ExploreLearning Gizmos review
A broad virtual lab platform for schools that need simulations, lessons, assessment, and reporting.
Reviewed by iTechGuides Editors · Editorial team · Updated Oct 2026
ExploreLearning Gizmos is a browser-based STEM learning platform for schools and districts serving grades 3–12. It combines more than 550 interactive math and science simulations with virtual labs, STEM Cases, guided investigations, lesson materials, teacher guides, student activities, and embedded formative assessments. Teachers can use it for whole-class, small-group, or independent instruction while students visualize experiments, capture data, and compare results. The platform runs across common computers, Chromebooks, tablets, and modern web browsers.
Pricing follows a freemium model. A free Gizmos account provides continued access to a limited, rotating collection of Gizmos, while a 30-day free trial is also available. The paid subscription is designed for schools and districts and is offered through packages with customized quotes. That structure suits institutions planning broader classroom or district adoption, but buyers will need to discuss requirements directly before comparing paid costs. Schools that want a small, ongoing selection of activities can start with the free account; schools needing the full library and institutional features should look at the paid subscription.
Gizmos stands out for combining instructional content with classroom workflow tools. Guided investigations include student questioning and feedback, while progress reports and real-time data heatmaps help teachers monitor learning. Customizable lesson plans and activities support adaptation across classes, and rostering is available through OneRoster via LTI or SAML, Clever Roster, and the ClassLink API. It is a strong fit for schools seeking a complete virtual lab and assessment environment across multiple devices. Users looking only for a narrow simulation tool or a simple individual learning app may find its school-focused breadth unnecessary.
ExploreLearning Gizmos pros and cons
- Where it wins
- Combines simulations, virtual labs, STEM Cases, and guided investigations
- Includes formative assessments, reports, and real-time data heatmaps
- Supports rostering through OneRoster, Clever, and ClassLink
- Where it doesn't
- The free account offers only a limited, rotating collection
- Paid subscriptions require a customized quote
- Its broad scope may exceed the needs of single-purpose users
ExploreLearning Gizmos fact sheet, pricing and score →
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