Learning a new language has never been easier—or more fun! With so many language learning apps available, you can practice any time, anywhere, at your own pace.
But which app is right for you? Whether you’re brushing up for a trip abroad, learning for work, or just exploring a new hobby, here’s a rundown of the best language learning apps to help you master a new language.
1. Duolingo: The Gamified Favorite
Duolingo has become a household name, and for good reason. With its game-like format, the app makes learning feel like play. You’ll earn points, collect streaks, and unlock new levels as you go, which makes it perfect for those who need a little extra motivation to keep going.
Key Features:
- Over 30 Languages: From widely spoken languages like Spanish and French to niche ones like Welsh and Hawaiian.
- Quick Daily Lessons: Lessons can be as short as 5 minutes, making it easy to fit learning into your schedule.
- Interactive Learning: Exercises cover speaking, reading, listening, and writing, giving you a well-rounded approach.
Why It Stands Out:
Duolingo’s bite-sized lessons are perfect for beginners and busy learners. It’s free with ads, or you can upgrade to Duolingo Plus for an ad-free experience.
2. Babbel: Structured and Comprehensive
Babbel offers a more structured approach to language learning, with courses designed by linguistic experts. The app provides comprehensive lessons in 14 languages, focusing on practical vocabulary and conversational skills.
Key Features:
- Real-Life Conversations: Babbel emphasizes speaking from the beginning, so you can use what you learn right away.
- Tailored Lessons: Courses are organized by themes, so you can focus on what matters most to you, whether that’s travel phrases or business lingo.
- Speech Recognition: Babbel includes exercises that test your pronunciation and help you speak more naturally.
Why It Stands Out:
Babbel’s approach is effective for those who prefer structure and a clear progression through lessons. It’s subscription-based, with options to pay monthly, quarterly, or annually.
3. Memrise: Learn with Real-World Content
Memrise takes an immersive approach by integrating real-world content like videos of native speakers. It’s available in over 20 languages, making it ideal for those who want to learn how people actually speak in everyday life.
Key Features:
- Native Speaker Videos: Memrise uses videos of real people speaking, helping you get a feel for accents and natural conversation.
- Spaced Repetition: The app uses a proven technique to help you retain vocabulary over time.
- Community-Created Courses: Beyond the official courses, users can create their own lessons, adding more diversity to what’s available.
Why It Stands Out:
Memrise makes language learning more realistic and immersive by letting you hear from native speakers right away. The app is free, with a premium version that offers additional features.
4. Busuu: Personalized and Goal-Oriented
Busuu combines AI and human feedback to give you a tailored learning experience. It offers courses in 12 languages, with an emphasis on setting personalized goals and tracking your progress.
Key Features:
- AI-Driven Personalization: The app adapts to your learning pace and needs, making each lesson more effective.
- Practice with Native Speakers: Busuu allows you to interact with native speakers who can provide feedback on your language skills.
- Offline Mode: Download lessons to learn on the go, even without an internet connection.
Why It Stands Out:
Busuu’s combination of AI and human interaction gives you the best of both worlds. It’s free to start, but you’ll need a subscription to access premium features like grammar tips and offline learning.
5. Rosetta Stone: The Classic Immersive Method
Rosetta Stone has been around for decades and remains a trusted name in language learning. Its immersive approach focuses on learning through pictures, words, and sounds, just like a child learning their first language.
Key Features:
- No Translations: You learn directly in the target language, which helps with retention and understanding.
- Speech Recognition: The app’s proprietary speech recognition technology helps you perfect your pronunciation.
- 30+ Languages: Rosetta Stone offers a wide range of languages, including some that are less commonly taught.
Why It Stands Out:
Rosetta Stone’s tried-and-true method is perfect for learners who want to dive deep and get a solid foundation. Subscriptions can be on the pricey side, but there’s a free trial to get you started.
6. HelloTalk: Practice with Native Speakers
HelloTalk is a unique app that lets you learn a language by chatting with native speakers around the world. It’s less structured than other apps, but it’s perfect for those who want to practice real conversations in a relaxed setting.
Key Features:
- Language Exchange: You can practice with native speakers while helping them learn your language.
- Built-In Translation and Correction Tools: These features make it easy to chat with others, even if you’re a beginner.
- Voice Chat and Video Calls: HelloTalk also offers voice and video chat, so you can practice speaking and listening in real time.
Why It Stands Out:
HelloTalk is ideal for those who want to go beyond traditional lessons and learn by engaging with real people. It’s free with optional in-app purchases.
7. Pimsleur: Audio-Based Learning on the Go
If you’re always on the move, Pimsleur’s audio-focused lessons might be just what you need. This app is great for auditory learners, with lessons that you can listen to while driving, working out, or doing chores.
Key Features:
- 30-Minute Audio Lessons: Short, engaging lessons that fit easily into your daily routine.
- Focus on Speaking and Listening: Pimsleur emphasizes practical conversation skills, with an emphasis on pronunciation and comprehension.
- Offline Access: Download lessons to take with you wherever you go.
Why It Stands Out:
Pimsleur’s approach is perfect for auditory learners and those who prefer listening over reading. It’s subscription-based but offers a free trial to get you started.
So there you have it—a lineup of some of the best language learning apps, each with unique features to suit different learning styles and goals. Now the only question is: which one will you start with? Download a few, try them out, and see which one feels like the right fit for your language journey!