Tutorbase vs Pearl: Complete 2026 comparison
Deciding between Tutorbase and Pearl for your tutoring business? This comparison breaks down features, pricing, ease of use, and when each platform is the better choice. Both serve tutoring businesses, but they approach operations differently.
Quick Comparison (2026)
Tutorbase vs Pearl: Tutorbase is better for growing tutoring businesses that need scheduling, billing, and CRM in one connected system. Pearl works well for strong data analytics and reporting for district compliance, but lacks integrated CRM and WhatsApp. Choose Tutorbase for automation and growth; choose Pearl if you prefer individual tools.
Tutorbase
Pearl
NaNSide-by-side comparison based on features, pricing, and user reviews
Overview of Tutorbase and Pearl
What is Tutorbase?
Modern tutoring business management platform that connects scheduling, billing, CRM, and WhatsApp communication in one system. Built for growing tutoring businesses that want automation and efficiency.
What is Pearl?
Pearl (formerly Trilogy Mentors) is a tutor management platform focused on K-12 school districts, state education agencies, and large tutoring providers. Founded in 2016 and rebranded in 2021, Pearl emphasizes data reporting and compliance for institutional tutoring programs rather than independent tutoring businesses.
TLDR (summary)
Pearl excels at strong data analytics and reporting for district compliance. Tutorbase is the better choice if you need CRM, WhatsApp, and billing automation connected in one system. Tutorbase is free to use—try it to see which workflow fits better.
Key Differences: Pearl vs Tutorbase
A direct comparison of the most important features for tutoring businesses.
CRM & Lead Management
Tutorbase
Built-in visual pipeline with automated follow-ups
Pearl
No CRM functionality
Communication
Tutorbase
Native WhatsApp integration with 95%+ open rates
Pearl
Email and SMS only
Billing Automation
Tutorbase
Lessons automatically trigger invoicing
Pearl
No invoicing - designed for district-funded programs, not billing parents
Pricing Model
Tutorbase
Free Core + 1% platform fee
Pearl
Custom
Interface
Tutorbase
Modern drag-and-drop design
Pearl
Traditional interface
Summary: Tutorbase offers an all-in-one solution connecting scheduling, billing, CRM, and communication, while Pearl focuses on individual features that may require additional tools for a complete workflow.
Tutorbase vs Pearl: Feature-by-feature comparison
See exactly which features each platform supports
Comparison based on publicly available information and verified product documentation. Last updated January 2026.
Where Tutorbase excels
Tutorbase is built for tutoring businesses that want everything connected. Instead of managing separate tools, you get one system where each step flows into the next.
Where Pearl excels
Pearl has built its reputation on specific strengths. Here's what it does well.
Where Tutorbase falls short
No platform is perfect. Here's where Tutorbase may not be the best fit.
Where Pearl falls short
These are the common challenges Pearl users report.
Pricing comparison
Compare pricing models and plans between Tutorbase and Pearl
Tutorbase
Free platform, 1% when you invoice
- Free platform forever
- 1% only when you invoice
- Unlimited students & teachers
- No monthly subscription
Free until you invoice. Then just 1%. No monthly fees, no per-student charges.
Pearl
Fixed monthly subscription fees
- Enterprise pricing for districts
- Based on student volume
- Implementation support included
- Data hub access
Key pricing difference
Tutorbase is free to use with a 1% fee only when you invoice through the platform. No monthly subscription, no per-student fees. Pearl typically charges monthly fees that you pay regardless of revenue. With Tutorbase, if you invoice nothing, you pay nothing.
Pricing information is collected from public sources and may not reflect current promotions or enterprise agreements. Always verify current pricing directly with each provider.
What users say
Real reviews from tutoring business owners who've used both platforms.
Tutorbase
“I've tried Teachworks and TutorCruncher before, but Tutorbase has been the easiest to use by far. Reliable, simple, and feels like it was actually made for tutoring centers.”
“Focuses on what actually matters: lesson scheduling, invoicing, and payroll—and does those things really well. The UI is clean, setup was fast, and everything just works.”
“Some smaller features from bigger platforms aren't there yet, but the core experience is way smoother and the team keeps shipping updates fast.”
Pearl
“We evaluated Pearl for our private tutoring center but quickly realized it's designed for districts, not businesses. No invoicing, no way to charge families - it's grant-funded only.”
“The enterprise pricing starts at $15K+ annually. For a small tutoring business, that's completely out of reach. Pearl is built for state contracts, not independent tutors.”
“Pearl works well for our district's tutoring intervention program. The data reporting helps us track student progress and justify program funding to the school board.”
Reviews sourced from Capterra, G2, Trustpilot, and Reddit. Last verified January 2026.
How to migrate from Pearl to Tutorbase
Switching from Pearl to Tutorbase is straightforward. Most businesses complete the migration in 3-5 days with zero disruption to operations.
Export your data
Download your students, families, and lesson history from Pearl. We provide step-by-step guides for every major platform.
Typical time: 5-10 minutes
Map and import
Upload your data files. Our importer maps fields like Student Name, Email, and Lesson History directly to Tutorbase's structure.
Typical time: 15-30 minutes
Configure settings
Set up your lesson types, pricing packages, cancellation policies, and communication preferences with our onboarding team.
Typical time: 1-2 hours
Go live
Run parallel for a week if you want extra peace of mind, then fully switch. Zero disruption to your operations.
Typical time: 30 minutes
Free migration support included with every plan
Our team helps you every step of the way—no extra cost
Start free with TutorbaseThe verdict
For tutoring businesses that want everything connected—scheduling, billing, CRM, communication—Tutorbase is the stronger choice. Pearl serves well for strong data analytics and reporting for district compliance, but lacks the integrated workflows that growing businesses need. If you're comparing these two platforms, you're likely at a growth stage where Tutorbase's automation will provide more value.
Choose Tutorbase if...
- You want scheduling, billing, and CRM in one connected system
- WhatsApp communication is important for your market
- You're planning to grow beyond 5 tutors
- You want automated workflows to save time
- Modern, drag-and-drop interface matters to you
Choose Pearl if...
- Strong data analytics and reporting for district compliance is your top priority
- You prefer managing separate specialized tools
- You're a solo tutor with basic needs
- Strong compliance reporting for district requirements
- Your current workflow already works well for you
Bottom line: Both platforms serve tutoring businesses with different strengths and trade-offs. The right choice depends on your specific business model, operational needs, and growth plans. We recommend trying demos of both to see which aligns better with your workflows.
Frequently asked questions
Is Tutorbase or Pearl better for tutoring businesses?
Tutorbase is better for businesses wanting an all-in-one platform with CRM and WhatsApp. Pearl suits those who prefer strong data analytics and reporting for district compliance. Consider your need for integrated workflows vs individual tools.
How does Tutorbase compare to Pearl on features?
Both offer scheduling and billing. Tutorbase adds built-in CRM, WhatsApp integration, and automated workflows. Pearl focuses on strong data analytics and reporting for district compliance. See the comparison table for detailed differences.
What does Pearl cost compared to Tutorbase?
Pearl starts at Custom. Tutorbase is free to use with a 1% fee only when you invoice. No monthly subscription, no per-student fees. Pearl may charge monthly regardless of your revenue.
Can I switch from Pearl to Tutorbase?
Yes. Export your data from Pearl and import into Tutorbase. Our team provides free migration support. Most businesses complete the switch in 3-5 days without losing data.
Does Tutorbase have features Pearl doesn't have?
Yes. Tutorbase includes built-in CRM with visual pipeline, WhatsApp integration for messaging, and automated billing workflows. These features aren't available in Pearl.
Is Pearl easier to use than Tutorbase?
Both are designed for tutoring businesses. Tutorbase has a modern interface built for drag-and-drop. Pearl has its own interface style. Tutorbase is free to try—just sign up.
Which has better customer support: Tutorbase or Pearl?
Tutorbase offers live chat, email, and onboarding calls. Pearl provides email, phone, dedicated account manager. Response times: Tutorbase within hours, Pearl Enterprise support.
Should I use Tutorbase or Pearl for a small tutoring business?
For solo tutors, Pearl may suffice for basic needs. For businesses with 5+ tutors planning to grow, Tutorbase's integrated CRM and automation provide better value long-term.
What integrations does Tutorbase have vs Pearl?
Tutorbase integrates with Stripe, WhatsApp, Google Calendar, and Zoom. Pearl integrates with Video conferencing, Session recording. Key difference: Tutorbase has native WhatsApp.
Is Tutorbase worth the switch from Pearl?
If you need integrated CRM, WhatsApp messaging, and automated workflows, yes. If Pearl meets all your current needs and you don't plan to grow significantly, staying might be simpler.
Is Pearl or Tutorbase better for tutoring in 2026?
Pearl works well for strong data analytics and reporting for district compliance. Tutorbase is better if you want an all-in-one system where scheduling triggers billing automatically. Consider your business size, growth plans, and integration needs.
How long does it take to switch from Pearl to Tutorbase?
Most businesses complete the switch in 3-5 days: export data (10 min), import (30 min), configure settings (1-2 hours), connect workflows (30 min). Our onboarding team guides you through each step.
Can I try Tutorbase before switching from Pearl?
Yes. Tutorbase is free to use—no credit card required. Explore all features including CRM and WhatsApp. You only pay 1% when you invoice. Many users run both systems in parallel before fully switching.
What do users say about switching from Pearl to Tutorbase?
Users cite improved workflow integration: faster billing, automated lead follow-ups, and better parent communication via WhatsApp. They appreciate having one system instead of multiple disconnected tools.
Does Tutorbase support the same features as Pearl?
Yes, Tutorbase covers strong data analytics and reporting for district compliance that Pearl offers, plus adds CRM, WhatsApp, automated workflows, and teacher payouts. See the comparison table above for detailed feature-by-feature differences.
Compare other alternatives
See how Tutorbase compares to other tutoring management platforms
Ready to try Tutorbase?
Get started free—no credit card required. See why tutoring businesses are switching from Pearl.
Data Sources & Verification
Transparency matters. Here's where our data comes from:
Last Updated
January 19, 2026
Pricing
poweredbypearl.com/(verified January 19, 2026)
Migration Data
Based on actual customer migrations from Pearl to Tutorbase
Found outdated info? We strive to keep our competitor data current. Email us at contact@tutorbase.com and we'll verify and update within 48 hours.