StarGenetics
StarGenetics: A free genetics simulator with virtual crosses, exercises, and instructor customization. Ranked #11 of 24 in Biology Learning Software by our editors (6.2/10); pricing: Free plan; best for free genetics experiments for classes.
At a glance
- Editor score6.2 / 10
- PricingFree plan
- Best forFree genetics experiments for classes
- Free planYes
- Paid fromNone
- Biology simulationsYes
- Facts checked21 Sep 2026
Where it wins
- Free virtual mating experiments for genetics instruction
- Visualizers cover flies, peas, cows, fish, yeast, and smiley faces
- Customizable exercises support classroom teaching
Where it doesn't
- Focuses primarily on Mendelian genetics and inheritance analysis
- Legacy Java Web Start may add setup friction
- Desktop versions require downloading Java-based software
Our verdict on StarGenetics
StarGenetics is a free Mendelian genetics cross simulator from the MIT STAR Program. It is designed for high-school biology and advanced undergraduate biology, giving students a way to perform virtual mating experiments between genetically different organisms and analyze inheritance patterns. Its organism visualizers include cows, fish, flies, peas, smiley faces, and yeast, making the software suitable for classes that benefit from comparing genetic crosses across multiple examples.
The instructional content goes beyond a basic simulator. StarGenetics includes sample fruit-fly and yeast exercises covering inheritance, linkage, complementation, and epistasis. Instructors can customize exercises, while built-in assessment and teacher tools support structured classroom activities. This combination makes it a stronger fit for guided lessons than for learners seeking only an open-ended genetics sandbox. The software’s narrow focus is also an advantage for genetics units, but it is less suited to broader biology topics outside genetic crosses and inheritance analysis.
Access is available through the web, with downloadable versions for Linux, Windows, and macOS. That mixed platform coverage gives schools flexibility, although the legacy Java Web Start route and Java-based desktop versions may require more setup attention than a browser-only tool. StarGenetics is a good choice for instructors who want free virtual genetics experiments, prepared exercises, and customization options. Classes needing a wider biology curriculum, or a simpler modern deployment path, should consider a broader or more current alternative.
StarGenetics pricing
StarGenetics fact sheet
| Free plan | Yes |
|---|---|
| Paid from | None |
| Virtual labs | Yes |
| Biology simulations | Yes |
| 3D biology models | Not verified |
| Assessment tools | Yes |
| Teacher tools | Yes |
| Primary learner level | Mixed |
| Supported platforms | Mixed |
| Deployment | Cloud, Desktop |
| Platforms | Web, Windows, macOS, Linux |
| Built for | Small business, Mid-market, Enterprise (editorial estimate) |
| Pricing | Free plan |
| Website | web.mit.edu |
| Facts checked | 21 Sep 2026 |
Alternatives to StarGenetics
- HHMI BioInteractiveA broad, free web library for biology lessons, activities, labs, simulations, and assessment.9.0
- LabXchangeA structured, free option for science learning, practice, and educator-led classes.8.2
- Biology Labs OnlineA free web suite for structured biology experiments, analysis, and assignments.7.7
See all StarGenetics alternatives →
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Reviewed by iTechGuides Editors · Editorial team · Updated Sep 2026
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