Sona AI vs Synthesia: which is better for practice-based learning?

If you’re exploring AI in learning, you’ve probably come across Synthesia — a popular tool for creating AI video presenters. But if your goal is practice-based learning (getting people to apply skills in realistic situations), video alone isn’t enough.

Here’s a side-by-side look at where each tool shines — and where Sona AI takes a different approach.

What Synthesia does well

  • Creates polished, studio-style videos with AI presenters in multiple languages.

  • Useful for delivering consistent messaging at scale.

  • Low production effort compared to filming real people.

Where it falls short for skill development

  • Passive experience – Learners watch, but don’t interact.

  • No adaptive feedback – Everyone gets the same video, regardless of ability.

  • Limited behavioural measurement – You can track views and completions, but not decision-making or skill progression.

What Sona AI does differently

  • Interactive roleplay – Learners hold two-way conversations with AI personas, making decisions in real time.

  • Adaptive scenarios – Responses change based on learner input, creating a dynamic experience.

  • Measurable behaviours – Track choices, priorities, and improvement over time.

  • Safe practice space – Make mistakes without real-world consequences.

When to use each

  • Use Synthesia when you need to inform — e.g. onboarding videos, explainer content, company updates.

  • Use Sona AI when you need to develop skills — e.g. handling complaints, managing safety incidents, leading a difficult team conversation.

Bottom line:
If your objective is knowledge transfer, video tools like Synthesia are quick and cost-effective. If your objective is behaviour change, you need an interactive, measurable environment — and that’s where Sona AI delivers.

CTA: See our process for designing AI-powered practice spaces

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