Comparison of the best e-learning authoring tools

Look for an easy, intuitive authoring tool that requires no prior training, includes templates to help you create content, and offers a wide range of ready-to-use interactive elements.

Make sure the tool has a user-friendly editor that lets you see the final result as you build it (WYSIWYG), and that it includes AI features to save time and avoid frustration.

Finally, consider whether the tool covers your distribution needs. Some solutions allow you to deliver your courses through an integrated all-in-one platform, so you won’t have to worry about uploading your content to other systems.

In this case, you should avoid e-learning authoring tools that focus on technical profiles and look for the latest-generation software. Using older versions of authoring tools makes content creation more time consuming.
 
Luckily, there are tools with plenty of ready-to-use interactive resources and predesigned templates so that you can focus on your content instead of the technicalities.

If you don’t know how to take advantage of your current tool, the rest of the team doesn’t know how to use it, you don’t want to invest in training or if all your courses look alike; then the time has come to look for alternatives.
 
Look for an online course creation software that is intuitive and easy to use, and that both you and your coworkers feel comfortable using.
 
You can find free trials online to help you make an informed decision about the e-learning authoring tool that’s best for your company.

Implementing an LMS can be a long and expensive process. Luckily, some e-learning authoring tools provide a built-in distribution system, so you don’t have to worry about this step.
 
Keep in mind that not all tools offer equal solutions. Look for the one that helps you organize your audience efficiently, provides accurate tracking statistics, and allows you to create certificates.
 
You should also ensure you can view the courses and the distribution platform on mobile devices.

If you need an affordable authoring tool, look for one you can subscribe to monthly (not all of them offer this option). Remember that an easy-to-use tool will save time and improve your project’s profitability. Also, you should be able to access a free trial for as long as you need before making your decision.

If you already have an LMS (such as isEazy LMS, Moodle, Cornerstone, Blackboard, or SuccessFactors), you need an e-learning content creation tool that works with it. Check the compatibility of the tool with your LMS before taking the next step.
 
The ideal option is an authoring tool that covers a variety of distribution options to cover you in situations where your LMS cannot be used, for example when offering external training.

The success of your training depends on being able to connect with your students. Training through PDFs, PowerPoint presentations, or static courses will not engage or motivate your learners.
 
Instead, a good e-learning strategy should stimulate the curiosity of your audience. Look for a tool with fun and ready-to-use interactive resources, like exercises and games.

Whether you are a freelancer or work in an e-learning content factory, you need to adapt to your clients’ needs. For this reason, when choosing an authoring tool, consider how it will allow you to personalize your courses based on their corporate branding.
 
This should go beyond just the logo to offer complete customization of colors, fonts, images, slide layouts and beyond. New features such as SmartColors have also emerged that allow you to change the entire color palette of your project in a matter of seconds!

E-learning course creation is often delegated to members across the organization, even if they don’t belong to the training department. If this is the case for you, you should opt for a cloud-based tool that allows you to centralize and organize your projects without installation, especially if you have employees who work remotely. This will enable you to give and remove permissions to different collaborators quickly.
 
Your authoring tool must also offer the possibility to edit projects collaboratively and use corporate templates so that the contents are consistent.

If you need to create courses in multiple languages, you should pay special attention to features that can speed up the translation process.

At a minimum, look for an authoring tool that lets you export and import text in formats compatible with the tools translators use. In addition, some tools use AI to provide automatic translations and multilingual voiceovers, so you don’t have to worry about anything.

If you already have the content (procedures, manuals, presentations, or internal guides), look for a tool that lets you automatically turn documents or ideas into complete courses, with a solid instructional structure, interactive resources, and a consistent visual style—so the content is ready to review and publish without starting from scratch.
 
Also, make sure AI supports the tasks that consume the most time day to day: generating activities and assessments, creating images and visual assets, turning text into natural-sounding voiceovers, adding subtitles or translations, and even using presenters or avatars to explain content. This speeds up production and makes it easier to keep courses up to date without relying on third parties.
 
Finally, if you plan to scale content creation, prioritize AI that doesn’t work like a “black box”: it should let you review, edit, and fine-tune every step, and keep consistency in tone, style, and branding—so you can publish faster without sacrificing quality.

The features you will need depend on your training goals, but the best authoring tools are easy-to-use, include engaging interactive resources, and give users access to time saving functionalities like autosave and predesigned templates.

Some of the most well-known authoring tools on the market include isEazy Author, Easygenerator, and iSpring Suite. You can compare the compare isEazy Author and Easygenerator here, and isEazy Author and iSpring Suite here.

In the table above, you can find a list of the main features and functionalities of 6 leading authoring tools to help you decide on the one that best suits your needs.

Opt for an authoring tool with an intuitive, easy-to-use interface that doesn’t require previous training. This ensures a low learning curve and means that your entire team will be able to get involved in the training process.

Yes! Many tools on the market offer a free trial to allow you to experiment with their tools and features before making your decision. Keep an eye out for unlimited free trials that give you the time and space to test the best authoring tools without restrictions.