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Coursera vs edX
Short answer: Both offer university content. edX's free audit track is good for sampling; Coursera Plus is better value if you'll take many courses.
See every plan side by side in the price tracker or try the platform quiz.
| Coursera | edX | |
|---|---|---|
| Pricing model | Coursera Plus $59/month or $399/year; single courses and programs $49–$79/month | Per course; free audit track or paid verified track |
| Free trial | Monthly Plus starts with a 7-day free trial | No trial needed: audit track is free |
| Free option | Many courses can be audited free; certificates require payment | Audit track: temporary access to course materials, no graded assignments or certificate |
| Certificates | Yes, certificates for completed courses | Verified certificate on the paid track |
Sources
- Coursera Plus page
- Coursera Help: Coursera Plus (trial and refund terms)
- edX Help: Audit vs verified
- edX Help: What does it cost to take a course?
Facts checked October 15, 2026. Prices are US list prices, change often and vary by region; confirm on the provider's site before buying.