In today’s fast-paced digital world, staying competitive means continuously learning—and doing so on your own schedule. That’s where platforms like Skillshare come in. With thousands of on-demand classes ranging from graphic design and photography to business, marketing, and personal development, Skillshare is a go-to hub for creative and career growth.
But is Skillshare worth it in 2025? With increasing competition from platforms like Udemy, Coursera, and MasterClass, how does Skillshare stand out?
In this in-depth review, we’ll cover:
- What is Skillshare?
- How Skillshare works
- Types of courses offered
- Features and benefits
- Skillshare pricing and free trial
- Pros and cons
- Skillshare vs. competitors
- Who it’s best for
- Final verdict and FAQs
What Is Skillshare?
Skillshare is an online learning platform that offers project-based video courses taught by real-world experts, creators, entrepreneurs, and industry leaders. Unlike academic-focused platforms, Skillshare emphasizes practical, hands-on learning for creative professionals and freelancers.
Founded in 2010 and based in New York, Skillshare now offers over 35,000+ classes, with more added every month.
Topics span across categories like:
- Creative arts
- Design and illustration
- Photography and video
- Writing and publishing
- Business and productivity
- Technology
- Freelancing and entrepreneurship
How Skillshare Works
Skillshare operates on a membership subscription model, giving you unlimited access to all classes for as long as your membership is active.
Here’s how it works:
- Sign up for a free trial or membership
- Browse or search courses by topic or instructor
- Watch video lessons at your own pace
- Complete class projects to apply your learning
- Join class discussions, get feedback, and network with peers
Skillshare can be accessed via:
- Web browser
- Android or iOS mobile app
- Smart TVs and Chromecast (limited functionality)
What Types of Courses Are on Skillshare?
Skillshare is best known for its creative and entrepreneurial course catalog. In 2025, its top categories include:
🎨 Creative & Design
- Graphic design with Adobe Illustrator & Canva
- UX/UI design
- Animation and motion graphics
- Illustration (digital and hand-drawn)
- Interior design and color theory
📸 Photography & Video
- DSLR and smartphone photography
- Portrait and product photography
- Video editing with Adobe Premiere Pro and Final Cut Pro
- YouTube channel creation and monetization
- Filmmaking and cinematography
✍️ Writing & Publishing
- Creative writing and storytelling
- Blogging and content marketing
- Copywriting for web and ads
- Self-publishing on Amazon Kindle
- Writing scripts for videos and podcasts
💼 Business & Freelancing
- Starting a freelance business
- Time management and productivity
- Personal branding and marketing
- Side hustle strategies
- Passive income streams
📊 Marketing & Tech
- Digital marketing fundamentals
- Social media strategy (Instagram, TikTok, LinkedIn)
- SEO and email marketing
- Web development and coding basics
- E-commerce and Shopify store setup
Skillshare Features and Benefits
🔓 Unlimited Learning
With a single subscription, you can take as many classes as you like across all topics.
🧑🏫 Expert Instructors
Courses are taught by real-world practitioners, not academic professors—think YouTubers, designers, agency owners, and entrepreneurs.
🛠️ Hands-On Projects
Each class includes a project that helps you apply what you learn immediately, with the option to share your work and receive feedback.
💬 Community Learning
Skillshare emphasizes community: join discussions, ask questions, and connect with students worldwide.
📲 Mobile Access
Download classes and learn on the go—perfect for busy professionals and remote learners.
🆕 New Classes Weekly
Skillshare adds new classes every week, so there’s always fresh content to explore.
Skillshare Pricing (2025)
| Plan | Cost |
|---|---|
| Free Trial | 30 days |
| Annual Membership | ~$168/year (or ~$14/month) |
| Monthly Plan | ~$32/month (billed monthly) |
Note: Prices vary by location and time-based promotions. An annual subscription gives you the best value.
Is there a free version?
Skillshare no longer offers a fully free tier but does offer a 1-month free trial, which gives you unlimited access to all content.
Skillshare Pros and Cons
✅ Pros:
- Huge library of creative and business-focused courses
- Unlimited access to all classes
- High production quality and engaging instructors
- Affordable compared to one-off course platforms
- Project-based learning reinforces practical skills
- Excellent for freelancers, solopreneurs, and hobbyists
❌ Cons:
- No official certifications or accreditations
- Some classes may lack depth (especially beginner content)
- Focus is more on creatives than on tech or academics
- Limited live interaction or 1-on-1 mentorship
Skillshare vs. Competitors
🔹 Skillshare vs. Udemy
| Feature | Skillshare | Udemy |
|---|---|---|
| Pricing Model | Subscription | Pay per course |
| Content Access | Unlimited | Lifetime per course |
| Best For | Creative professionals | All learners |
| Certification | No | Yes (non-accredited) |
| Interactivity | Projects & comments | Q&A and assignments |
Verdict: Skillshare is better for ongoing learning and exploration, while Udemy suits deep dives into specific topics.
🔹 Skillshare vs. MasterClass
| Feature | Skillshare | MasterClass |
|---|---|---|
| Teaching Style | Practical & hands-on | Inspirational & storytelling |
| Instructors | Creators & pros | Celebrities & industry icons |
| Price | ~$14/month | ~$15–20/month |
| Focus | Skills & execution | Inspiration & philosophy |
Verdict: Skillshare is better for active learners. MasterClass is for inspiration and entertainment.
🔹 Skillshare vs. Coursera
| Feature | Skillshare | Coursera |
|---|---|---|
| Certification | No | Yes (university-backed) |
| Instructors | Professionals | Professors & experts |
| Pricing | Subscription | Free to $399+ per course |
| Best For | Creative skill-building | Academic advancement or credentials |
Verdict: Skillshare is great for creatives and freelancers. Coursera suits students and professionals seeking credentials.
Who Should Use Skillshare?
Best For:
- Freelancers and side hustlers
- Creative professionals (designers, artists, writers)
- Entrepreneurs and content creators
- Anyone learning a hobby or new skill
- Busy learners who prefer self-paced video classes
Not Ideal For:
- People seeking university-level credentials
- Those needing in-depth certifications for job applications
- Learners who prefer live classes or instructor feedback
FAQs About Skillshare
Q: Is Skillshare legit?
Yes. Skillshare is a trusted platform with over 35,000 classes and millions of users. While it doesn’t offer accredited certifications, it’s excellent for real-world skill-building.
Q: Can I get a certificate from Skillshare?
No. Skillshare doesn’t offer certificates or diplomas—its focus is on practical skills and hands-on projects.
Q: Can I cancel Skillshare after the free trial?
Yes. You can cancel anytime during your trial to avoid being charged.
Q: Is Skillshare good for beginners?
Absolutely. Many classes are geared toward beginners, with step-by-step instructions and community support.
Q: Can I use Skillshare offline?
Yes. You can download classes on the mobile app to learn offline.
Final Verdict: Is Skillshare Worth It in 2025?
✅ Yes—if you want affordable, hands-on learning in creative and entrepreneurial skills, Skillshare is one of the best platforms in 2025.
With unlimited access to 35,000+ classes, engaging instructors, and project-based lessons, it’s ideal for freelancers, content creators, and career changers. While it doesn’t offer formal certification, what it does offer is practical knowledge you can apply immediately.
At under $15/month, it’s a small investment with big returns—especially if you use it consistently.
🎓 Ready to learn something new and grow your skills?
👉 Start your 1-month free trial at Skillshare today and unlock unlimited learning