Choosing the right platform for managing and selling online courses can significantly impact your business’s growth, user experience, and long-term scalability. In this comparison, we break down the key differences between Go High Level (GHL) and WordPress LMS plugins like LearnDash, Tutor LMS, and LifterLMS. Whether you’re focused on automation and CRM or prioritizing customization and e-commerce flexibility, this guide will help you determine which solution best aligns with your goals.
1. Course Management & Features
- Go High Level – GHL has an integrated course builder within its CRM, meaning you can manage marketing, automation, and student engagement all in one place. It’s great for businesses that need a turnkey solution with email marketing, funnels, automation, and SMS built in. However, customization options for courses are limited compared to WP LMS plugins.
- WordPress LMS Plugin (e.g., LearnDash, Tutor LMS, LifterLMS) – If you want full control over course layout, custom branding, and advanced quiz options, a WP plugin wins. Plus, WP gives more flexibility to integrate with third-party tools, WooCommerce, and membership platforms.
- Go High Level supports PayPal for course payments in addition to Stripe, offering more flexibility for buyers.
2. CRM & Automation
- Go High Level – If you need an all-in-one CRM, email/SMS automation, and sales funnel builder, GHL is hard to beat. It’s built for coaches, agencies, and consultants who rely heavily on marketing automation.
- WordPress LMS + CRM (e.g., FluentCRM, WP Fusion, HubSpot) – You can integrate WP with a CRM (e.g., FluentCRM, WP Fusion, or HubSpot), but it requires multiple plugins to match GHL’s native automation.
3. Payment & Monetization
- Go High Level – GHL integrates with Stripe for payments, but it lacks deep WooCommerce integration. If you sell multiple products beyond courses, WP/WooCommerce is way better.
- WordPress LMS Plugin – With WooCommerce, Stripe, and PayPal, you get full control over pricing models, subscriptions, and upsells. WP is a better choice for flexible payment structures.
4. Website & Branding
- Go High Level – If you don’t like GHL’s page builder, that’s a big downside. While you can embed GHL courses on a WordPress site, it’s still somewhat restrictive.
- WordPress LMS Plugin – 100% customizable design, layouts, and student portals. You can build a unique experience.
5. Scalability & Long-Term Costs
- Go High Level – Monthly costs can add up quickly ($97–$497/month depending on the plan). It’s an all-in-one solution, so for some businesses, it’s worth it.
- WordPress LMS Plugin – No monthly fees beyond hosting and plugin costs. More cost-effective in the long run if you plan to scale.
So, What’s Best for You?
- If automation, CRM, email marketing, and a hands-off system are your top priorities → Go High Level.
- If you want full control, advanced course customization, and WooCommerce integration → WordPress LMS plugin.
- If you’re leaning toward GHL but hate their page builder, you can still keep your WP site and embed GHL course content.
I’d say if your main focus is building an online course business, WP LMS is stronger. If you need an all-in-one business automation system, GHL could work better.
By JAGMedia Developer, Web Developer at BerezaWP. Originally written for BerezaWP. Reposted here with permission.
