iClicker vs Plickers

iClicker is a student response system for classroom polling, quizzes, attendance, reactions and feedback. Instructors can ask multiple-choice, multiple-answer, short-answer, numeric, target, formula or symbol questions, including anonymous questions. Its AI Question Creator can generate up to 50 questions and use uploaded files as context. Attendance tracking covers in-person and virtual classes; iClicker Pulse lists auto-run sessions and late-arrival tracking. An instructor gradebook provides real-time reporting on student and class performance, attendance and participation. Integrations include Blackboard, Canvas, Brightspace by D2L and Moodle, plus roster and grade sync, CSV integration and single sign-on. Students can respond through mobile or web apps or physical remotes. Instructor desktop software is available for Windows and Mac, with Windows 10 or newer and macOS 12 or newer listed as minimum requirements. The instructor account is free, while student subscription needs depend on the enrolled course. Listed U.S. student plans start at $4.99/mo; international and partner pricing requires contacting iClicker. The maker says it is part of the Macmillan Learning family and was founded in 1997.

Plickers is a classroom polling and quiz tool that collects student answers and displays results. Students respond with unique Plickers cards, so they do not need individual devices or accounts. A teacher uses the mobile app to scan cards, collect answers, reveal correct choices, and move through questions. Sessions can run offline, and responses can be anonymous; the audience limit is 63. Plickers provides student reports and scoresheets, and results can be downloaded for further analysis. Teachers can import classes and student rosters from Google Classroom and sync later changes. For remote lessons, Plickers E-Learning lets students answer synchronously from home using a device. The service is available on Android, iOS, and the web. Its free plan allows five questions per set, while Pro plans offer unlimited-question sets, private Pack collaboration, custom unlimited Scoresheet date ranges, and priority support. Listed Pro prices are $8.99 a month or $71.88 a year. A 14-day trial is available. Plickers says it does not sell student information.