ChemLab vs Labster
ChemLab
modelscience.com
Labster
labster.comSide by side
| Figure | ChemLab | Labster |
|---|---|---|
| Price from | — | $416.67/mo |
| Free plan | — | — |
| Free trial | Yes | Yes |
| Open source | — | — |
| Web | — | Yes |
| Windows | Yes | Yes |
| macOS | Yes | Yes |
| iOS | Yes | Yes |
| Android | — | Yes |
| Plans published | 10 | 1 |
| Spec score · Chemistry Simulation Software | 9.0 (#3) | 8.2 (#9) |
| Purpose | Model ChemLab is an interactive chemistry lab simulation with a lab notebook workspace for theory, procedures and student observations. | Labster provides interactive virtual lab assignments that teach foundational science concepts and let learners practice lab techniques and procedures. |
| Security | The maker says ChemLab Windows installers are signed with Microsoft Authenticode. | Labster states that it achieved SOC 2 Type 2 compliance in May 2026 and holds TX-RAMP Level 2 certification. |
| Support | Registered ChemLab users can obtain technical support by email at [email protected] or by phone at (519) 570-0335. | Labster provides live support through Help Center chat and lists [email protected] for email support. |
Plans
ChemLab
- ChemLab Standard v3.0 for Windows$33.99, paid once
- ChemLab Standard v5 (64-bit) for MacOS$33.99, paid once
- Model ChemLab Standard for iPad$33.99, paid once
- ChemLab Professional v3.0 (Instructor) for Windows$135, paid once
- ChemLab Professional v5 (64-bit) for MacOS$139.99, paid once
- Single Academic Pro + Five Students$275, paid once
- Single Academic Pro + Ten Students$360, paid once
- Single Academic Pro + 20 Students$520, paid once
- Single Academic Pro + 30 Students$635, paid once
- Building Wide Site License$1,000, paid once
In their own words
ChemLab
ChemLab is an interactive chemistry lab simulation for high-school and college general chemistry. It pairs simulated experiments with a lab notebook for theory, procedures, and student observations. Pre-designed labs cover subjects including acid-base reactions, electrochemistry, equilibrium, gas laws, kinetics, redox, and stoichiometry, with additional simulations available from third parties. Animated experiments, plug-in lab extensions, and tools to record and replay demonstrations support instruction. Standard lets students run simulations; Professional adds Lab Wizard tools for instructors to run, edit, and create labs, plus an expandable chemical database. Professional users can capture a simulation, add comments, and save a distributable demonstration for Standard users to play back. The product lists RasMol integration and an integrated periodic table application with a quiz. It is described for distance learning, pre-lab work, demonstrations, and lab run-throughs, including experiments that are dangerous, environmentally hazardous, expensive, or lengthy. It is available in English, Spanish, French, and Italian. Single-user Standard licenses start at $33.99, paid once.
Labster
Labster provides interactive virtual lab assignments for teaching science concepts and practicing laboratory techniques. Its catalog includes more than 300 simulations across STEM subjects. Learners follow guided scenarios, repeat work at their own pace, and receive immediate feedback. Instructors can use automatic grading, customizable quizzes, and a modular assignment builder. A course mapping tool helps match simulations to a syllabus, and listed LMS integrations include Canvas, Google Classroom, Blackboard, Moodle, Schoology, and D2L Brightspace.
Simulations run in supported browsers on Windows and Mac computers. Some are available on iPads and Chromebooks through the Labster app; smartphones, including iPhones and Android phones, are not supported for playing them. Purchases are available to instructors, faculty, and administrators at educational institutions. A free trial is offered, but there is no free plan. Pricing is on request; institutional or department engagements typically begin at $5,000 a year, billed annually, with final pricing dependent on the solution and implementation requirements.