The Best Language Apps of the Year (And Who Should Use Them)

Duolingo

Duolingo continues to be a standout choice for language learners seeking a gamified experience. This popular app offers a user-friendly interface with bite-sized lessons designed to make learning enjoyable and engaging. With a wide variety of languages to choose from, it enables users to learn vocabulary and grammar concepts through fun exercises and quizzes. Duolingo is ideal for beginners who appreciate a structured path and are looking for a low-pressure, playful way to start their journey. This app’s consistent reminders and streak tracking feature can also help maintain long-term motivation and accountability.

Babbel

Babbel focuses on conversational skills and real-life dialogues, making it a great choice for learners who want to prepare for practical interactions. The lessons emphasize pronunciation and context, including cultural insights, which enhances understanding beyond grammar. Users benefit from personalized review sessions based on their learning progress, allowing them to revisit challenging concepts. Babbel is particularly suited for those who prefer a more traditional approach to language learning, where lessons are built around specific topics, providing a robust understanding of vocabulary in context. Whether you’re preparing for a trip or wanting to engage with native speakers, Babbel offers practical tools to effective conversation.

Memrise

Memrise leverages spaced repetition and mnemonic techniques to foster vocabulary retention, making language learning more efficient and dynamic. With various user-generated content, it features an extensive library of words and phrases across many languages, including fictional ones. Learners can customize their study sessions according to their pace, enabling flexibility in their learning journey. Memrise is particularly beneficial for visual learners who thrive on seeing words in context and engaging with playful elements. Its focus on oral comprehension through videos of native speakers also appeals to those wanting to enhance their listening skills.

Pimsleur

Pimsleur offers an audio-based language learning approach, making it ideal for auditory learners and busy individuals who prefer to learn while on the go. The app emphasizes listening and speaking, allowing users to practice pronunciation and responses through the repetition of phrases. With a focus on conversation, Pimsleur teaches learners to think in the target language from the start. This is a great app for commuters or anyone who can dedicate time to focused listening. Ideal for beginners, Pimsleur provides a solid foundation for those looking to build conversational proficiency without extensive reading or writing exercises.

Busuu

Busuu stands out with its social aspect, providing learners the opportunity to practice with native speakers through writing and speaking exercises. Users receive personalized feedback from the community, enhancing their learning and understanding of real language use. The app also offers structured courses that progress from beginner to advanced levels, catering to a wide range of learners. Busuu is great for those who enjoy collaborative learning environments and crave interaction with real people. Its tailored study plans can help motivate learners by allowing them to set specific goals and track their progress effectively.

Tandem

Tandem connects language learners with native speakers around the world for language exchange. Users can chat via text, audio, or video, engaging in conversations that enhance both language skills and cultural exchange. The app allows users to find partners based on shared interests, ensuring relevant and engaging dialogues. Tandem is perfect for learners looking for conversational practice and real-life applications of their language skills. Since the app encourages both parties to help each other, this mutually beneficial structure creates a supportive learning environment. Anyone seeking to supplement their app-based learning with authentic conversation should give Tandem a try.

HelloTalk

Similar to Tandem, HelloTalk connects users with native speakers for language exchange. This app integrates text, voice messages, and even video calls to promote comprehensive language practice. With features like text correction and pronunciation assistance, users receive immediate feedback from language partners, enhancing their learning experience. HelloTalk is suitable for all levels, making it a perfect choice for learners who want to gain confidence while speaking and writing in their target language. The app’s social networking aspect allows interaction with diverse cultures, enriching the language-learning experience. It is particularly good for learners comfortable with informal, casual conversations.

FluentU

FluentU utilizes real-world videos, such as movie trailers, music videos, and inspiring talks, to teach languages in context. By offering subtitles and vocabulary lists, it helps learners absorb language naturally while engaging with authentic material. Users can learn vocabulary at their own pace and practice listening comprehension. FluentU is ideal for visual and auditory learners who enjoy immersive experiences and wish to expand their understanding beyond textbook learning. Its dynamic approach helps users connect with the culture of the language, enhancing overall comprehension and appreciation. This app suits those wanting to integrate their learning with enjoyable, relevant content.

Lingodeer

Lingodeer is designed specifically for learning Asian languages, boasting an engaging curriculum that covers grammar and vocabulary in a structured, digestible format. With a well-organized interface, the app presents lessons clearly, allowing learners to build their understanding step by step. Lingodeer also offers offline capabilities, making it convenient for learners who may not always have internet access. This app is ideal for those studying languages like Chinese, Japanese, or Korean, as its targeted content provides a deep focus on language intricacies. With a combination of quizzes and spaced repetition, Lingodeer effectively reinforces learning and retention.

Drops

Drops is a visually-centered app focused on vocabulary acquisition through games and quick, interactive sessions. The app’s design features beautiful images and effective mnemonic techniques to enhance memory retention. Users can set daily goals and practice for just a few minutes, making learning feel less overwhelming and perfect for those with busy schedules. Drops is great for visual learners or anyone who wants to focus specifically on vocabulary rather than grammatical structures. Its engaging format makes it easy to squeeze language learning into everyday life, making it an appealing choice for learners wanting a quick, enjoyable study session.

Beelinguapp

Beelinguapp caters to bilingual learners who want to read in two languages simultaneously. This app offers a dual-language reading experience with a wide selection of texts, including audiobooks and articles. Users can listen to audio while reading along in their target language and their native language, improving comprehension through context. Beelinguapp is particularly helpful for intermediate to advanced learners seeking to strengthen their reading skills while expanding their vocabulary. The app provides a unique opportunity to engage with literature, news, and stories, making learning more relevant and enjoyable. This choice is excellent for those who prefer a reading-centric approach to language study.

Clozemaster

Clozemaster is a gamified platform for learners who want to practice vocabulary and grammar in context. By filling in the blanks in sentences, users get immediate feedback and gradual exposure to new words. Clozemaster operates on the principle of spaced repetition, which reinforces language retention effectively. This app is particularly suitable for intermediate learners who want to bridge the gap between beginner material and authentic language use. Users can also customize their learning based on language difficulty and specific vocabulary themes, making Clozemaster adaptable to individual needs. Its focus on context helps users understand words in practical situations, accelerating fluency.

Mango Languages

Mango Languages emphasizes practical, everyday conversations and cultural nuances. The app offers diverse languages and focuses on pronunciation and real-life scenarios to prepare learners for actual communication. Interactive features and voice comparison tools help refine spoken language skills. Mango Languages is suited for learners wanting to connect with culture and context, making it ideal for travelers or expatriates. The app’s clear structure makes it easy to follow along, providing users with a straightforward learning experience. Users benefit from the lessons’ focus on conversational phrases, helping them engage confidently in their target language.

Speakly

Speakly combines vocabulary learning with real-life conversation practice, focusing on the most relevant words and phrases for everyday use. It aims to teach practical language skills by incorporating listening, reading, writing, and speaking into its lessons. Speakly is suitable for beginners and intermediate learners who want a practical focus on communication. The app’s approach to integrating different skills prepares learners to use the language confidently and effectively. With exercises tailored to real-life situations, students can work towards fluency in a meaningful way. It bridges the gap between theory and practice, making language use more relevant.

Game-based Language Apps

For learners who thrive on competition and engagement, game-based apps like Lingo Deer and Drops provide interactive and enjoyable ways to learn. These apps utilize challenges, quizzes, and social leaderboards to motivate learners to practice regularly. Game mechanics enhance learning by turning exercises into fun activities, appealing to younger audiences or individuals who appreciate playful learning environments. Learners can track their progress and compete with friends, which further incentivizes regular practice. Game-based apps can make language acquisition feel less daunting and more like an enjoyable pastime.

Talk to Me in Korean

Talk to Me in Korean specializes in Korean language instruction, providing a wide variety of lessons ranging from beginner to advanced levels. Its structured approach emphasizes grammar, vocabulary, and cultural insights, making it an excellent resource for learners interested in a deep dive into Korean. Users benefit from audio lessons, PDF study guides, and additional resources such as books and videos. This app is particularly beneficial for learners who prefer targeted instruction focused on one language instead of general language apps. With its comprehensive lessons, Talk to Me in Korean is an effective and engaging tool for anyone wishing to master Korean.