If you’ve been scrolling through YouTube or Instagram, chances are you’ve seen ads for MasterClass. With big names like Gordon Ramsay, Serena Williams, and Neil Gaiman teaching their craft, it’s hard not to be curious. But here’s the real question: is MasterClass worth it in 2025? Let’s break it down in plain English so you can decide if it’s the right choice for you.
What Is MasterClass? A Quick Look
MasterClass is an online learning platform that lets you take video-based courses taught by celebrities, experts, and world-renowned professionals. Instead of random instructors, you’re learning from people who’ve reached the very top of their industries. Imagine cooking lessons from Gordon Ramsay or filmmaking tips from James Cameron.
Each class is pre-recorded, split into bite-sized video lessons, and comes with a downloadable workbook. Unlike traditional online courses, there’s no live interaction, but the production quality is like watching a Netflix documentary.
It’s available on desktop, mobile, and even smart TVs, so you can learn on the go or binge-watch from your couch.
Is MasterClass Worth It for You?
This depends entirely on your goals and how you like to learn. MasterClass isn’t designed for technical, certification-driven learning. Instead, it focuses on inspiring you, sparking creativity, and showing you how the best in the world think and work.
If you’re curious, enjoy learning at your own pace, and want a front-row seat into the minds of world-class experts, then MasterClass can feel incredibly valuable. But if you’re looking for a step-by-step guide to start a career or earn a degree, this might not be it.
For many people, it’s less about gaining hard skills and more about getting motivated and broadening their perspective.
Who Should Try MasterClass?
MasterClass is perfect for:
- Creative minds – Writers, artists, musicians, and filmmakers will find endless inspiration.
- Lifelong learners – People who enjoy learning new things for personal growth.
- Busy professionals – The short lessons fit into tight schedules.
- Fans of the instructors – If you admire a celebrity teacher, their course feels like a backstage pass.
Who Might Skip It?
- People seeking certifications for jobs.
- Those who want hands-on assignments or instructor feedback.
- Anyone who prefers text-heavy or technical training.
Key Things to Think About
- Do you enjoy video learning?
- Are you okay with courses being more inspirational than instructional?
- Will you use it enough to justify the cost?
- Are you interested in exploring multiple topics like cooking, writing, and business?
What Do You Get With MasterClass?
A subscription gives you access to every single course on the platform. That’s 180+ classes and over 2,500 video lessons. Topics include:
- Cooking
- Photography
- Writing
- Music
- Business
- Wellness
- Sports & Gaming
You also get downloadable workbooks, audio-only lessons for on-the-go learning, and a new feature called Sessions, where you can follow along with structured assignments.
How Much Does MasterClass Cost in 2025?
In 2025, MasterClass offers three plans:
- Individual (Standard) – $120/year (one device at a time)
- Duo (Plus) – $180/year (two devices simultaneously)
- Family (Premium) – $240/year (six devices at once)
This means you’re paying $10–$20 per month, depending on your plan. All plans are billed annually—there’s no monthly option.
Is It Cheap or Expensive?
This is subjective. Compared to platforms like Coursera or Udemy, MasterClass looks pricier because you must pay yearly. But when you break it down, it’s about the same price as Netflix.
For example: If you take 10 courses in a year, that’s $12 per class—way cheaper than attending workshops or seminars. Plus, you get unlimited access to all courses, not just one.
For someone binge-watching classes across different fields, it’s excellent value. But if you only want one specific class, it might feel expensive.
Are There Any Hidden Fees?
Nope. Once you pay for your annual subscription, you get access to everything. No upsells, no extra charges for premium courses, and no sneaky fees.
But be aware: MasterClass automatically renews your subscription unless you cancel before your renewal date.
Pros and Cons of MasterClass
Pros You’ll Love
✅ Learn from top-tier professionals and celebrities.
✅ High-quality video production—feels cinematic.
✅ Covers diverse topics from cooking to science to leadership.
✅ All-access membership gives you freedom to explore.
✅ Flexible—learn anytime, anywhere.
Cons to Watch Out For
❌ No certifications or diplomas.
❌ Lessons are more inspirational than step-by-step.
❌ Annual billing only (no monthly option).
❌ No live interaction or Q&A with instructors.
Is MasterClass Good for Learning New Skills?
If you’re expecting technical mastery, no. But if you want to gain insights, fresh perspectives, and practical tips from people at the top of their game, yes. It’s more about learning how experts think and work than getting hands-on training.
For creative fields, personal growth, and inspiration, MasterClass shines.
The Bottom Line
So, is MasterClass worth it in 2025?
It depends. If you love learning, enjoy hearing from world-class experts, and plan to watch multiple courses throughout the year, it’s a fantastic investment. For about the price of a couple of coffee runs each month, you get a buffet of knowledge across dozens of subjects.
But if you’re looking for job-ready certifications or technical training, you may be better off with platforms like Udemy or Coursera.
