Best Language Learning Apps — every ranking, by use case and budget
Every app here was paid for and used for 30 days on the same schedule, then tested. Scores are locked before any affiliate link is added.
By use case indexed
In-depth language learning apps reviews
italki
One-to-one video lessons with tutors in 150+ languages, priced by the tutor — the fastest route to speaking
Read italki ReviewBabbel
Short lessons built around real conversations with grammar explained in plain English — the highest A1 score in our test
Read Babbel ReviewPimsleur
Thirty-minute audio lessons that make you speak from the first minute — the best app for the commute and for pronunciation
Read Pimsleur ReviewBusuu
CEFR-structured courses with your writing and speaking corrected by native speakers in the community
Read Busuu ReviewDuolingo
The habit-forming free app with 40+ languages; great for daily practice, thin on grammar
Read Duolingo ReviewRosetta Stone
Immersion with no translation, the best speech recognition in the test, and a lifetime plan that covers all 25 languages
Read Rosetta Stone ReviewMondly
41 languages with chatbot and AR conversation practice, and a lifetime deal that is often under $100
Read Mondly ReviewMemrise
Vocabulary from thousands of video clips of native speakers, with spaced repetition that actually sticks
Read Memrise ReviewGuides that send readers to these rankings
Duolingo vs Babbel: Free Habit or Paid Course?
The two most-searched apps solve different problems. A one-page decision.
How Long Does It Really Take to Learn a Language With an App?
FSI hour estimates, what 30 days on each app produced in our test, and the point where apps stop being enough.