This article was updated for June 2026.
The best virtual lab software can recreate hands-on learning experiences in a digital environment, helping students experiment and explore without needing access to a physical classroom or lab space. That makes these platforms useful not only for remote learning, but also for extending practical science work beyond normal lesson time.
Virtual lab software is especially effective for STEM teaching, giving students the chance to safely carry out experiments, test theories, and learn lab techniques in a secure virtual setting. It also opens access to advanced tools and simulations that many schools may not have available in real-world labs.
From running interactive science experiments to exploring materials and reactions at a molecular level, the best virtual lab software offers a wide variety of learning opportunities. With more options now available than ever before, these are the standout virtual lab platforms worth considering for schools and educators.
Best Virtual Lab Software 2026
1. Labster: Best virtual lab software overall
Labster offers one of the most well-finished and comprehensive virtual lab experiences available for schools, colleges, and universities. The platform combines game-style learning with detailed science simulations that allow students to perform experiments -- in a safe digital environment -- while still following real scientific methods and processes.
The library includes hundreds of simulations covering biology, chemistry, physics, environmental science, and more, with content designed to align closely with curriculum standards. Students can interact with advanced lab equipment and complex scenarios that many schools may not otherwise have access to in person.
Teachers have access to built-in assessment tools, LMS integration, analytics, and progress tracking that make it easier to monitor understanding and engagement. While this is a premium platform and may be more advanced than some younger learners require, it is one of the best all-round virtual lab options available.
2. Explore Learning Gizmos: Best for support
ExploreLearning Gizmos is designed specifically with classroom teaching in mind, offering a large collection of math and science simulations aligned to K-12 curricula. The platform is great for teachers who want ready-made activities that integrate smoothly into existing lesson plans.
Each Gizmo simulation includes supporting teaching materials, assessment tools, vocabulary support, and lesson guidance, making it easier to scaffold learning for different ability levels. The browser-based system also works well across devices, helping students continue learning both in school and at home.
While the visuals are less cinematic than some competitors, the curriculum focus and ease of use make this a practical and highly teacher-friendly option. This is great for schools that want to integrate virtual labs into day-to-day teaching.
3. PhET Interactive Simulations: Best for resources
PhET Interactive Simulations stands out as one of the best free STEM simulation resources for educators. Developed by the University of Colorado Boulder, the platform offers a huge range of browser-based simulations covering physics, chemistry, biology, math, and earth science.
This gives great accessibility and simplicity. Simulations are easy to launch, work across devices, and allow students to experiment freely with scientific concepts in a visual and interactive way. Teachers can use these tools for demonstrations, guided exploration, or independent learning activities.
PhET focuses on open-ended experimentation rather than structured lesson pathways. That flexibility remains one of its biggest strengths. For schools looking for a high-quality free option, this is still among the very best available.
4. NOVA Labs: Best for quality and fun content
NOVA Labs from PBS is designed for middle and high school students, with a focus on research challenges, which are fun and engaging.
This is built around lots of high-quality video content that covers plenty, from designing RNA to predicting solar storms. With quiz answers and notes recorded, this can be a useful assessment tool as well as a student-led learning experience.
The ability to merge online tasks such as bonding base pairs, say, with learning content, helps to gamify learning for students. While there could be better integration with all levels and class topics, this is a great way to get students learning through active engagement.
5. Inq-ITS: Best for NGSS learning
INq-ITS combines virtual science labs with assessment and real-time analytics to support inquiry-based learning. The platform is useful for schools following NGSS standards, using AI-supported analysis to help identify where students may be struggling during activities.
Students can work through simulations independently while the software tracks engagement, progress, and scientific reasoning skills. Teachers receive detailed feedback and performance insights without needing to manually assess every stage of the process.
The interface is more education-focused than on looks, but the combination of virtual experimentation and actionable learning data make it really useful.
6. LabXchange: Best for connected science learning
LabXchange from Harvard takes a broader approach to virtual labs by combining simulations, videos, pathways, and learning content into a connected digital science platform. Originally developed by Harvard University, the system is designed to help students move between theory, experimentation, and real-world scientific applications.
The platform includes virtual lab activities across biology, genetics, chemistry, and health sciences, alongside teacher tools and customizable learning options. Educators can build and share collections of content, making it useful for structured lessons and independent exploration.
Its clean design and accessibility make it appealing for blended learning environments where students can learn both inside and outside the classroom.
7. PraxiLabs: Best for advanced STEM simulations
PraxiLabs offers immersive science lab simulations, focused in chemistry, physics, and biology. The platform recreates realistic laboratory environments in which students can try experiments, step by step, while learning correct scientific procedures and safety protocols.
The detailed visual presentation helps make complex concepts easier to understand for students. The platform also supports both English and Arabic, helping broaden accessibility for international schools and learners.
Teachers can track progress and assign activities while students gain access to experiments that may otherwise be difficult, expensive, or unsafe to recreate in a classroom setting.
8. The Concord Consortium: Best for inquiry-led STEM exploration
The Concord Consortium offers a collection of interactive STEM tools and simulations all about inquiry-based learning. The platform covers climate science, environmental modelling, data analysis, and scientific investigation.
These tools encourage students to explore systems, test ideas, and analyze outcomes through experimentation and modelling. That makes the platform useful for deeper STEM exploration and project-based learning.
Many resources are browser-based and free, helping teachers integrate advanced STEM concepts into lessons without needing specialist hardware or expensive equipment.
