Side by side
LON-CAPA vs Sakai
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.
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
Pick Sakai if you want an open-source platform with course, assessment and collaboration tools, and can manage its deployment or use the sample account. Look elsewhere if you need current official community support for Sakai 22; the project encourages older-version users to upgrade for current security patches.
Visit SakaiThe facts
| LON-CAPA | Sakai | |
|---|---|---|
| Free plan | Yes | Yes |
| Open source | Not published | Not published |
| Runs on | Linux, Self-hosted, Web | API, Linux, Mac, Self-hosted, Web, Windows |
| Lowest paid plan | Free or on request | Free or on request |
| Plans published | 2 | 2 |
| Maker | LON-CAPA | Not published |
| Website | lon-capa.org | sakailms.org |
| On learning management systems | #8 of 111 | #12 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.
Sakai: what it does well
- Supports course lessons, modules and conditional material release.
- Includes grading, tests, assignments and rubric-based scoring.
- Provides synchronous and asynchronous communication tools.
- Implements IMS LTI and offers an API.
- Free self-hosted download and sample account are listed.
What to know first
- The self-hosted plan requires users to configure and host it.
- The Java application is typically deployed with Apache Tomcat.
- Official community support for Sakai 22 ceased with the Sakai 25 series.
Alternatives to LON-CAPA Alternatives to Sakai The whole list