Side by side
LON-CAPA vs Open edX
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 LinuxSelf-hostedWeb
Choose LON-CAPA if you need a free, self-hosted system combining course tools, assessments, and reusable content. It is suited to organizations able to maintain the required Linux server and cluster security; commercial hosting and support are available for those seeking hosted assistance.
Visit LON-CAPA
Free plan AndroidAPIiPhone+2
Open edX brings course creation, learning management, analytics, and integrations into one open-source platform. Its no-license-fee software still requires an organization to plan for hosting and ongoing operations.
Visit Open edXThe facts
| LON-CAPA | Open edX | |
|---|---|---|
| Free plan | Yes | Yes |
| Open source | Not published | Not published |
| Runs on | Linux, Self-hosted, Web | Android, API, iPhone, Self-hosted, Web |
| Lowest paid plan | Free or on request | Free or on request |
| Plans published | 2 | 1 |
| Maker | LON-CAPA | Open edX |
| Website | lon-capa.org | openedx.org |
| On learning management systems | #8 of 111 | #4 of 111 |
LON-CAPA: what it does well
- Course tools include a grade book, discussions, announcements, and lab scheduling.
- Assessment features cover homework, clickers, tests, and exams.
- Online content can be reused across courses and semesters.
- Supports several campus authentication and system integration options.
- Free self-hosted plan costs nothing.
What to know first
- Self-hosting requires a dedicated Linux server and ongoing maintenance.
- The server needs a static IP, working reverse DNS, and ports 80 and 5663 open.
- Some imports from more sophisticated homework systems may need custom conversion and manual cleanup.
Open edX: what it does well
- No software license fees
- Studio supports course reuse and remixing
- Analytics covers progress, assessments, forums, and video
- Supports LTI 1.3 and XBlocks
- Lists mobile apps, API access, and certificates
What to know first
- Organizations arrange hosting and infrastructure
- Maintenance, support, and customization are the operator’s responsibility
- The project does not offer bug bounties
Alternatives to LON-CAPA Alternatives to Open edX The whole list