Whether you’re preparing for travel, improving your career prospects, or just diving into a new language for fun, language learning apps are an excellent tool. I’ve tested several apps in my quest to master Spanish, and while the effectiveness can vary depending on the language and personal learning preferences, I’ve compiled a list of my top picks to help you on your language journey.
Before we dive into the apps, don’t forget to check out other helpful guides such as Navigating International Travel, Best Travel Adapters, Best Carry-On Luggage, and Favorite Travel Planning Apps and Tricks.
Do Language Learning Apps Work?
Language learning apps can be an effective way to build a foundation, especially for beginners or intermediate learners. However, they are not a magic solution for fluency. A review from Columbia University found that while apps are good for vocabulary building, they fall short in context-based learning, personalized adaptation, and providing feedback. For full fluency, human interaction is crucial. Real conversations with native speakers, cultural immersion, and real-life scenarios are the best ways to achieve fluency.
Studies, like one from Michigan State University, have shown that apps such as Babbel improve not only vocabulary and grammar but also oral communication skills. So, while these apps are great for building vocabulary, remember to supplement them with real-world practice and other learning tools like classes or conversations with native speakers.
Now, let’s explore the best language learning apps!
Best Overall: Babbel
Babbel stands out for its comprehensive approach to language learning. It doesn’t just teach vocabulary but also delves into grammar, pronunciation, and culture. I particularly appreciate the conversational exercises where you fill in the blanks, and the app allows you to choose courses based on different topics—no fixed order required. Babbel also offers podcasts and games, along with the option to book live classes with native instructors (though this can get pricey). It’s perfect for learners who want a structured, well-rounded approach.
Pros:
- Structured lessons with grammar and cultural insights
- Conversational practice with a variety of scenarios
- Slow difficulty progression with spaced repetition
Cons:
- Limited free trial with only one lesson per language
- Speech recognition can be inaccurate at times
Pricing: $15/month, $38 for 3 months, or $349 for a lifetime subscription.
Best Free App: Duolingo
Duolingo is a popular app known for its addictive gamification approach. The app makes learning feel like a game, with daily streaks to maintain and levels to unlock. Its mix of reading, writing, and grammar exercises, along with a recently added GPT-powered chatbot, makes it a fun way to start learning a new language. However, it’s important to note that Duolingo focuses mainly on vocabulary, and while it does include grammar tips, it lacks comprehensive speaking and listening practice.
Pros:
- Free with a large amount of content
- Gamified design makes learning fun
- Newly added GPT-powered chatbot
Cons:
- Ads and limited access in the free version
- Not enough speaking and listening practice for fluency
Pricing: Free, with Duolingo Plus at $13/month or Duolingo Max at $30/month.
For Casual Conversation: Memrise
Memrise focuses on vocabulary, especially useful for casual conversations, and is ideal for travelers. The app uses spaced repetition and includes native speaker videos, giving you a taste of real-world conversations. Memrise also includes a chatbot called MemBot to help you practice without fear of embarrassment. However, it lacks grammar explanations and can be repetitive for advanced learners.
Pros:
- Emphasis on real-life conversations
- Video clips of native speakers
- Useful for building a solid vocabulary
Cons:
- Focuses primarily on vocabulary
- Lacks grammar explanations
- Repetitive for advanced learners
Pricing: Free, with Memrise Pro at $15/month or $90/year.
For Peer Review: Busuu
If you’re looking for a bit of community interaction, Busuu offers a peer review system. After completing exercises, you can submit your work for feedback from native speakers. This feature, combined with structured lessons and live lessons, makes it one of the more interactive apps. It also covers a wide range of languages and offers live lessons at varying price points.
Pros:
- Peer review from native speakers
- Solid structure with various topics and grammar exercises
- Live lessons available
Cons:
- User review quality can vary
- Some typing exercises are tedious
Pricing: Free, with Busuu Premium at $14/month or $83/year. Live lessons start at $13 each.
For Live Classes: Lingoda
Lingoda is a great choice if you prefer learning through live classes. The app offers small group classes or one-on-one sessions with professional language teachers, giving you the opportunity to practice speaking with real people. With 24/7 classes available across different time zones, Lingoda is one of the best options for those looking for flexible, live language immersion.
Pros:
- Real-time interaction with professional teachers
- Classes available 24/7
- Personalized feedback
Cons:
- Expensive compared to other apps
- No app; requires Zoom and a stable internet connection
Pricing: Group lessons from $76/month, one-on-one lessons from $176/month.
For Visual Learners: Drops
If you’re a visual learner, Drops is a fun and effective way to build your vocabulary. The app focuses on visual associations, where you match words to pictures. It’s easy to use and works well for memorizing phrases related to travel, food, and business. However, it doesn’t cover grammar or pronunciation, so it’s best used as a complementary tool.
Pros:
- Excellent for building vocabulary visually
- Simple, user-friendly interface
- Fun and easy to use
Cons:
- No grammar lessons or pronunciation practice
- Limited to vocabulary learning
Pricing: Free with the option for Drops Premium at $13/month or $70/year.
Honorable Mentions
- Lingvist: Flashcards and vocabulary building with adaptive learning. ($10/month)
- Pimsleur: Focuses on listening and repeating phrases. ($15/month)
- Mondly: Short lessons with competitive gamification. ($10/month)
- Rosetta Stone: Immersive lessons with a focus on listening and speaking. ($12/month)
- Language Reactor: A Chrome extension for watching YouTube or Netflix with subtitles in two languages. Free.
Conclusion
Each language learning app offers a different approach, whether it’s gamification, live classes, or community interaction. For a complete learning experience, it’s best to combine these apps with additional resources like books, classes, or conversations with native speakers. Remember, language learning is a journey, and these apps can be excellent tools along the way. Happy learning!
I am Nilay, an experienced English Language Assessment Director at the International English Test, where I have been working full-time since February 2020. I specialize in helping people worldwide validate their English proficiency through comprehensive assessments and certifications.
Before joining the International English Test, I worked as a self-employed English Language Assessment Consultant from January 2015 to December 2019. During this time, I assisted companies and individuals in improving their language skills, helping them achieve their academic and professional goals.
I hold a degree in Engineering and have also studied at Shafston International College in Australia. My educational background has equipped me with the tools to make a meaningful impact in the field of English language learning. Additionally, I enjoy sharing my expertise through articles that explore effective teaching methods and language assessment strategies, contributing to the International English Test and the broader assessment community.
