MasterClass Review: Is It Worth It?

MasterClass Summary

MasterClass stands out in the world of online learning with its celebrity-driven courses and cinematic production quality that hooks you right from the start. With an expansive library of over 200 classes spanning 13 categories—including everything from Food and Music to Business and Wellness—there’s something to spark everyone’s curiosity. Designed to cater to learners at all levels, each class features about 20 bite-sized lessons, around 10 minutes each. Recently, MasterClass added ‘Sessions’ to its lineup, offering a more structured learning format with new classes rolled out monthly. If you’re looking to learn in a laid-back yet visually captivating way, MasterClass could be your go-to. They offer three annual subscription plans, starting at $120 a year, and even include a 30-day money-back guarantee, making it a risk-free investment in your personal or professional growth.

Pros & Cons

How Much Does MasterClass Cost?

MasterClass offers three membership plans to fit different learning needs and budgets, all billed annually. Here’s a quick breakdown:

• Standard Plan: Priced at $120 per year, which breaks down to $10 per month. It’s a great starting point if you’re exploring MasterClass on your own.
• Plus Plan: At $180 annually, or $15 per month, this option lets you download classes for offline viewing—perfect if you’re often on the go.
• Premium Plan: For $240 a year ($20 per month), this plan supports multiple users or devices. It’s ideal for families or sharing with friends.

All plans give you access to over 200+ classes across 13 categories. Just click ‘SIGN UP’ in the top-right corner of the MasterClass website and pick the plan that suits you best—Standard, Plus, or Premium—for a whole year of learning. Unfortunately, there’s no free trial or sample classes to try before buying, which I also wish were different, but that’s how it is.

What Categories Does MasterClass Offer?

MasterClass offers 13 main categories, from Acting to Writing, covering a wide range of interests and skills. Each category has numerous subcategories, making it easy to find the exact class you’re looking for. With over 200+ classes taught by renowned instructors, you get valuable insights and skills that you can download and enjoy offline. It’s perfect for learning on your own schedule.

Within each main category are numerous subcategories, where you can get really specific about what you’re looking for. Its classes consist of 10 to 20 video lessons, each about 10 minutes long, with new classes and sessions added monthly. MasterClass also features original series, like “Mastering the Markets,” and the fun G.O.A.T. series on unique topics. With filters to narrow your search and a handy selector to recommend classes based on your interests, MasterClass makes it easy to find and enjoy the right content for you.

MasterClass At Work

Like most other online learning platforms, MasterClass doesn’t only offer its classes for individual learners, it has plans for teams and businesses or more commonly known as MasterClass At Work. You can invest in your team or business by contacting sales to choose the plan for your business.

You will fill in your company information, choosing the number of annual memberships (between 5-1000 seats), name of your company or organization, location and email address (see image below). The group rates discount (5-35%) when you purchase of 5+ annual memberships.

MasterClass claims to do the following for your organization and employees, like driving business outcomes (see image below). All I want to add here is it’s important to consider the type of organization you are part of and if you really feel it would benefit from the MasterClass catalogue. It may even be worth asking for a free demo to try it out.

In short, organizations choose MasterClass At Work;

How To Open A MasterClass Account?

MasterClass makes it very easy to open an account with them. I thought it would still be helpful for you to follow a step by step.

1. Visit MasterClass.com and enter your email address and click GET STARTED (see image above)
2. Then you will choose a membership plan
3. Next, you will then be directed to add your card information (see image below)
4. Finally, Click PLACE SECURE ORDER

That’s it, it’s that easy. You will now be up and running and ready to start browsing the classes at MasterClass and start enjoying this exciting and engaging platform.

MasterClass Customer Reviews

To provide a comprehensive review of MasterClass and figure out whether MasterClass is really worth it? I decided to explore two of the largest customer review platforms. This way we could get an overview of what MasterClass customers thought of the platform.

Of the 857 Trustpilot users, you can see in the table below the breakdown of the ratings between 1 and 5 star. With more than 50% giving the platform a 5-star rating. Surprisingly, 30% of those 857 users gave the platform only a 1-star rating. Over at Amazon, its users give MasterClass a 4.3 out of 5 stars taken from 7,849 customer reviews, which is a much bigger pool of customers. From close to 8,000 customer reviews, MasterClass has 71% of users giving it a 5-star rating and 8% a 1-star rating. You can see the full breakdown in the table below.

When I delved a bit deeper, I found many of those 1-star ratings complain about being billed annually for the subscription plan, when they believed it was on a monthly basis. “The plans say per month payment, and they take a whole year’s payment from your account” a one-star reviewer said. Other’s complained about the difficulty they had in cancelling their membership.

On the upside, many of the 5-star ratings praise the great selection of classes and customer experience. “I have been impressed by the range and quality of the classes and sessions available” a five-star reviewer said.

MasterClass Most Common Positive Customer Reviews

After delving further into customer reviews, I decided to make a study of my own, taking 200+ MasterClass online customer reviews to find out what exactly users were praising about the platform.

It’s clear to see that ‘Content Quality’ is what most users talk about, with 65% of the positive reviews mentioning it. Many discuss how ‘bingeworthy’ and engaging the video content is, alongside how engaging the instructors are. This is followed by ‘User Experience’ taking 25% of the positive reviews, followed by ‘Value for Money’ with 4% of the feedback. Many users comment of how easy and intuitive it is to navigate the MasterClass platform, whilst others express the variety of classes and categories available.

Other positive feedback includes ‘Course Variety’, ‘Customer Service’, Gift Experience, and ‘Learning Experience’.

MasterClass Most Common Negative Customer Reviews

With that same 200+ MasterClass customer reviews, I was curious to find out what were some of the top issues that users were complaining about.

It’s clear from the graph above that the most prominent issue is related to ‘Billing and Subscription’, with 45% of the complaints. When I read some of these negative reviews in more detail, I found many expressed frustration around the auto-renewal of the annual subscription plan, whilst others complained about the difficulty of cancelling the subscription.

‘Technical Issues’ are another significant area of complaint, consisting of 23% of the total. Customers have reported various technical issues, particularly when using the app and some platform functions. This was followed by ‘Course Quality’ with 18% of negative reviews, many complained about the educational value and the purpose of taking a class.

Additional complaints include course content, ‘Course Content’, ‘Account Security’ and ‘Customer Service Issues’.

My MasterClass Experience

The time has come for me to share with you my experience of taking a MasterClass myself. When it came to deciding on which class to take, I found it super helpful to use the filter system, watch the trailers and introductions of classes to get a feel of what the class would be like, before commiting.

I instantly gravitated towards the ‘Food’ category, as I am a bit of a novice in the kitchen, and I am always looking for new recipes and inspiration. I thought the MasterClass by Yotam Ottolenghi: Teaches Modern Middle Eastern Cooking would be a great place to start.

I liked instantly the layout of the MasterClass interface and how intuitive it felt to navigate around the class and its features. The experience is very user-friendly, not only on the desktop, but on the app too. After each video lesson, it instantly moves to the next class, with an option to skip a class if preferred. I found it helpful that I could rewatch video lessons as many times as I wanted, so not to miss anything.

Video Lessons

Its video lessons are listed on the right side, making it straightforward to follow and easy to find (see image below). You are free to pick and choose which video classes you watch in whatever order, but obviously the lessons do have a natural flow in the order given. For example, in this case, you have the Mezze Spread: Muhamara as video lesson 2 and Thoughts on Hosting as video lesson 15.

The video lessons are highly engaging and well produced, that it feels more like a Netflix cooking show. I enjoyed watching every lesson and left feeling very inspired. Something that is important to consider is that most of the celebrities and VIP instructors are very used to being in front of the camera and have had years of experience captivating and motivating their audience. When you leave a MasterClass you feel pretty pumped and ready for more.

My Notes

As you move through the video lessons, you can write notes on points you want to remember or words of wisdom that you don’t want to forget from the VIP instructors (in this case Yotam Ottonlenghi is full of them, but maybe I biased as I love his cooking). The note’s section is broken up into each lesson, so you can make notes about each specific lessons. It’s a nice feature to have and acts like a modern-day notebook. I’m not sure how much you would honestly use it, but having it doesn’t hurt.

Workbook

The downloadable workbook that comes with every MasterClass is available in a PDF format. In this case, it is a cookbook with all the recipes and ingredients shared throughout the MasterClass. I must add it is stunningly designed and put together and a wonderful takeaway resource to refresh your memory of the MasterClass.

Discuss with members

If you are looking to connect with other members of the MasterClass community, then this is the place to do so. At the bottom of each MasterClass video page is the option to JOIN THE DISCUSSION (see image above). The community is a place to ask questions, share thoughts and get feedback about the video lessons you have watched. A simple filter is in place where you can choose between the category, title of topic and what I consider the most useful filter LATEST and TOP (see image below) to follow all the discussion points. You can freely start your own New Topic.

On average, there are around 3-4 discussion topics a month with most classes. A member of the MasterClass Team seems to always be around to help or resolve users’ questions. In terms of members connecting with other members, there is some sense of community and conversation, but nothing extraordinary. There is some conversation about sharing recipes and asking where cooking equipment is from. But if you are expecting a reply from Yotam Ottolenghi himself, then that won’t be happening, instead you have to make do with the MasterClass team or your fellow members 🙂

To summarize

Taking a MasterClass is a fantastic experience with its highly engaging video lessons, beautiful videography, and the flexibility to watch lessons at your convenience. I personally enjoy using my laptop at home when watching classes like Yotam Ottolenghi’s, and my iPhone when I’m on the go. Plus, the downloadable workbooks and new classes added regularly keeps me engaged with the platform. However, if you’re looking for formal accreditation or certificates, MasterClass might not be the best fit. For those needs, consider alternatives like Coursera. Check out our MasterClass alternatives article to explore other online learning platforms.

MasterClass in Detail

The MasterClass App

As I mentioned before, the MasterClass App is an excellent way to enjoy a MasterClass whilst on the go. It’s available for both iOS and Android users who enjoy learning on their commute with the function of audio only and offline viewing mirroring a podcast style experience.

The MasterClass App

When I took the MasterClasses myself, I didn’t use the App for learning as I preferred to watch classes via my  laptop in a quiet space at home. But if you enjoy learning on the go or for a passive learning experience, the App is ideal.

Visit MasterClass here

MasterClass Conclusion

Overall, I’m pretty positive about MasterClass. Having top-notch instructors, including celebrities and VIPs, really grabs your attention, and their stories can be incredibly motivating. The video production quality is top-tier—some filmmakers might even envy it! Plus, the annual membership is reasonably priced for the wealth of classes you get.

When deciding if MasterClass is for you, consider that its membership plans are affordable, the high-quality videos will keep you engaged, new classes are regularly added, and there’s a 30-day money-back guarantee if you change your mind.

However, MasterClass does have its drawbacks. Don’t expect one-on-one feedback from your favorite celebrities or any interaction with other learners. The classes are inspiring but won’t directly aid in a career change or be recognized by employers, as there are no certificates. If you need an online learning platform with a stronger career focus, check out alternatives like Coursera or Skillshare.

Got questions? Drop a comment below, and I’ll be happy to help!

MasterClass Alternatives

Coursera

Accredited Certificates

4.8

Read review Visit Coursera

BBC Maestro

Celebrity Instructors

4.3

Read review Visit BBC Maestro

Mindvalley

Best for Personal Growth

4.6

Read review Visit Mindvalley

FAQs

How much does MasterClass cost?

MasterClasses offers 3 annual memberships starting with the Individual plan for $180 a year ($15/month) then there is the Duo for $240 a year ($20/month) and finally the Family subscription for $276 a year ($23/month). All MasterClass memberships give you unlimited access to its catalog of 150+ classes from 13 categories which you can watch from your computer, TV, phone or tablet.

Can you get MasterClass for free?

Sadly no, MasterClass doesn’t offer a free trial, but it does offer a 30-day money-back guarantee. If you do decide within the first month that MasterClass isn’t for you, you can submit a refund request here.

Is MasterClass Legit?

Totally, MasterClass is a legit company and it does what it says. They won’t scam you. However, as I said during this MasterClass review, its approach is a bit different and far from MOOC (Massive open online course) institutions such as edX, Udemy or Coursera.

If you are a big fan of one of the instructors, and you would like to hear her or his stories, and get a couple of tips on how they perform their craft, you’ll be happy with MasterClass. I do want to be honest and real here, if you are expecting to take a MasterClass to be ready for a new career, you’re going to be disappointed.

Let’s take the MasterClass by Chris Hadfield, former commander of the International Space Station, as an example. Once completing his 8 hour MasterClass you won’t be qualified as an astronaut, but what you will have is some knowledge on space travel and an insight into first-hand experience as life as an astronaut.

What Is Best MasterClass Vs Skillshare?

One of the main differences of Skillshare to MasterClass is that its classes are focused on creatives topics like Animation, Photography, Crafts and more. It offers 34K classes which you will have full access to after purchasing a subscription plan. It only offers one subscription for individuals at $167.88 annually, which is a slightly lower price tag than MasterClass. Another major difference is that anyone can teach at Skillshare and create a class themselves, whereas MasterClass has VIP and celebrity instructors teaching its classes, plus they are produced to the highest standard. If you want to read a more detailed review, please check out our MasterClass Vs Skillshare article.

What Is Best MasterClass Vs Mindvalley?

MasterClass and Mindvalley are two popular online learning platforms. In some ways, they are very similar and in other ways, very different, l will explain in more detail. Mindvalley is a personal growth and development platform that offers a wide range of categories from topics like mind, body, soul, entrepreneurship, career and relationships. Like MasterClass its online courses, Quests, as they are known on Mindvalley are taught by bestselling authors and celebrities and its ‘All Access’ membership is subscription-based. Similarly to MasterClass, Mindvalley offers a generous refund policy. Both platforms have their strengths, and it really depends on what you are looking for. If you’re looking to learn from the world’s top experts, then MasterClass may be a good fit. Or if you are looking to develop personally and connect with a community, then Mindvalley would be your best option.

What Is Best MasterClass Vs Coursera?

MasterClass and Coursera are two renowned online learning platforms, they have some similarities and many differences, I will start explaining the differences. Coursera is a platform that partners with top Universities, and Organizations like Duke and Google and offers a wide selection of courses and learning programs, from individual courses, to professional certificates and degree programs. Whereas MasterClass creates its classes themselves and are around 20 video lessons, each one is no more than 10 minutes long. The focus on Courseras courses and programs is to gain a certified qualification which can help you on your career path. Whereas MasterClasses classes focus on the joy of learning a new skill through engaging and well produced video content. The similarities between MasterClass and Coursera are the instructors and well-known teachers teaching its courses and classes, so you can be rest assured that they are experienced and know their craft. Finally, Coursera’s courses and programs are paid for individually with an option of a subscription with Coursera Plus (this doesn’t include degree programs), MasterClass has the same pricing approach with its annual subscription.

How to Find Your MasterClass Course?

Browse the categories

MasterClass makes it easy for you to browse its collection of great courses, its 200+ classes are organized into 13 categories, that include: Acting & performing Arts, Art & Design, Business & Entrepreneurship, Community & Government, Film & TV, Food & Drink, Games & Digital Media, Health & Wellness, Music, Outdoor Adventures & Events, Science & Technology, Sports & Athletics and Writing.

When you land on the homepage, you can pick any of the topics you are interested in, and MasterClass will show you all the classes in that category and will interest you. It’s a really nice filter and a quick way to find what you are looking for (see image below).

You will be able to watch a video preview for each MasterClass, that are around 2 minutes long. It will give you a taste of what to expect from the class and the instructor. I must say, its class preview are more like movie trailers than a course introduction and definitely will have you hooked.

Remember though that the purpose of the video preview is to get you hooked and wanting to by a MasterClass membership. So, really try to make a well-rounded decision if MasterClass is right for you.

MasterClass Live

This is the closet thing that MasterClass offers to free classes and trials, MasterClass Live. It’s a place where you watch MasterClasses instructors sharing their knowledge and giving you a feel of how they would be as an instructor. If you do miss the scheduled live recording, then you can always catch up in your own time on previous live recordings.

MasterClass Articles

MasterClass offers articles to read for free to all users. Its articles are written posts about MasterClasses related categories like Food, Design & Style, Business, Wellness and more. Some of the articles are written by MasterClasses VIP instructors like ‘How to Make Pureed & Mashed Potatoes With Thomas Keller’ and other articles are written by the Masterclasses staff like ‘Basketball 101: 8 Ways to Improve Your Basketball Skills’

All of the articles are related to one of the classes that MasterClass offers, which is a nice way to introduce a topic to a new user and  potential interest in joining a class.

Celebrity & VIP Instructors

MasterClass video lessons are taught by celebrities and VIPs. Many of its instructors are celebrities and world-renowned experts like Gordon Ramsey and Serena Williams.

If you want to learn from a well recognized expert, then MasterClass really has a highly attractive pool of instructors teaching its classes. If you are a big fan of one of its instructors, then it is definitely worth checking out a class or two.

New classes

Every month, MasterClass updates its catalogue of classes by adding new classes. This keeps its content fresh and new and means there is always something for its members to be excited about.

Read Reviews

One of the best ways of getting to know an online learning platform is by hearing from other learners. MasterClass offers some reviews on its homepage. I will add this isn’t the most extensive or class specific variety of reviews, but it does reassure new users to the platform that others have had a positive experience.

Refund your annual subscription

As it is hard to know before buying an annual MasterClass membership if it’s right for you. As there are no free class or trials or even many reviews from previous students. It’s hard to know whether it will be the online platform for you. So, thankfully there is a 30-day satisfaction guarantee. It means you can be rest assured that if it’s not the best option for you, you’ll always have 30-days to get a refund.

In my experience it was really easy and hassle-free, all I need to do was submit a request here, and I was contacted pretty instantly by support. Then I received the refund back in my account in 5 days. They do tell you that it can take between 5-10 Business days for the funds to be deposited back in your account.

What are MasterClass Sessions

MasterClass Sessions provide a hands-on learning experience where you can work on projects with top experts in just 30 days. Each session includes a structured curriculum, real-world projects, and feedback from teaching assistants. For example, Christina Aguilera’s session improves your singing and stage presence, while Joanne Chang’s session teaches award-winning baking techniques. Suitable for all skill levels, Sessions let you learn alongside a supportive community, and they’re included with your MasterClass subscription.

 

 

Will MasterClass help my career?

While MasterClass classes alone might not directly lead to a raise or a new position, they can definitely provide valuable insights and skills. You may pick up useful tips that boost your confidence and get inspired by expert stories, which can motivate you to advance in your career.