It’s easy to get lost in language learning material, but using language learning software can turn studying into a fun and pleasant activity.
Learners first need to know where to start, and it’s difficult to do it alone. Since there are many language learning platforms, it’s best to choose the one that suits your needs.
That’s why we reviewed some of the most prominent language learning software and provided a detailed guide on how to decide which one you should use.
– 13 Best Language Learning Software –
This software provides a unique and scientifically proven method of learning foreign languages. Its users don’t have to worry about information overload because of the graduated interval recall method, helping in moving new words from short-memory into long-term memory. The platform provides 50 languages and ESL courses.
- Interface: A bit slow, but interactive
- Languages: 50
- Learning Activities: Listening
- Pricing: $19.95/month
- Mobile App: Yes
- Customer Support: Email, phone
- Best For: Beginners and visually impaired learners
- Uses scientifically prove method
- Users can learn on the go
- Great for learning to speak
The best free language learning software is undoubtedly Duolingo. However, Duolingo is more of a tool than a complete course. It has a vast community where users share valuable information. There’s a Duolingo Plus option that’s not free but provides additional resources and removes ads.
- Interface: Fun and simple to use
- Languages: 36
- Learning Activities: Reading, writing, listening
- Pricing: Free or starting from $6.99/month for Duolingo Plus
- Mobile App: Yes
- Customer Support: Email, forum, message
- Best For: All language learners
- Offers Duolingo classroom option
- Provides personalized instructions
- Offers gamification for fun learning
One of the best language learning programs for learning the basics is Mondly. It’s cheap, but it has a free option, as well. Mondly has interesting features, and it’s perfect for people who want to learn a new language for fun. It’s also possible to interact with other Mondly users through games.
- Interface: Dynamic
- Languages: 33
- Learning Activities: Listening, writing, speaking, translating
- Pricing: Free, $9.99/month, $47.99/year, and $79.99/lifetime access
- Mobile App: Yes
- Customer Support: Email
- Best For: Casual learners
- It’s possible to skip and repeat lessons
- Has speaking exercises
- Provides language learning in AV/VR
Babbel is one of the best foreign language programs for those who want to learn a language from scratch. It offers a professional and methodical approach to language learning. Even though lessons aren’t very engaging, the platform provides in-depth content and meticulously organized learning paths.
- Interface: A bit dull
- Languages: 14
- Learning Activities: Reading, writing, listening, and speaking
- Pricing: $13.95/month
- Mobile App: Yes
- Customer Support: Email, message, phone
- Best For: Absolute beginners
- Has a more professional approach
- Offers different types of courses
- Teaches important and relevant vocabulary
Rosetta Stone has been around since 1992 and is one of the best foreign language learning software because it provides users with the option to talk with native speakers. Its cooperation with retail partners, such as Amazon and Barnes & Noble, makes it stand out. Rosetta Stone uses a teaching method called total immersion.
- Interface: Organized, Intuitive
- Languages: 25
- Learning Activities: Listening, speaking, writing, reading
- Pricing: $11.99/month–$199/lifetime for students
- Mobile App: Yes
- Customer Support: Email, phone, chat
- Best For: Students and learning vocabulary
- Has an option to learn endangered languages
- Has responsive customer support
- Offers opportunity to converse with natives
Mango’s adaptive algorithms are what makes it the best program to learn a language intuitively. Mango tracks how its users learn and adapts to their learning styles. It offers many language courses, different subscription options, and family profiles of up to five people.
- Interface: Not engaging but easy to use
- Languages: 70+
- Learning Activities: Reading, listening, speaking
- Pricing: $7.99/month/single language or $17.99/month/all languages
- Mobile App: Yes
- Customer Support: Phone, email, submitting a ticket
- Best For: Learning many languages
- Offers personalized learning
- Offers learning for enterprises
- Provides insightful cultural notes
Memrise offers the best language learning app and has a unique interface. Language learning is based mostly on tests and flashcards, but there’s more content available. Memrise also offers user-generated content, so the quality is questionable. Nevertheless, users can find plenty of useful information on this platform.
- Interface: Highly engaging
- Languages: 22
- Learning Activities: Memorization
- Pricing: Free or $8.99/month, $7.5/month (annual subscription), $139.99/lifetime
- Mobile App: Yes
- Customer Support: Forum, message, FAQ section
- Best For: Learners interested in real-life language use
- Offers many customization options
- Has highly engaging and fun software
- Provides diverse learning material
Rocket Languages is a language learning software that is the best sign language learning software as well. Rocket Language helps users learn how native speakers use language in daily conversations. Its lessons are concise, organized, and based on constant repetition. That method might not be engaging for some, but it’s an effective way to memorize grammar and vocabulary.
- Interface: Easy to use
- Languages: 14
- Learning Activities: Writing, speaking, listening
- Pricing: $99.95–$449.85
- Mobile App: Yes
- Customer Support: Email, phone
- Best For: Sign language learners
- Offers a video-based sign language course
- Combines interactive exercises with audio instructions
- Offers downloadable materials
Busuu has a global community of over 100 million users. Busuu lets its users choose grammar lessons based on their goals and uses machine learning to create more personalized courses. Users can practice, talk with native English speakers, and contact professional tutors.
- Interface: Clear and intuitive
- Languages: 12
- Learning Activities: Writing, speaking, listening
- Pricing: $12.1/month (Premium), $13.3/month (Premium Plus)
- Mobile App: Yes
- Customer Support: Message
- Best For: Goal-oriented learners
- Has the speech recognition tool
- Provides useful cultural tips
- Provides business language training option
The best ways to learn a language are speaking with a native speaker and learning from a qualified teacher. Italki enables its users to learn from professionals for an affordable price. Learners can find a teacher who meets their needs and book a class when they want.
- Interface: Easy to navigate
- Languages: 130+
- Learning Activities: Speaking, listening
- Pricing: Depends on a teacher
- Mobile App: Yes
- Customer Support: Request, FAQ page
- Best For: All learners
- Over 10,000 teachers available
- It’s possible to use Italki credits to pay for classes
- No fixed class timetable
This language immersion software focuses on live classes and has over 1,500 professional teachers at your disposal. You can even learn in small groups or one-on-one with a preferred teacher. With Ligonda, you’ll learn how to speak correctly and sound like a local.
- Interface: Intuitive and easy to navigate
- Languages: 4 (+ business English)
- Learning Activities: Live classes
- Pricing: $148–$880/ four weeks (one-on-one lessons) or $56–$380/four weeks (group lessons)
- Mobile App: No
- Customer Support: Request
- Best For: Those who like to learn with teachers
- Marathon courses
- One-on-one learning or group classes
- Cambridge test
If you’re interested only in the English language teaching programs, Cambly is probably the best choice for you. All subscribers have unlimited access to the tutor community and course catalogs. The platform also offers classes for kids.
- Interface: Easy to use
- Languages: 1
- Learning Activities: One-on-one classes
- Pricing: $52–$336/month (10% off if billed every three months, 25% off if billed annually)
- Mobile App: Yes
- Customer Support: Request, email
- Best For: Kids and those interested only in learning English
- Personalized learning and custom plans
- Cambly for kids and organizations
- Flexible class scheduling
FluentU is one of the popular language learning tools, as its main purpose is to offer quality learning material and enable users to make the most of it. It’s very useful to all learners as an additional tool.
- Interface: Comprehensive but easy to navigate
- Languages: 12
- Learning Activities: Videos, quizzes, blogs
- Pricing: $29.99/month or $239.99/year
- Mobile App: Yes
- Customer Support: Email, help center
- Best For: Those who need learning materials
- Real-life examples
- Blogs in different languages
- FluentU for students
– Short Reviews of Language Learning Software –
Pimsleur Review
Essential Features:
◊ Audio-based courses
◊ ESL courses
◊ Clear instructions
◊ Free PDFs and booklets
Additional Features:
♦ Additional reading material
♦ Downloadable courses in MP3 format
♦ Interactive exercises (Premium version)
♦ Practice activities
What makes this software unique is the so-called Pimsleur method. The Pimsleur method is scientifically proven and helps learners store information in long-term memory. It’s excellent for busy people because all lessons are audio-based.
Interface
Many users find Pimsleur disengaging or even dull. Nevertheless, its interface is user-friendly. The design and audio quality are excellent. There aren’t many practice activity types, and audio files might be slow for some learners.
Languages
One of the best Japanese learning software is undoubtedly Pimsleur. It’s also excellent for learning Spanish. Pimsleur offers a large variety of languages. You can even learn languages like Punjabi, Swahili, Twi, or different varieties of Persian.
Learning Activities
There aren’t many options when it comes to learning activities in Pimsleur. It does offer reading material, but it has no connection to the audio courses and isn’t entirely helpful. However, its audio courses are high-quality. There are also some basic practices.
Pricing
The prices of Pimsleur language courses can vary. You can buy courses or pay a monthly subscription of $19.95. Courses that consist of multiple levels can be quite expensive. For example, a three-level French course costs $119.95, while a five-level French course costs $550.
Mobile App
Pimsleur app is regularly updated and improved. It has the same features as the desktop version. The only flaw some learners report is the occasional inability to listen to courses while using mobile data. Still, issues like this one are fixed with each update.
Customer Support
Some Pimsleur language learning users complain about customer support because it can take a while before they get a response. In the meantime, users can check the FAQ page to find answers to their questions.
Best For
Without a doubt, Pimsleur is best for busy people or those who commute a lot. It’s ideal for the visually impaired due to the nature of courses. The Pimsleur method is perfect for people who like to learn by listening and want to learn proper pronunciation.
Duolingo Review
Essential Features:
◊ Game-like exercises
◊ Progress tracker
◊ Goal-oriented lessons
◊ Courses for non-English speakers
Additional Features:
♦ Duolingo classroom
♦ Duolingo leaderboards
♦ Personalized lessons
♦ Varied exposure to languages
Duolingo is one of the most popular language learning platforms because it’s fun, engaging, intuitive, and free. It has very high ratings from many users. It’s easy to use and has a variety of learning materials. It’s also possible to communicate with other learners.
Interface
Duolingo language learning enables its users to track their progress and practice through game-like activities easily. Its interface is one of its focal points. It’s highly intuitive, engaging, and easy to use. Learners can unlock levels, get rewards, and earn virtual coins.
Languages
Duolingo provides science-based teaching methods that enable long-term language retention. It offers 36 languages, but the quality and quantity of content vary. Speaking exercises are optional, but there’s valuable additional content, such as podcasts with transcripts. Many courses aren’t in English, which may be useful to some learners.
Learning Activities
Probably the best free language learning app is Duolingo. There are many exercises, such as filling in gaps, vocabulary and speaking exercises, and similar. Translating is the main learning activity on Duolingo. However, many learners seem to dislike Duolingo’s new changes, and some translations are bizarre and impractical.
Pricing
Duolingo has started as a free app with the promise to stay free forever. It provides the Duolingo Plus option for a starting price of $6.99. It will remove ads and enable offline learning. Duolingo Plus is excellent for people who mostly use the app for language learning.
Mobile App
Duolingo app is available both for Android and iOS users. It has a 4.6 rating on Google Play and a 4.7 rating on the App Store. It’s regularly updated and entirely free. The app isn’t as demanding as other language learning apps, and there’s no interaction with instructors or other learners.
Customer Support
It’s not easy to reach Duolingo’s customer support, although there are many ways to get in touch. However, you can always seek help from other users or read the FAQ section. According to language learning software comparisons, Duolingo doesn’t work on improving its customer support like some other platforms.
Best For
Due to its reward and achievement systems, Duolingo is the best for people who have problems with organization and consistency in learning. Learning with Duolingo is always fun, and it helps learners create a learning habit. It’s also one of the best apps for getting to a conversational level, but it’s not for more advanced users.
Mondly Review
Essential Features:
◊ Simple lessons
◊ Game-like exercises
◊ Jumping to any module
◊ Voice recognition tool
Additional Features:
♦ Mondly Kids app
♦ Augmented reality option
♦ Mondly leaderboards
♦ Speaking with a chatbot
Mondly offers many features that other platforms don’t. Also, it’s cheap when compared to its competitors. Its lessons aren’t challenging, so learning with Mondly is easy. It’s a great supplemental tool for learning languages.
Interface
While the homepage looks amazing, exercises aren’t that engaging. This Mondly languages review explains its exercises in more detail. The lessons are concise, but voice recognition is a bit outdated. Still, the AR option is entertaining and helpful, along with the possibility to compete with others.
Languages
Mondly provides 42 language courses when British and American English courses are included. You can also learn Latin, which isn’t a standard option with other language learning apps. English tests are made in partnership with Oxford University Press.
Learning Activities
Mondly is one of the good language learning apps for learning the fundamentals. It has three learning levels: beginner, intermediate, and advanced. However, there’s almost no difference between exercises and lessons. With Mondly, you can learn basic speaking, writing, reading, and listening.
Pricing
There are free and paid versions, although the free version is very limited. You can choose to pay $9.99 a month or $47.99 a year for a Premium version and get access to 250 lessons. If you want lifetime access, it’ll cost you $79.99.
Mobile App
Mondly is the best beginner language learning app. The app has a high rating (4.6 out of 5 on Google Play and 4.8 on the App Store), but it’s a bit confusing at first, as there are no clear directions. The app is regularly updated, and bugs are fixed.
Customer Support
Mondly’s customer support is professional, and learners are satisfied with it because the team puts a lot of effort into solving various problems, such as issues with the Mondly app or technical or subscription problems.
Best For
Mondly is for people who don’t aim for fluency and just want to learn the basics. There are unique courses on it that can attract some users. It’s not recommended for advanced or even intermediate learners, but for those who want to learn a language from scratch. Language learning is most effective at a young age, so that’s where the Mondly Kids app comes into play.
Babbel Review
Essential Features:
◊ Online school experience
◊ Skipping basic lessons
◊ Unique content per course
◊ Flexible learning
Additional Features:
♦ One free lesson as a trial
♦ Approved by Yale University
♦ Sentence structure explanations
♦ Courses with conversations
Babbel is a top-rated language learning platform offering outstanding courses. It’s affordable and has an excellent rating. Babbel has a more professional look and is for more serious learners who don’t want to learn from game-like lessons.
Interface
Learning with Babbel is rather easy. However, each course is different, even though they cost the same. Babbel is designed to offer flexibility to its users so that they can learn at their own pace.
Languages
Without a doubt, Babbel is the best learning software for Spanish, among other languages. It also has a fantastic French course. However, other courses aren’t as popular as these two. The Yale research center confirmed that Babbel is excellent for improving oral proficiency, as all learners showed significant improvement after just three months of using the app. Users can choose from 14 languages.
Learning Activities
The method Babbel uses is built around a plain quiz format. Practice includes the use of pictures, a combination of words, and audio. However, one of its downsides is that there’s no adequate content for advanced learners on the Babbel language learning app.
Pricing
Babbel is an affordable app. For just $13.95 a month, you can start your language learning journey. You can also choose a three-month, six-month, and twelve-month pricing plan, costing $9.95, $8.45, and $6.95 a month, respectively. There is no free trial, but you can have one lesson from each course for free.
Mobile App
The Babbel app is user-friendly. The content is the same for both mobile and desktop versions. The app provides its users with flexibility, as they can revise what they learned before moving on to the next lesson. Babbel language learning app has a 4.5 rating on Google Play and 4.7 on the App Store.
Customer Support
Some users complain about the occasional problems with reaching customer support. Luckily, the platform provides much information on its help center page. If you have any technical issues, for example, you might be able to solve a problem without contacting customer service.
Best For
Babbel is for people who like professional interfaces and are absolute beginners. Babbel’s best courses are Spanish and French, so if you’re interested in any of these two languages, Babbel is the perfect choice for you.
Rosetta Stone Review
Essential Features:
◊ Voice recognition
◊ Downloadable lessons
◊ Talk rooms
◊ Lessons in a target language only
Additional Features:
♦ Tutoring sessions
♦ Playing games with other users
♦ Rosetta Stone for enterprise
♦ Additional short stories
This language learning software has been around since 1992, and it’s the first to offer such services. It has one of the best concepts of language learning, based on memorization. It’s trusted by many prominent companies and brands, such as Tripadvisor, Calvin Klein, Fender, etc.
Interface
This software is well-designed and easy to use, but it’s relatively repetitive and not very engaging. There are four games for language learning and regular practice exercises. Rosetta stone language learning has voice recognition, which is a handy tool for learning pronunciation. Occasional problems with logging in are possible.
Languages
Rosetta Stone offers 25 languages, including British and American English and English for Spanish speakers. Unfortunately, it doesn’t offer Indonesian, Dari, Pashto, and Swahili courses anymore. All courses are in target languages only, which may be challenging for some learners.
Learning Activities
Tutoring sessions with professional teachers usually last 25 to 30 minutes, and you can be in a group of up to four people. It’s possible to schedule online tutoring with a professional teacher, which is undoubtedly the best language learning system feature.
Pricing
If you’re a student, you can choose a three-month or twelve-month pricing plan or lifetime access. A three-month and twelve-month pricing plans cost $11.99 and $14.92 a month, respectively. Lifetime access will cost you $199, and you’ll get unlimited access to all languages. Subscriptions renew automatically, and you can turn off auto-renewal. Rosetta Stone offers a 30-day money-back guarantee, which is a rare offer from language learning platforms. Enterprises and schools have to request pricing.
Mobile App
One of the best tools that this software has to offer is the Rosetta Stone app. Its interface is mobile-optimized and as effective as the desktop version. It’s free to download and use if you buy a course. It has a 4.6 rating on Google Play and 4.8 on the App Store.
Customer Support
Customer service is usually reachable but sometimes isn’t practical, and users have to contact it several times to solve a particular problem. Users usually report technical problems. Issues with refunding or some of the best language courses that Rosetta Stone offers can occur.
Best For
Rosetta Stone’s learning method is mostly for people who like visual learning because vocabulary is learned through pictures. This software is also suitable for students as an additional learning tool. It’s possible to learn with teachers and practice with others in chat rooms. However, people who wish to achieve fluency should look for a different app.
Mango Languages Review
Essential Features:
◊ Adapted lessons
◊ Personalized reviews
◊ Grammar and culture notes
◊ Specialized courses
Additional Features:
♦ Courses for organizations
♦ Movies in target languages
♦ Trade shows and events
♦ Mango Reader extension
Mango Languages is award-winning online language learning software. It’s known for a wide selection of languages and courses, offering over 70 languages, 20 ESL courses, and 500 language learning resources.
Interface
Mango’s interface is intuitive, straightforward, and relatively engaging. Initially, you have to choose a language, but that doesn’t mean you don’t have access to all the rest. Mango language learning is customizable and adaptable. The platform also offers a Mango Reader extension, which translates content from other webpages.
Languages
Mango Languages offers over 70 languages, which is perfect for people who aren’t interested in learning only one. However, less popular courses have less content, and courses don’t offer material for advanced learners.
Learning Activities
Lessons get more complicated as you go. Mango Languages teaches grammar, vocabulary, pronunciation and gives many cultural tips. However, some sentence examples may not be relevant to learners, and exercises can be repetitive.
Pricing
Mango Languages has one of the best free language learning apps, but users must subscribe first to use it. A subscription costs $7.99/month for one language or $17.99/month for all languages. Enterprises need to contact sales to get a custom price based on their size and budget. Mango is affordable compared to its competitors and has to offer a lot more content.
Mobile App
The app is free and has high ratings (4.6 on Google Play and 4.8 on the App Store). The features are the same as on the desktop version, so learners don’t have to worry about accidentally skipping lessons and missing important notes and explanations. One downside of the Mango languages app is that crashes are possible.
Customer Support
Learners can reach customer service by email or phone. If you don’t succeed in contacting customer support right away, you can leave a voicemail with your name, number, and a short message.
Best For
Mango Languages offers many specialized courses and options, meaning that it’s best for businesses, libraries, and educators. Apart from that, it’s best for people who don’t seek fluency in one language but want to know more about various or less popular languages.
Memrise Review
Essential Features:
◊ Flashcard exercises
◊ Diverse content
◊ Quizzes
◊ Spaced repetition algorithm
Additional Features:
♦ User-generated content
♦ Unlimited content with Memrise Pro
♦ Leaderboard contests
♦ Offline learning
Memrise is a unique learning platform, as it offers more content than any other language learning software. Its users can even find content that’s not related to languages. Memrise is so engaging that almost every learner finds it fun.
Interface
Memrise is one of the most engaging platforms, and it’s one of the best options for people who love to learn through games and flashcards. It’s very organized and has a clear structure. User-generated content might be a bit disorganized.
Languages
Memrise content is very diverse, and many courses are designed for English and non-English speakers. However, not all lessons come from trusted sources. Therefore, the quality of content may vary. Memrise offers 22 languages, apart from the English course.
Learning Activities
Language learning Memrise lessons are based on flashcards and quizzes. The more advanced lessons are locked until the previous ones are completed, but it’s possible to enter many lessons and find the ones that match the user’s language level. There are no speaking exercises, but every word from flashcards is pronounced out loud.
Pricing
Memrise is free, but the premium version unlocks some limited course materials. Subscription to Memrise Pro costs $8.99 per month, $90 per year, or $139.99 for a lifetime membership. Memrise Premium also removes ads.
Mobile App
Memrise has the best app to learn a foreign language in a fun and engaging way. It won the best app award on Google Play in 2017. It has a 4.6 rating on Google Play and a 4.8 rating on the App Store.
Customer Support
It’s incredibly easy to reach customer support. You can search for the Memrise forum and find some answers there. The forum consists of various categories, and the Memrise support team regularly answers. You can also check out the FAQ page or send a message to the support team. According to many language learning software reviews, problems get solved quickly.
Best For
Memrise is an excellent platform for competitive users and those who love to learn through games and don’t want to be overburdened with information. However, achieving fluency with Memrise is hardly possible, but it’s a decent supplemental tool for learning vocabulary. However, if you want detailed grammar explanations, Memrise isn’t the best choice for you.
Rocket Languages Review
Essential Features:
◊ Learning real-world languages
◊ Downloadable lessons
◊ Detailed grammar explanations
◊ Sign language course
Additional Features:
♦ Detailed progress tracking
♦ Google voice recognition technology
♦ Active community
♦ Travelogues
This is perfect software for people who want to learn a language in detail. Rocket Languages teaches the basics first and then helps its users get to a conversational level.
Interface
Rocket Languages has a straightforward design that might be a bit bland to some learners. Still, it’s engaging enough. This platform offers top language programs for self-taught learning because learners can either follow a linear course or jump from lesson to lesson. Rocket Languages also has a great and supportive community.
Languages
One of the drawbacks is the lack of varied content. There aren’t many available languages, and some courses are better than others. Nevertheless, premium users have constant support from native speakers, language teachers, and other learners. Rocket Languages is one of the best French language learning software.
Learning Activities
Reading, writing, speaking, and listening exercises are available. There’s also a progress tracker and a chance to compare your points with others on a leaderboard. Advanced Learning Technique articles that Rocket Language offers are handy. However, there’s a lack of language immersion.
Pricing
Rocket Languages is one of the more expensive software. A free trial is available for all three levels, and you can buy them separately. The price is $149.95 for level one, $299.90 for levels one and two, and $449.85 for all three levels. Even though the price is high, discounts are frequent. The company also offers a 60-day guarantee.
Mobile App
Rocket Languages app is very convenient. Its rating, however, is lower compared to its competitors. It has a 3.1 rating on the App Store and 3.8 on Google Play. The only reasons for the low rating are poor voice recognition and audio quality. Every other feature is as useful as in the desktop version.
Customer Support
Rocket Languages has reachable and reliable customer support. Learners can find out more about some unique features, such as travelogues, making Rocket Language the best language app for travel. Apart from that, you can ask for help on its forum where native speakers, teachers, and other learners are active.
Best For
This software is the best for more serious learners who want detailed explanations and don’t mind if the interface isn’t very fun or engaging. It’s also great for meeting new people and native speakers. Rocket Language is software that can’t help you reach fluency but is very close to it.
Busuu Review
Essential Features:
◊ Goal-oriented lessons
◊ Flashcard system (free version)
◊ Authentic language immersion
◊ Outstanding speech recognition tool
Additional Features:
♦ Private messaging
♦ Busuu for educators and businesses
♦ Feedback from native speakers
♦ Active community
Busuu is a software developed by language experts, and it has won many awards. Prominent companies like DHL, Puma, and Uber use its services. Its name also has a unique origin. It comes from the Busuu language in Cameroon, which is almost extinct.
Interface
Busuu has very interactive software, and the desktop version is as good as the app. It’s developed to teach languages in chunks and has a useful speech recognition tool, which makes it one of the best online language learning programs for practicing speaking.
Languages
Busuu offers self-study language courses to its learners, and the knowledge they acquire can be implemented right away. It doesn’t offer many languages but provides high-quality content. You can learn 12 languages with Busuu, including the Busuu language.
Learning Activities
Various grammar and vocabulary lessons with audio, translation, and exercises are available. A handy feature included in Busuu language learning puts vocabulary and grammar in dialogues for daily life. Sometimes typing exercises can be repetitive and a bit dull. The free version offers only flashcard exercises.
Pricing
Busuu is free software but also offers Premium and Premium Plus subscriptions. Users have to pay $12.1/month for Premium and $13.3/month for Premium Plus. You can save money if you choose a 12-month or 24-month pricing plan. A 14-day trial version is available, and you can cancel it anytime.
Mobile App
The Busuu app has a very professional interface. Due to its offline mode feature, learners need no internet connection to use it. It also provides all the material you can find in your desktop version. That’s why Busuu is excellent for people on the go.
Customer Support
It seems that some members of Busuu’s customer support team are more professional than others. Therefore, occasional misunderstandings are possible. Apart from that, the customer support is responsive and effective. You can talk with other members about the best language learning course for you, as Busuu has a big community.
Best For
Busuu is the right choice for people who want both engaging and detailed content, but it’s also for businesses and educators, as it provides specialized courses. The app’s offline learning feature is perfect for users on the go. Busuu isn’t for people who want to learn more languages or achieve fluency. However, reaching a conversational level is possible.
Italki Review
Essential Features:
◊ One-on-one lessons
◊ Over 10,000 teachers
◊ Italki Credits
◊ Teacher search filters
Additional Features:
♦ Active community
♦ A few free features
♦ Refer a friend option
♦ Trial lessons
Italki is an efficient and unique online language learning software. Users can learn from professional teachers and meet new people. One-on-one lessons enable teachers to devote time to their students to the full.
Interface
This is the best software to learn a language directly from a native. Italki is one of the most flexible online language learning platforms on the web. Teachers need no certification to teach, and you need to search for the teacher who meets your needs the best.
Languages
It’s possible to learn all kinds of languages with Italki. All you need to do is search for teachers. Sometimes there won’t be many teachers available if the language you seek isn’t widely spoken, like Ainu, for example. Some teachers aren’t certified.
Learning Activities
Italki is one of the most effective language learning software because of one-on-one lessons with teachers. The lessons last from 30 to 90 minutes and many different teachers are available, from formal and professional teachers who teach grammar and informal teachers you can practice speaking with.
Pricing
You can find many affordable lessons on Italki. The platform takes 15% of the amount students pay their teachers. Teachers set the prices of their lessons. The lowest price per hour with a professional teacher is $8, while lessons with a community tutor cost at least $4.
Mobile App
Italki app enables its users to learn from anywhere. The app has a 3.9 rating on Google Play and 3.3 on the App Store, only because it’s challenging to have lessons using the mobile app. Crashes are possible, and the app is relatively clunky. The desktop version is more recommended.
Customer Support
Italki has very professional customer support. If you have any issues, someone from the team will reply immediately and solve your problem. Also, the Italki help center with numerous frequently asked questions divided into categories can be beneficial, which makes it one of the top-rated language learning software.
Best For
Italki is undoubtedly the best software for people who want to connect with native speakers and practice speaking. This learning method is useful for people who get lost in self-taught learning and need a tutor but can’t find a teacher in their country. Italki is suitable for advanced learners.
Lingoda Review
Essential Features:
◊ One-on-one lessons or group learning
◊ Free downloadable class materials
◊ Flexible classes
◊ In-class feedback
Additional Features:
♦ Real-life examples, topics, and language
♦ Marathon courses
♦ Speaking practices with other students
♦ Free 7-day trial
Lingoda is a reliable German language school with over 80,000 students and 1,500 teachers all over the world. It offers various learning paths, so it’s suitable both for serious learners and those who want to learn a language for fun.
Interface
Lingoda’s interface is intuitive, and booking classes is easy. In addition, teachers are available 24/7, so you can adjust your learning schedule in accordance with your daily routine.
Languages
One of Lingoda’s drawbacks is the lack of choice since you can study only four different languages. However, you should try Lingoda English for business since it offers comprehensive learning plans (some of them are long-term). Apart from that, you can study German, French, and Spanish.
Learning Activities
Live classes are pretty much the only learning activity. You can choose to take one-on-one classes or learn with three to five other students. You can learn pronunciation, participate in group activities, receive feedback from your teacher, and so on.
Pricing
Lingoda prices depend on how many classes per week you wish to have. The cheapest option is having one class per week in a group ($56 per four weeks), and the most expensive one is the Immersion plan ($880 per four weeks). Marathon course prices vary.
Mobile App
Although Lingoda doesn’t have an app, students don’t really need it. It’s much more convenient to have classes on the computer. The only downside of not having a mobile app is that you can’t book or reschedule classes on the go.
Customer Support
The only way to contact customer support is via request. Still, that’s not a problem. If you have any questions about teachers, Lingoda marathon courses, or subscription, feel free to ask.
Best For
Lingoda is the best for people who can’t or don’t want to learn on their own. However, it’s not the best choice for those who want to switch to learning other languages or like to learn more than one language at the same time. Lastly, it’s excellent for learners who wish to study for a long time.
Cambly Review
Essential Features:
◊ Various pricing plans
◊ Specialized conversation topics
◊ IELTS and TOEFL test preparations
◊ Hundreds of native-speaking teachers
Additional Features:
♦ Cambly for organizators
♦ Cambly for kids
♦ Workshops
♦ Specialized curriculum
Cambly is another platform that enables learning with personal tutors. It’s very flexible, so you can schedule a class whenever you want. It’s also good for companies and their employees.
Interface
You don’t have to worry about Cambly’s interface and usability. You can book teachers with ease (some of them are available instantly) or pre-book your favorite Cambly tutor.
Languages
Unfortunately, Cambly is only for those whose target language is English. Although it may seem like this platform doesn’t have much to offer, it’s not true. You can practice speaking for various tests, like IELTS and TOEFL, or learn professional vocabulary.
Learning Activities
The main thing you’ll be practising on Cambly is conversation. That might seem insufficient to some people, but conversation is the most difficult (and crucial) part of learning a language. The classes are fun and interactive, which makes Cambly perfect for kids.
Pricing
The pricing depends on the commitment level and the length of the classes you take. The cheapest option is two 15-minute classes per week ($52/month), and the most expensive one is $336/month for five 60-minute classes per week.
Mobile App
Cambly has a mobile app that has the same features as the desktop version. That’s excellent for people who want to learn on the go.
Customer Support
It’s best to contact Cambly’s customer support via request. Nonetheless, users can find a comprehensive FAQ section with answers to the questions related to Cambly prices, lessons, etc. That means that sending a request isn’t necessary in most situations, so make sure to check out the FAQ page first.
Best For
Cambly is undoubtedly the best for those who need to boost their English conversation and pronunciation skills. However, those who want to learn multiple languages for fun should avoid this platform.
FluentU Review
Essential Features:
◊ Learning materials for all skill levels
◊ Videos explained in detail
◊ Videos with real-life examples
◊ All languages in one account
Additional Features:
♦ Translated and dual subtitles
♦ Language blogs
♦ Downloadable material
♦ Blogs about TOEFL, IELTS, and TOEIC
If you’re learning a foreign language, you know how difficult it is to find quality learning material. FluentU is a great solution for a reasonable price.
Interface
Even though FluentU’s interface seems complicated, you’ll get accustomed to it quickly. Every video is thoroughly explained with dual subtitles, vocabulary explanations, etc. There are even quick exercises below the videos.
Languages
Even if you want to buy Fluentu German, for example, all other languages will also be unlocked. That means that you can learn all languages that are available on FluentU. You can always change your mind and learn something new without changing the pricing plan.
Learning Activities
This platform is somewhat unique when it comes to learning activities. There are no tutors. Instead, learners can find top-quality foreign content. Furthermore, separate words are explained, and there are plenty of topics to choose from.
Pricing
You can try a Fluentu free trial that lasts for 14 days. After that, you can be billed monthly ($29.99) or annually ($19.99). If you choose the annual billing, you’ll save four months worth of subscription.
Mobile App
FluentU offers a mobile app for Android and iOS devices. However, some users claim that it’s somewhat glitchy. Even if that’s the case, you can try it out and see if it works for you.
Customer Support
You can contact FluentU’s customer support via email. However, you probably won’t have to do that, as you can cancel your subscription manually and have a comprehensive help center. Of course, you can send an email regarding the Fluentu app, pricing plans, or anything else.
Best For
FluentU is beneficial for all language learners, especially those who learn complex languages like Chinese or Japanese, as it’s challenging to find learning material if you’re a beginner. That’s why this software is a great additional learning tool.
– Buyer’s Guide – How to Select the Right Product for You? –
There’s a variety of language learning platforms that use different learning methods, and many other foreign language learning software reviews can confirm that. So, to find the right one, you should set your goals and make a priority list. This section will help you choose the perfect platform that will meet your needs.
How Does Interface Influence Language Learning?
If an app crashes, freezes, or has recurring errors, most users will uninstall it in a heartbeat. Such an app disrupts the learning process, which is frustrating for users. Luckily, most language learning apps run smoothly. However, if you need an engaging and fun interface, you should avoid software that provides repetitive exercises and dull explanations.
Is the Number of Languages Important?
If you’re only looking for the best English learning software, for example, you don’t need to be discouraged if the software you’re interested in provides only a few language courses. That might mean that the quality of courses is better. However, if you’re interested in learning more languages, opting for software that offers more variety is a good idea. Apart from that, some other online learning platforms also offer courses in many languages, but they’re usually not as comprehensive. Still, if you’re interested in learning something else along with a foreign language, you can give it a try.
How Diverse Should Learning Activities Be?
It depends on how much variety you need. The best program to learn a new language can be the one with unique features, such as leaderboard contests or playing games with other learners. If you don’t need the entertainment to stay motivated, choosing platforms with a more professional approach is a better option.
Should Pricing Be Taken Into Consideration?
If you want to learn a new language for fun, free platforms are a better choice. Consider the fact that paid software provides more content. Entirely free software rarely offers specialized courses and consultations with teachers. Therefore, if you’re serious about learning a language, choose the software based on the content it offers.
Is Learning Using a Mobile App Effective?
If you’re looking for the best language learning apps for fluency, it’ll be hard to find them. However, some platforms have outstanding apps, and you can complete short lessons or practice vocabulary from anywhere. Still, if you prefer studying on a computer, the app itself shouldn’t affect your choice. If you love a certain platform but don’t have enough listening exercises, consider using a good audiobook app that has material in your target language.
Do You Need Customer Support Services?
Good customer service is essential if you opt for expensive software. Luckily, most paid language learning platforms have good customer support. If you plan to use a platform for free, you probably won’t need to contact it. Many platforms have a community where you can seek help from other learners.
Who Are These Platforms Best For?
No matter if you want to find the best Italian language learning software, study any other language thoroughly, or learn some exotic language, these platforms are for you. It’s challenging to reach fluency without additional course material, but these platforms are great supplemental tools for any language learner. The only thing you need to consider before choosing one is your ultimate goal. Each language learning app has unique features, so make sure you do your homework first.