Best LMS Plugins for WordPress (LearnDash, LifterLMS, Tutor LMS)
WordPress has become one of the most popular platforms for building online learning websites — from full-featured schools and coaching platforms to mini-courses and memberships. The key to creating an effective learning website is choosing the right LMS (Learning Management System) plugin.
This guide compares the top LMS plugins for WordPress: LearnDash, LifterLMS, and Tutor LMS. You’ll learn how they differ, what they do best, and which one is right for your project.
1. LearnDash
LearnDash is the industry-leading LMS plugin used by universities, Fortune 500 companies, and major online course creators. It offers a professional, scalable learning environment with powerful tools for structuring and monetizing courses.
Key Features
- ✔ Drag-and-drop course builder
- ✔ Lessons, topics, quizzes, assignments
- ✔ Drip content scheduling
- ✔ Certificates & badges
- ✔ Dynamic learner progress tracking
- ✔ Focus Mode for distraction-free learning
- ✔ Integrations with WooCommerce, Stripe, MemberPress, and more
Pros
- Enterprise-grade LMS
- Clean UX for students
- Rich quiz module
- Excellent documentation and support
Cons
- No free version
- Add-ons required for some features
- Most advanced features locked behind the Pro package
Best For
Professional educators, large course libraries, and high-scale learning platforms.
2. LifterLMS
LifterLMS is a flexible, modular LMS plugin with powerful membership and engagement tools. It offers a customizable experience with both free and paid extensions.
Key Features
- ✔ Course builder with lessons & quizzes
- ✔ Coaching & private lessons
- ✔ Built-in membership system
- ✔ Certificates & achievements
- ✔ Student dashboards & reporting
- ✔ Many optional add-ons for payments and marketing
Pros
- Free core plugin
- Strong membership & course monetization features
- Highly customizable
- Great for creators starting on a budget
Cons
- Extensions can get expensive
- Interface is less polished than LearnDash
- Course builder not as intuitive as Tutor LMS
Best For
Creators who want flexibility, built-in memberships, and the option to expand gradually.
3. Tutor LMS
Tutor LMS is a modern, user-friendly LMS with a powerful free version and an excellent front-end course builder. It is ideal for creators who want a sleek, easy-to-use solution.
Key Features
- ✔ Front-end course builder (Pro)
- ✔ Course marketplace support
- ✔ Assignments, quizzes, course previews
- ✔ Drip content
- ✔ Instructor profiles & commissions
- ✔ WooCommerce, EDD, and subscription support
Pros
- Modern UI/UX
- Generous free version
- Great for multi-instructor platforms
- Fast-growing plugin with frequent updates
Cons
- Advanced features require Pro
- Some integrations still developing
Best For
Beginners, course marketplaces, and creators who want a beautiful interface with minimal setup.
Feature Comparison
Ease of Use
- Tutor LMS → Easiest to use
- LifterLMS → Moderate
- LearnDash → Most advanced/flexible
Course Builder
- LearnDash → Best drag-and-drop structure
- Tutor LMS → Best front-end builder
- LifterLMS → Very functional but not as modern
Memberships
- LifterLMS → Built-in memberships
- LearnDash → Requires add-on (MemberPress, Paid Memberships Pro)
- Tutor LMS → Uses WooCommerce/EDD
WooCommerce Integration
- All three plugins integrate with WooCommerce for selling courses.
Price
- Tutor LMS: Free + Paid versions from ~$199/year
- LifterLMS: Free core + paid add-ons (can get expensive)
- LearnDash: Paid only, starting ~$199/year
Which LMS Plugin Should You Use?
Choose LearnDash if:
- You’re building a professional-grade learning platform
- You need quizzes, certificates, progress tracking, and enterprise-level features
- Your course library will be large
Choose LifterLMS if:
- You want a free starter option
- You need built-in memberships and engagement features
- You want flexibility with add-on modules
Choose Tutor LMS if:
- You want the easiest interface
- You prefer front-end course building
- You’re building a course marketplace with multiple instructors
Conclusion
The best LMS plugin depends entirely on your goals. LearnDash is the most powerful and enterprise-ready solution, LifterLMS provides excellent free features and membership integration, and Tutor LMS delivers the best user experience with a modern interface.
Summary:
LearnDash → Best for professionals and large online academies
LifterLMS → Best for flexible memberships and budget-conscious creators
Tutor LMS → Best for beginners and course marketplaces
No matter which option you choose, WordPress provides a strong foundation for building engaging, scalable online courses.
🔌 Looking for more? Check out our WordPress Plugins Hub to discover recommended tools and how to use them.
