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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.
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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.
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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 ◉ .
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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.
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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.
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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 ◉ .
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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.
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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.
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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.
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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.
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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.
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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.
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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.
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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.
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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.
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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.
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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.
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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.
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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.
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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.
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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.
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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.
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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.
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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.
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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.
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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.
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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.
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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.
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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.
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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.
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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.
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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.
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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.
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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.
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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.
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