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Best IXL Alternatives in 2026

Free and affordable alternatives to IXL's $79-159/year subscription.

STSpellingJoy Team
•Last Updated: January 15, 2026
Student learning

Our top picks

† Pricing note: Prices are checked against each vendor's official website or help center at the time of writing, but vendors change plans and prices at any time. Always confirm current pricing on the vendor's own site before purchasing. How we review and verify →

1

Khan Academy Kids

Best free

Khan Academy Kids offers free, comprehensive early learning content covering reading, math, and more for children ages 2-8.

Best for:Free math, reading, and morePrice:Free†Grades:Ages 2-8Platforms:iOS, Android, Amazon

Pros

  • Completely free
  • Comprehensive curriculum
  • No ads

Cons

  • Only goes to age 8
  • Not specialized for spelling
  • No web version
2

Prodigy

Best math game

Prodigy uses game-based learning to teach math, with a newer English/ELA component.

Best for:Free math practice gamePrice:$58.95-118.95/yr†✓ verified 2026-07-29Grades:Grades 1-8Platforms:Web, iOS, Android

Pros

  • Engaging game format
  • Free basic version
  • Curriculum aligned

Cons

  • In-game purchase prompts
  • Premium expensive
  • Primarily math-focused
3

Vocabulary A-Z

Best spelling

Vocabulary A-Z (formerly VocabularySpellingCity) offers vocabulary and spelling games for K-5 students with classroom management features for teachers. $108/year covers up to 36 students.

Best for:Comprehensive spelling focusPrice:$108/yr (classroom)†Grades:K-5Platforms:Web, iOS, Android

Pros

  • 35+ learning games
  • Strong classroom integration
  • Teacher dashboard

Cons

  • Rebranded from VocabularySpellingCity
  • Classroom-focused pricing
4

Education.com

Best worksheets

Education.com offers thousands of worksheets, printables, and learning activities for Pre-K through 8th grade.

Best for:Digital + printablePrice:$120/yr†Grades:Pre-K-8Platforms:Web

Pros

  • Huge worksheet library
  • Printable resources
  • Good for homeschool

Cons

  • Web only
  • Expensive
5

Spelling Shed

Best spelling games

Spelling Shed is a UK-based spelling app with gamification features including competitive leagues and rewards. Home subscription $4.99/mo or $29.99/yr for up to 5 students.

Best for:Gamified spellingPrice:$29.99/yr (home)†Grades:Ages 5-11Platforms:Web, iOS, Android

Pros

  • Strong gamification features
  • Competitive leagues
  • Cross-platform

Cons

  • UK curriculum focus
  • British accent audio
6

Zearn

Best free math

Zearn is a standards-aligned digital math platform offering comprehensive instruction, practice, and remediation. Free for families, premium for schools.

Best for:Free K-8 math curriculumPrice:Free (core)†Grades:K-8Platforms:Web

Pros

  • Full curriculum for grades K–8
  • Free access for individuals
  • Embedded instruction and practice

Cons

  • Requires stable internet
  • Interface can feel clinical

Frequently asked questions

What is the best free IXL alternative?

Khan Academy and Khan Academy Kids offer free comprehensive education. For math specifically, Zearn provides a full free K-8 curriculum.

Is IXL worth $79-159/year?

IXL offers comprehensive coverage of all subjects K-12. For specific subjects, specialized free apps may work better.

Our Verdict

Khan Academy is the best free all-subject alternative.

For math, Zearn offers a full free K-8 curriculum with digital lessons. Browse more options in our educational app library.

ST

About the Author

SpellingJoy Team

The SpellingJoy team is dedicated to creating free, high-quality spelling resources for K-6 students and their families. We test every app we review and provide honest assessments to help parents make informed decisions.

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