Adobe Captivate has long been a trusted eLearning authoring tool used by educators, trainers, and instructional designers worldwide. With each new version, Adobe has refined the platform, adding new features and upgrading usability to better serve content creators. Whether you’re new to the software or a seasoned professional planning to upgrade, understanding the differences between the main versions of Captivate can help you make the best choice for your needs.
TLDR: Adobe Captivate has evolved from a basic screen recording tool into a sophisticated eLearning content creation platform. Major changes between versions include overhauls in user interface, mobile responsiveness, Virtual Reality support, and integration with Learning Management Systems (LMS). 2023’s Captivate, previously code-named “Project Charm,” brings a significant modernization with a more intuitive UI and faster content development workflows. Depending on your needs for interactivity, media integration, and accessibility, older versions like Captivate 9 may suffice, but upgrading unlocks many performance and efficiency benefits.
Contents
A Brief History of Adobe Captivate
Originally launched as a simple screen recording tool called Flashcam, Adobe Captivate has undergone numerous transformations. After being acquired by eHelp Corporation as RoboDemo and then by Macromedia (which in turn was acquired by Adobe), the tool was rebranded to Adobe Captivate. Its journey has seen it evolve from a straightforward demo tool into a full-featured responsive eLearning design platform.
Core Versions Compared
1. Adobe Captivate 9 (2015)
This version introduced a wave of new capabilities designed to enhance interactivity and mobile learning experiences. Key additions included:
- Multistate objects: Allowed developers to create dynamic content without coding.
- Responsive Design support: Though limited, this allowed some level of mobile compatibility.
- Assets and templates: The “Assets Panel” started providing prebuilt assets like characters and graphics.
- Integration with Adobe Typekit and LMS: Better font and learner tracking compatibility.
While heavily used, Captivate 9’s interface was starting to feel dated and not very intuitive for beginners.
2. Adobe Captivate 2017
This release marked a significant upgrade in responsive design performance and automation. Features included:
- Fluid Boxes: Automates the layout of elements for optimal responsive performance.
- Typekit integration improved: Better font consistency across devices.
- Adobe Stock integration: Users could directly import assets from Adobe Stock.
Fluid Boxes were both a blessing and a learning curve. For those not versed in layout mechanics, it took time to harness their full potential.
3. Adobe Captivate 2019
Highly acclaimed, this version brought truly advanced interactivity and immersive learning options to the table.
- 360° Learning Support: Users could create VR-based learning modules using 360-degree images.
- Interactive Video: Empowered courses with clickable videos and branching paths.
- Live device preview: See how your course looks on various device presets in real-time.
- LMS enhancements: Smoother SCORM, xAPI, and AICC packaging.
If engagement through simulation was your goal, Captivate 2019 became the gold standard. It was also the most reliable version for corporate training and sales enablement content.
4. Adobe Captivate 2023 (Formerly Project Charm)
This is the latest overhaul and possibly the most transformative version in Captivate’s history. Adobe completely restructured the software, offering modern design, AI-based features, and faster authoring tools. Major highlights include:
- Simplified UI: A cleaner, drag-and-drop-based interface that reduces the learning curve.
- Slide-based authoring: Takes inspiration from PowerPoint for intuitive navigation.
- Real-time output previews: No need to publish before testing.
- Expanded template library: Ready-to-use layouts and interactions.
It’s designed to be faster and more beginner-friendly, making it attractive for those new to instructional design while still offering depth for professionals.
Comparison Table Highlights
| Feature | Captivate 9 | Captivate 2017 | Captivate 2019 | Captivate 2023 |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| User Interface | Traditional, complex | Improved layout | Slightly updated | Modern, intuitive |
| Responsive Design | Basic support | Fluid Boxes introduced | Enhanced with smart positioning | Real-time responsive previews |
| VR/360 Support | Not available | Not available | Yes | Improved |
| Interactivity | States and basic triggers | Custom triggers and branching | Interactive video & branching | Upgraded and template-based |
Use Cases and Target Audiences
- Educators: Captivate 2019 or 2023 is recommended for its multimedia and branching features, which can simulate classroom interactivity online.
- Corporate Trainers: Captivate 2017 or 2019 offers fluid responsiveness and SCORM/xAPI compliance crucial for LMS integration.
- Beginner Designers: Captivate 2023’s intuitive interface and simplified workflow are great for those new to course creation.
Reasons to Upgrade
Although older versions like Captivate 9 are still functional, there are compelling reasons to upgrade:
- Modern Device Support: New versions ensure compatibility across tablets and smartphones through HTML5 outputs.
- Speed and Efficiency: The 2023 version significantly reduces the time required to build and publish courses.
- Access to Adobe’s Ecosystem: Tight integration with Adobe Stock, Character Animator, and Creative Cloud accelerates multimedia development.
- Better Support and Community: Users of recent versions benefit from active forums, tutorials, and customer service.
Conclusion: Which Version Is Right for You?
If you are producing basic or static training modules and are already proficient with older versions, you might not need the bells and whistles of Captivate 2023. However, for creating immersive, learner-centric experiences or scaling your content production pipeline, the latest version is a smart investment. Each iteration of Adobe Captivate has made strides in reducing technical barriers and enhancing user engagement.
Ultimately, the choice comes down to your specific needs, budget constraints, and timeline. For new adopters or teams looking for scalability and modern user experiences, Adobe Captivate 2023 is the most future-proof and user-friendly option available.