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.
– 5 Best Language Learning Software –
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
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
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 –
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.
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.
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.