Skool vs. Circle Comparison - Which Community Platform is the best?

Intro

Skool and Circle are two of the most popular platforms for building online communities, each with its own massive user base.

If you're trying to pick between them, you’re not just choosing software - you’re deciding how you’ll run your community and interact with your audience. Each platform has strengths and weaknesses, so the best choice depends on how you want to structure your content, engage members, and scale.

For a detailed review of Skool, check out this Skool Review.

Branding

If branding is your priority, Circle wins with its customization options. It lets you control everything from colors to logos and even lets you connect your own domain. Circle seamlessly integrates into your brand’s ecosystem, creating a personalized space.

Skool, by contrast, focuses on simplicity. Its clean, minimalistic template gets the job done but offers little control over design. If you prioritize branding, Circle is the clear winner.

For more tips on branding and hosting your course or community, read Should You Host Your Online Course on a Domain or Subdomain?.

Hosting Live Calls

Circle excels with its built-in live call feature, allowing you to host sessions directly on the platform. This simplifies live coaching, Q&A sessions, and webinars, offering an integrated experience for your members.

Skool doesn’t have this feature. You’ll need to rely on tools like Zoom or Google Meet, which can add costs and steps for your members.

If live interaction is central to your community, Circle’s integrated calls give it an edge.

Gamification: Skool’s Standout Feature

Skool shines with its gamification elements, including leaderboards, badges, and points systems. These features drive engagement and create a sense of competition among members, encouraging participation.

Circle lacks built-in gamification, so engagement relies more on the creator’s efforts. For communities that thrive on interaction, Skool’s gamification tools are a game-changer.

Content & Video Hosting

When it comes to video hosting, Circle leads with flexible options. It allows you to embed videos from platforms like YouTube or Vimeo or use its native video hosting for an extra $5/month. This gives members a seamless content experience without leaving the platform.

Skool doesn’t offer native video hosting. You’ll need to embed videos from external services like Vimeo or Wistia, which can increase costs and create a less connected experience.

Pricing: Where Value Meets Budget

Circle offers tiered pricing, starting at $49/month for the Basic plan and up to $399/month for the Enterprise plan. This is ideal for creators who need advanced features or cater to larger audiences.

Skool, on the other hand, has a simple flat rate of $99/month. This includes unlimited members and access to all features, making it an attractive option for those who value predictable costs.

For creators focused on simplicity and scalability, Skool’s pricing structure offers great value.

Conclusion - Which Platform Should You Choose?

The choice between Skool and Circle depends on your community’s needs:

• If branding, live calls, and integrated video hosting matter most, Circle is the better choice.

• If simplicity, engagement through gamification, and predictable pricing are your priorities, Skool is a better fit.

Still unsure? Test both platforms with their 14-day free trials to see which works best for your style and community.

👉 Try Circle’s 14-day free trial here.

👉 Try Skool’s 14-day free trial here.

If you’re ready to build an online offer for your audience, including a paid community, check out our 5-Day Email Course. It walks you through every step of creating a successful offer your audience will love!