Moodle is a well-known online learning platform in the LMS market.
It’s an open-source learning management system (LMS), which makes it a tempting solution for educational institutions, including higher education. However, Moodle isn’t right for every business.
Some organizations, particularly those in a business environment, are looking for alternatives to make up for Moodle’s shortcomings.
In this guide, we’ll explore popular competitors and alternatives to Moodle: comparing their features and functionalities, and seeing what real-life users have to say about each of these LMS software systems.
Disclaimer: The information below is accurate as of January 28th, 2024.
Why consider an alternative to Moodle?
At the time of writing, Moodle has a good track record with its users, with a G2.com rating of 4.1 out of 5.
One user says, “Moodle gets it all right, flexible and powerful; superb features for any style of learning, and a huge plug-in ecosystem.”
But there are other reasons why organizations look to move away from Moodle and seek an alternative.
Reason 1: Moodle is an open-source platform
As an open-source software solution, Moodle presents two big selling points – it’s highly customizable and free.
Any user can modify and enhance the tool’s source code to fit their specific e-learning needs and online training requirements.
But this also means that users are on their own when it comes to setup, implementation, and customization.
As with most other open-source systems, there’s no dedicated customer support. This means that you’ll have to rely on your own know-how, Moodle’s knowledge library, or its community of users.
As one user mentioned on Reddit, “I would only consider Moodle if a custom LMS was required and we had an abundance of resources (IT) internally to draw on and provide ongoing support.”
Another user said, “When there are issues with it, it can be a bit of a needle in a haystack kind of hunt to determine what is wrong with the site.”
Reason 2: Steep learning curve
Tying in with the point above, Moodle is also known for being somewhat difficult to pick up.
One user said “It can have a difficult learning curve at first. Finding the right integrations and developers with the right skill sets can be challenging.”
As you can imagine, a steep learning curve coupled with minimal to no customer support can pose a significant challenge for organizations looking to integrate Moodle into their daily operations.
Reason 3: Outdated user interface
Although not a deal breaker, an outdated UI can impair product adoption by admins, learners, and other stakeholders.
As one user puts it, “The user interface could do with some upgrading. The platform, even though it serves its purpose, is quite outdated and doesn’t correlate with the technology of today. The platform also appeared to be less intuitive and a bit buggy.”
Keep in mind that these issues don’t only hurt the learning experience but can also negatively impact how your learners view your brand.
Say, for example, you’re trying to train your customers on how to use your product more effectively. If the e-learning platform isn’t user-friendly enough, it could reflect poorly on your product as well.
Top 10 Moodle Competitors & Alternative Solutions on the Market Right Now
- Docebo
- TalentLMS
- Canvas LMS
- D2L Brightspace
- Blackboard Learn
- Tovuti LMS
- LearnWorlds
- 360Learning
- Google Classroom
- Litmos
We’ll go over each of these learning management platforms, analyzing their best LMS features and functionalities, and see what some users have to say about them.
1. Docebo
Docebo is a AI-powered LMS built for the creation, management, and delivery of different types of training programs and materials.
It’s designed for a wide range of use cases like employee training and onboarding, sales enablement, customer and compliance training, and channel partner training, among others.
Unlike Moodle, which is open-source, Docebo is software as a service (SaaS). This means that you pay a subscription fee and receive ongoing customer support and regular updates.
With Docebo, organizations can create and manage online learning courses complete with gamification elements, quizzes, and assessments.
The platform includes powerful AI capabilities. The Virtual Coach, for example, makes automated content recommendations and guides learners through their training activities.
Docebo Shape uses AI to turn internal and external knowledge like online blogs, white papers, and PDFs into short, factual microlearning lessons in minutes.
The platform also comes with an extensive off-the-shelf content library, e-commerce capabilities, robust analytics and reporting tools, and social learning functionalities.
Organizations can brand and white label the tool’s mobile app, which also provides offline access to courses.
Whatever Docebo doesn’t cover directly, it typically integrates via native or API integrations with popular third-party apps in terms of content management, video conferencing, sales, marketing, customer experience, and more.
G2 Rating
Key features
- Discover, Coach, & Share social learning feature that helps create a learning environment based on knowledge sharing and continuing education.
- Virtual Coach feature that makes content recommendations to learners, helping bridge knowledge gaps.
- Extensive off-the-shelf course content library with over 30,000 courses from reputable providers like CompTIA, Microsoft, and others.
- Robust analytics and reporting capabilities for tracking learner progress, measuring online course effectiveness, and overall e-learning strategy success.
- Automated course content–creation tool in multiple formats and with multilingual support.
Why switch from Moodle to Docebo?
As a cloud-based SaaS solution, Docebo provides a complete suite of features and functionalities that make it a worthwhile Moodle alternative to consider.
Here’s what real users have to say about Docebo:
- “The number of available features and usability is associated with a strong focus on innovation that keeps the platform at the top of the LMS ranking.” – Edoardo G.
- “We like the flexibility of the design. You can build and customize the LMS for your organization. We wanted to host all of our learning in one place, documents, videos, e-learning, and this LMS allowed us to do this easily.” – Chloe P.
- “Docebo is a highly configurable platform that suits many different LMS use cases (especially because of how the platform can integrate with so many other systems).” – Annarose P.
- “Docebo is a platform that encompasses a lot of features into one. Between a course content repository, to a social learning platform, to SCORM compatible LMS, Docebo has it all.” – Ellie S.
- “From the initial sales process through the first year of customer service and support, they have been excellent to work with and consistently responsive.” – Steven P.
- “Overall based on many different previously used LMSs, it’s like night and day. Docebo is so much easier to use than anything.” – Michele G.
Best suited for
Docebo is best suited for closing knowledge gaps thanks to its automated personalized learning path course and e-learning content recommendations.
2. TalentLMS
TalentLMS is a cloud-based learning platform for online course design, management, and deployment.
The tool’s course builder lets instructional designers include gamification and interactive elements like leaderboards, badges, quizzes, and assessments.
Trainers and admins can also customize training programs to fit individual learning paths, upload SCORM and xAPI files, and host live in-person sessions.
G2 Rating
Key features
- Drag-and-drop course module builder with SCORM and xAPI compatibility.
- Gamification and interactive elements that help with knowledge retention and engagement.
- Custom certification management that helps with regulatory compliance.
- Real-time reporting capabilities that help keep track of training and learner progress.
- Admin task automation that helps remove the incidence of human error.
Why users like TalentLMS (according to G2)
- “Easy to manage, and very user-friendly for all employees to follow courses on their own.” – Danica Ann A.
- “Much of the platform is intuitive to use, and there is lots of support when I get stuck.” – Robin C.
- “Talent LMS is best for the people who start new and it’s easy to understand and [they] can learn it quickly and easily.” – Santhosh L.
Best suited for
TalentLMS is best suited for scheduling and automating course management while keeping direct human intervention at a minimum.
3. Canvas LMS
Canvas is another open-source LMS with a special focus on students, K-12, and higher education.
It includes course creation and management, as well as assignment tracking capabilities.
Canvas LMS hosts robust social learning features like interactive discussion boards, forums, instant messaging, and video and audio notes. These help learners collaborate and share their learning experiences.
It also includes a mobile app that lets instructors and students remain connected, as well as analytics and reporting tools that can show insights into learner progress.
G2 Rating
Key features
- Social learning features allow learners to collaborate between themselves and keep in touch with teachers.
- Mobile application helps to increase learning flexibility on the go.
- Analytics and reporting features that help keep track of learner progress.
- Course assignment tracking feature allows teachers to better manage learner activities.
- Course creation tool for designing e-learning courses based on organizational and learner needs.
Why users like Canvas LMS (according to G2)
- “I find the customizability fantastic once you get over your initial learning curve. You can hook in outside apps and design a beautiful course using different graphics and information.” – Jessica D.
- “Canvas makes it so easy to create, present, and share content with my students.” – Elizabeth M.
- “Easy to use interface and has good mapping to all modules. I say this from the perspective of a student as well as a grader/Teaching Assistant.” – Verified user in education management
Best suited for
Canvas LMS is best suited for educational institutions of all sizes thanks to its social learning and other features geared toward this sector.
4. D2L Brightspace
D2L Brightspace is a cloud-based LMS designed to cater to higher education, grade schools, associations, corporations, and government agencies.
The tool includes a course editor with templates for quick and easy design, as well as the ability to link to external sources like web links, videos, One Drive, or Google Docs.
D2L Brightspace has a mobile-first design geared toward learning experience and accessibility on every type of device.
The tool also includes assistive technologies that empower educators to support learners, including those with disabilities, to engage with course content.
G2 Rating
Key features
- Outcome-based assessments that connect course expectations to learning activities.
- Analytics and reporting on adoption, engagement, and assessment quality for data-driven insights and personalizing learning experiences.
- Course editor with built-in templates for easy design and quick implementation.
- Discussion boards that encourage learners to engage with peers and discuss course content and assignments.
- Mobile learning capabilities that help increase learning flexibility.
Why users like Brightspace (according to G2)
- “What I like most about Brightspace is the ease it gives the teacher to administer and manage all their educational resources, allowing them to focus on the teaching-learning process.” – Ricardo R.
- “D2L provides excellent ways to organize courses and easily manage content.” – Ryan K.
- “D2L is a highly valued tool in the academic area. I like that I can keep track of class progress and the amount of content to which the student has had access and has completed satisfactorily. This includes grades and quizzes.” – Kallol B.
Best suited for
D2L Brightspace is best suited for NGOs and associations that want to take advantage of the tool’s accessibility features.
5. Blackboard Learn
Blackboard Learn is a SaaS learning platform with a comprehensive suite of tools for training course management, e-learning content delivery, and learner communication.
Blackboard Learn has a focus on collaborative capabilities and adaptive learning experiences. This is evident through features like interactive discussions or grade books.
It also includes a content management system where admins and instructional designers can create, organize, and share course materials more effectively.
Blackboard Learn facilitates collaboration through features like announcements, instant messaging tools, and discussion boards. These help learners better communicate with instructors and collaborate with peers.
G2 Rating
Key features
- Varied assessment tools like quizzes, assignments, assessments, and rubrics that let instructors evaluate and grade learner performance.
- Social learning capabilities like instant messaging, discussion boards, and announcements foster collaboration.
- Robust analytics and reporting that track learner progress and identify areas for improvement.
- Content management system that lets instructors create, manage, and share content more easily.
Why users like Blackboard Learn (according to G2)
- “It is easy to use and has the necessary resources to develop a course.” – Vanessa S.
- “Its intuitive interface streamlines course navigation, while robust tools facilitate seamless communication and collaboration.” – Syed H.
- “The built-in communication tools like announcements, discussion boards, and messaging help facilitate effective interaction between instructors and students. This is particularly useful for clarifying doubts and engaging in discussions outside the physical classroom.” – Justin S.
Best suited for
Blackboard Learn LMS is best suited for collaborative learning if the aim is to improve peer communication.
6. Tovuti LMS
Tovuti LMS is a cloud-based Moodle alternative designed for employee training and onboarding.
It includes course authoring capabilities and gamification features like leaderboards, badges, and certificates.
Tovuti LMS allows learners to access a dedicated page where they can view all of their achievements, such as diplomas, badges, and leaderboard standings, as well as ongoing and future training courses.
The tool’s reporting feature lets trainers track learner progress, engagement, and completion rates.
G2 Rating
Key features
- Built-in course authoring tool for easy course module design and development.
- Multiformat content support (SCORM and xAPI) that helps with increasing course engagement.
- Virtual classrooms that enable learners and trainers to connect remotely.
- Gamification features that promote a more engaging learning experience.
- E-commerce functionality that lets companies generate extra revenue.
Why users like Tovuti LMS (according to G2)
- “Tovuti LMS is a very powerful digital course creation tool.” – Bidyanda P.
- “It contains a fairly intuitive interface and is quite entertaining.” – Ron D.
- “This tool contains exceptional support that is aware of any inconveniences and has a very easy-to-use interface and multiple tools to customize the courses.” – Jenef A.
Best suited for
Tovuti LMS is best suited for increasing learning engagement through its diverse gamification elements.
7. LearnWorlds
LearnWorlds is another Moodle alternative with a built-in drag-and-drop course builder.
It can support multiple content formats and learning activities like video, audio, certifications, quizzes, and assessments that help boost learner engagement and knowledge retention.
The reporting feature keeps real-time track of important KPIs like learner progress, engagement, and completion rates. Businesses can also automate these reports to share them with all relevant stakeholders.
LearnWorlds has a built-in assessment builder with 16 question types, branded certificates, and flexible tagging. It also includes a survey builder that can help you assess learner preferences and collect NPS scores.
The mobile app builder lets companies develop their own branded apps for learners to engage with content on the go.
G2 Rating
Key features
- Drag-and-drop course builder that streamlines course module design and implementation.
- Survey builder that helps with gathering learner feedback.
- No-code mobile app builder that lets you create branded apps for different learning audiences.
- Robust reporting feature that keeps track of important metrics and drives better decision-making regarding training initiatives.
- Unlimited live sessions for better collaboration.
Why users like LearnWorlds (according to G2)
- “LearnWorlds comes with a learners section, built-in social media, and an inbox for students to correspond [with] each other. This is super helpful in building community and not forcing folks to use social media.” – Kim C.
- “With the exam builder and video integration you don’t need to use SCORM.” – Jason K.
- “The platform is not only visually appealing but also intuitively designed, making the process of building and navigating courses a breeze.” – Jen G.
Best suited for
LearnWorlds is best suited for creating interactive courses if the aim is to increase learner engagement.
8. 360Learning
360Learning is a cloud-based LMS and Moodle alternative with a focus on multilingual training management and collaboration.
The platform supports over 30 languages and a mobile-friendly design available on iOS and Android.
The tool includes an off-the-shelf content library and course templates that let you streamline content management more effectively.
360Learning has a collaborative editing feature where all co-authors have a say in the creation process.
G2 Rating
Key features
- Multilingual support for reaching a wider learner audience.
- Mobile learning capabilities for increased learning flexibility while on the go.
- Off-the-shelf content library that can help you implement your training program faster.
- Collaborative course editing for better instructional design cooperation.
- SCORM player that delivers interactive content to learners.
Why users like 360Learning (according to G2)
- “The set-up process has been easy and smooth thanks to the 360 Team we are working with.” – Cathy B.
- “I highly appreciate 360Learning for its extensive customization capabilities, enabling the creation of unique portals with distinct branding, domains, messaging, and language options.” – Verified user in computer software
- “You do not have to be a certified online or e-learning expert to create content and build courses.” – Nadia D.
Best suited for
360Learning is best suited for reaching a wide range of learners thanks to its multilingual and mobile learning support.
9. Google Classroom
Google Classroom is an educational platform that seamlessly integrates with all other Google Workspace applications.
It helps educators streamline e-learning processes by letting them create and distribute assignments. It also lets them grade students on their assignments with ease.
The tool includes real-time collaboration and feedback features that enhance learner engagement and build a learning environment.
G2 Rating
Key features
- Automatic notifications about assignments, deadlines, and learner performance.
- Multi-language support that helps with accessibility across a diverse learner audience.
- Analytics features that track grades, completion, and adoption rates.
- Student progress tracking directly from the gradebook.
- Individual student accounts for personalized education plans.
Why users like Google Classroom (according to G2)
- “[The Google Workspace ecosystem integration] allows for a unified and efficient experience, as users can effortlessly leverage tools like Google Docs, Sheets, and Slides within the Classroom platform.” – Prince R.
- “It is easy to use and efficient. Google Classroom works seamlessly with Google products and allows me to create tests, quizzes, and assignments with ease.” – Melissa C.
- “[It gives] an easy way to share and communicate with students, post assignments, and keep track of grading.” – Lindsey P.
Best suited for
Google Classroom is a great Moodle alternative for collaborative learning, especially for those working with Google Workspace tools.
10. Litmos
Litmos is a cloud-based learning management platform that includes a comprehensive library with off-the-shelf courses on soft skills, management, safety, region-specific compliance, and more.
It also has its built-in content authoring tool where instructional designers can include gamification features, quizzes, and assessments.
Litmos has social learning features, video assessments, reporting, and instructor-led training that round up its e-learning capabilities.
G2 Rating
Key features
- Off-the-shelf course content library on numerous topics like soft skills, safety, compliance, and more.
- Gamification features that help boost learner engagement with the course material.
- Social learning features for better collaboration and knowledge sharing.
- Personalized learning paths for better knowledge retention.
- Built-in content authoring tool that supports SCORM files.
Why users like Litmos (according to G2)
- “Litmos is very user-friendly. The system is intuitive and easy to navigate.” – Deb G.
- “It provides valuable metrics for monitoring and tracking progress.” – Brandi C.
- “I utilize the reporting analytics the most on Litmos. It is very helpful when having to do quarterly reports to send to the executives at my company.” – Katie O.
Best suited for
Litmos is a good Moodle alternative suited for small businesses looking to get their training programs up and running quickly thanks to its off-the-shelf course library.
How to choose the best Moodle alternative for your needs
Whenever you introduce a new training system into your daily processes, it’s best to have a comprehensive LMS implementation plan.
It helps you keep within budget and choose a Moodle alternative that will be most in line with your expectations and training needs.
Here are several key points to also keep in mind when choosing your next learning management platform.
- Pricing: As an open-source system, Moodle is free up-front but can still cost users, particularly since it generally requires an in-house team of IT specialists who know how to manage it. When choosing an alternative, consider each tool’s pricing model and ensure it aligns with your budget and doesn’t include any hidden fees.
- Integrations: A major benefit of learning platforms is they can break isolated data silos within the organization. As such, an LMS should integrate with your existing tech stack, particularly when relating to your intended use cases.
- Use case: Make sure the Moodle alternative you’re considering is designed to cater to your specific use cases spelled out in your implementation plan (e.g., employee training and onboarding, sales enablement, compliance training, or customer training).
- Support: Make sure the system includes comprehensive onboarding and ongoing customer support. Check review sites like G2 or Capterra to see what other users say about the vendor’s customer service.
- Collaborative tools: Take into account the LMS’s social learning capabilities like chats, instant messaging, or forums. These can play a major role in boosting collaboration and can even facilitate a learning-centered company culture.
- Multilingual capabilities: Preferably, your Moodle alternative should have multilingual support. This is especially true if you’re training an international or culturally diverse learner base.
- Security features: Look for a tool that keeps data security top-of-mind. Regular security patches, adherence to security standards, and features like single sign-on (SSO), user roles, and permissions, are a must.
- Reporting and progress tracking: Robust reporting and analytics features help you keep track of important e-learning metrics that ensure you stay on track with your organization’s goals. Without them, you’ll be operating more or less in the dark.
- Course creation and management: A professional LMS should include the capability to create, manage, and deliver courses to different learner types at the same time. It should also provide different learning types like multimodal, self-paced, in-person, or blended learning that can enhance the learning experience and boost flexibility.
These LMS requirements will help you choose a Moodle alternative that fits your specific training requirements and organizational needs.
Is Moodle Right for Your Organization?
Although not exhaustive, this top ten list of Moodle alternatives brings forward the best-in-class LMSs that cater to different company requirements.
Start your journey by scheduling a demo with Docebo, check out its many features and functionalities, and judge for yourself whether it’s a good alternative for you.