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Best 12 IXL Alternatives & Competitors in 2025

There are hundreds of handy alternatives to IXL. So, how do you outline the best one for yourself from all this variety? In this article, I will analyze the top programs similar to IXL based on my tutoring experience and help you make a well-informed decision.

Key Points

• IXL is an online learning platform for students aged 3 to 18, which offers self-paced, personalized classes across various subjects.
• Some students and parents aren’t satisfied with the learning venue and decide to look for IXL learning alternatives with higher-quality educational content. 
• Brighterly reading and math tutoring platform is a common choice among learners, as it offers personalized programs that fully align with the US Common Core.

What are the reasons for considering IXL alternatives?

IXL is designed to help students practice and master skills in core subjects during self-paced classes. However, some parents decide to switch to IXL competitors. 

Before I move to the key reasons guiding their decisions, here are a couple of things parents like about IXL:

▶️ Adaptive learning: The platform adapts to each student’s level and needs. 

▶️ Multi-subject coverage: IXL offers a broad range of subjects, making it a versatile tool for learners. 

▶️ In-depth progress tracking: IXL provides insights on each skill, performance tracking, and improvement areas.

However, the downsides of IXL outweigh the benefits for some students. For example, IXL doesn’t provide live classes or feedback, so learners need to supplement it with other materials or instruction. Moreover, some children may find the content boring, as the tasks repeat themselves after a specific time. But that’s not all — keep reading to discover why parents choose to compare IXL vs other apps.

Reasons to choose IXL alternatives

Some families have had a wonderful experience with the IXL tutoring platform. But, according to my research, most reviews seem to highlight frustration with its repetitive exercises, lack of engagement, and the pressure caused by its scoring system. 

• Platform usability
• Insecure payments
• Confusing grading system

Platform usability

The majority of unsatisfactory IXL reviews center on platform usability and app malfunction. Some people have found it too complicated for regular, non-tech-savvy parents. By contrast, IXL math learning alternatives usually offer more user-friendly apps and platforms, perfect for any level of tech skills. 

Insecure payments

Another reason to avoid IXL is the threat of insecure payments. Parents have reported multiple charges, indicating that the platform does not prioritize payment security. Thus, some users have faced payment vulnerabilities, unclear billing processes, or unexpected charges, making IXL learning competitors look more attractive. 

Confusing grading system

IXL’s confusing grading system has been a point of frustration for some. The platform uses a “SmartScore” system, which adjusts based on correct and incorrect answers in IXL practice tests and overall progress. However, it can sometimes fail to grade students accurately, leading to demotivation and confusion. 

So, the flows are clear. Now, if you don’t want to google ‘IXL alternatives & competitors Reddit’, keep on reading to discover the 12 best alternatives to IXL right in this guide!

What are the best IXL alternatives?

• Brighterly 
• Prodigy
• Kumon  
• Carnegie Learning
• Time4learning 
• Miacademy 
• DreamBox 
• Khan Academy 
• Beestar 
• Math Playground
• Delta Math
• Pearson

	Features	Price	Trustpilot Score
Brighterly	– 1:1 tutoring – Customized program according to requirements – Lots of free resources	Starting from $17.3/ lesson	4.5
Prodigy	– Interactivity-based platform – Handy dashboard for parents – Focus on independent learning	From $4.91/month	4.4
Kumon	– Learning based primarily on worksheets – Focuses on self-organization – Primarily for middle to high schoolers	Estimated individually	4.1
Carnegie Learning	– This app, similar to IXL, strongly relies on AI for lesson creation – Personalized plans – Fitting for tech-savvy folks	Estimated individually	3.2
Time4Learning	– Students can progress in their speed  – Handy parent dashboard – Fitted for varying needs	From $29.95/month	4.0
Miacademy	– Creative tasks	From $28/month	N/A
DreamBox	– Adaptive curricula – Functional student dashboard – Strong motivational system	Monthly subscription for $19.95	2.6
Khan Academy	– A wealth of videos, articles, and practical tasks – A huge variety of subjects  – Great supplementary resource	Totally free!	3.4
Beestar	– Curricula structured on a weekly basis – Detailed reports for parents – Adaptive evaluation	Fees vary depending on the course you choose, but start from $20/term	3.7
Math Playground	– A massive collection of games – Focus on developing logic and problem-solving – Most resources are available for free	Mostly free!	3.4
Delta Math	– Random math problems with immediate feedback – In-depth progress tracking – Interactive images	From $9.99/month	N/A

IXL alternative #1: Brighterly reading & math tutoring platform

Brighterly is an online reading and math tutoring platform designed for grades 1 to 9. It’s known for its highly personalized and interactive approach, which makes it a notable standout for anyone wondering what is better than IXL. Besides, Brighterly shows an unhinged 4.5-star rating on Trustpilot, making it one of the leading tutoring services these days. 

Continue reading to discover why I put Brighterly at the top of this list with websites like IXL. 

Brighterly math tutoring platform features

• Expert-driven tutors
• Brighterly math worksheets and additional resources 
• Adaptive STEM-focused curriculum aligned with the Common Core 

Expert-driven tutors

Brighterly tutors provide one-on-one, interactive online lessons while delivering personalized programs. To ensure that every tutor meets their highest standards, this platform conducts rigorous background checks. It’s needed to verify that all staff members hold a Bachelor’s or Master’s degree in their field and have 5 to 15 years of experience in tutoring.

To amplify their impact, Brighterly tutors create a math and reading program with a focus on interactivity and gamification. This approach allows for making sessions engaging and effective, especially for elementary students.

Brighterly worksheets and additional resources

Brighterly offers reading worksheets for kids and math worksheets available free of charge to everybody. The best part is that you can enjoy them, even without subscribing to Brighterly tutoring.

I also recommend trying their math and reading practice tests. These resources enable you to assess how well your child is performing in relation to the school program. Knowledge is estimated based on the grade in which they study, allowing you to conduct complete diagnostics in minutes.

Adaptive curriculum aligned with the Common Core 

Brighterly reading and math program covers grades 1-9 and features introductory, fundamental, and advanced concepts that are fully personalized according to students’ individual characteristics, goals, studies, and parents’ requirements.

Besides, the platform’s best learning experts have developed the program to align with Common Core standards perfectly. It means that your child will accurately cover the topics they study at school.

Finally, here’s one more strong point concerning the flow of Brighterly lessons. All of them are game-based and interactive, which allows kids to build foundational skills, critical thinking, and problem-solving abilities.

How much is Brighterly? Pricing

Brighterly offers a flexible subscription model allowing families to choose options based on their child’s needs. Thus, the Brighterly cost per hour starts at $17.3, which is quite affordable compared to competitors. However, please note that this fee applies only if you book a plan with 3 lessons per week. Otherwise, please contact their customer service for information.

How does Brighterly compare to IXL?

Brighterly and IXL are both educational services, yet they differ drastically in their approaches. 

• IXL is an excellent tool for self-paced learning, repetition, and sharpening skills. It’s a solid platform for students who enjoy handling problems at their own pace. 
• However, Brighterly may be a good alternative to IXL for those who prefer to study with a trusted teacher to support their learning. Unlike IXL’s automated approach, Brighterly focuses on building a strong student-teacher connection, which leads students to achieve excellence.

To summarize, IXL is great for drill exercises, while an IXL alternative, Brighterly, goes further to offer you structured, personalized lessons. If you’re tired of googling things like ‘What program is better than IXL?’ or ‘What is equivalent to IXL?’, Brighterly’s got your back.

Brighterly: advantages and disadvantages

✅ Personalized one-on-one real-time sessions.
✅ Tutors have at least 5 years of experience in teaching kids.
✅ Learners get a trial session to see if Brighterly is a good fit for them.
❌ Brighterly is a paid service, unlike some other free IXL alternatives.

IXL Alternative #2: Prodigy 

Prodigy ranks among other standout websites similar to IXL, as it encourages learning through fun game sequences. The key emphasis here is on interactive learning, which is why the platform appears particularly appealing to elementary and middle school students. 

Best for: Self-paced learners of math and English.

Prodigy is similar to other programs like IXL, which aim to replace the IXL exercise drills with an immersive gamified environment. And, I must say, the approach works perfectly for keeping kids entertained.

Who is it for?

Grades: K-8 students looking for interactive, gamified learning experiences. 

Prodigy top features 

• Interactive and engaging math challenges set in a fantasy game world.
• Ideal for self-motivated kids building their own schedules. 
• Teachers & parents dashboard.

Prodigy pricing

Prodigy is one of those IXL learning competitors that offer both free and paid plans, making it accessible to a wide range of families. 

• The free plan offers you basic access with limited features.
• Premium membership starts at $9.95/month for a single subject and includes extended features. Note that with an annual subscription, you can considerably reduce your prices.

Prodigy: pros and cons

✅ Fun, game-based learning environment.
✅ Students can manage their own learning.
✅ Real-time progress tracking for parents and teachers.
❌ Some premium features are locked behind a paywall.
❌ No live interaction.

IXL Alternative #3: Kumon

Kumon is an after-school, all-level math and reading tutoring program that follows the authoritative method. This unique approach focuses on mastering skills through drills. Kumon lessons are based entirely on worksheets, meaning learners must practice a specific skill extensively until they master it.

Best for: Kids who prioritize independent work.

If you’re looking for sites like IXL, Kumon is one of them, offering the development of not only math but also reading skills. The two are also similar in their focus on repetition, so if you prioritize this approach, Kumon is a definite must-try.

Who is it for?

Grades: K-12 students, but middle to high school learners will benefit most.

Kumon top features

• Tutoring here uses the authoritative Kumon method.
• Offers worksheet-based learning.
• Allows students to advance at their own speed with consistent repetition.

Kumon pricing

Kumon operates on a subscription-based model, with prices varying across locations. That’s because each offline Kumon center is individually owned and operated (franchise system). Please address them directly for a price estimate. However, note that in any case, you’ll also have to pay an extra registration fee and the fee for books (which will also vary by location).

Kumon: pros and cons

✅ Structured, step-by-step curriculum
✅ Fosters social skills development.
✅ Proven math learning method.
❌ Program is repetitive and not stimulating.
❌ Price depends on location.

IXL alternative #4: Carnegie Learning 

Carnegie Learning is a K-12 education solutions provider that combines AI-driven software with personalized math tutoring, creating a robust combo for learning in mid-2020.

Best for: Personalized, AI-driven instruction

If you’re wondering what is better than IXL, Carnegie Learning can be your choice, as it combines AI-driven personalization with human tutoring, rather than relying on skill practice and repetition. 

Who is it for?

Grades: K-12 students seeking a mix of tech-driven and instructor-led learning.

Carnegie Learning top features

• Blended learning model (AI + live tutoring).
• High-level personalization.
• Focus on conceptual understanding. 

Carnegie Learning pricing

Carnegie Learning operates on a subscription-based model, with pricing varying by location. Just like with Kumon, each of its centers is individually owned and operated (local franchise system) — so expect custom pricing. 

Also note that while IXL offers a subscription-based model and charges per subject, Carnegie Learning centers operate on a fixed monthly fee. 

Carnegie Learning: pros and cons

✅ Blending AI software + live tutoring.
✅ Fosters logical thinking.
✅ Personalized learning.
❌ Geared toward middle and high school.
❌ Designed for institutional use. 

IXL Alternative #5: Time4Learning

Unlike other apps like IXL, Time4Learning is specifically designed for homeschooling. It’s an award-winning online platform that allows you to customize your schedule as needed and fosters love for the subjects you study.

Best for: Self-paced homeschool learners.

If you’re wondering, ‘Who competes with IXL?’ and looking for a homeschooling program, Time4Learning is an optimal choice for you.

Who is it for?

Grades: Pre-K-12 homeschooled students.

Time4Learning top features

• Full-fledged curriculum.
• Kids can progress at their own speed.
• Interactive learning. 

Time4Learning pricing

Time4Learning offers straightforward pricing plans:

• PreK-5th Grade: $29.95/month per student.
• Grades 6-12: $39.95/month per student, with access to 7 courses.

Time4Learning: pros and cons

✅ Full curriculum across multiple subjects.
✅ Affordable pricing.
✅ Flexible learning.
❌ No tutor support.
❌ Less focus on advanced concepts. 

IXL Alternative #6: Miacademy

Miacademy is a notable alternative to IXL, which focuses predominantly on homeschooling. It aims to provide interactive, customizable learning with a broad curriculum.

Best for: Interactive experiences.

 

The main opposition between the two learning venues is obvious: Miacademy focuses on creative and engaging tools to teach kids, while IXL focuses on exercise drills. 

Who is it for?

Grades: Elementary and middle schoolers. 

Miacademy top features

• Customized, adaptive curriculum.
• Creative hands-on experiences. 
• Real-world skill application. 

Miacademy pricing

Miacademy website offers simple subscription plans:

• A monthly subscription goes for $42/month per student.
• A yearly subscription costs $330 for the entire period.
• A family plan is available for a one-time payment of $2,440 and allows up to four students.

Miacademy: pros and cons

✅ Creative curriculum.
✅ Affordable pricing.
✅ Customizable program.
❌ Targeted at younger students.
❌ No targeted skill building. 

IXL Alternative #7: Dreambox

Dreambox is a gamified, adaptive math learning platform that utilizes computer science and AI solutions. 

Best for: K-8 students seeking interactive, gamified learning experiences.

Dreambox is a great resource for adaptive schedules if you’re seeking websites like IXL. Additionally, it encourages kids to learn through a well-developed motivational system. Therefore, your child will be kept in for a longer period.

Dreambox top features

• Interactive and engaging math and reading lessons.
• AI-driven personalization.
• Focuses on concept mastery. 

Dreambox pricing

Dreambox’s pricing page provides the following data:

• 1-month subscription for $19.99
• 6-month subscription for $99.95
• 12-month subscription for $149.95
• Lifetime subscription for $229

Dreambox: pros and cons

✅ Adaptive, personalized learning.
✅ AI-driven curriculum.
✅ String focus on math skills mastery.
❌ Limited analytics.
❌ Primarily for younger students.

IXL Alternative #8: Khan Academy

The best thing about the Khan Academy is that it’s a completely free library of self-paced learning courses and resources for various subjects. So, yes, if you’re looking for websites like IXL but free, I strongly recommend this option.

Best for: Self-motivated learners who want to study a range of subjects. 

Anyone wondering which to choose: IXL or Khan Academy, you should know the clear difference:

• IXL is all about learning and memorizing information through games, with a price tag attached.
• Khan Academy is about receiving theoretical resources with examples and sometimes practice on the topic. But it’s a free resource, so you don’t have to choose here.

So, is Khan Academy better than IXL? It obviously depends on your learning objectives.

Who is it for?

Grades: Pre-K — 12th Grade. 

Khan Academy top features 

• This free IXL alternative offers interactive exercises and quizzes.
• Progress tracking.
• It’s completely free. 

Khan Academy pricing

Khan Academy is completely free for the public and funded by donations and partnerships. You may ask yourself, ‘Is there a way to get IXL for free?’ Unfortunately, no, unless you’re using a one-time trial version. However, Khan Academy can fit in that gap.

Khan Academy: pros and cons

✅ Khan Academy is free.
✅ Covers core academic subjects and test prep.
✅ Students can manage their learning.
❌ Does not provide live sessions or support.
❌ Does not provide artistic subjects like writing, etc.  

IXL Alternative #9: Beestar

Beestar is a web-based platform that offers exercises on a variety of subjects, including reading, math, computer science, social studies, and more. It’s advertised as a premium after-school learning provider that breaks its tasks on a weekly basis and promises continuous results if handled according to recommendations.

Best for: Elementary and middle schoolers. 

 

Although good, note that this IXL alternative is a supplementary learning resource, not a website for homeschooling or fully-fledged help.

Who is it for?

Grades: K-12.

Beestar top features 

• Weekly math and reading exercises.
• Provides an award system. 
• Concentrates on core subjects. 

Beestar pricing

Is there a free version of IXL? Now we know that there isn’t any. However, Beestar is more versatile in this regard, offering both free and premium plans, the latter starting from $20/semester per subject.

Beestar: pros and cons

✅ Affordable pricing plans.
✅ Focus on core skills.
✅ Weekly math and reading exercises.
❌ No live sessions.
❌ Target audience: elementary and middle schoolers.

IXL Alternative #10: Math Playground

Math Playground offers a massive virtual storage of online math games and quizzes, perfect for students seeking to improve their problem-solving skills.

Best for: Enhancing math skills through online games.

The difference between the two learning venues is clearly defined: Math Playground focuses on creative and engaging math games, while IXL focuses on exercise drills. 

Who is it for?

Grades: Elementary and middle schoolers who want to focus on gaming. 

Math Playground’s top features

• Engaging math games.
• All games are developed with the focus on logic and problem-solving skills.
• Most resources are free.

Math Playground pricing

Multiple games are available at Math Playground for free. Nevertheless, for full access, you still have to pay the following fees:

• $3.5/month with an annual family plan
• $4.0/month with an annual family plan fitted for homeschooling
• $7.0/month with a monthly plan

Math Playground: pros and cons

✅ Affordable pricing plans.
✅ Massive library of math games.
❌ They don’t provide tutoring support.
❌ Best for elementary and middle schoolers.

IXL alternative #11: Delta Math

Delta Math is specifically designed for high school students in grades 6 to 12. It contains a set of pre-defined problem tasks, upon solving which kids get immediate evaluation and feedback.

Best for: Extra independent practice in math.

I’d advise Delta Math because of its approach: all tasks are located randomly, so you can check a number of topics at the same time and get instant feedback on which ones to keep improving.

Who is it for?

Grades: 6-12.

Delta Math’s top features

• Extensive tasks for practicing.
• Math-only platform.
• Real-time tracking of your progress.

Delta Math pricing

Just like most other alternatives to IXL, Delta Math comes at a cost. But its prices won’t get over the top:

• $9.95 billed monthly with a monthly plan
• $95.00 billed on a yearly basis with a yearly plan

Delta Math: pros and cons

✅ Self-paced learning with a set of mixed math problems.

✅ Strong feedback system.

❌ No support from a tutor.

❌ Math-focused.

IXL alternative #12: Pearson 

Pearson offers guided learning assistance on a range of subjects. The platform relies on interactivity and will suit predominantly high graders looking for in-depth exam preparation programs.

Best for: Receiving tutor-guided in-depth instructions 

I’d say that IXL and Pearson differ considerably. IXL is a supplementary resource designed for extra practice. By contrast, Pearson will guide you through learning completely, which is, indeed, a better option if you’re seeking academic excellence in an exact subject.

Who is it for?

Grades: K-12.

Pearson’s top features

• Live tutoring available 24/7.
• Writing centers that will help analyze written student works.
• Huge selection of subjects.

Pearson pricing

The strength of Pearson is that it offers a vast array of services. However, when it comes to pricing, you can never know beforehand how much you have to pay. So, address their customer service for individual assessment.

Pearson: pros and cons

✅ Individual lessons + other services you can use for learning at home.

✅ Commitment to the most innovative tools, like AI.

❌ Usually high cost.

❌ Poor customer service.

What’s Next: Help your child achieve confidence with the Brighterly tutoring platform

Obviously, there can be many reasons behind your decision to search for an IXL alternative. Take the site’s overly gamified format, poor coverage of middle to high graders, and sometimes hefty price tags for those asking, “How much does IXL cost?”

But even when you switch to alternatives, your search can turn into a real quest. Although all of the aforementioned tutoring platforms can help improve your child’s skills, it doesn’t mean you can go with any option we listed. 

For instance, Khan Academy and Time4Learning offer comprehensive programs in core subjects, which can be helpful for homeschooling. Math Playground makes studying fun and engaging, and Dreambox and Carnegie Learning utilize AI to personalize the curriculum.

But if you’re looking for a platform that:

• Offers STEM-focused Common Core-aligned curriculum 
• Has expert-driven tutors with at least 5 years of experience
• Provides you with free self-study resources
• Has transparent pricing with no hidden costs

Then, good news: Brighterly has  it  all!  And  besides,  here,  you  can book free reading lesson   or a convenient math demo and test all the things yourself. So… what’s stopping you?

For anyone who wants to keep searching…

For anyone who is looking for other variants, please check out some of our comparison articles below:

• Which One Is Better: IXL vs Khan Academy vs Brighterly? 
• IXL vs Kumon vs Brighterly: Which One Is Better for 2025?
• IXL vs Miacademy vs Brighterly: Pros, Cons & Best Pick (2025)
• IXL Ratings and Reviews: Is It the Right Choice in 2025?