10 Top Language Learning Apps Compared: Which One Is Right for You?

Getting your Trinity Audio player ready…

Learning a new language is easier than ever. However, there are a lot of language-learning apps that can be confusing. Now we’re here to show you the language learning apps compared. Whether preparing for a trip abroad, expanding your career opportunities, or simply embracing a love for languages. Mobile apps offer powerful tools to make the process engaging and convenient. 

However, not all apps are created equal, and the right one for you depends on your goals, learning style, and the features you value most. This guide delves into language learning apps and compares them to help you decide which fits your needs.

Do Language Learning Apps Work?

Language learning apps can be highly effective for building foundational skills and helping learners get started with a new language, but their success depends on your goals and how you use them. These apps excel at introducing vocabulary, basic grammar, and common phrases, particularly for beginners. Their accessibility makes it easy to fit lessons into a busy schedule and gamified features. This includes streaks and rewards in apps such as Duolingo and Memrise, which motivate users.

Some apps like FluentU provide opportunities to practice real-world skills through interaction with native speakers or immersive video content. However, apps often fail to deliver the context and depth needed for fluency, as they tend to isolate vocabulary and grammar rather than integrate them into broader, conversational scenarios. They also rarely provide personalised feedback or in-depth correction that can come from working directly with a tutor or attending a structured class. For most learners, apps best supplement other language-learning methods, such as speaking with native speakers, attending classes, or engaging with authentic media.

How to Choose the Right Language Learning App

The first step in finding the perfect app is understanding your learning preferences and goals. Visual learners often benefit from apps like Drops and Memrise, which use colourful graphics and videos to teach vocabulary. For auditory learners, Pimsleur and Rosetta Stone focus on listening and speaking skills, helping users develop accurate pronunciation and conversational abilities. Meanwhile, those who prefer structure and grammar lessons may gravitate toward Babbel or Busuu, which mirror traditional classroom methods.

Budget is another critical factor. Free apps like Duolingo and HelloTalk provide excellent entry points but may need more depth of paid platforms such as FluentU or Rosetta Stone, which offer more comprehensive content. Finally, consider the languages offered. While some apps specialise in widely spoken languages like Spanish and French, others like Lingvist and Drops include options for less common tongues like Icelandic and Igbo.

The Best Language Learning Apps in Detail

When it comes to language learning, choosing the right app can significantly influence your success and enjoyment. With countless options available, each offering unique features and approaches, finding one that aligns with your learning style, goals, and preferences is essential. 

Whether you’re a beginner looking to grasp the basics, an advanced learner seeking to refine your skills, or simply someone who enjoys learning a new language, this section will explore a variety of top-rated language learning apps. We’ll compare their strengths and weaknesses, helping you confidently select the best tool for your language-learning journey.

1. Duolingo: Gamified Learning Made Fun

Duolingo has revolutionised language learning with its playful approach, using gamification to motivate learners. The app offers over 40 languages, from global staples like Spanish and French to niche ones like Hawaiian and Navajo. Its bite-sized lessons make it easy to stay consistent, and features like streaks, leaderboards, and rewards create a sense of achievement. 

Duolingo also includes tools like podcasts and stories to improve comprehension. However, it’s less suitable for advanced learners, as its grammar explanations and conversational practice are limited. Despite these drawbacks, Duolingo remains an excellent choice for beginners and casual learners.

Pros	Cons
Free tier with great content	Ads in the free version
Gamified and engaging	Limited advanced grammar and conversational practice
Offers 40+ languages, including niche ones	Can become repetitive
Short, manageable lessons	Lessons lack depth for advanced learners
Stories and podcasts enhance comprehension	Speech practice is minimal

2. Babbel: A Structured Classroom Experience

Babbel offers a comprehensive language learning experience that closely resembles the structure of a traditional language course. The platform is designed to help learners acquire a new language through engaging lessons. This prioritises essential aspects such as grammar, vocabulary, and realistic conversational skills. Babbel caters to a wide range of learners with a diverse selection of 14 languages, including Spanish, French, German, and Italian.

One of Babbel’s standout features is its focus on practical phrases and cultural insights, which are integral for anyone using their language skills in everyday situations. Whether planning a trip, preparing for a business meeting, or simply wanting to converse with native speakers, Babbel equips you with the tools necessary to communicate effectively and confidently. Each lesson is designed to be short and interactive, often taking 10-15 minutes to complete.

However, some may find the curriculum somewhat limiting for more advanced learners, as it may not delve deeply into advanced grammar or specialised vocabulary. Moreover, Babbel’s real-world approach extends beyond just language mechanics. It includes lessons infused with cultural nuances and context that enhance understanding and appreciation of the learned language. This cultural component helps learners not just to speak the language but to communicate more effectively within the cultural framework of its speakers.

Pros	Cons
Structured, traditional lessons	Structured, traditional lessons
Practical grammar and conversational focus	Content depth varies by language
Includes cultural insights	Requires a subscription for full access
Short, interactive sessions that fit busy schedules	Some learners may find the pace too slow

3. Rosetta Stone: Immersion for Serious Learners

Rosetta Stone’s immersive approach eliminates translations, teaching users through images and context alone. This method mirrors how children learn their first language, making it particularly effective for beginners. 

With 25 languages on offer, the app combines this immersion with speech recognition technology to help perfect pronunciation. While the repetitive exercises and lack of explicit grammar instruction may deter some, Rosetta Stone’s polished design and proven method make it a staple for serious learners.

Pros	Cons
Immersive approach eliminates translations	Repetitive exercises
Strong speech recognition tools improve pronunciation	Minimal explicit grammar instruction
Polished design with 25 languages offered	High subscription costs
Effective for beginners and early language stages	Limited for advanced learners seeking conversation skills

4. Pimsleur: Audio Lessons for On-the-Go Learning

For those who learn best by listening, Pimsleur is a standout choice. Its 30-minute audio lessons focus on practical conversations, with prompts encouraging users to speak and recall phrases. The app’s hands-free mode makes it ideal for multitasking, whether commuting or exercising. 

With 51 languages available, Pimsleur offers broad coverage but limits its scope to speaking and listening, with little emphasis on reading or grammar. It’s a valuable tool for learners prioritising verbal communication.

Pros	Cons
Excellent for pronunciation and speaking skills	Limited reading and writing practice
Hands-free lessons ideal for multitasking	Lacks depth in grammar
Covers 51 languages with well-structured audio content	Relatively high subscription costs
Lessons focus on practical, conversational language	Material can feel slow or formal for advanced learners

5. Memrise: Vocabulary Through Native Voices

Memrise focuses on vocabulary acquisition using spaced repetition and video clips of native speakers. These short, engaging lessons make picking up valuable words and phrases easy, while the native speaker videos provide cultural context and natural pronunciation. 

However, grammar explanations could be more varied; some may find the repetition tedious. Memrise is ideal for learners who build a strong vocabulary and gain exposure to authentic speech.

Pros	Cons
Native speaker videos provide authentic exposure	Limited grammar explanations
Engaging, gamified vocabulary learning keeps users motivated	Repetition can feel tedious
Customisable flashcards cater to individual needs.	Not ideal for advanced learners seeking deeper immersion
Suitable for building a strong vocabulary base quickly	Words and phrases taught in isolation, lacking context

6. Lingvist: Flashcards for the Essentials

Lingvist takes a streamlined approach, teaching users the most common words and phrases in a language. Its AI-driven flashcards adapt to your learning progress, ensuring efficiency. 

This app is handy for quickly building a functional vocabulary. However, it lacks features like speaking practice and grammar instruction, making it best suited for learners seeking a supplementary tool.

Pros	Cons
Focuses on high-frequency, practical vocabulary	Limited language options (6 total)
Personalised flashcards adapt to the learner’s progress.	Minimal speaking or grammar instruction
Simple, efficient interface for focused learning	Best used as a supplementary tool alongside other apps
Vocabulary themes cover practical topics like hobbies and travel	Lack of interactive or immersive content

7. Busuu: Personalised Feedback From Native Speakers

Busuu sets itself apart by incorporating feedback from native speakers. Users can submit written and spoken exercises to the community for correction, creating an interactive and personalised experience. The app also offers structured lessons, proficiency tests, and study plans tailored to your goals. 

While Busuu’s free version is limited, its premium plan unlocks extensive content and valuable features. It’s an excellent choice for learners who thrive on direct interaction and constructive criticism.

Pros	Cons
Feedback from native speakers enhances learning	Limited free features
Offers proficiency tests and personalised study plans	Quality of native speaker feedback can vary
Structured lessons with practical conversational content	Some users find the content less engaging or entertaining
The quality of native speaker feedback can vary	Limited language variety compared to other apps

8. FluentU: Learn Through Real-World Videos

FluentU transforms authentic video content—such as music videos, movie trailers, and vlogs—into interactive lessons. Subtitles and clickable words make it easy to learn new vocabulary in context, while personalised quizzes reinforce understanding. 

FluentU is perfect for intermediate and advanced learners who want to explore a language through media they already enjoy. However, its subscription cost may deter budget-conscious users.

Pros	Cons
Engaging real-world videos like music, movie trailers, and vlogs	Expensive subscription cost
Interactive subtitles make it easy to learn new vocabulary in context	Limited number of languages available (9)
Personalised quizzes reinforce learning effectively	Not ideal for absolute beginners without a foundational understanding
Excellent for intermediate and advanced learners seeking cultural immersion	Less emphasis on grammar and foundational skills

9. Drops: Vocabulary for Visual Learners

Drops use vibrant visuals and quick matching games to teach vocabulary. Each session lasts five minutes, ensuring users stay focused and avoid burnout. 

With over 40 languages, including lesser-known options like Ainu and Igbo, Drops is ideal for learners with short attention spans or those looking to supplement their studies. Its main limitation is the need for grammar or conversation practice, making it a complementary tool rather than a standalone solution.

Pros	Cons
Visually appealing, minimalist design that’s easy to use	Limited to vocabulary learning only
Fun and quick vocabulary games cater to short attention spans	No grammar or conversation practice included
Supports over 40 languages, including rare ones like Ainu and Igbo	Free version limits usage to five minutes per day
Encourages consistent learning with daily goals	Paid version doesn’t add significant extra content

10. HelloTalk: Real Conversations With Native Speakers

HelloTalk connects learners with native speakers for text, audio, and video exchanges. This social platform fosters authentic conversations, helping users practice speaking and listening skills in real-time. 

While user-led content can vary in quality, HelloTalk’s translation and correction tools make navigating easier. It’s a fantastic resource for learners ready to step outside the classroom and engage with real people.

Pros	Cons
Real-time interaction with native speakers through text, audio, and video	Dependent on user-led interactions, which can vary in quality
Translation, transliteration, and correction tools make communication easier.	Conversations always stall at basic small talk.
	Not structured like a traditional language course.
	Free features are limited compared to the premium version

Apps Similar to HelloTalk

If you’re looking for apps similar to HelloTalk for language learning and practice, there are several apps that offer similar features. Here are a few notable options which you can choose from, and if you’re enjoying HellotTalk, try these out:

Tandem

This app connects you with language learners around the world based on your interests and language goals. You can chat via text, voice, or video calls, making it a versatile choice for practising your language skills.

Speaky

Speaky is a language exchange platform that allows you to connect with native speakers. You can search for language partners by interests and engage in text, voice, or video conversations.

Lingbe

Lingbe is an app which focuses on voice conversations. You earn credits by helping others practice your native language and can use those credits to practice a language you are learning. It’s particularly good for speaking practice.

italki

While not a direct language exchange app, italki connects you with professional teachers and language partners. You can take formal lessons or engage in free language exchanges with other learners.

Bilingua

Bilingua is an app is designed to help you find language partners who match your interests. It encourages meaningful conversations and allows for practice in a more natural context.

ConversationExchange

ConversationExchange is a a web-based platform that allows for text, audio, and even face-to-face meetups with fellow language learners. You can find partners based on the languages you’re learning and your location.

Which is the best language-learning app?

Language learning has become increasingly popular in today’s globalised world, and choosing the right app can make all the difference in achieving fluency. With numerous options available, it’s essential to compare different platforms to find the one that best suits your learning style and goals. 

We’ll explore some of the top language learning apps, including Babbel, Pimsleur, Rosetta Stone, Duolingo, and Busuu, to help you determine the best fit for you.

Babbel vs Pimsleur 

Babbel is renowned for its structured courses on practical conversations and real-life scenarios. It offers a variety of languages and tailors its content to your level, making it ideal for beginners and intermediate learners. 

On the other hand, Pimsleur is known for its audio-focused method, which emphasises listening and speaking skills through engaging dialogues. While Babbel provides a more comprehensive curriculum that includes reading and writing, Pimsleur’s approach benefits those who want to enhance their pronunciation and verbal skills.

Babbel vs Rosetta Stone vs Pimsleur

When comparing Babbel, Rosetta Stone, and Pimsleur, it’s vital to consider each’s distinct features. Rosetta Stone employs an immersive approach, using visual and auditory context without translations. This method can be effective for learners who prefer a more intuitive language understanding. 

However, some learners may find it challenging without explicit grammar explanations. Babbel’s lessons, in contrast, offer bite-sized chunks of information with grammar tips, making concepts more straightforward. Pimsleur complements these options with its strong focus on speaking and listening, which many find helpful for conversational practice.

Duolingo vs Busuu

Busuu and Duolingo are popular choices for language learners seeking a gamified experience. Duolingo’s points and levels system is fun and interactive, appealing to users who enjoy competition and rewards. It covers many languages, making it accessible to learners worldwide. 

Busuu takes it further by allowing users to interact with native speakers for real-time feedback on writing and speaking exercises. This social element can significantly enhance the learning experience and provide valuable practical language usage.

Drops vs Duolingo

Drops and Duolingo are popular language-learning platforms catering to different learning styles and objectives. Drops is designed to focus on vocabulary acquisition through engaging visual and auditory stimuli. Its brief sessions, typically around five minutes, allow users to learn new words in a fun, game-like environment. 

This app emphasises memory retention through repeated exposure to vocabulary while using colourful images and quick interactions, making it particularly appealing for visual learners. However, Drops primarily concentrates on word learning and doesn’t cover grammar in depth, which can limit its effectiveness for those looking to develop a more comprehensive understanding of a language.

On the other hand, Duolingo offers a more holistic approach to language learning by integrating vocabulary, grammar, reading, and listening exercises into its curriculum. With a structured progression system, Duolingo allows users to advance through levels as they complete lessons and quizzes reinforcing the material learned. 

It includes various activities, such as translating sentences, listening to audio, and speaking exercises, catering to different aspects of language acquisition. While Duolingo provides a more rigorous and varied learning experience, its gamified approach also makes it entertaining.

Babbel vs Mondly

Babbel is the better choice for learners who value a structured and comprehensive approach to language learning. Its lessons are designed by language experts and follow a logical progression, starting with basic phrases and gradually advancing to more complex grammar and conversational skills. Additionally, its speech recognition technology ensures accurate pronunciation, while its emphasis on grammar and context provides a deep understanding of the language.

Mondly, on the other hand, is perfect for learners seeking a fun and interactive way to pick up a new language. Its gamified approach, vibrant visuals, quick exercises, and features like augmented reality make it highly engaging. However, its lack of in-depth grammar explanations and reliance on repetition over structured progression may not be the best choice for those aiming for advanced proficiency.  

While both apps have their strengths, Babbel stands out for learners seeking a deeper, more systematic way to master a language. In contrast, Mondly is better suited for those prioritising convenience and entertainment.  

How to Choose the Right App for You

Choosing the best app depends on your goals. If you’re a beginner, apps like Duolingo and Mondly provide accessible entry points. Babbel and Busuu offer comprehensive lessons for structured learners, while conversationalists may prefer Pimsleur or HelloTalk. 

Visual learners will thrive with Drops and Memrise, and immersion enthusiasts will appreciate Rosetta Stone and FluentU. Combining apps can also create a well-rounded learning experience that addresses vocabulary, grammar, and speaking skills.

1. Consider Your Language Level

If you’re a beginner, your priority might be learning basic vocabulary and understanding simple sentence structures. Apps like Duolingo and Mondly are excellent starting points. These apps use gamified approaches and straightforward lessons that break down the language into digestible chunks, making them less overwhelming for new learners. Duolingo offers free access to over 40 languages, while Mondly introduces users to common phrases with daily lessons tailored to practical scenarios.

For intermediate learners, apps like Babbel and Busuu provide a more structured approach. Babbel excels in teaching grammar and conversational phrases, while Busuu allows you to practice speaking and writing with feedback from native speakers. These apps can help solidify foundational knowledge and prepare you for more advanced concepts.

Advanced learners might benefit most from apps that focus on real-world usage, such as FluentU, which uses authentic video content, or HelloTalk, which connects you with native speakers for immersive conversations.

2. Match the App to Your Learning Style

• Visual learners will find apps like Drops and Memrise particularly effective. These apps rely heavily on visuals, such as images and flashcards, to teach vocabulary. Drops employ a minimalist design with short, timed sessions that prevent burnout, while Memrise incorporates videos of native speakers to provide cultural context and improve pronunciation.
• Auditory learners thrive with apps like Pimsleur and Rosetta Stone. Pimsleur focuses on audio-based lessons that encourage listening and speaking, making it ideal for users who want to practice pronunciation and verbal communication. Rosetta Stone’s immersion method emphasises listening and speaking, eliminating the need for translations and helping learners absorb the language naturally.
• Structured learners may prefer apps that mimic traditional classroom experiences. Babbel offers interactive lessons that build progressively, teaching grammar and conversational skills in a logical order. Similarly, Busuu provides structured lessons with personalised study plans and proficiency tests, making tracking progress and staying on course easier.

3. Define Your Goals

The app you choose should align with your language learning objectives:

• If your goal is conversation and speaking practice, apps like HelloTalk and Pimsleur are excellent. HelloTalk connects you with native speakers for real-time exchanges, while Pimsleur’s focus on verbal repetition ensures you build practical communication skills.
• Lingvist, Memrise, and Drops are great options for building vocabulary. These apps focus on high-frequency words and use spaced repetition techniques to help users retain vocabulary over time.
• If you’re aiming for immersion, Rosetta Stone and FluentU stand out. Rosetta Stone teaches entirely in the target language, replicating how children learn their first language. FluentU offers real-world video content like music and vlogs, allowing learners to experience the language used in natural contexts.
• It is also important to understand and define your goals if you want to communicate online or travel to different countries. Your overall goal might change if you want to do cultural immersions and speak to people from another country.

4. Evaluate the Language Selection

Some apps specialise in a broad range of languages, while others focus on a select few. If you’re learning a common language like Spanish, French, or German, you’ll have many options across all apps. However, if you’re studying a less common language like Icelandic or Igbo, apps like Drops, Memrise, or Transparent Language Online may better suit your needs. Always check whether your target language is well-supported before committing to an app.

5. Combine Apps for a Comprehensive Experience

No single app can address every aspect of language learning. Combining apps allows you to create a well-rounded experience that covers vocabulary, grammar, and speaking skills:

• Use Duolingo for daily vocabulary and grammar practice, pairing it with HelloTalk to interact with native speakers and gain conversational experience.
• Combine Babbel for structured lessons with FluentU to immerse yourself in real-world video content.
• For a more holistic approach, pair a vocabulary-focused app like Memrise or Lingvist with a speaking-oriented app like Pimsleur or Busuu.

6. Factor in Time and Budget

If you’re short on time, apps with bite-sized lessons like Drops or Duolingo are ideal for fitting into a busy schedule. On the other hand, if you can dedicate longer periods to studying, apps like Babbel or Rosetta Stone, which require more focus, may provide better results.

Budget constraints can also affect the choice of app. Free apps like Duolingo, HelloTalk, and Drops offer valuable content without requiring payment, while premium options like FluentU or Rosetta Stone provide more comprehensive and immersive experiences at a higher cost.

Language learning apps cater to diverse needs, from vocabulary drills to cultural immersion. While no single app guarantees fluency, the right combination can significantly accelerate your progress. Experiment with these tools, embrace consistency and immerse yourself in your target language. Whichever app you choose, the journey of learning a language is as rewarding as it is transformative.

Language Learning Apps FAQs