MasterClass is a subscription platform offering high-production video classes taught by well-known experts in cooking, writing, business, music, film, sport and more. All plans give access to the full library of more than 200 classes. Billing is annual only, with three tiers that differ mainly in how many devices you can use and offline viewing, and a 30-day money-back guarantee.
At a glance
| What it is | A subscription video learning platform |
| Classes | 200+ |
| Standard | $120 a year (about $10 a month) |
| Plus | $180 a year (about $15 a month) |
| Premium | $240 a year (about $20 a month) |
| Billing | Annual only |
| Guarantee | 30-day money-back |
How it works
You subscribe, then watch any class on web, mobile or TV. Classes are split into short lessons, often with workbooks. Higher plans allow more simultaneous devices and offline viewing.
Pricing
In 2026 MasterClass plans cost $120, $180 or $240 a year, billed annually. There’s no monthly option. Some users complain about automatic renewals, so set a reminder.
Is it worth it for side hustlers?
MasterClass is more inspiration than step-by-step training. It can help with creative and business thinking, such as writing, negotiation or entrepreneurship, but it won’t teach practical technical skills in depth.
Common mistakes
Some subscribers expect detailed how-to training and are disappointed. Others forget the auto-renewal. Choose it for perspective and set a renewal reminder.
Making MasterClass useful
To get value for a side hustle, pick classes tied to what you’re building: writing classes for freelance writers, negotiation or sales for anyone pitching clients, photography for creators, or entrepreneurship for those starting a small business. Take notes on specific techniques and test one idea per class.
Pairing with practical courses
Combine MasterClass inspiration with a practical course or project. For example, watch a writing class, then use a step-by-step course or a freelance platform to land a first paid article. MasterClass gives perspective; practice and feedback build skill.
Choosing a plan
All plans include the full library, so the cheapest Standard plan is enough if you watch on one device. Plus and Premium mainly add devices and offline viewing, which help households or frequent travellers.
Avoiding surprise renewals
Billing is annual and renews automatically. Set a reminder a few weeks before your renewal date so you can decide whether to continue.
Gift memberships
MasterClass often runs gift offers, which can be a cheaper way to start. Check current promotions before buying.
Quick checklist
Before subscribing, list three classes you’ll actually watch, decide on the cheapest suitable plan, set a renewal reminder and pair each class with one practical action for your side hustle.
Who gets the most from it
MasterClass suits curious learners who enjoy watching experts explain how they think and work. Writers, cooks, photographers and would-be entrepreneurs often find ideas they can apply to their own projects.
Common questions
Many people ask whether MasterClass offers certificates. It doesn’t focus on credentials; it’s about learning from experts. Others ask whether one class is enough to justify the price: if you’ll only watch one or two classes, a gift offer or promotion may be better value than a full-price annual plan. Some ask about watching offline: higher plans include offline viewing, which helps when travelling or commuting without reliable internet.
Getting started
Browse the class list before subscribing and pick a few classes that match your goals. Watching with a notebook and trying one idea after each lesson turns entertainment into learning you can use. Revisit your notes after a month to see which ideas you’ve actually applied. Drop classes that don’t connect to your goals, and go deeper on the ones that do, rewatching key lessons when you need them.
Owen’s take
MasterClass is enjoyable and inspiring, but it’s not a skills course. Use it alongside practical training if you’re building a side hustle.
Who it suits
It suits people who want inspiration from top names in creative and business fields. It suits less well those needing practical, job-ready skills.
Similar options
- Coursera offers practical certificates.
- CreativeLive teaches creative skills in depth.
- Udemy has practical how-to courses.
- Skillshare offers creative project classes.
More options are in Resources.
Pros and cons
Pros
- Famous experts
- High production quality
- Full library on every plan
Cons
- Annual billing only
- Inspiration over practical depth
- Auto-renewal complaints
FAQ
How much is MasterClass?
$120, $180 or $240 a year, depending on the plan.
Does MasterClass offer monthly billing?
No, billing is annual only.
How many classes are on MasterClass?
More than 200.
Is there a refund on MasterClass?
A 30-day money-back guarantee applies.
Is MasterClass good for learning practical skills?
It’s better for inspiration than detailed skills training.
