If you’re looking to learn from the best in the world, Masterclass might have crossed your mind. But is it truly worth the investment?
From Gordon Ramsay teaching cooking to Serena Williams sharing tennis secrets, MasterClass offers a unique learning experience. But is it worth your investment?
Let’s dive deep into this MasterClass review, which will analyze its pros and cons, compare it to competitors, and ultimately help you decide if it’s the right learning platform for you.
What Is MasterClass?
MasterClass is an online learning platform that offers pre-recorded courses taught by experts in various fields. Unlike other platforms like Udemy or Coursera, MasterClass focuses on delivering high-quality video content from industry-leading professionals.
MasterClass is breaking the barriers in “edu-tainment” — a sphere of online learning that’s both enlightening and insightful.
It’s the marriage of your most engaging college seminar (without the brick-and-mortar classrooms) and digital media production, as each MasterClass offering is debuted documentary-style to instruct creatively and brilliantly.
The as-seen-everywhere platform is glittered with elite household names, from Martha Stewart giving the 411 on her blossoming, home-making suburban garden to Sara Blakely teaching the masses about entrepreneurship and the creation of transformative womenswear brand SPANX.
The $10 a month certainly unlocks the cream of the crop — the carefully curated litter of those who can speak to their craft most astoundingly.
Key Features of MasterClass:
- World-Class Instructors: Learn from celebrities and experts like Martin Scorsese, Neil deGrasse Tyson, and Natalie Portman.
- High-Quality Production: The courses feel more like documentaries, making them visually engaging.
- Wide Range of Topics: From arts and science to sports and business, there’s something for everyone.
- Community Engagement: Share insights and connect with other learners through the platform.
Who Is MasterClass Best For?
If you’re looking for a platform to gain practical, high-level insights from industry leaders, MasterClass is a great choice. It’s particularly suitable for:
- Aspiring Professionals: Gain inspiration from your idols.
- Hobbyists: Explore a range of topics without diving into overly technical details.
- Creative Minds: From filmmaking to reative writing, there’s plenty of content for creative souls.
MasterClass Pricing
MasterClass operates on a subscription model, offering three main plans:
- Standard Plan: $10 for access to one device.
- Plus Plan: $14, allowing two devices to stream simultaneously.
- Premium Plan: $19, perfect for sharing with up to six devices.
While the price might seem steep, the value comes from the unmatched expertise of the instructors and the high-quality content.
Pros and Cons of MasterClass
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My MasterClass Review
From a young age, I’ve always loved the idea of learning. At five years old, I enjoyed playing school just as much as attending it at 18. As the years went by, my classes became increasingly fascinating, especially in college, where I focused on journalism and writing and explored diverse perspectives to refine my craft.
That’s where MasterClass comes in. While it doesn’t feel like a traditional school experience, its focus on expert-led educational programming captures the excitement of learning in a stress-free environment. There’s no pressure on grades or deadlines—and, for the most part, no assignments either.
As I browsed through the vast offerings on MasterClass, I was amazed at the variety of skills I could learn. That’s the beauty of this platform—there are no limits. Of course, I’m not expecting to walk away from Melinda French Gates’ MasterClass and suddenly establish a $69 billion philanthropic foundation or rival SPANX’s success (let’s be real, the AirEssentials Half-Zip is untouchable).
However, the most valuable lesson from MasterClass is the opportunity to learn directly from experts who are at the top of their game. A TED Talk or a YouTube video can’t replicate this kind of exclusive, first-person insight.
I first tried MasterClass a couple of years ago, but it’s in the last four months that I’ve truly dived into its courses. Sometimes, I’d pick a class because of the instructor (hello, Gordon Ramsay!), while other times, I was drawn to the subject matter (like Noam Chomsky’s course). The platform truly offers something for everyone.
As someone who’s always valued education, I appreciate MasterClass’s dedication to fostering continuous learning through creativity and brilliance.
Each course is produced with a documentary-like quality, blending the aesthetics of the History Channel with the feel of a modern classroom.
Some courses share exclusive, personal anecdotes, while others give you a behind-the-scenes look—like Robin Roberts taking viewers backstage at Good Morning America or Martha Stewart showcasing her home-grown vegetables in her backyard.
These glimpses add an extra layer of depth to the learning experience, connecting you to the instructors in a way that feels authentic and inspiring.
My usual setup for MasterClass: at my desk, with my notebook and pen.
In-Depth Look at Popular MasterClass Courses
1. Gordon Ramsay Teaches Cooking
This course is perfect for culinary enthusiasts. Ramsay shares his kitchen secrets, from perfecting scrambled eggs to crafting Michelin-star dishes. While it’s not a substitute for culinary school, it’s packed with practical tips.
2. Serena Williams Teaches Tennis
For sports lovers, Serena’s course offers insights into techniques, mindset, and training routines. It’s ideal for beginners and intermediate players.
3. Neil Gaiman Teaches Storytelling
Aspiring writers will find Gaiman’s course invaluable. He shares his process for crafting compelling stories, making it a must-watch for budding authors.
How Does MasterClass Compare to Competitors?
When compared to platforms like Udemy, Coursera, or Skillshare, MasterClass stands out for its focus on celebrity-led content and production quality. However, it falls short in terms of course variety and certifications.
Comparison Table:
Feature | MasterClass | Udemy | Coursera |
---|---|---|---|
Focus | Celebrity Insights | Practical Skills | Academic Learning |
Pricing | $120/year | $10-$200/course | $50-$500/course |
Certifications | No | Yes | Yes |
Depth of Content | Moderate | High | Very High |
Comparing MasterClass and Skillshare
Over the past few months, I’ve been exploring both MasterClass and Skillshare, creating lists of courses I’d like to experience, and gradually working through them.
If you’re someone who prefers spending 15 minutes learning on an e-learning platform rather than watching a TV series on Netflix, your list of courses might constantly evolve too!
Using both platforms simultaneously has given me a clear perspective on their differences. MasterClass feels more like watching a polished documentary or a TED Talk, whereas Skillshare has the vibe of an informative YouTube video.
This distinction arises from their content approach. MasterClass emphasizes expertise, showcasing renowned professionals, while Skillshare takes a skill-focused approach, as its name suggests.
For instance, on Skillshare, I’ve taken digital drawing and animation courses taught by self-taught instructors using the Procreate app. I also explored a comprehensive YouTube crash course covering channel creation, filming, editing, and more, led by a creator who’s built a successful channel and passive income.
While these instructors aren’t household names, their practical knowledge shines through. In contrast, MasterClass features icons like Martha Stewart and Gordon Ramsay—widely recognized experts in their fields.
That said, the choice between platforms isn’t about one being better than the other. It’s more about your learning goals and preferences.
For example, I didn’t join MasterClass with the sole intention of mastering professional makeup techniques. While I thoroughly enjoyed Bobbi Brown’s four-hour makeup course and completed it in a single day, I didn’t feel the need to keep my subscription afterwards. I initially signed up for MasterClass to learn a variety of topics, such as interior design and media analysis.
On the other hand, if I were primarily interested in makeup techniques, Skillshare would have been a better fit. Searching for topics like “animation” or “copy editing” on Skillshare yields numerous courses, each offering different perspectives and assignments to help you build niche skills over time.
While MasterClass provides expert insights to enhance your lifestyle, Skillshare equips you with tools to become an expert over time.
Which Platform Suits Your Lifestyle?
MasterClass is ideal for those with tight schedules. While both platforms encourage note-taking, Skillshare often requires undivided attention. MasterClass, with its documentary-style content, allows for multitasking—whether you’re tidying up, applying makeup, or even checking emails.
Skillshare’s practical, hands-on courses are more immersive and demand active participation. It’s perfect if you’re looking to develop specific skills through detailed lessons and assignments.
Beyond MasterClass and Skillshare
MasterClass feels like a stepping stone to more advanced certificate courses offered by institutions. For instance, I tried Yale University’s “The Science of Well-Being” course, which resembled a college-level remote class. While such courses often cost upwards of $3,000, MasterClass offers valuable insights for just $10 a month, albeit without certifications.
Even without a certificate, MasterClass imparts remarkable knowledge. You can learn diverse skills, from launching a corporation and designing prototypes to baking sourdough bread with clear, step-by-step guidance.
In summary, MasterClass and Skillshare serve different purposes. MasterClass inspires and informs with expert-led perspectives, while Skillshare focuses on practical, hands-on learning. Your choice depends on your goals, whether it’s gaining lifestyle insights or mastering a specific skill.
FAQs About MasterClass
💁♀️Is MasterClass suitable for beginners?
Yes, but keep in mind that MasterClass is more about inspiration and insights than technical training. Beginners will find it motivational, but they might need additional resources to master specific skills.
🙋♂️Can I cancel my MasterClass subscription?
Yes, MasterClass offers a 30-day money-back guarantee. You can cancel your subscription anytime during this period for a full refund.
🙆♀️Does MasterClass offer free trials?
Currently, MasterClass does not offer a free trial, but they do provide a sneak peek of their courses through free lesson previews.
🙋♀️ How long are the courses?
Most courses are around 2-5 hours long, divided into short lessons of 10-20 minutes each.
🤷♂️Is there an app for MasterClass?
Yes, MasterClass has a mobile app for both iOS and Android, allowing you to learn on the go.
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Final Verdict: Is MasterClass Worth It?
If you value learning directly from world-class experts, enjoy visually stunning content, and seek inspiration rather than technical depth, MasterClass is a worthy investment. However, if you need detailed training or certifications, platforms like Coursera might be a better fit.
MasterClass brings the world’s best to your screen. Whether it’s hearing Aaron Sorkin’s screenwriting secrets or learning comedy from Steve Martin, this platform is more than just online learning; it’s an experience.
So, what are you waiting for? Dive into MasterClass and let the masters inspire you!