SmartPLS 4 vs Stata SEM
Click‑to‑Model vs Code‑First
Overview
Stata provides SEM/GSEM with both a builder and syntax.
SmartPLS 4 delivers a dedicated SEM experience with CB‑SEM & PLS‑SEM, rapid iteration, and streamlined reporting.
SmartPLS 4 delivers a dedicated SEM experience with CB‑SEM & PLS‑SEM, rapid iteration, and streamlined reporting.
Why Institutions Choose SmartPLS
SmartPLS provides code-free modeling for CB-SEM and PLS-SEM, reducing dependence on scripting skills and easing cross-disciplinary adoption.
Consistent, exportable figures and tables standardize deliverables across courses, labs, and supervisory workflows.
Consistent, exportable figures and tables standardize deliverables across courses, labs, and supervisory workflows.
Key Differences
| Feature | SmartPLS 4 | Stata Sem |
|---|---|---|
| Method Coverage | CB-SEM and PLS-SEM (incl. PROCESS, GSCA, Regression, NCA) | Defined by tool |
| Interface | GUI based | GUI based |
| Usability | Modern GUI. Drag-and-drop modeling. | Defined by tool |
| Learning Curve | Low | Moderate |
| Platform & OS Support | Windows, macOS, Linux | Defined by tool |
| Licensing Model | Commercial license (academic/site options) | Defined by tool |
Sources (short)
- SmartPLS: https://www.smartpls.com
Note on comparability and sources
This comparison reflects SmartPLS 4.1.1.5 versus the compared software (see page), as of 11 Oct 2025. The information is based on publicly available vendor/user documentation, release notes, and hands‑on use. Please include concrete version numbers and this as‑of date when citing. Product and brand names belong to their respective owners and are used for identification only.
