Table of Contents
MasterClass: A Quick Overview
Here’s an overview of MasterClass before I go into details.
User Experience | Features | Membership Perks | Price | Mobile-friendliness |
|---|---|---|---|---|
9.9/10 | 9.8/10 | 9.7/10 | 9.8/10 | 9.9/10 |
| What I Like + | What I Don’t Like – |
|---|---|
| ✅ Affordability | ❌ No free trials |
| ✅ VIP instructors | ❌ No certificates |
| ✅ 30-day satisfaction guarantee | ❌ No one-on-one sessions from instructors |
| ✅ Bite-sized online courses | |
| ✅ Interactive classes | |
| ✅ On the go app |
MasterClass is an online learning platform where you can learn and develop skills.
If you want to know more about MasterClass and its features, membership perks, pricing, app, and alternatives, read this review until the end.
I dove deep into the details to discuss everything you need to know about MasterClass.
A Quick Introduction About MasterClass
Let’s get to know MasterClass better.
What Is Masterclass?
MasterClass is an educational streaming platform where anyone can learn from best-in-the-world instructors.
David Rogier launched the MasterClass website on May 12, 2015, with Aaron Rasmussen as a co-founder.
Rogier founded MasterClass on his love for learning and the idea that everyone should have access to genius. He thought about building a school that allows anyone to learn things and gain new knowledge.
As of 2021, MasterClass has a value of $2.75 billion.
What makes MasterClass different is they enlist only a few of the best in the industry to teach their online courses.
How Does MasterClass Work?
MasterClass offers 11 course categories to choose from:
Food
Design and Style
Arts and Entertainment
Music
Business
Sports and Gaming
Writing
Science and Tech
Home and Lifestyle
Community and Government
Wellness
The instructors make the curriculum in bite-sized videos. On average, one MasterClass has about 20 video lectures that run for about 10 minutes.
All MasterClass videos have a downloadable instructor guide.
You can also download lessons on your mobile phones for offline viewing through the MasterClass app.
Suppose you feel like you still don’t entirely understand the lesson. You can rewatch the videos as often as possible because you get unlimited access to all classes.
You can learn the courses at your own pace as each member creates their journey.
If you want to see others’ work and share your thoughts with other learners, you can share your outputs and discuss them below every video.
The instructors may also select members to provide feedback on your work. If you have questions about the lesson, post them in the comment section. The instructors may choose yours to answer.
Moreover, there are no assignments. There are optional exercises to practice what you’ve learned.
You can access MasterClass online on any device and stream them anywhere on your mobile phones, tablet, desktop, TV, and Roku players.
If you need help with your masterclasses, visit the customer support page and use the MasterClass Chatbot, which is available 24/7.
You can also reach them through their social media accounts on Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, YouTube, and LinkedIn.
MasterClass Review
I have broken down MasterClass into its core components: instructors, courses, subscription plans, membership perks, and pricing. Here’s an in-depth discussion to get to know them better.
MasterClass Instructors
MasterClass is best known for its high-profile celebrity teachers and best-in-the-field instructors.
The teachers handle the course’s direction and create a structured curriculum. They decide how to discuss their lessons based on their experiences.
Some notable instructors that give the best lessons in each category are:
Cooking – Gordon Ramsay
Sports and Gaming – Stephen Curry
Music – Tom Morello
Business – Chris Voss
Acting – Natalie Portman
Screenwriting – Shonda Rhimes
Design and Style – Bobbi Brown
Photography – Annie Leibovitz
Journalism – Bob Woodward
If you enjoy cooking, you should watch Gordon Ramsay’s classes. His MasterClasses showcase his competitiveness and mastery with his remarkably detailed cooking instructions.
Suppose you’re still looking to explore more about the culinary arts or discover other cooking styles and techniques. There’s more to learn from Aaron Franklin (barbecuing), Niki Nakayama (traditional Japanese cooking), and Yotam Ottolenghi (middle Eastern cooking).
Another famous instructor is Stephen “Steph” Curry, the well-known point guard from the Golden State Warriors. He ranks high in the most-watched MasterClasses as he remarkably executes his ball techniques in his classes.
The platform also has courses for other subjects. For example, you can learn how to control your pet with the Brandon McMillan Teaches Dog Training MasterClass.
With more than 150+ world-class MasterClass teachers, you’ll enjoy learning new skills and knowledge with just a tap.
MasterClass Courses
Once you open MasterClass, you’ll see several classes on their homepage. You can choose from any of these. If nothing piques your interest, click on Explore Classes for more choices.
After that, the website takes you to a new page, where you can answer questions to personalize your online learning experience. Then, MasterClass will show you MasterClasses that align with your preferences.
Each course can run for a few hours – about two to five hours long. You can watch them all at once or just go at your own pace. There are no particular deadlines for each course.
MasterClass appeals to members by showing you topics in broader categories. You can discover other courses this way.
MasterClass 30-day Satisfaction Guarantee
MasterClass offers a 30-day money-back guarantee if you’re unsatisfied with their service. This feature is the best alternative to a free trial.
You get 30 days to discover if this education platform can meet your expectations. If not, you can get a full refund by canceling your subscription within 30 days.
If you want to continue your membership, your subscription will automatically renew on the next payment schedule.
MasterClass Membership Gift
Do you want to Give the Gift of MasterClass to someone who may enjoy the platform’s features? You can gift them an annual subscription plan of your choosing.
The 30-day satisfaction guarantee applies to their subscription as well. If the recipient doesn’t redeem your membership gift, contact MasterClass’s support team for a full refund.
MasterClass Subscription Cost
You can choose from three MasterClass memberships plan:
Individual
Duo
Family
The Individual plan costs $15 a month, billed annually. This gives you full access to the MasterClass course library on all your devices.
With the Individual plan, you can’t watch simultaneously on other devices, as MasterClass only allows one viewing. Also, you can’t download video lessons for offline viewing.
The Duo plan costs $20 a month, billed annually. This MasterClass membership includes full access to the Individual plan’s features. Plus, you can watch on two devices and download lessons for offline viewing.
The last one is the Family plan. It costs $23 a month, billed annually, with complete access to all features. Up to six members can stream MasterClass simultaneously on different devices.
MasterClass Guest Passes
You get a guest pass when you subscribe to any MasterClass membership plan.
The guest pass gets your friend, colleagues, and loved ones a free 14-day free trial with MasterClass.
They must sign up and add payment details to activate the guest pass. If they want to discontinue using MasterClass, they must cancel before 14 days to avoid additional charges.
MasterClass Review: Pros and Cons
This section will further discuss the advantages and disadvantages of MasterClass.
MasterClass Pros
Unlimited Access
There are no limits when choosing the classes you want to learn. You can even take multiple classes at once.
Celebrity Instructors
The celebrity instructors are experts in their field. You can ensure they’ll give you practical tips on the subject.
New Classes Every Month
As MasterClass updates new lessons monthly, you get the most up-to-date information.
Excellent Video Quality
The HD production quality of the videos will keep you entertained while learning.
User-Friendly App
The MasterClass app lets you take notes while watching your classes on the right side of the screen.
Each course has a downloadable workbook and downloadable class guides to help you with the topic further.
MasterClass Cons
No Free Trials
MasterClass doesn’t offer a free trial and free courses, unlike other online educational platforms. Rather, it has a money-back guarantee if you choose to discontinue the subscription within the first 30 days.
No Certifications
MasterClass doesn’t give certificates upon course completion. It has no college classes with accreditation. You can’t use any class for outside affiliations, like university applications.
No Interaction with Instructors
MasterClass doesn’t have the option to interact with your instructors. This is a downside if you want to clarify things with the teacher.
Bills Annually
MasterClass only has an annual membership option. You can’t sign up for a monthly membership.
Popular MasterClass Courses and What It Is About
Aaron Sorkin Teaches Screenwriting
Aaron Sorkin, one of the most legendary screenwriters in the world, is teaching screenwriting in MasterClass. His class focuses on crafting a story for films and television and methods on how to make them stand out.
Taking his class is a good start if you’re interested in screenwriting and knowing his works.
Neil Gaiman Teaches the Art of Storytelling
Neil Gaiman, a New York Times bestselling author, explores the art of story creation and how to bring life into characters.
David Rogier Teaches Entrepreneurship
David Rogier, the founder himself, discusses entrepreneurship. He gives practical advice on success in your business in this competitive world. This class is excellent for start-ups who want to get a boost in their business.
Helen Mirren Teaches Acting
Helen Mirren is the only actress to get a Triple Crown in Acting. She relays acting tips and stories about her experiences. Her online class covers techniques for finding and carrying out your emotions.
Serena Williams Teaches Tennis
Serena Williams, one of the greatest tennis players of all time, is teaching you her daily drills. Her inspiring class discusses how to have a strong mindset in practicing tennis.
Christina Aguilera Teaches Singing
Christina Aguilera is the Voice of a Generation and a pop culture icon. She shares her talent by teaching singing. Her class will teach you how to vocalize, gain stage presence, and make a performance.
Chris Hadfield Teaches Exploration
Chris Hadfield is a retired astronaut who has flown two space shuttle missions. He the science of exploration and its future. In his 8-hour course, you will learn about shuttles, rockets, and deep space.
Steve Martin Teaches Comedy
Steve Martin, a five Grammy Award winner, teaches you how to perform comedic acts. He has performed in clubs, drive-in movies, and stadiums and put all his experiences into his class.
Daniel Negreanu Teaches Poker
Daniel Negreanu, a professional poker player, is teaching you the basics of poker. He will guide you on how to get the upper hand when playing poker by considering your opponent’s moves more.
Shonda Rhimes Teaches Writing for Television
Shonda Rhimes, the head writer and executive producer of Grey’s Anatomy, is teaching you how to make your own Netflix series. Her class will show you her journey of writing and how she succeeded.
Who Should Use MasterClass?
MasterClass is for you if you’re:
A Philomath
If you love learning and studying or a Philomath, you’re the best fit for Masterclass.
MasterClass provides the best teachers for the best classes to make your learning journey worthwhile.
Curious Minds
If you have high curiosity levels about a lot of topics, then MasterClass is a match for you.
This educational platform will beat your curiosity with the range of courses they offer. You can explore new ideas and learn about new things.
Also, suppose you’re curious about your favorite celebrities or teachers. MasterClass is a great way to know them better. Its classes also feature a documentary about the instructor’s life alongside the lessons.
Creative Personality
During the first launch of Masterclass, you’ll mostly find writing classes, filmmaking courses, and photography lessons.
Now, the platform offers unique classes to keep your creative juices flowing. You can explore other writing classes, learn about entertainment arts from the most inspiring artists, and discover new ways to be creative.
MasterClass doesn’t only target those who are creative but also those who want to be creative.
You can choose any class – creative writing or logo design – without prior knowledge. You can learn along the way with the help of MasterClass celebrity instructors.
Introverted Learner
Introverts will enjoy the MasterClass experience, as interacting with others can be difficult.
You can access the app anywhere – in the comfort of your home or at a coffee shop. You won’t have to worry about social anxieties.
If you feel more comfortable studying alone and not having to keep catching up with your classmate’s paces, MasterClass is your go-to educational platform.
Jack-of-All-Trades Wanna-Be
If you want to be that impressive person who knows how to do everything, try MasterClass.
You can become a Jack-of-all-trades by learning about vastly different subjects. You just have to make that effort to get there, and the easiest way is through MasterClass.
MasterClass Refund Policy
The money-back guarantee only applies to users who cancel their membership within 30 days of purchase.
Refunds do not apply to users if:
MasterClass determines that your subscription is beyond 30 days after your purchase.
MasterClass determines you have violated their terms of service.
MasterClass determines you have abused their refund policy.
MasterClass can cancel or terminate your account for future use if they determine you have abused their refund policy.
If you want a refund or request a membership cancellation, contact their customer support at support@masterclass.com.
MasterClass Review: Social Proof
Below are some MasterClass reviews from members:
MasterClass Alternatives
If you want to explore your options, check out these other online educational platforms:
Master Class Review: Additional Info
What Is MasterClass vs. Mindvalley?
MasterClass and Mindvalley are educational platforms that offer online classes for users who want to learn from internet-abled devices.
MasterClass offers a variety of content through 10-minute video lessons from renowned instructors and celebrities.
Mindvalley focuses more on holistic wellness courses. They cover subjects about physical, emotional, and spiritual growth.
The main difference between MasterClass vs. Mindvalley is the content they offer. MasterClass focuses on self-discipline classes, while Mindvalley focuses on a holistic approach.
MasterClass’s lowest membership is $180 yearly, and Mindvalley’s is $499 yearly.
Both services are highly-rated platforms. Deciding which is better depends on what you want to learn about.
What Is The Difference Between MasterClass vs. Udemy?
The significant difference between MasterClass and Udemy is the payment structure. Udemy can become cheaper than masterClass if you’re only interested in a few classes.
MasterClass charges $180 to $273 for a yearly subscription. Udemy charges anywhere between $11.99 and $199.99 per course.
You also get a certificate of completion after the course on Udemy. MasterClass doesn’t offer one.
However, companies and universities may still not recognize the certificate.
Which one is for you?
I recommend MasterClass if you want high-quality content. There are fewer courses, but you get them directly from renowned professionals and celebrities.
However, if you only want to sign up for a particular class, Udemy is for you.
What Is the MasterClass List of Classes?
MasterClass offers more than 180 classes from 11 categories. Some of the most watched classes are:
Chris Voss Teaches the Art of Negotiation
Neil deGrasse Tyson Teaches Scientific Thinking and Communication
Dr. Jane Goodall Teaches Conservation
Chris Hadfield Teaches Space Exploration
Jon Kabat-Zinn Teaches Mindfulness and Meditation
What Are the MasterClass Ratings?
MasterClass has a 9.8/10 rating for this review because of its outstanding online courses from best-in-the-field instructors.
What Are the MasterClass Plans?
MasterClass has three membership plans: Individual, Duo, and Family. Each MasterClass subscription plan differs in the viewing feature and downloadable video lessons, as mentioned above.
Is There a MasterClass for Students Plan?
Masterclass doesn’t provide a discounted student membership. Students can instead choose from the three membership plans.
What Is the MasterClass Annual Membership Cost?
The MasterClass price depends on your chosen plan:
Individual – $180
Duo – $240
Family plan – $276
The Family plan provides the best value for the MasterClass cost, especially for up to six users.
How Much Is the MasterClass Monthly Subscription?
There’s no monthly subscription, as MasterClass bills its subscribers annually. However, the platform breaks it down to these monthly costs – $15 for Individual, $20 for Duo, and $23 for the Family plan.
What Is Aaron Sorkin MasterClass Review?
Aaron Sorkin’s Aaron Sorkin Teaches Screenwriting class teaches about crafting a film or television screenwriting. His class takes the form of his experiences in doing films and TV series.
Aaron’s class is a worthwhile lesson because of his anecdotal teaching. However, parts of his informality may distract you from the class takeaways.
What Is Gordon Ramsay MasterClass Review?
Gordon Ramsay’s Gordon Ramsay Teaches Cooking class teaches you about essential techniques, ingredients, and cookbooks. This class fits individuals who have the basics down already and would like to hone their skills more because his style is a bit more advanced.
How To Upgrade or Downgrade My MasterClass Plan?
To upgrade or downgrade your MasterClass plan, follow the steps below:
Open your account on the MasterClass page.
Click on your account profile in the top right corner of the page.
Go to your account settings.
Scroll down and find Change Plan under the Membership section.
Select the plan you wish to change to and click Continue.
Click on Confirm new plan to change your membership plan.
If you’re downgrading your plan, the change will be active after the annual renewal date.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Is MasterClass Free?
MasterClass isn’t free but offers a 30-day money-back guarantee if you feel unsatisfied with their service. Just make sure to cancel your subscription before 30 days.
Is MasterClass Worth It?
MasterClass is worth it for a philomath, curious mind, creative personality, introverted learner, and jack-of-all-trades wanna-be. The educational platform especially fits people who enjoy learning and studying.
Is MasterClass Legit?
MasterClass is legitimate. However, it doesn’t provide university-accredited courses.
Is MasterClass a Reliable Source?
Yes, the MasterClass instructors are the best of the best. What you learn from them, you can use in your daily lives.
How Much Does MasterClass Cost a Year?
MasterClass annual membership costs $180 for the Individual plan, $240 for the Duo plan, and $276 for the Family Plan.
Is MasterClass Worth the Money?
MasterClass proves its price with features like unlimited access to classes from renowned celebrity instructors. Still, it’s up to the individual’s interests and learning needs to decide whether MasterClass is worth the money.
How Many MasterClasses Are There?
MasterClass offers more than 180+ classes that are, on average, about 10 minutes per video lesson.
How Long Is a MasterClass?
One MasterClass course has around 20 video lessons, each class spanning about 10 minutes long. One whole topic can take about 2 to 5 hours.
Does MasterClass Offer Classes in Different Languages?
MasterClass currently has English, German, Spanish, French, and Japanese classes.
Does MasterClass Give Certificates After Each Class?
MasterClass doesn’t give certificates after each class because the courses aren’t university-accredited.
Does MasterClass Charge Taxes?
Yes, MasterClass charges taxes depending on the billing address you entered at the time of purchase. If tax applies to your chosen membership plan, you will get an invoice through your email with the tax stated separately.
What Payment Methods Can I Use to Pay for a MasterClass Membership?
MasterClass accepts Visa, Mastercard, American Express, JCB, Discover, and Apple Pay payments.
What Makes MasterClass Stand Out From Other Online Learning Platforms?
MasterClass stands out from other educational platforms because of its outstanding instructors. They also occasionally hold a MasterClass Live session for members to interact with their instructors.
How Do You Schedule Your Classes in MasterClass?
MasterClass is flexible with schedules, letting you decide when to take your classes. If you haven’t finished your video lesson, you can return anytime. It will take you to right where you left off.
Can I Share My MasterClass Account With Friends and Family?
Yes, MasterClass allows sharing of accounts for Duo and Family Plans. The Duo plan can accommodate up to two accounts, while the Family plan can handle up to six.
How Do I Link My MasterClass Account to Other Family Members?
You can log in to your account on other devices.
Are There Discounts and Promos for MasterClass Membership Plans?
Yes, MasterClass occasionally offers promotions and deals for new and existing customers.
Does MasterClass Offer One-On-One Coaching With Instructors?
No, MasterClass doesn’t offer one-on-one coaching sessions. However, the platform has a dedicated community forum where learners can ask each other questions.
How Often Does MasterClass Add New Courses?
MasterClass releases new classes monthly to provide various options to learners and keep up with what’s new.
How Do Students Receive Feedback From MasterClass?
MasterClass courses allow students to engage with other users through discussion forums found below every video lesson.
How Do You Cancel Your Subscription to MasterClass?
To cancel your MasterClass subscription, follow the steps below:
Log in to your account through the MasterClass website.
Once logged in, click on your profile in the top right corner of the page.
Tap on settings and click Cancel Membership under the Membership section.
Once done, your membership will expire by the next renewal date. Your subscription will remain active until then.
The Bottom Line
MasterClass is a great educational platform for those seeking new skills and knowledge.
If you’re an avid learner, I recommend this app. It can keep up with your expectations through its beautifully constructed classes and high-quality videos.
For beginners, the bite-sized lessons are excellent for learning and skills improvement. MasterClass lets you decide when to take your classes. You can move at your own pace, making it convenient for learners with jam-packed schedules.
However, MasterClass may not be a good option if you’re looking for a class to help you earn credit for a degree or a certificate.
Ultimately, the decision is up to you if MasterClass is the right learning platform to help you accomplish your goals.
If you want more courses, you can also check how much Skillshare costs to see if you can use both platforms.
