Virtual Genetics Lab II review
A focused, free genetics simulator for university-level inheritance practice.
Reviewed by iTechGuides Editors · Editorial team · Updated Oct 2026
Virtual Genetics Lab II is a free, open-source biology learning application from the University of Massachusetts Boston. It is designed for university-level biology education, particularly learners studying transmission genetics. Instead of conducting physical experiments, users investigate simulated organisms, crosses, offspring observations, inheritance patterns, and genetic problems. The tool suits focused practice in inheritance analysis rather than broad biology instruction or general virtual-lab work.
The published offering is straightforward: VGLII is available at no cost, with a free plan and no paid tiers described. Its feature set centers on transmission-genetics simulation, including virtual organism crosses, observation of offspring, and investigation of genetic models through simulated problems. Practice and regular working modes support different learning activities, while chi-square calculations and result summaries add a quantitative component to inheritance exercises. This makes the product particularly relevant when the goal is to work through genetics scenarios and interpret outcomes rather than access a wide range of biology subjects.
Platform and support status are the main considerations for a buyer. The category specification identifies desktop platforms, while the vendor states that standalone VGLII is no longer supported. The software remains available, but the vendor recommends browser-based jsVGL for continued cross-platform support. Choose Virtual Genetics Lab II when free, open-source transmission-genetics practice and virtual crosses match the instructional need. Choose the supported jsVGL successor instead when continued standalone support or cross-platform access is a priority, and look elsewhere when the requirement extends beyond a narrow genetics simulation focus.
Virtual Genetics Lab II pros and cons
- Where it wins
- Free and open-source genetics learning software
- Simulates organism crosses and inheritance patterns
- Includes practice, working, and chi-square modes
- Where it doesn't
- Standalone VGLII is no longer supported
- Focused on transmission genetics rather than broad biology
- Desktop classification limits its platform scope
Virtual Genetics Lab II fact sheet, pricing and score →
Advertiser disclosure: iTechGuides is reader-supported. Vendors can pay for top positions in our rankings and for a place on other products' pages, and we may earn a commission when you click some links. Bought places stand at the number bought; this page and our disclosure say so. Paying vendors may get a fuller, more detailed review from our editors, and that review can change their score. How we rank.
Last updated · How we research and update