LSAT Max Vs. Kaplan: Detailed Comparison

Are you gearing up for the LSAT and feeling overwhelmed by the sheer number of prep courses available?

Well, LSAT Max and Kaplan really stand out. But which one is truly better suited to help you conquer this crucial exam?

In this LSAT Max Vs. Kaplan comparison, we'll delve deep into these popular prep courses, comparing their features, methodologies, and pricing.

By the end, you'll have a clear understanding of which option aligns best with your LSAT aspirations. So, let's jump in!

LSAT Max Vs. Kaplan Overview

LSAT Max and Kaplan stand at the opposite ends of the LSAT prep spectrum.

LSAT Max was founded by a Harvard graduate, Mehran, who took his score from 148 to 174.

He was annoyed by the fact that most LSAT prep courses charge more for extra features. Mehran, on the other hand, believed that companies should offer the same value but charge for the duration of access.

Kaplan, in contrast, is an 80-year-old test prep company with a plethora of courses and an army of tutors.

But how do these both fare in LSAT prep?

Let’s find out in a detailed comparison.

LSAT Max Vs. Kaplan Detailed Comparison in 2026

Course Options

LSATMax offers multiple course options, which are primarily categorized into two groups:

1. LSATMax Course (multiple access tiers)
2. LSATMax Tutoring Packages

** LSATMax Course ** includes all the prep material like video lectures, practice tests, analytics, and one free tutoring hour.

They offer courses with 60, 180, and 365-day access, as well as a Lifetime option. Check LSATMax's official site for current pricing.

** LSATMax Tutoring Packages ** are available with 8, 16, or 24 hours of private tutoring, plus a custom hourly option. All tutoring sessions are led by 99th percentile tutors.

Contrarily, Kaplan has six course options, each offering diverse features.

• Kaplan's** On-Demand Course **serves as their self-paced course starting from $899, offering video lectures, practice questions, simulated exams, analytics, and a 14-day free trial.
• The** Live Online **course features all of the On-Demand Course's features but also boasts 32 hours of live learning in a virtual setting.
• If you want to take that experience to another level, you can opt for Kaplan's** Tutoring Packages **with Live classes, offering 10, 20, 30, or 40 hours of private 1-on-1 tutoring.
• Or, if you prefer the old-school way, you can go for their** In-Person **classes starting from $1,699 and prepare for the LSAT in traditional classrooms where you can network with peers and tutors.
• For those targeting elite scores, Kaplan's** 170+ Course **at $2,799 offers 60 hours of live instruction with a guaranteed 170+ score or 10+ point improvement.
• Lastly, you can buy the** LSAT Bootcamp **at $3,999 – a rigorous 4–6 week study program with 100+ hours of live instruction, 5 hours of 1-on-1 tutoring, and small group sessions.

** Our Thoughts **

Who wins?** Kaplan **.

** While LSATMax offers flexible access tiers and tutoring packages, Kaplan LSAT prep beats it by offering more diverse learning formats with Live Classes, In-Person prep, a 170+ Course, and Bootcamp. **

Content Structure & Curriculum

LSATMax’s prep style is very well-structured.

It gives you two options on the home dashboard:

1)Study and 2) Practice

The study module contains prep lectures and diagnostic tests covering the current LSAT sections. The practice module features real LSAT practice tests.

Their platform suggests that you take an initial diagnostic test and set a baseline for your score. Then, you can move on to the study module and cover different sections, such as logical reasoning, reading comprehension, etc., as per your strengths and weaknesses.

Each section features a video lecture with detailed explanations and a homework assignment to reinforce your learning. This guided approach makes your LSAT prep effective.

Similarly, Kaplan also offers a well-designed content structure and calls its curriculum the 'Study Plan.'

It is carefully broken down into core sessions, following the current LSAT outline of Logical Reasoning and Reading Comprehension.

These core sessions include different prep materials like video lessons, practice problems, assignments, and plenty of other stuff based on what concept and problem type you study.

** Our Thoughts **

Who wins?** It’s a tie **.

** Both LSATMax and Kaplan have a systematic prep methodology that makes for an effective and efficient prep experience. **

Video Lessons

Video lessons are one of the most important features of any LSAT online course. Let’s compare Kaplan’s with LSATMax.

So, LSATmax gets you over 1,500 hours of top-quality video lessons featuring whiteboard-style lectures, where you hear the instructor speaking and adding notes or remarks with a digital pen to explain the concepts.

As you can see in the picture, LSATMax also gives you the option to jump to specific sections instead of watching the whole video.

Also, you can turn on subtitles and adjust the playback speed as per your preference.

In short, you get long hours, quality lessons, and control over the video content.

However, Kaplan also doesn’t disappoint with its video lessons.

Their video lessons also take the form of a digital whiteboard with an instructor in the bottom corner of the screen. As the instructor walks you through the lesson, the whiteboard behind them fills up with notes, highlights, and constantly changing graphics.

This makes for a truly engaging experience.

Plus, the content of their lessons and the delivery is exceptional. Their instructors go deep into practice problems to demonstrate their points, making it easy to understand underlying concepts.

** Our Thoughts **

Who wins?** It’s a tie **.

** Although LSATMax offers more video hours than Kaplan, both LSAT courses provide high-quality and engaging video lessons. **

Live Classes

LSATMax offers daily live classes, which they brand as Daily Office Hours and also offer as a standalone Live Class Subscription at $99/month.

What is it?

It's an LSAT live class where 99th percentile instructors cover specific topics. Students can join the live session and learn plenty of new stuff other than the on-demand lectures and video explanations. All sessions are recorded and available on demand.

The topics of these live videos range from tips and tricks to increase your score to detailed discussions on complex modules.

On the other hand, Kaplan’s Live Online Course is their flagship option, where students learn in a virtual class setting.

It's a great choice for those who prefer a structured study schedule and learn better in a live environment. Plus, the online class allows students to interact, participate in live polls, and ask questions using the live chat option.

This format encourages participation and ensures that even introverted students can express their opinions and engage in discussions.

** Our Thoughts **

Who wins?** Kaplan **.

** It’s a really close call because both courses offer highly valuable live lectures. However, Kaplan edges past LSATMax because of its well-structured Live Online course. **

In-Person Classes

Like the majority of LSAT courses, LSATMax is an online LSAT prep course.

It doesn’t offer any in-person classes or physical learning experiences.

Kaplan, on the other side, has a complete package for physical classes.

Kaplan's** In-Person **Live classes can prepare you for the LSAT in traditional classrooms where you can network with peers and tutors. Starting from $1,699, it's a pricier option but can be worth the investment for those who thrive in a physical learning environment.

However, only those in New York, LA, Boston, Houston, Miami, Phoenix, Atlanta, Washington, Philadelphia, Chicago, and a few other cities can benefit from this.

** Our Thoughts **

Who wins?** Kaplan **wins by a huge mile.

Support

LSATMax boasts an excellent support system as paid subscribers can reach out to tutors via:

• Real-time chat
• Email
• Call

This kind of support is truly unique and allows students to get their questions answered promptly.

Plus, every video lesson has a message board where users can ask questions and engage with fellow LSATMax users.

Kaplan offers its subscribers exclusive access to the LSAT Channel, where users can join live review sessions almost every day and get their questions answered during those live calls.

Other than this, you can also reach out to their support team via email.

** Our Thoughts **

Who wins?** LSATMax **.

** LSATMAx is the clear winner because of its multiple support options. **

Printed Study Material

LSATMax offers digital course materials, and print books of their lesson materials are available for students who request them.

All Kaplan LSAT courses include prep ebooks; physical books are available as an add-on.

This feature is truly useful for those LSAT aspirants who like to study the old-school way.

Having physical books allows students the flexibility to study anywhere without the need for an internet connection. This can be advantageous for those who prefer to study in different locations or during travel.

** Our Thoughts **

Who wins?** It's a tie **.

** Both courses now offer study materials in book form. Kaplan includes ebooks with all courses and offers physical books as an add-on. LSATMax offers digital materials by default and print books upon request. **

LSAT prep books offer an extra layer of depth and insight into LSAT topics that may not be fully covered during online lectures, and they serve as valuable reference materials throughout your preparation journey.

Private Tutoring

Each LSATMax course option comes with a free one hour of private tutoring, while** LSATMax Tutoring Packages **come with 8, 16, or 24 hours of private sessions, plus a custom hourly option.

Fortunately, these tutoring sessions are led by 99th percentile tutors, which means you study from the top 1% of instructors in the LSAT space.

If you don't want to buy Tutoring packages, you can buy tutoring hours at $199 per hour with the regular LSATMax courses.

Similarly, Kaplan also offers** Tutoring Packages ** with 10, 20, 30, or 40 hours of private, 1-on-1 tutoring starting from $1,999. This will get you full access to the Live Online course material plus personalized support from an LSAT expert.

** Our Thoughts **

Who wins?** It’s a tie **.

Mobile App

LSATMax can be accessed both via computer and mobile app.

Mobile apps provide the convenience of portability, allowing you to carry your LSAT prep materials in your pocket. This means you can study at various locations, whether it's a coffee shop, library, or the comfort of your home.

Kaplan LSAT does not currently offer a dedicated LSAT mobile app, though they do have a general Kaplan Student Hub app.

** Our Thoughts **

Who wins?** LSATMax **.

** LSATMax's compatibility with both computers and mobile apps ensures accessibility for a wider range of students. **

This dual-platform approach offers flexibility in your study schedule. You can seamlessly switch between your computer and mobile device, allowing you to fit study sessions into various parts of your day, such as commuting, breaks, or downtime.

High Score Guarantee

LSATMax offers a higher score guarantee on their 180-day, 365-day, and Lifetime plans. If your score doesn't improve after completing the course and taking the LSAT within six months of enrollment, you can request a refund of the course fee.

Kaplan also offers a Higher Score Guarantee. If your LSAT score doesn't increase after completing the Kaplan LSAT program, you get one of two options:

1. Free 12-week reactivation of online resources
2. Request a tuition refund (must contact within 60 days of program expiration)

This means both courses are safe to invest your time and money in.

** Our Thoughts **

Who wins?** It’s a tie **.

** However, it's worth mentioning that Kaplan offers a refund policy for program tuition if you change your mind. Check Kaplan's website for their current cancellation and refund timelines. **

** LSATMax does not offer refunds outside of their higher score guarantee. **

Free Trial

LSATMax lets you take the course for a test drive with its free trial. You can access six video lectures, a mini practice test, and the study calendar without paying anything.

Plus, you can access all the recordings of their Daily Office Hours, which makes for hundreds of hours of content – all for free!

Kaplan now offers a 14-day free trial of their On Demand course, plus access to a free LSAT practice test and a live workshop/class.

** Our Thoughts **

Who wins?** LSATMax **, slightly.

** Both courses now offer free trials, but LSATMax's free account gives you a broader preview of its features without requiring a credit card. Kaplan's 14-day On Demand trial is a welcome addition that lets you explore their course dashboard. **

Verdict: Which One Is Better?

LSATMax and Kaplan might not be one of the best LSAT prep courses, but they’re definitely worth your time and money.

LSATMax offers a versatile range of courses, allowing students to choose options that best align with their learning preferences and goals.

The availability of private tutoring hours with 99th percentile instructors and Daily Office Hours ensure personalized support for those seeking additional guidance. Additionally, LSATMax's higher score guarantee and free trial option reflect their commitment to students' success and satisfaction.

LSATMax's mobile app compatibility provides the flexibility to study anywhere, making it a convenient choice for those with busy schedules.

Kaplan's long standing reputation in the test prep industry brings a sense of reliability and trustworthiness. Their extensive selection of course options, including live classes and in-person options in select cities, caters to diverse learning styles.

The inclusion of LSAT prep ebooks (with physical books as an add-on) is another valuable feature, particularly for those who prefer traditional study materials.

From a pricing perspective, LSATMax now offers more accessible entry points starting from $595 for course-only access, while Kaplan's On Demand course starts at $899. However, Kaplan's higher-priced options include live instruction and in-person classes that LSATMax doesn't match. Consider your budget and learning style when making a choice.

In conclusion, the choice between LSATMax and Kaplan ultimately hinges on individual preferences and priorities.

LSAT Max Vs. Kaplan FAQs

Is Kaplan better than LSAT Max?

No, LSAT Max is slightly better than Kaplan, as it offers 1,500+ video hours plus a free tutoring hour in the same package, often at a lower entry price point.

With that said, remember that the superiority of one over the other entirely depends on individual preferences, priorities, and learning styles.

Which one has better video lessons: Kaplan or LSAT Max?

While this is a subjective question, many users rate Kaplan’s video lessons higher than LSATMax’s. (1) Also, the majority of LSATMax’s are available for free on YouTube. This can be an indication of not-so-great quality content.

Is LSAT Max's score guarantee superior to Kaplan's?

No. LSAT Max’s score guarantee is not superior to Kaplan’s. Both courses require you to set a baseline score before formally starting your preparation. If your score doesn’t improve, you can ask for a refund.

In fact, Kaplan’s guarantee is slightly superior to LSAT Max in a way that even if you score higher than your baseline score but aren’t satisfied with it, you can still ask for course reactivation. (2)