Is MasterClass Worth It In 2025?

When I first heard about MasterClass back in 2019, I thought it was a gimmick. “Learn cooking from Gordon Ramsay? Writing from Margaret Atwood? For $180 a year?” It sounded too good to be true—like a luxury infomercial disguised as education.

Fast forward to 2025, and I’ve been a loyal subscriber for over two years. I’ve taken more than 15 classes, downloaded dozens of workbooks, and even convinced my skeptical sister to sign up (she’s now obsessed with Annie Leibovitz’s photography course).

So—after hundreds of hours of watching, learning, and applying—here’s my honest, in-depth MasterClass review for 2025: what’s new, what’s improved, and whether it’s still worth your hard-earned money in an era of AI tutors, free YouTube tutorials, and crowded online learning platforms.

What Is MasterClass? (A Quick Refresher)

MasterClass is a premium online learning platform that offers video-based courses taught exclusively by world-renowned experts—think Nobel laureates, Oscar winners, Michelin-star chefs, and Olympic champions.

Unlike traditional e-learning sites (Coursera, Udemy), MasterClass focuses less on technical step-by-step instruction and more on philosophy, mindset, storytelling, and creative process. The production quality rivals Netflix documentaries, with dramatic lighting, sweeping camera angles, and immersive sound design.

What’s New in MasterClass in 2025?

MasterClass has evolved significantly since its early days. Here are the key updates that make 2025 the best year yet to join:

• Over 190+ classes across 12 categories—including new additions like AI & Creativity (taught by a leading tech ethicist) and Sustainable Design.
• Enhanced mobile app with offline downloads, dark mode, playback speed control (up to 2x), and personalized recommendations.
• Community features (beta): While still not interactive with instructors, you can now join topic-based discussion groups with fellow learners.
• Better workbook integration: Workbooks are now editable PDFs with built-in note-taking prompts and reflection questions.
• More diverse instructors: Greater representation across gender, culture, and discipline—no longer just Hollywood elites.

My Top 5 MasterClass Experiences in 2024–2025

Here’s how MasterClass actually changed my daily life:

1. Aaron Sorkin’s Screenwriting Class
I wrote my first short film script using his “intention-obstacle” framework. It won a local indie contest—and I’d never written dialogue before! 2. Thomas Keller’s Cooking Techniques
His lesson on “mise en place” transformed my weeknight dinners from chaotic to calm. Now I prep like a pro—even if I’m just making pasta. 3. Margaret Atwood on Creative Writing
Her advice on “writing what haunts you” helped me break through a months-long blog writer’s block. 4. Chris Hadfield’s Space Exploration Class
Not just for astronauts! His lessons on risk management and decision-making under pressure helped me navigate a career pivot. 5. Deadmau5 on Electronic Music Production
I don’t make music—but his philosophy on “creative constraints” inspired me to simplify my content workflow.

The Pros: Why MasterClass Still Shines in 2025

• Unmatched instructor quality — Where else can you learn negotiation from Chris Voss (FBI hostage negotiator) or jazz from Herbie Hancock?
• Cinematic, binge-worthy format — Lessons feel like TED Talks meets HBO documentary.
• All-access annual pass — One fee unlocks everything. No per-course charges.
• Perfect for inspiration & mindset shifts — Ideal when you’re stuck creatively or need a mental reset.
• Great gift option — I’ve gifted it three times. Recipients always thank me months later.

The Cons: What MasterClass Doesn’t Do Well

• No hands-on feedback — You can’t submit your screenplay to Aaron Sorkin for critique. It’s passive learning.
• Not for technical skills — Need to learn Python, Photoshop, or accounting? Try Coursera or LinkedIn Learning instead.
• Annual billing only — No monthly subscription (though gift cards offer flexibility—see below).
• Some classes feel repetitive — A few instructors recycle similar philosophies across lessons.

Pricing & How to Save Money in 2025

As of 2025, MasterClass costs $180 per year for full access. That’s about $15/month—less than most streaming services.

But here’s how to get it cheaper:

• Look for holiday promotions: Black Friday, Cyber Monday, and New Year often feature 20–30% off via gift cards.
• Buy discounted gift cards: Retailers like Costco, Sam’s Club, or Rakuten sometimes sell $180 MasterClass cards for $120–$140.
• Share with family: While accounts aren’t officially shareable, many users split the cost with a partner or close friend (just don’t log in from 10 devices at once!).

💡 Pro Tip: Even if you’re unsure, try it for a month. If you watch 3–4 classes and apply even one lesson, you’ve likely gotten your money’s worth.

Who Is MasterClass For in 2025?

✅ Ideal for:

• Creative professionals seeking fresh inspiration
• Lifelong learners who value storytelling over software tutorials
• Aspiring artists, writers, chefs, or entrepreneurs
• People feeling “stuck” and needing a mentor-like voice
• Gift shoppers looking for meaningful presents

❌ Not ideal for:

• Those seeking certification or career-ready technical training
• People who need live interaction or instructor feedback
• Budget learners who only want free content

Final Verdict: Is MasterClass Worth It in 2025?

Yes—if you value inspiration, creativity, and wisdom over rote instruction.

In a world flooded with rushed, algorithm-driven content, MasterClass remains a rare oasis of depth, beauty, and human excellence. It won’t teach you to code an app—but it might give you the courage to start your own business, write your novel, or finally cook that perfect soufflé.

For $180 a year, you’re not just buying courses. You’re buying access to the minds of legends. And in 2025, that’s more valuable than ever.