Side by side
ClassroomIO vs SWAD
Both stand on learning management systems. Which one you can start free with, which one lets you read the code, and what each costs once you pay.
Free plan APISelf-hostedWeb
ClassroomIO brings training delivery, compliance workflows, and AI course tools together, with self-hosting available. Check the student limits, video upload availability, and API limits against your intended plan.
Visit ClassroomIO Free plan AndroidAPIiPhone+2
SWAD covers teaching, assessment, communication, files, and institutional organization in one open-source platform. Its free educational offering supports hosted or self-hosted use, with enrollment controlled by teachers or administrators.
Visit SWADThe facts
| ClassroomIO | SWAD | |
|---|---|---|
| Free plan | Yes | Yes |
| Open source | Not published | Not published |
| Runs on | API, Self-hosted, Web | Android, API, iPhone, Self-hosted, Web |
| Lowest paid plan | Early Adopters: $35 a month | Free or on request |
| Plans published | 3 | 1 |
| Maker | Not published | Not published |
| Website | classroomio.com | swad.ugr.es |
| On learning management systems | #20 of 111 | #24 of 111 |
ClassroomIO: what it does well
- Supports recurring compliance renewals, deadlines, and reminders.
- AI drafts course content for user review.
- Offers custom themes, domains, and course embeds.
- Self-hosting includes the dashboard, API, AI assistant, and MCP server.
- 12 of its 15 question types are auto-graded.
What to know first
- Basic is limited to 20 students.
- Basic does not include video upload.
- Early Adopters API requests are limited.
SWAD: what it does well
- Free and open source
- Course workspaces and assessments
- Forums, messaging, and email
- Web, Android, and iOS access
- Self-hosting instructions provided
What to know first
- Enrollment requests need staff review
- Some main features are Android-only
- iOS app is described as planned
- Designed for educational institutions
Alternatives to ClassroomIO Alternatives to SWAD The whole list