Choosing a online course builders feels like picking the perfect avocado. You think you’ve found “the one,” but then, surprise! It’s either rock-hard or mushy in all the wrong places. I’ve been there, staring at a dozen options, wondering which one will actually make my life easier instead of turning course creation into a second full-time job.
This is where AppSumo comes in really handy. It’s a free software marketplace where you can get great lifetime deals on alternatives to the biggest (and most expensive) digital marketing platforms.
After testing, tweaking, and (yes) rage-quitting a few platforms, I’ve found the three that actually deliver. These platforms won’t just help you create a course—they’ll make the entire process smooth, scalable, and even fun. Let’s dive in!
Top Picks
Why You Should Use an Online Course Builder
If you already have a website — and it’s a WordPress site, you might be wondering why I’m recommending that you use an online course builder. I’m gonna tell you.
Any time you want to add a feature or a function to your WordPress site, you’re going to add a plugin. Plugins are messy, plugins break, and plugins will eventually leave a bunch of what I call “digital dust bunnies” on your site that will slow it down and just be so much harder to manager.
Hence – I’ve decided a few years ago to focus my site on content and keep it fast and easy to navigate and put all my other functions – like courses on third-party platforms.
If that sounds good to you — read on.
What I looked at:
When selecting an online course builder, I consider several factors that can significantly impact the online course creation process. These include ease of use, features offered, pricing, and customer support. A platform that combines these elements can make a substantial difference in how quickly and effectively I can launch my courses.
Learniverse
Creating a course shouldn’t feel like assembling IKEA furniture without the instructions. But what if you could generate learning paths in minutes instead of hours? Learniverse turns websites, PDFs, and even a few words into ready-to-learn training materials—fast, efficient, and frustration-free. With Learniverse, smarter training starts now. It’s perfect for course creators, educators, and small businesses looking to streamline their training processes.
What People Say
Users appreciate how Learniverse simplifies the course creation process, allowing them to focus more on content rather than logistics. The AI capabilities are a game changer for many.
- I was amazed at how quickly I could create a course. The AI features really helped me turn my ideas into structured content without the usual headaches.- coursecreator99
Pros and Cons
Pros:
- User-friendly interface
- Quick course creation
- AI-powered features
Cons:
- Limited modules in lower tiers
Why You’ll Love It
- Create interactive learning paths and track learner progress effortlessly
- Customize and share AI-powered training in minutes with an intuitive platform
Long-Term Cost Benefits
Investing in Learniverse can save you time and effort in the long run, especially if you plan to create multiple courses. The efficiency gained can translate into more courses and potentially more revenue.
Current Price: $59
Rating: 4.5 (Total: 100+)
Forento
Forento makes launching your online courses feel like a breeze. It’s designed for creators who want to build their own branded platform without the tech headaches. Whether you’re selling courses, e-books, or memberships, Forento has got you covered. I love how it allows you to customize your site with your branding, making it feel truly yours. Plus, it’s user-friendly enough that you can get started right away, even if you’re not a tech whiz.
What People Say
Users rave about how Forento simplifies the course creation process, allowing them to focus on content rather than getting bogged down by technical details. The ability to customize branding is a big hit too.
- Forento is really easy to use. My wife and I created two courses this weekend. We are very happy with all current features and with some upcoming new ones. Definitely one of the best purchases I made in the last years.- yoquil
Pros and Cons
Pros:
- User-friendly interface
- Fast setup for courses
- Great customer support
Cons:
- Limited payment options initially
- Currency change requires integration with payment gateways
Why You’ll Love Forento
- Create and sell unlimited online courses and digital products
- Customize your platform with your own branding and domain
Long-Term Cost Benefits
Investing in Forento can save you a lot of time and effort in the long run. If you plan to create multiple courses, the ease of use and customization can lead to increased sales and a more professional presence online.
Current Price: $49
Rating: 4.83 (Total: 84+)
Open eLMS
Open eLMS is a game-changer for anyone looking to create engaging eLearning courses quickly. With its AI-driven capabilities, I can turn a simple line of text into a fully-designed course in just minutes. It’s perfect for educators, small businesses, and anyone wanting to share knowledge without the usual hassle of course creation. The platform is intuitive, making it easy to customize everything from images to voiceovers, which is a huge plus for me.
What People Say
Users appreciate how Open eLMS simplifies the course creation process, allowing them to focus on content rather than getting bogged down by technical details. The ability to customize every aspect of the course is a big hit too.
- When I first purchased this, I created a course which was easy, but then after I explored all the options to create pictures and all the editing, I absolutely LOVE THIS! It is totally AWESOME and easy to use, edit, and customize.- TigerCat716
Pros and Cons
Pros:
- Fast and easy course creation
- Extensive customization options
- Great support and ongoing updates
Cons:
- Some features are still in development
- AI-generated content may need manual tweaking
Why Open eLMS Stands Out
- Create stunning eLearning courses in minutes
- AI-driven customization for a personalized touch
Long-Term Cost Benefits
Investing in Open eLMS can save you a lot of time and effort in the long run. If you’re planning to create multiple courses, the ease of use and customization can lead to increased sales and a more professional presence online.
Current Price: $59
Rating: 3.88 (Total: 16+)
FAQ
What should I consider when choosing an online course builder?
When selecting an online course builder, I recommend considering your specific needs and goals. Think about the type of content you want to create, the level of customization you require, and your budget. For instance, if you want to create interactive courses with multimedia elements, platforms like Open eLMS or Learniverse might be ideal due to their AI capabilities. Additionally, check for features like analytics, payment integrations, and user support, as these can significantly impact your course’s success.
How easy is it to use these platforms for someone with no technical background?
I understand that many people feel intimidated by technology, but I can assure you that platforms like Forento and Learniverse are designed with user-friendliness in mind. They offer intuitive interfaces that allow you to create courses with minimal technical skills. For example, I found that Learniverse enables me to turn simple text or PDFs into structured courses quickly. Most platforms also provide tutorials and customer support to help you navigate any challenges you might face.
Can I monetize my courses effectively using these platforms?
Absolutely! Monetization is a key feature of all three platforms. Forento, for instance, allows me to sell courses, e-books, and even offer memberships, all while maintaining my brand identity. I can set my pricing, create discount codes, and choose payment gateways like PayPal or Stripe. It’s essential to market your courses effectively, so I recommend leveraging social media and email marketing to reach your audience. Each platform also provides analytics to help you track sales and adjust your strategies accordingly.
Wrapping Up
Right now, if you have a “very specific set of skills” (like Liam Neeson), you can’t afford not to leverage them to make some money. And, the good news is that (despite what some folks say) you don’t have to spend a fortune on online course builders like Kajabi or Thinkific — there are TONS of affordable platforms out there that are just as easy to use.
It’s not about the software — it’s about your content and how you get your content out there – and as far as I’m concerned – these are a great place to start.
| Learniverse | Forento | Open eLMS | |
|---|---|---|---|
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| Rating | N/A | 4.83/5 (84 reviews) | 3.88/5 (16 reviews) |
| Highlights | GDPR-compliant, AI-powered course creation, customizable learning paths. | White label, customizable platform, supports multiple digital products. | AI-driven course creation, video presenters, voiceover generation. |
| Pros | Fast course creation, intuitive interface, good for small businesses. | Highly customizable, great for community engagement, responsive support. | Quick course setup, extensive customization options, good for various content types. |
| Cons | Limited features in lower tiers. | Limited payment integrations, currency change requires payment gateway setup. | Some features still in development, may require learning curve. |
| Price | $59 | $49 | $59 |
| Buy Now | Buy Now | Buy Now |
But Wait — There’s More
All of the above online course builders are on AppSumo. But I want to add ONE more featured app that I am using now and this is for anyone who is using Zoho One to run their business — it’s called TrainerCentral.
TrainerCentral: The Best Online Course Builder
TrainerCentral by Zoho is the budget-friendly online course platform that does the hard work for you. With its AI-powered course builder, you can create a structured course with just one click—no tech headaches, no endless formatting. Whether you’re hosting live sessions or offering self-paced learning, TrainerCentral gives you everything you need to teach, engage, and sell without the high costs of Kajabi or Thinkific.
Designed for coaches, educators, and entrepreneurs, TrainerCentral comes packed with features like built-in payments, student communities, and seamless Zoho integration. Get pro-level tools at a fraction of the price and start selling your courses the smart, stress-free way.
We earn a commission if you make a purchase, at no additional cost to you.
I’ve been using TrainerCentral for a few years now and I really like it — it’s so easy that I can create a course in less than 30 minutes and have it ready to sell.
It’s got a free option where you can have up to 3 courses. This will more than pay for itself.
