MasterClass offers online classes taught by well-known experts across business, writing, cooking, music, film, and other subjects. But is the membership actually worth paying for?
In this MasterClass review, I’ll share my experience after using the platform for almost two years and cover its pricing, features, pros and cons, course quality, and overall value to help you decide if it is right for you.
My Quick And Honest Review On MasterClass
Overall, when it comes to the quality of the courses and the credibility of instructors, MasterClass is unbeaten.
They have courses made with utmost production value, and their instructor list comprises the crème of the industry, the celebrities of their respective fields. This has contributed to my personal growth.
However, the only hiccup I found in the platform was that online learning is common and mostly preferred today.
MasterClass has around 200 courses, mainly for the creative skill set, but in today’s world, a large population also wants to take technical courses to boost their skills.
I rate MasterClass a 4/5.
What Is MasterClass?
MasterClass is an online education platform that stands out from the others. Its celebrity instructors and Documentary-style production make learning both informative and entertaining.
MasterClass was founded by David Rogier, originally under the name Yanka Industries. Aaron Rasmussen later joined as co-founder and chief technology officer.
The learning experience on MasterClass is designed to be immersive and almost cinematic.
Each course is divided into video lessons, typically 10 to 20 minutes each, with accompanying downloadable workbooks.
The content is accessible on-demand, allowing users to learn at their own pace and in the comfort of their own houses.
Key Features Of MasterClass
- Expert Instructors: Learn from 200+ well-known instructors, including Gordon Ramsay, Neil Gaiman, Serena Williams, and Hans Zimmer.
- Professionally Produced Lessons: Classes use high-quality video production with a polished, documentary-style format.
- Large Course Library: Access 3,500+ video lessons across 13 categories, covering creative, business, lifestyle, and professional subjects.
- Offline Viewing: Eligible plans let you download lessons and watch them without an internet connection.
- Workbooks and Resources: Many classes include downloadable workbooks, exercises, assignments, and lesson summaries.
- Multiple Device Support: Watch classes on computers, smartphones, tablets, TVs, and other supported devices.
- Learning Activities: Selected classes include exercises and projects that help you apply what you learn.
- 30-Day Money-Back Guarantee: Eligible memberships are covered by a 30-day refund period, subject to the applicable terms.
MasterClass Pros And Cons Based On My Experience
Here’s a quick look at the pros and cons I found while using MasterClass for almost a year, which you should consider before buying a subscription.
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Learn from well-known experts in their fields. | No live classes or direct instructor interaction. |
| Enjoy engaging, professionally produced lessons. | Few options for coding, computing, and other technical subjects. |
| Courses cover cooking, writing, music, sports, and more. | No official or accredited certifications. |
| Learn at your own pace and revisit lessons whenever you want. | – |
| Discuss lessons and interact with other learners. | – |
| Access workbooks and other supporting materials. | – |
| Learn from your phone or other mobile devices. | – |
MasterClass Reviews by Users
You can also find out what people who have consumed masterclasses have to say about the platform.
I am quoting a couple of user master class reviews below.
“The Value Exceeded the price. The insight, thoughts, and ideas are powerful for my business and me. My brother Loves the Master Class more than I do. It’s a win-win, MC. Thank You” – Trustpilot Philip Williams
“I love this app – it’s excellent. I recommend it to everyone I speak to who is after new ways of self-developing. It’s got topics on everything you could think of. The ONLY thing that would give it a 5* from me is making it compatible with Android Auto or Apple CarPlay.” – Trustpilot Harry Ward
MasterClass Classes And Course Categories
MasterClass offers courses across 13 categories, covering creative, professional, and personal development subjects. Each category features lessons from experienced professionals and well-known instructors.
Here are eight popular categories and some of their featured classes:
1. Arts & Entertainment
This category covers photography, acting, singing, filmmaking, animation, screenwriting, and other creative subjects.
Popular classes include:
- Jodie Foster teaches Filmmaking.
- David Fincher teaches Creativity and Film.
- Helen Mirren teaches Acting.
- Christina Aguilera teaches Singing.
- Misty Copeland teaches Ballet.
- David Mamet teaches Creative Writing.
- Kevin Hart teaches Using Humor to Make Your Mark.
- Neil Gaiman teaches The Art of Storytelling.
2. Home & Lifestyle
The Home & Lifestyle category includes courses on interior design, cooking, wellness, fitness, and gardening.
Featured classes include:
- Donna Farhi teaches Yoga.
- Lewis Hamilton teaches a Winning Mindset.
- Joe Holder teaches Fitness and Wellness Foundations.
3. Music
MasterClass music courses cover singing, songwriting, music production, instruments, and performance.
Popular classes include:
- Mariah Carey teaches Voice as an Instrument.
- Alicia Keys teaches Songwriting and Producing.
- Tom Morello teaches Electric Guitar.
- Usher teaches the Art of Performance.
- Metallica teaches Being a Band.
4. Design & Style
This category focuses on fashion, beauty, modeling, and creative design. It offers lessons for beginners, students, and professionals.
Featured classes include:
- Anna Wintour teaches Creativity and Leadership.
- Naomi Campbell teaches Modeling.
- Marc Jacobs teaches Fashion Design.
- Bobbi Brown teaches Beauty and Makeup.
5. Business
The Business category features courses on entrepreneurship, leadership, economics, and personal branding.
Popular classes include:
- Paul Krugman teaches Economics and Society.
- Richard Branson teaches Disruptive Entrepreneurship.
- Mark Cuban teaches Win Big in Business.
- Kris Jenner teaches the Power of Personal Branding.
6. Food
MasterClass offers cooking lessons from professional chefs covering different cuisines, recipes, and cooking techniques.
Featured classes include:
- Gordon Ramsay teaches Cooking.
- Alice Waters teaches the Art of Home Cooking.
- Roy Choi teaches Intuitive Cooking.
- Thomas Keller teaches Cooking Techniques.
7. Sports & Gaming
This category covers sports techniques, athletic performance, training, and competitive skills.
Popular classes include:
- Simone Biles teaches Gymnastics Fundamentals.
- Serena Williams teaches Tennis.
- Stephen Curry teaches Basketball.
8. Science & Technology
The Science & Technology category explores space, scientific reasoning, mathematics, and problem-solving.
Featured classes include:
- Chris Hadfield teaches Space Exploration.
- Neil deGrasse Tyson teaches Scientific Thinking.
- Terence Tao teaches Mathematical Thinking.
- Bill Nye teaches Scientific Thinking and Problem Solving.
MasterClass brings together instructors from different industries, giving learners access to their knowledge and experience through video-based courses.ll-known experts and educators, giving you the chance to learn from leading names across science and technology.
You can click here to browse their categories and find a class that excites you.
If you don’t want to go through each category and browse on your own, here is the list of the best MasterClass courses that are highly recommended by me. I have listed the most popular masterclasses within each category.
How Much Does MasterClass Cost?
A MasterClass subscription starts at $10 per month when billed annually, with three individual plans and a separate option for businesses.
- Standard Plan: Costs $10/month ($120/year) and provides full catalog access on one device. Offline downloads are not included.
- Plus Plan: Costs $15/month ($180/year) and includes access on two devices plus offline downloads.
- Premium Plan: Costs $20/month ($240/year) and supports up to six devices, along with offline downloads.
- MasterClass for Work: Designed for businesses and organizations that want to provide access to larger groups. Pricing depends on the team size and requirements.
If you want to save more on MasterClass subscription, you can use a 50% off MasterClass coupon code to get a bigger discount on your annual plan.
What To Consider Before Buying A MasterClass Membership?
Before purchasing a MasterClass subscription, review these features to decide whether the platform matches your learning needs.
1. Course Quality
MasterClass provides professionally produced video lessons with high-quality editing and cinematography. Courses are available on demand, allowing you to watch lessons whenever you have time.
2. Instructor Expertise
Courses are taught by recognized professionals and industry experts, including Serena Williams and Neil Gaiman. Their experience gives learners insights into different professions, techniques, and creative processes.
3. Course Variety
MasterClass covers subjects such as cooking, writing, business, sports, music, filmmaking, and design. It is particularly suitable for learners interested in creative skills and personal development.
4. Flexible Learning and Mobile Access
You can learn at your own pace by starting, pausing, and resuming lessons whenever you want. MasterClass also offers a mobile app for watching lessons and listening to course content while traveling. Offline downloads are available with eligible higher-tier plans.
5. Additional Learning Materials
Many MasterClass courses include supporting resources such as workbooks, recipes, and practical guides. These materials help learners follow lessons and apply the techniques covered in each class.
6. Platform Usability
MasterClass has a straightforward interface and an organized course library. You can browse categories, explore instructors, and find lessons through its website or mobile app.
How Does MasterClass Compare To Other E-Learning Platforms?
MasterClass stands out from many e-learning platforms because it focuses on expert-led video classes and the overall learning experience rather than formal qualifications.
After using both MasterClass and Skillshare, I found several differences worth considering.
Content Focus
MasterClass covers subjects such as cooking, writing, business, music, film, design, and personal development. Platforms such as Coursera and Skillshare offer broader catalogs that may include programming, data science, AI, and other technical subjects.
Instructors
One of its main differences is the instructor lineup. Classes are taught by well-known professionals and public figures, including Gordon Ramsay, Serena Williams, and other recognized names in their fields.
Other learning platforms also use experienced instructors, but celebrity-led teaching is less central to their offering.
Course Format and Pace
Classes are primarily pre-recorded and self-paced, allowing you to watch lessons on your own schedule. This format works well for independent learners but may not suit those looking for regular live instruction.
Certificates
The platform may provide completion certificates for eligible classes, but these are not the same as accredited academic or professional qualifications. Platforms such as Coursera and edX offer accredited or industry-recognized credentials for some programs.
Community Features
Community interaction is more limited than on platforms built around peer feedback, group projects, assessments, or direct instructor interaction.
What Are The Best MasterClass Alternatives?
If you are looking for features that are not available in MasterClass, here are a few alternative platforms you can explore to see if you get what you want:
- Skillshare
- Coursera
- Udemy
- Udacity
- edX
- Khan Academy
- Linux Foundation
- LinkedIn learning.
However, there are certain features that MasterClass possesses that stand it from its competitors.
If you want, I have covered MasterClass alternatives with features, pros and cons, and pricing. You will get a comprehensive comparison.
How To Create A MasterClass Account?
MasterClass makes it very simple to create an account. Here’s a step-by-step guide to help you out:
Step 1: Go To MasterClass.com. Choose a membership plan. Click Continue.
Step 2: Type in your email address, and click Continue With Email.
Step 3: Proceed with your payment by entering your card details. And click Place Secure Order.
That’s all it takes! You’re now ready to explore the classes on MasterClass and enjoy this exciting platform.
Is MasterClass Worth It?
After considering the course quality, content, and overall learning experience, I believe MasterClass is worth the cost for learners who enjoy expert-led courses.
The platform offers high-quality videos, practical lessons, and a wide range of topics. Its content is also updated regularly, which adds value to the subscription over time.
Final Thoughts
MasterClass is a strong choice if you want to develop creative skills through engaging, expert-led courses.
You can sign up for a MasterClass plan with a 30-day money-back guarantee, giving you time to try the platform and decide if it suits your learning needs.
I hope this MasterClass review helps you make your decision. Happy learning!
FAQs on MasterClass Review
Is MasterClass Worth It For Writers?
MasterClass offers several writing courses taught by experienced writers, including Shonda Rhimes, Aaron Sorkin, and Issa Rae. If you want to improve your writing skills, you can learn from these experts through flexible, self-paced lessons.
Does MasterClass Provide A Certificate?
MasterClass does not provide accredited certificates. However, you may receive a certificate of completion after finishing a course.
