methodology](https://www.capterra.com/resources/proprietary-data-research/#software-buyers-guides-methodology). 4. **Capterra software pricing data:** Only products with publicly available pricing information and qualified software products within the category, as of the research date, are included in the pricing analysis. [Read the complete methodology.](https://www.capterra.com/resources/proprietary-data-research/#software-buyers-guides-methodology) [Brian Westfall](https://www.capterra.com/resources/author/bwestfall/) Associate Principal HR Analyst Experience I worked at Capterra for over a decade, becoming a trusted thought leader on all aspects of the HR technology market. I have a passion for helping organizations cultivate a great place to work, and I draw on my eye for detail, curious nature, and ability to distill information in engaging formats to help them do so. Prior to joining Capterra, I honed my writing skills doing journalism for various newspapers, creating social media content for businesses,... [Caroline Rousseau](https://www.capterra.com/resources/author/caroline-rousseau/) Caroline Rousseau is a content editor at Capterra. A former content analyst, Caroline has, for the past five years, built, written, and edited research reports about technological trends, opportunities, and challenges with a small and midsize business audience in mind. Her content has been featured in French tier 1 media including Le Monde, L’Express, and Le Figaro, among other publications. Her previous experience as a graphic designer, translator, and LQA specialist in various industries... Related reading Best rated products on this list - [ TalentLMS](#e84c77a4-1ed5-480c-8ffd-a6d200b6e7b3) - [ 360Learning](#1e81972c-f341-4459-ac7f-a6d200b28511) - [ LearnWorlds](#fa27b0d0-6f24-487e-b0bc-a6d200b4e769) - [ Canvas](#3d80405e-97f3-42e1-bb3c-6bc92340c566) - [ Thinkific](#f27f1408-8872-44ce-8a05-a6d200b6fb5c) - [ Absorb LMS](#48196b1a-c598-46c8-812a-a6d200b28512) - [ Forma LMS](#5eb269bc-49aa-4a07-a0b3-a6d200b41ffd) - [ Adobe Learning Manager](#816283ac-3a5c-494b-bd74-a6d200b29cac) - [ Moodle](#58393d19-2db4-45d2-8103-a6d200b53c81) - [ Blackboard](#cc90f894-6de3-49d2-8070-a6d200b2ee7a) Talk to a Capterra advisor for free and get results within 15 minutes.