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125
Highlights
46
Differences
9
Reactions
0
Likes
GetSmarter
vs
edX:
125 Highlights & 46 Differences —
So, Which Education Online Course Actually Works Better
GetSmarter uses lecture-based teaching with occasional instructor interaction. edX provides diverse formats to engage learners effectively.
Before you hit that “order” button, see how GetSmarter and edX measure up on all things education online course — especially prerequisites required, certification, certification type & continuing education credit.
Subtitles Available
Indicates whether subtitles are provided.
with a difference of 5 points
Includes Accessibility Support
Availability of features supporting learners with disabilities.
with a difference of 5 points
Provides Certification
Indicates whether a certificate is awarded upon completion.
with a difference of 5 points
Course Difficulty Rating: Advanced
Indicates the overall difficulty level of the course based on required prior knowledge and learning pace.
with 54 points higher
Supports Offline Access
Indicates whether content can be accessed offline.
with a difference of 45 points
No Download Limits Imposed
Indicates whether the platform imposes limits on how much or how often course materials can be downloaded.
with a difference of 5 points
User Data Is Encrypted
Indicates whether user data is encrypted.
with a difference of 5 points
Platform Stability Rating: Very Stable
Qualitative assessment of how stable and reliable the learning platform performs during regular usage.
with 64 points higher
Engagement & Community
Discussion Forum Available
Indicates whether a discussion forum is available for learners.
with a difference of 5 points
Subtitles Available
Indicates whether subtitles are provided.
with a difference of 5 points
Includes Accessibility Support
Availability of features supporting learners with disabilities.
with a difference of 5 points
Provides Certification
Indicates whether a certificate is awarded upon completion.
with a difference of 5 points
Course Difficulty Rating: Advanced
Indicates the overall difficulty level of the course based on required prior knowledge and learning pace.
with 54 points higher
Supports Offline Access
Indicates whether content can be accessed offline.
with a difference of 45 points
No Download Limits Imposed
Indicates whether the platform imposes limits on how much or how often course materials can be downloaded.
with a difference of 5 points
User Data Is Encrypted
Indicates whether user data is encrypted.
with a difference of 5 points
Platform Stability Rating: Very Stable
Qualitative assessment of how stable and reliable the learning platform performs during regular usage.
with 64 points higher
Engagement & Community
Discussion Forum Available
Indicates whether a discussion forum is available for learners.
with a difference of 5 points
GetSmarter vs. edX: Diving Into Online Learning Platforms
Both GetSmarter and edX are renowned providers in the realm of online education, focusing on professional development through English-language instruction with a primarily video-based lecture format. Their platforms support mobile apps and stable performance to facilitate continuous learning across multiple devices like desktops, laptops, tablets, and smartphones. Furthermore, both platforms grant automatic professional certification upon course completion, boasting industry-relevant credentials that bolster career advancement.
However, beneath their surface similarities lie fundamental differences, particularly in course delivery modes, certification variety, community engagement, technical features, and pricing models. GetSmarter leans on a premium, on-demand-only experience bolstered by personalized improvement tools and career support services. At the same time, edX offers greater flexibility with multiple delivery modes, broader certification types, including academic credit, and free access options.
The Premium, Personalized Journey with GetSmarter
GetSmarter excels by delivering an expertly crafted, on-demand learning environment, tailored for professionals seeking a focused path to certification. Featuring around 40 lessons in a video format, learners can consume content flexibly and at their own pace. The platform's improvement recommendation engine stands out by providing personalized feedback to enhance skill development beyond basic progress tracking. GetSmarter's career support services and industry-aligned certification further empower users aspiring for job promotions or freelance opportunities.
Its commitment to a stable, well-supported platform ensures very stable performance across devices, although the platform opts out of Single Sign-On features and enforces limited concurrent login policies. This can mean slightly less flexibility for users juggling multiple devices simultaneously. Importantly, GetSmarter courses come at a cost; approximately $550 at GetSmarter, reflecting its premium positioning and an all-inclusive approach tailored to career-driven learners.
edX: Flexibility and Broad Access in One Platform
On the other hand, edX offers a broad spectrum of learning experiences, including on-demand, live, and hybrid course formats, allowing students to engage in real-time sessions or self-paced study. This diversity in delivery modes caters well to learners who prefer interaction or synchronous learning environments. Another attractive benefit is edX's provision of various certification types, ranging from simple completion certificates to professional certificates and even academic credit, making it suitable for those seeking formal recognition that extends beyond professional development.
Technologically, edX streamlines the user experience by supporting Single Sign-On (SSO) and allowing more generous concurrent logins, enhancing multi-device and organizational user convenience. The platform also extends its community engagement through workshops alongside the standard webinars, broadening interactive opportunities. Additionally, edX provides trial access, a feature that lets prospective students explore course offerings without upfront commitment. Best of all, edX courses mostly come at no cost, making high-quality education more accessible globally.
Quick Take
GetSmarter delivers a highly personalized, premium on-demand learning experience focused on professional certification, enriched by a unique improvement recommendation system that's perfect for career-focused individuals. Meanwhile, edX offers flexible learning formats, a wider range of certifications, and free trial options, balancing accessibility with robust academic and professional credentials.
Bottom Line
If your primary goal is to obtain well-supported, industry-recognized professional certificates accompanied by personalized feedback and career services, GetSmarter's premium, on-demand courses justify their higher price tag. However, if you seek flexible options, including live sessions, academic credits, and free access before buying, edX provides a more versatile and budget-friendly path that suits a wider variety of learners.
Verdict
Winner: GetSmarter - For its focused professional certification, personalized improvement tools, and career support that cater expertly to career growth.
Runner-up: edX - For its flexible course delivery options, multiple certification types, including academic credit, and free, accessible learning opportunities.
Side by side. The numbers. The features. No drama.
Trying to find the better online service? This education online courses guide lines up GetSmarter vs edX with real-world insight on prerequisites required, certification, certification type & continuing education credit and user experiences.
While GetSmarter offers a Professional Certificate, edX goes further by providing Completion Certificates, Professional Certificates, and Academic Credit. Therefore, edX is more versatile in certification types for diverse learner needs.
Type of certification awarded.
In the battle of Certification Type,
GetSmarter ◉ is
better than
edX ◉
, delivering
higher
18 score
measurement.
Based on community votes for Certification Type,
GetSmarter ◉ earned
0 votes,
less than
edX ◉,
which got 1 votes.
Who knows?
0Votes
edX
(Help us out by suggesting one!)
vs
Prerequisites Required
GetSmarter requires no prerequisites to enroll, whereas edX's prerequisite information is unavailable. If prerequisite clarity is essential, GetSmarter is more transparent and accessible.
Skills, knowledge, or experience needed before taking the course.
Don’t keep it to yourself — be the first to react and review the
Prerequisites Required on GetSmarter ◉
vs edX ◉ and help others decide!
Both GetSmarter and edX provide certification upon course completion, supporting learners seeking official recognition. This feature makes either platform practical for certification purposes.
Indicates whether a certificate is awarded upon completion.
In the battle of Certification,
GetSmarter ◉ is
worse than
edX ◉
, delivering
lower
5 score
measurement.
Don’t keep it to yourself — be the first to react and review the
Certification on GetSmarter ◉
vs edX ◉ and help others decide!
GetSmarter and edX both do not offer Continuing Education Credit for their courses. This means neither platform provides formal CE credits, making them equally suitable for learners not requiring CE certification.
Indicates if the course offers continuing education credits.
In the battle of Continuing Education Credit,
GetSmarter ◉ is
same as
edX ◉
.
Don’t keep it to yourself — be the first to react and review the
Continuing Education Credit on GetSmarter ◉
vs edX ◉ and help others decide!
Course Level
What level is this course designed for?
42
GetSmarter
0Votes
All Levels
66
edX
0Votes
All Levels
edX
The course is designed for all levels, making it suitable for beginners through advanced learners.
Intended difficulty level of the course.
In the battle of Course Level,
GetSmarter ◉ is
worse than
edX ◉
, delivering
lower
24 score
measurement.
Don’t keep it to yourself — be the first to react and review the
Course Level on GetSmarter ◉
vs edX ◉ and help others decide!
Language of Instruction
What language is the course taught in?
92
GetSmarter
0Votes
English
46
edX
0Votes
English
vs
Language of Instruction
The Language of Instruction for both GetSmarter and edX courses is English, providing a consistent language experience which benefits English-speaking learners equally on both platforms.
Main language used to deliver course content.
In the battle of Language of Instruction,
GetSmarter ◉ is
better than
edX ◉
, delivering
higher
46 score
measurement.
Don’t keep it to yourself — be the first to react and review the
Language of Instruction on GetSmarter ◉
vs edX ◉ and help others decide!
Accreditation Status
Is the course accredited?
No
0Votes
GetSmarter
No
0Votes
edX
GetSmarter
This model does not currently offer an accreditation status, which may impact its recognition.
Whether the course is formally accredited by an institution or body.
In the battle of Accreditation Status,
GetSmarter ◉ is
same as
edX ◉
.
Don’t keep it to yourself — be the first to react and review the
Accreditation Status on GetSmarter ◉
vs edX ◉ and help others decide!
Target Learning Outcome Level
What level of mastery is targeted?
82
GetSmarter
0Votes
Applied
86
edX
0Votes
Applied
edX
Target learning outcomes focus on 'Applied' level, emphasizing practical skills and implementation.
Depth of learning outcomes expected from the course.
In the battle of Target Learning Outcome Level,
GetSmarter ◉ is
worse than
edX ◉
, delivering
lower
4 score
measurement.
Don’t keep it to yourself — be the first to react and review the
Target Learning Outcome Level on GetSmarter ◉
vs edX ◉ and help others decide!
Course Title
What is the course title?
82
GetSmarter
0Votes
GetSmarter
86
edX
0Votes
edX
Official name of the online course as presented to learners.
In the battle of Course Title,
GetSmarter ◉ is
worse than
edX ◉
, delivering
lower
4 score
measurement.
Don’t keep it to yourself — be the first to react and review the
Course Title on GetSmarter ◉
vs edX ◉ and help others decide!
Subject Category
What subject category does this course fall under?
72
GetSmarter
0Votes
Business
57
edX
0Votes
Technology,Business,Design,Marketing,Health,Education,Personal Development
Primary subject area the course belongs to.
In the battle of Subject Category,
GetSmarter ◉ is
better than
edX ◉
, delivering
higher
15 score
measurement.
Don’t keep it to yourself — be the first to react and review the
Subject Category on GetSmarter ◉
vs edX ◉ and help others decide!
Subcategory
What is the course subcategory?
62
GetSmarter
0Votes
Professional Development
71
edX
0Votes
Online Learning Platform
More specific classification within the main subject category.
In the battle of Subcategory,
GetSmarter ◉ is
worse than
edX ◉
, delivering
lower
9 score
measurement.
Don’t keep it to yourself — be the first to react and review the
Subcategory on GetSmarter ◉
vs edX ◉ and help others decide!
Who knows?
0Votes
edX
(Help us out by suggesting one!)
vs
Total Number of Lessons
GetSmarter offers a specific total of 40 lessons, while edX does not provide this lesson count information. Those valuing detailed course length info may prefer GetSmarter.
Total number of individual lessons provided.
Based on community votes for Total Number of Lessons,
GetSmarter ◉ earned
1 votes,
more than
edX ◉,
which got 0 votes.
GetSmarter courses are delivered via Video only, compared to edX offering both Video and Text formats. edX thus caters better to learners who prefer diverse content formats.
Primary format used to present course materials.
In the battle of Course Format,
GetSmarter ◉ is
better than
edX ◉
, delivering
higher
16 score
measurement.
Don’t keep it to yourself — be the first to react and review the
Course Format on GetSmarter ◉
vs edX ◉ and help others decide!
Total Course Duration
How long does the course take to complete?
30
hours
0Votes
2
hours
0Votes
GetSmarter
The total course duration is 30 hours, which allows ample time to grasp all the concepts presented.
edX
Total course duration is 2 hours, indicating a brief but focused learning experience.
Total estimated time required to complete the course.
In the battle of Total Course Duration,
GetSmarter ◉ is
better than
edX ◉
, delivering
higher
28.0 hours
measurement.
Don’t keep it to yourself — be the first to react and review the
Total Course Duration on GetSmarter ◉
vs edX ◉ and help others decide!
Course Progression Type
How does the course progression work?
52
GetSmarter
0Votes
Flexible
96
edX
0Votes
Flexible
GetSmarter
Course progression is Flexible, allowing learners to navigate through the content at their own pace.
edX
Course progression type is flexible, allowing learners to advance at their own pace or in a non-linear order.
Structure that defines how learners progress through content.
In the battle of Course Progression Type,
GetSmarter ◉ is
worse than
edX ◉
, delivering
lower
44 score
measurement.
Don’t keep it to yourself — be the first to react and review the
Course Progression Type on GetSmarter ◉
vs edX ◉ and help others decide!
Assessment types include Quizzes, Assignments, and Projects, catering to multiple assessment methods.
edX
This offering includes a blend of assessment types such as Quizzes, Assignments, and Projects, allowing for diversified evaluation approaches.
Types of assessments used to evaluate learning.
In the battle of Assessment Types,
GetSmarter ◉ is
worse than
edX ◉
, delivering
lower
23 score
measurement.
Don’t keep it to yourself — be the first to react and review the
Assessment Types on GetSmarter ◉
vs edX ◉ and help others decide!
Delivery Mode
How is the course delivered?
42
GetSmarter
0Votes
On-Demand
66
edX
1Votes
On-Demand,Live,Hybrid
vs
Delivery Mode
GetSmarter delivers courses On-Demand only, while edX offers On-Demand, Live, and Hybrid delivery modes. This makes edX more flexible for learners preferring varied session types.
Method by which the course content is delivered.
In the battle of Delivery Mode,
GetSmarter ◉ is
worse than
edX ◉
, delivering
lower
24 score
measurement.
Based on community votes for Delivery Mode,
GetSmarter ◉ earned
0 votes,
less than
edX ◉,
which got 1 votes.
The Personalization Level is Basic on both GetSmarter and edX, meaning students receive fundamental customization without advanced personalized learning paths.
Degree of personalized learning experience.
In the battle of Personalization Level,
GetSmarter ◉ is
worse than
edX ◉
, delivering
lower
4 score
measurement.
Don’t keep it to yourself — be the first to react and review the
Personalization Level on GetSmarter ◉
vs edX ◉ and help others decide!
Instructor Verification Status is confirmed as Yes for both GetSmarter and edX, offering assurance of qualified and vetted educators.
Indicates if the instructor’s identity and credentials are verified.
In the battle of Instructor Verification Status,
GetSmarter ◉ is
worse than
edX ◉
, delivering
lower
5 score
measurement.
Don’t keep it to yourself — be the first to react and review the
Instructor Verification Status on GetSmarter ◉
vs edX ◉ and help others decide!
Years of Teaching Experience
How many years of teaching experience does the instructor have?
10
years
0Votes
Who knows?
0Votes
edX
(Help us out by suggesting one!)
vs
Years of Teaching Experience
GetSmarter’s instructors have 10 years of teaching experience on average, while edX does not provide years of teaching experience. Learners valuing experienced instructors might prefer GetSmarter.
Number of years the instructor has been teaching.
Don’t keep it to yourself — be the first to react and review the
Years of Teaching Experience on GetSmarter ◉
vs edX ◉ and help others decide!
Instructor Availability
How available is the instructor?
62
GetSmarter
0Votes
Moderate
46
edX
0Votes
Moderate
edX
Instructor availability is moderate, implying some responsiveness but not continuous or on-demand access.
Availability level for learner interaction and support.
In the battle of Instructor Availability,
GetSmarter ◉ is
better than
edX ◉
, delivering
higher
16 score
measurement.
Don’t keep it to yourself — be the first to react and review the
Instructor Availability on GetSmarter ◉
vs edX ◉ and help others decide!
Instructor Language Proficiency
What is the instructor’s language proficiency?
52
GetSmarter
0Votes
Fluent
66
edX
0Votes
Professional
edX
Instructor language proficiency is at a professional level, ensuring clear communication and instruction quality.
Proficiency level in the language of instruction.
In the battle of Instructor Language Proficiency,
GetSmarter ◉ is
worse than
edX ◉
, delivering
lower
14 score
measurement.
Don’t keep it to yourself — be the first to react and review the
Instructor Language Proficiency on GetSmarter ◉
vs edX ◉ and help others decide!
Instructor Expertise Area
What is the instructor’s expertise?
57
GetSmarter
0Votes
Industry Experts
Who knows?
0Votes
edX
(Help us out by suggesting one!)
Primary subject matter expertise of the instructor.
Don’t keep it to yourself — be the first to react and review the
Instructor Expertise Area on GetSmarter ◉
vs edX ◉ and help others decide!
Industry Background
Does the instructor have industry experience?
82
GetSmarter
0Votes
Professional industry practitioners
66
edX
0Votes
Academic,Professional
Professional industry experience relevant to the course.
In the battle of Industry Background,
GetSmarter ◉ is
better than
edX ◉
, delivering
higher
16 score
measurement.
Don’t keep it to yourself — be the first to react and review the
Industry Background on GetSmarter ◉
vs edX ◉ and help others decide!
Academic Credentials
What academic credentials does the instructor have?
2
GetSmarter
0Votes
Varies
Who knows?
0Votes
edX
(Help us out by suggesting one!)
vs
Academic Credentials
GetSmarter lists varying Academic Credentials among instructors, whereas edX does not provide this information. Those prioritizing credential transparency may favor GetSmarter.
Academic degrees or formal education held by the instructor.
Don’t keep it to yourself — be the first to react and review the
Academic Credentials on GetSmarter ◉
vs edX ◉ and help others decide!
Professional Certifications
What professional certifications does the instructor have?
12
GetSmarter
0Votes
Varies
Who knows?
0Votes
edX
(Help us out by suggesting one!)
Relevant professional certifications earned by the instructor.
Don’t keep it to yourself — be the first to react and review the
Professional Certifications on GetSmarter ◉
vs edX ◉ and help others decide!
Instructor Rating
How is the instructor rated?
62
GetSmarter
0Votes
Very Good
Who knows?
0Votes
edX
(Help us out by suggesting one!)
Qualitative rating representing learner feedback on the instructor’s teaching quality and effectiveness.
Don’t keep it to yourself — be the first to react and review the
Instructor Rating on GetSmarter ◉
vs edX ◉ and help others decide!
Number of Courses Taught
How many courses has the instructor taught?
62
GetSmarter
0Votes
100+
Who knows?
0Votes
edX
(Help us out by suggesting one!)
Total number of courses taught by the instructor.
Don’t keep it to yourself — be the first to react and review the
Number of Courses Taught on GetSmarter ◉
vs edX ◉ and help others decide!
Guest Instructors
Are guest instructors included?
Yes
0Votes
GetSmarter
Yes
0Votes
edX
Indicates whether guest instructors contribute to the course.
In the battle of Guest Instructors,
GetSmarter ◉ is
worse than
edX ◉
, delivering
lower
5 score
measurement.
Don’t keep it to yourself — be the first to react and review the
Guest Instructors on GetSmarter ◉
vs edX ◉ and help others decide!
Supported Devices include Desktop, Laptop, Tablet, and Smartphone on both GetSmarter and edX, facilitating flexible learning across multiple device types.
Devices that can be used to access the course.
In the battle of Supported Devices,
GetSmarter ◉ is
worse than
edX ◉
, delivering
lower
4 score
measurement.
Don’t keep it to yourself — be the first to react and review the
Supported Devices on GetSmarter ◉
vs edX ◉ and help others decide!
Both GetSmarter and edX have Mobile App Availability, supporting learners who prefer accessing courses on smartphones or tablets.
Indicates whether a mobile app is available.
In the battle of Mobile App Availability,
GetSmarter ◉ is
worse than
edX ◉
, delivering
lower
5 score
measurement.
Don’t keep it to yourself — be the first to react and review the
Mobile App Availability on GetSmarter ◉
vs edX ◉ and help others decide!
Supported Operating Systems
Which operating systems are supported?
78
GetSmarter
0Votes
Windows, macOS, iOS, Android
76
edX
0Votes
Windows, macOS, iOS, Android, Linux
GetSmarter
Supported operating systems include Windows, macOS, iOS, and Android, ensuring compatibility across popular platforms.
edX
This course supports multiple operating systems, including Windows, macOS, iOS, Android, and Linux, ensuring wide accessibility.
Operating systems compatible with the platform.
In the battle of Supported Operating Systems,
GetSmarter ◉ is
better than
edX ◉
, delivering
higher
2 score
measurement.
Don’t keep it to yourself — be the first to react and review the
Supported Operating Systems on GetSmarter ◉
vs edX ◉ and help others decide!
Minimum Bandwidth Required
What is the minimum bandwidth required?
5
Mbps
0Votes
Who knows?
0Votes
edX
(Help us out by suggesting one!)
vs
Minimum Bandwidth Required
GetSmarter requires a minimum bandwidth of 5 Mbps, while edX does not specify this requirement. Users with limited bandwidth might find GetSmarter’s recommendation helpful for smoother access.
Minimum internet speed required for smooth access.
Don’t keep it to yourself — be the first to react and review the
Minimum Bandwidth Required on GetSmarter ◉
vs edX ◉ and help others decide!
Account Requirement
Is an account required?
Yes
0Votes
GetSmarter
Yes
0Votes
edX
GetSmarter
Account creation is required to participate, ensuring a structured learning environment.
Indicates whether an account is required to access the course.
In the battle of Account Requirement,
GetSmarter ◉ is
worse than
edX ◉
, delivering
lower
5 score
measurement.
Don’t keep it to yourself — be the first to react and review the
Account Requirement on GetSmarter ◉
vs edX ◉ and help others decide!
Technical Support Availability
Is technical support available?
42
GetSmarter
0Votes
Business Hours
16
edX
0Votes
Business Hours
edX
Technical support is available during business hours, offering assistance within standard operating times.
Availability of technical support services.
In the battle of Technical Support Availability,
GetSmarter ◉ is
better than
edX ◉
, delivering
higher
26 score
measurement.
Don’t keep it to yourself — be the first to react and review the
Technical Support Availability on GetSmarter ◉
vs edX ◉ and help others decide!
Platform Name
Which platform hosts this course?
77
GetSmarter
0Votes
GetSmarter
91
edX
0Votes
edX
Name of the platform hosting the course.
In the battle of Platform Name,
GetSmarter ◉ is
worse than
edX ◉
, delivering
lower
14 score
measurement.
Don’t keep it to yourself — be the first to react and review the
Platform Name on GetSmarter ◉
vs edX ◉ and help others decide!
Platform Type
What type of platform is used?
72
GetSmarter
0Votes
Marketplace
76
edX
0Votes
LMS,Marketplace
Type of learning platform used.
In the battle of Platform Type,
GetSmarter ◉ is
worse than
edX ◉
, delivering
lower
4 score
measurement.
Don’t keep it to yourself — be the first to react and review the
Platform Type on GetSmarter ◉
vs edX ◉ and help others decide!
GetSmarter offers Community Events as Webinars only, but edX expands options with both Webinars and Workshops, providing more diverse community engagement opportunities.
Types of events hosted for the community.
In the battle of Community Events,
GetSmarter ◉ is
better than
edX ◉
, delivering
higher
16 score
measurement.
Based on community votes for Community Events,
GetSmarter ◉ earned
0 votes,
less than
edX ◉,
which got 1 votes.
Social Learning Features including Feeds, Comments, and Sharing are present on both GetSmarter and edX, fostering interaction and collaboration among students.
Social features that support collaborative learning.
In the battle of Social Learning Features,
GetSmarter ◉ is
better than
edX ◉
, delivering
higher
6 score
measurement.
Don’t keep it to yourself — be the first to react and review the
Social Learning Features on GetSmarter ◉
vs edX ◉ and help others decide!
Supermod
Moderator
0
Cartling
