Storyline vs. Captivate: Which Is Better?

I get asked this question all the time. A more helpful question, though, is “Which one is right for YOU?” Both are great tools that let you create engaging, interactive courses, and they are way more similar than different. But there definitely are differences, and it’s up to you to determine which of those differences you care most about.

I recently presented a webinar on this topic for Training Magazine Network. Go check out the recording if this is a decision you are currently making. Access to the recording requires a Training Magazine Network membership, which is free.

In the meantime, here’s a quick summary of the key differentiators covered in the webinar.

 

Storyline Captivate Comparison

Diane Elkins
Diane Elkins is the co-owner of E-Learning Uncovered, as well as Artisan E-Learning, a custom eLearning development company specializing in the use of Storyline, Captivate, and Lectora. Diane has been in the eLearning industry since 2001, speaks regularly at national conferences about eLearning, and is co-author of the popular E-Learning Uncovered book series.

10 Responses to “Storyline vs. Captivate: Which Is Better?

  • Rubina Halwani
    6 years ago

    Please rename the title of your article to, “Which LMS is better for you.” Then share training use examples. Otherwise, it’s pie in the sky.

    • These are technically eLearning authoring tools that with an objective for them to be places on an actual LMS platform.

  • Cris Rotor
    6 years ago

    The annual subscription to Articulate Storyline 360 has since increased from $999 to USD1299.

  • Ignacio
    6 years ago

    I did not understand the comparison table.

    • Diane Elkins
      6 years ago

      I’m sorry to hear that. If you have any specific questions, I’m happy to try to answer them.

  • Thanks Diane! This is pretty comprehensive except, having used both for 8+ years, I think the learning curve is higher in Cap. Also, the “layers” and “trigger” architecture in SL can be really tedious if you are employing alot. I would also say the SL community is more accessable by a wide margin, which is nice. My $.02.

  • Hi Diane, I watched the webinar. Great overview. I’m wondering about player optimization for web viewing. I’m so bummed about how long it takes Cap to files to upload for users accessing through LMS. I know I can be more careful about optimizing the different files I bring in and my server. But I’m wondering how Storyline might be different – more about streaming as we go rather than loading all beforehand. Thoughts? I can’t find information on this subject.

  • Great Comparison! Thanks

  • Diane C
    4 years ago

    Adobe Captivate has many new features added in its 2019 release for course authoring, Has VR, 360 degree, immersive learning capabilities and more options for making responsive content. Simulation, demos, video based and responsive capabilities, branching workflow, drag and drop interactions, overlay slides chromakey effect and other capabilities added in its update.

  • Captivate has 360-Degree learning capabilities enabled., which is useful for immersive learning.. 360-Degree video helps learners get a feel of the real world scenarios. Captivate has a rich library of assets which include various virtual reality videos and functionalities to increase interactivity during the course of e-learning. Articulate Storyline does not have 360 Degree Video capabilities.

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