# Adobe Captivate Reviews 2026. Verified Reviews, Pros & Cons | Capterra > Is Adobe Captivate the right eLearning Authoring Tools solution for you? Explore 222 verified user reviews from people in industries like yours to make a confident choice. Source: https://www.capterra.com/p/227148/Adobe-Captivate/reviews --- Adobe Captivate 4.4 (222) [View alternatives](https://www.capterra.com/p/227148/Adobe-Captivate/alternatives/) Provider data verified by our Software Research team, and reviews moderated by our Reviews Verification team. [Learn more](https://www.capterra.com/our-story/) * * * Last updated March 13th, 2026 # Reviews of Adobe Captivate Ease of use 3.8 Customer Service 3.9 ## Pros and Cons in Reviews AJ Aja Nurse J Wireless Technical Support-Rogers and FidoConsumer Services, 10,001+ employeesUsed the software for: Less than 6 months. “A few lessons loaded slowly, but overall, Captivate helped me stay engaged and follow the training smoothly.“ May 15, 2026 DT David T DirectorE-Learning, 2 - 10 employeesUsed the software for: More than 2 years. “The workflow is very cumbersome and I don't feel confident in suggesting it as an authoring tool when scoping with clients, as the time required to create anything useful would make the costs prohibitive.“ October 29, 2024 JN Jean-Pierre N Instructional DesingE-Learning, 501 - 1,000 employeesUsed the software for: 1-2 years. “It is a powerful tool for instructional designers who need to build eLearning content.“ December 5, 2025 AM Alexander M IT trainerHealth, Wellness and Fitness, Self-employedUsed the software for: More than 2 years. “Not as good as Articulate and feels rather dated.“ November 12, 2025 VH Victoria H Instructional DesignerAirlines/Aviation, 11 - 50 employeesUsed the software for: More than 2 years. “I love how easy it is to create interactive content, like simulations and quizzes, which really keeps learners engaged.“ October 6, 2025 DT David T DirectorE-Learning, 2 - 10 employeesUsed the software for: More than 2 years. “I keep returning to Adobe Captivate in the hope that there have been improvements made, but sadly it always disappoints.“ October 29, 2024 DH Dr. Marcia H Non-profit FounderEducation Management, Self-employedUsed the software for: 1-2 years. “However, since I am now using AI tools which makes course generation easier.“ October 6, 2025 Brandon H L and D ManagerFinancial Services, 201 - 500 employeesUsed the software for: I used a free trial. “Additionally, the support for the tools are just not there. If you reach out to support, expect to wait for a long time.“ December 19, 2023 ## Showing most helpful reviews Showing 1-25 of 222 Reviews Sort by: Most Helpful Rating Company Size Reviewer's Role Length of Use Frequency of Use Josh Y. Senior Education Manager of Online Learning E-Learning Used the software for: 1-2 years ### "A powerful player in the e-learning arena" October 9, 2020 4.0 While I am just jumping into the platform as my current job requires it over other software platforms, I am impressed. Having used the entire Adobe CC and other e-learning software, this platform is not difficult to transition into. Pros Having used many products for developing e-learning, Captivate is among the top-tier development programs but has a high cost to entry. The platform is powerful and has a lot of nuances that allow for digging deep into options for developing truly custom courses and user experiences. Cons While you can dig deeply into advanced interactions, data reporting, etc, the learning curve is immense to begin to understand elements such as advanced actions, keywords, etc. Variables become buried and are not as easy to manipulate as in Articulate Storyline, but they are buried for very good reason in that you can actually do more in Captivate than with its rival program with such features. If I am to further nitpick, I am not excited by the filmstrip display for slide storyline. This is a feature I love in Articulate's e-learning in that non-linear branching is highly encouraged whereas the linear filmstrip does little to entice users to develop complex learning opportunities, reinforcing the linear death by slides commonly seen in virtual learning. Switched from [Articulate 360](https://www.capterra.com/p/156978/Articulate-360/) Occupational requirement. These two programs are used across the e-learning landscape, and the use of one or another is often dependent on the organization. I do prefer the power and ability to fully customize that is within Adobe Captivate, though Articulate Storyline is by far more user-friendly. Review Source JN Jean-Pierre N. Instructional Desing E-Learning Used the software for: 1-2 years ### "Instructional Designer" December 5, 2025 5.0 It is a powerful tool for instructional designers who need to build eLearning content. It also has a large online community and tutorial materials. Pros Captivate is a robust software that helps to build interactive materials for your online or hybrid courses. I used the screen recording to create step-by-step instructions to demonstrate how to use different technologies in our school. Question templates are also amazing. Cons A little pricy, and it is very difficult to reach customer support. In addition, the new users find it overwhelming to navigate. Switched from [Camtasia](https://www.capterra.com/p/203013/Camtasia/) Cativate is more powerful and robust for building assessment and feedback customization. Review Source ANJ Aja Nurse J. Wireless Technical Support-Rogers and Fido Consumer Services Used the software for: Less than 6 months ### "Effective Tool for Interactive Training and Support Simulations" May 15, 2026 4.0 My overall experience with Adobe Captivate was positive. I used it throughout my online training with Foundever from December 2024 to February 2025 while preparing to work as a Wireless Technical Support Agent. The interactive modules and simulations made the training easier to understand, especially when practicing real support scenarios. It was reliable most of the time, and I liked that we could even use it for meetings whenever our internal communication system went down. A few lessons loaded slowly, but overall, Captivate helped me stay engaged and follow the training smoothly. Pros I liked how interactive and easy to follow the training modules were. The simulations helped me practice real wireless technical support scenarios, and the step‑by‑step lessons made the information easier to understand. I also liked that we could use it for meetings whenever our internal communication system went down — it was reliable and kept the training moving. Cons I didn’t like that some of the modules took a long time to load, especially when the internet connection wasn’t strong. A few of the simulations also felt a bit slow or repetitive, so sometimes it made the training drag. It worked overall, but it wasn’t always the smoothest experience. Review Source AM Alexander M. IT trainer Health, Wellness and Fitness Used the software for: 2+ years ### "Expensive but can get results. Articulate is better." November 12, 2025 3.0 Decent, but expensive tool to use for creation of e-learning. Not as good as Articulate and feels rather dated. Pros Easy to produce very simple e-learning once you overcome the initial learning curve. Good for rework. Cons The initial learning curve is extremely steep, even with experience of video editing and other tools. Review Source VR Verified Reviewer Environmental Narratives Specialist Environmental Services Used the software for: Less than 6 months ### "Extensive bells and whistles for creating an in-depth e-learning course" April 30, 2026 5.0 Overall, very good experience. Captivate is a great software for someone who wants all the bells and whistles for creating an elaborate e-learning course. Pros The extent of applications that are provided gives the user plenty of opportunities to create a great, in-depth e-learning course. Cons Captivate is not for the novice user. The extensive range of options, applications, and buttons can be overwhelming to a new user. Review Source MD Mark D. CEO Professional Training & Coaching Used the software for: 2+ years ### "Captivate, once the king, not 2d best" March 5, 2025 4.0 A great product. At one point in time, many years ago, it was the "king." You could run through your software product and Captivate would capture all of the steps, even giving you different ways to play back. For testing and demoing. Pros Some features for ease of use, powerful, eLearning software. Cons Complicated in some features. Either must have a developer or take a course. On ramping steep at times in the past. Alternatives considered [Articulate 360](https://www.capterra.com/p/156978/Articulate-360/) Reason for choosing Adobe Captivate At one time, it was king of eLearning authoring. It's fallen now, although it appears to be making a comeback. Review Source Paul W. eLearning Designer and Developer E-Learning Used the software for: 2+ years ### "Adobe Captivate is the Cornerstone of My eLearning Business" October 17, 2019 5.0 I started using Adobe Captivate with version 2. It was okay but obviously there was room for it to improve. At the time of writing this review, Captivate is on version 11 and it has matured into a robust solution. I will continue to use it for all my professional eLearning work for as long as they continue to make it available. Pros I have been using Adobe Captivate since the mid-2000s. Each release has brought new and innovative features that allow me to continue to impress my clients. Features like virtual reality and interactive video make Adobe Captivate the industry leader in eLearning Authoring tools Cons A complicated piece of software means that the learning curve is steep but the reward is that in return it does so much. Alternatives considered [Articulate 360](https://www.capterra.com/p/156978/Articulate-360/) Reason for choosing Adobe Captivate Adobe Captivate's subscription model was a better value than Storyline. Plus the ability to round trip with the Creative Cloud applications made it a clear choice for me. Review Source VR Verified Reviewer Non-profit Founder Education Management Used the software for: 1-2 years ### "Captivate Plus AI Content Generation is the Way Forward" October 6, 2025 4.0 I have been using Captivate for a while and really like to tool. However, since I am now using AI tools which makes course generation easier. Pros Customer support is great and you definitely get value for the monthly subscription. It's good for interactive learning but is now competing with AI tools that can generate quizzes and other interactions quickly. Course creation is not difficult once you learn the tool. Cons The version I used did not have AI integration and the interface needs to be improved. When I compare it to other tools, Captivate is behind. Instructional designers need tools that will help them to generate courses quickly and integration with AI--LLMs would put Captivate ahead. Review Source VH Victoria H. Instructional Designer Airlines/Aviation Used the software for: 2+ years ### "Solid authoring tool" October 6, 2025 4.0 My experience with Adobe Captivate has been solid overall. It has all the capabilities you need to create a great course. Pros I love how easy it is to create interactive content, like simulations and quizzes, which really keeps learners engaged. The fact that it works so well with other Adobe tools is a huge bonus too. Cons What I like least about Adobe Captivate is that it can be a bit overwhelming at first. With so many features and options, it takes some time to figure out how to use everything efficiently. The learning curve is steep for beginners. Though the interface can feel a bit dated. Review Source VR Verified Reviewer Instructional Designer Telecommunications Used the software for: 1-2 years ### "New exciting features, but limited customization" April 14, 2025 4.0 Pros The new Adobe version has a modern user interface and multiple widgets (flip cards, hotspot, carousel and more) that can make an e-learning module more interactive and engaging. It's easy to use as all you have to do is add blocks and components to build your content. Cons It can be glitchy and crash without a warning, so you have to save your work often to avoid losing progress. The blocks aren't customizable, you're limited to preset designs, therefore you can't get too creative. Review Source GT Gary T. Learning Architect Telecommunications Used the software for: 2+ years ### "Simple tool that offers creativity for those prepared to test features." March 15, 2025 4.0 Overall it is a simple and good tool to use. You can go more complex if you are familiar with how Captivate works, but it is not needed for many who just want to build a course with ease. Pros Adobe Captivate offers a simpler tool to create eLearning. The product is drag and drop for the most part, and building simple courses is straight forward. Cons There are still some bugs in the product, and many of the editing and design features are a weak. It would be better if it offered more flexibility with design tools. Review Source DV Devon V. Training Manager Consumer Goods Used the software for: 6-12 months ### "Powerful eLearning Creation" September 11, 2024 4.0 I have used this program to create e learning the content and have delivered it to my workplace and employees. Pros It has all the design and tool features that you need in order to create eLearning courses and SCORM compliant training. Cons There's a lot of formulas and other equations that need to come into play when using this program. Other programs have the more simplified approach. Review Source VR Verified Reviewer Instructional Designer E-Learning Used the software for: 2+ years ### "Feature-Rich Design and Development" October 22, 2019 5.0 I've preferred Captivate to Storyline throughout my career. Most orgs seem to lean toward Storyline because the UI is so similar to working in PowerPoint. I definitely prefer the more robust feature set that gets quality, regular updates/enhancements that comes with Captivate. Pros The ongoing updates and upgrades continue to make this software easier to use for those new to it, and also expedites building many of the interactions. Really enjoy the Assets feature as well when looking to switch things up a little - really helps with inspiration and new ideas. The online community is also really great with supporting each other and lending new ideas. The different preview options that are built in are fantastic and load so much faster than Storyline. Cons There are still a lot of work-arounds needed for some interaction types to meet digital accessibility needs, but that's to be expected with almost any software. When capturing video, you cannot capture device audio. Review Source OH Omith H. Accounting Manager Newspapers Used the software for: 2+ years ### "Adobe Captivate is E-Learning Solution" August 22, 2022 5.0 I've been using this app for a long time, It works fine with me and I absolutely love it. It helps me save a lot of time. I am very satisfied with using this software. Pros The usefulness and versatility of Adobe Captivate are among the most extensive. You may develop everything with it, from conventional card-based eLearning modules to virtual reality training. That's why it's so outstanding. And fantastic image quality for lovely e-learning content. Cons When features have issues, Adobe takes a while to repair them. By being more deliberate and prompt in fixing these errors, they may improve their product in this area. Review Source Zacchaeus E. Exhibit Technician II Non-Profit Organization Management Used the software for: 1-2 years ### "Adobe Captivate - E-Learning Software" June 23, 2019 5.0 We use it to identify certain species of animals for the guests to our facility. They utilize the program through touch screen displays. I am very please with it's usability straight out of the box. I was able to seamlessly edit and manipulate slides and information. Pros I like how intuitive the user interface is. I was able to easily navigate through options and controls. There is a already a large library of assets to implement into projects. I was able to jump right in, make a template and move slides around at whim with minimal difficulty. Cons I didn't like that I could not get a subscription for it for more than 12 months. Otherwise, personally, I was impressed with the product. My supervisor tried to use this software and he had trouble with the PhoneGap and GitHub part of the rendering process. So for people less familiar with how mobile applications are created, there may be a steep learning curve. Reason for choosing Adobe Captivate I am very familiar with the adobe line of products and this enabled me to combine some of the best elements of those products without having to use different software. Review Source SM Sarah M. 911 dispatcher Public Safety Used the software for: 2+ years ### "PDF READER FOR DUMMIES" June 27, 2019 5.0 I use this program on a regular basis in order to sign documents that need to be electronically transferred. It saves time and saves paper to where you do not have to go printing stuff off. It can be easy to use for the most part. This program is very simple and usually comes on most PC computers. I use it a lot to read PDF files as well. Pros This program is very easy to use and is very common so if you don't even know how to do something on it you can usually Google it and figure it out. You can use it to read over and view stuff as well - the stuff that websites put in for additional documents. Cons Sometimes the program will freeze up which can get really annoying and sometimes the fields that you are trying to write your documents on won't work. Review Source VR Verified Reviewer Implementation & Support Specialist Information Technology and Services Used the software for: 1-2 years ### "Creating courses" February 15, 2021 3.0 not a great experience but it might be enough for some to just to have a tool for . Pros we can create course content based on videos, slides, and interactive courses and track user progress, quick and final exam results. Cons it requires much more features and advancements and needs to make it much easier for users to achieve what they need. Review Source SK Sameer K. Lead Associate Training E-Learning Used the software for: 2+ years ### "Best tool for simulation and VR modules " September 20, 2019 4.0 Captivate is the best for simulation as compared to any other tool in the market. It the only tool which having 360 interactive output and can implement lots of things which will be in another tool in future. Pros There is no match for this tool for simulation of any website of the software. Now it's including a fluid box for responsive design and it works really well on different sized devices. We used to develop content for pure HTML 5 output and it output file works without any flash support. Cons Sometimes it becomes stuck when we try to insert assets from the library even if the RAM is 8GB. Other than that it is the best tool available in the market place. Review Source Rebecca M. Content Developer Human Resources Used the software for: 6-12 months ### "Huge learning curve, but lots of functionality" March 26, 2019 4.0 It really was not a business option for us since we needed interactive e-learning right away, and the learning curve prevented us from being able to use this software. I have not tried Adobe Captivate Prime but I am curious to know if they have fixed this problem with that software! Pros This tool does a LOT of things related to learning - it can produce interactivity, animation, skip logic, videos, and SCORM/TinCan integration. You can create a lot of wonderful things in this software and implement it across your organization and track user learning in-depth. Cons It is a bear to learn. With Storyline, you can pick it up in minutes and create something that looks good and achieves a goal right away. With Captivate, you need to break out the training videos, start small, and prepare to move slowly through the process of learning this software. Review Source Stephen C. Engagement Management Analyst Sporting Goods Used the software for: 6-12 months ### "Great for Online Learning" April 12, 2019 4.0 Pros I love the ability to program logic and quizzes into the projects. I use it for online training at work and it's very responsive and robust. Cons Like most Adobe programs, it's a resource hog. It takes it a while to load, and operating on a small screen can make it really laggy. But as long as you're on a large screen and a fast wifi connection, it's wonderful. Review Source NR Nichole R. Senior Financial Planner Education Management Used the software for: Less than 6 months ### "Captivate your Learners with Captivate" December 3, 2019 5.0 There is a reason that Adobe Captivate is a leading, if not the leading, software for designing SCORM compliant software. It's been incredibly easy to use, the outcome is professional looking, and intuitive for both the designer as well as the user. I would recommend this for an educational institution or corporation looking to engage their employees in personal development. This is a great forum to disseminate information, policies, etc. Pros I love Captivate! It's so easy to use and the outcome is extremely professional! Not only do they have a plethora of options to vary the presentation and assessment tools to employ different learning modalities for students, but educators and trainers can easily design courses without a ton of experience. The products are also easy for learners (students, corporate employees, really anyone interested in gaining knowledge) to navigate, complete courses, and assess their progress. Captivate is also SCORM compliant which is typically a standard requirement for learning objects within educational institutions. Cons The price point can be a little shocking unless you're in education. Educational prices are around $399, normal pricing is 3 times that amount. However, despite the steep price point, all of the features, benefits and support are well worth it! Alternatives considered [Vyond](https://www.capterra.com/p/182240/Vyond/)[Raptivity](https://www.capterra.com/p/70792/Raptivity/) Review Source Mercury T. Instructional Designer and Technologist Intern Higher Education Used the software for: 6-12 months ### "The Most Practical LMS" February 17, 2019 5.0 More overall experience of Adobe Captivate was great considering all that it offered including the price. This is an LMS with a company that is constantly updating to meet a scalable population. Pros This LMS is one that you can open up and start using immediately. Cons I would've liked the ability of more social collaboration. Review Source CS Carol S. IT User Experience Analyst Information Technology and Services Used the software for: 2+ years ### "Adobe Captivate an Excellent Tool for Training Tutorials" May 26, 2022 5.0 We use Adobe Captivate to create training tutorials. Pros I love that Adobe Captivate has a lot of features and can do may functions to make your training course interactive and interesting for the user. Cons Captivate is full featured but it is not very user friendly. You have to be a daily/multiple use daily person in order to master some of the more advanced features. You have to have mass interaction with the software. Also Captivate is a system's memory hog. You have to have a lot of RAM to run it smoothly. Review Source ME Marco E. Trainer Financial Services Used the software for: Less than 6 months ### "Better systems out there " March 4, 2024 3.0 Pros Adobe gives course builders another option to developing customized courses. Cons Captivate is complicated to used at times. It takes double the time compare to Articulate to build a course. Review Source Ronaldo B. teacher E-Learning Used the software for: 1-2 years ### "Perceptions about Captivate" July 18, 2019 4.0 I use it to develop different materials for online and offline courses. Pros It has a variety of features very interesting for the area of courses and training, with the possibility of customization and programming. Cons It is very expensive in Brazil. The design power associated with Adobe products does not emerge with the product. Review Source Similar Products Featured ## Send me user reviews about this product ### Fill out the form and we'll send a list of the top-rated software based on real user reviews directly to your inbox.