Quesmed and iatroX are the two platforms most frequently compared by UK medical students and junior doctors. Both have mobile apps. Both claim adaptive learning. Both cover UKMLA. But they are architecturally different — and the 2026 updates have widened the gap in specific areas.
What Has Changed for 2026
UKMLA content map expansion (January 2026). The GMC expanded the MLA content map from approximately 311 to 430 conditions. The mapping grid was removed — any condition can now appear in any clinical context. The question for both platforms: does the content cover the expanded map? iatroX's Q-bank is mapped to the 2026 content map. Candidates should verify whether Quesmed's current content reflects the January 2026 expansion.
iatroX GPhC bank (new). iatroX now covers the GPhC Common Registration Assessment — an adaptive bank with Part 1 calculation drills and Part 2 SBAs/EMQs. Quesmed does not cover pharmacy exams.
AKT format change. From October 2025: 160 questions, 160 minutes. Both platforms cover the AKT, though iatroX's is free and Quesmed's requires a subscription.
Quesmed app. Quesmed's app continues to be one of the strongest mobile revision experiences — clean design, offline access, and daily flashcard integration. This remains a genuine Quesmed strength.
Updated Feature Comparison
| Feature | iatroX | Quesmed |
|---|---|---|
| Adaptive engine | True adaptive (performance-based) | Partial (daily scheduling) |
| NICE/BNF integration | Yes (RAG-based) | No |
| Free for UKMLA | Yes — full access | Trial only |
| Free for MRCGP AKT | Yes | No |
| DRCOG / DCH / DGM / DipIMC / FFICM | Yes — all covered | No — none covered |
| GPhC CRA | Yes — paid | No |
| Flashcard integration | No | Yes (daily feed) |
| Offline access | Yes | Yes (mature) |
| Mobile app | Yes (iOS + Android) | Yes (iOS + Android) |
| MHRA-registered | Yes | No |
| 2026 UKMLA content map coverage | Confirmed mapped | Verify with Quesmed |
The Adaptive Distinction (Unchanged but Important)
Quesmed's daily feed is a spaced repetition scheduling algorithm — it determines when you next see content based on time intervals. This ensures coverage: you see everything at appropriate intervals.
iatroX uses a true adaptive engine — selecting your next question based on your cumulative performance profile. If you are weak in endocrinology, the engine serves more endocrine questions. This ensures efficiency: you spend the most time on what you know least.
Spaced repetition optimises retention. Adaptive sequencing optimises learning efficiency. For time-poor candidates, the distinction matters.
The NICE Factor (Unchanged but Critical for 2026)
The 2026 UKMLA content map expansion means more conditions are examinable — and each condition's management follows specific NICE/BNF guidance. iatroX's RAG-based guideline integration means explanations are anchored to current guideline text. When a guideline updates, the explanation updates. Quesmed's explanations are authored and reviewed but not linked to live guideline sources.
For a UK-guideline-mapped exam with an expanded content map, this distinction has practical scoring implications.
Who Should Use Which
Flashcard-first learners who prefer structured daily routines: Quesmed. The daily feed and flashcard integration create a satisfying, consistent revision habit.
Candidates who want personalised gap-targeting and guideline-grounded explanations: iatroX. Every minute of study addresses your specific weaknesses.
Candidates sitting niche diplomas: iatroX only. Quesmed does not cover DRCOG, DCH, DGM, DipIMC, FFICM, DTM&H, or GPhC.
Budget-conscious UKMLA candidates: iatroX is free. Quesmed requires a subscription (~£15/month).
The two-platform approach: Quesmed (daily structure + flashcards) + iatroX (adaptive targeting + guideline verification). Many high scorers use both.
Pricing (2026)
Quesmed: Approximately £14.99/month (rolling). Annual plans available.
iatroX: Free for UKMLA, MRCGP, MRCP. Niche banks via iatroX Boards.
For UKMLA, iatroX costs nothing. Try it before you pay for anything else.