education

Top-rated Duolingo alternatives language learning apps

Explore the top-rated alternatives to Duolingo for language enthusiasts. Whether you're a beginner or an advanced learner, these apps offer varied features and methods to enhance your language skills. Discover new ways to immerse yourself in different cultures and languages from the comfort of your device.

9 Apps
4.4 ★ Avg Rating
Education Category
Last updated December 2024
Rosetta Stone

Rosetta Stone

4.8 ★ Free

Rosetta Stone is acclaimed for its immersive method of language learning, focusing on intuitive language acquisition. It replicates a natural learning experience, combining images, text, and sound to help users think and speak in their new language from the very first lesson. Rosetta Stone's courses are designed to build confidence in speaking and are loved by users worldwide.

Best for: Users looking for an immersive language learning experience

Pros:

  • Immersive learning
  • Wide language selection
  • User-friendly interface

Cons:

  • Subscription cost
Available on
iOS Android
Visit Website
Lingodeer

Lingodeer

4.7 ★ Free

Lingodeer is perfect for those interested in Asian and European languages. Its lessons are structured like mini-stories, making the learning process fun and engaging. With features that promote grammar understanding and speaking skills, Lingodeer is a solid choice for those serious about language learning.

Best for: Learners interested in Asian and European languages

Pros:

  • Mini-story lessons
  • Grammar-focused
  • Engaging design

Cons:

  • Limited language selection
Available on
iOS Android
Visit Website
Memrise

Memrise

4.6 ★ Free

Memrise uses an engaging method to teach languages through gamified content and videos featuring native speakers. Its approach supports long-term retention by using spaced repetition, providing learners with a fun yet effective way to develop their language skills. Memrise is particularly popular among visual learners seeking interactive content.

Best for: Visual learners and gamers

Pros:

  • Gamified learning
  • Native speaker videos
  • Spaced repetition

Cons:

  • Heavy on data usage
Available on
iOS Android
Visit Website
Babbel

Babbel

4.5 ★ Free

Babbel offers interactive courses that focus on practical, real-life conversations. With 14 different languages available, Babbel provides courses designed by linguistic experts. Its app aims to provide a comprehensive language learning journey tailored to how a user learns best, integrating speech recognition, grammar lessons, and cultural context into its teaching.

Best for: Learners wanting practical language skills

Pros:

  • Expert-created courses
  • Speech recognition
  • Real-life conversation focus

Cons:

  • Limited free content
Available on
iOS Android
Visit Website
Busuu

Busuu

4.4 ★ Free

Busuu leverages community interaction alongside professional language courses to create a unique learning experience. Users can offer and receive corrections on exercises from native speakers. With personalized study plans and offline mode, Busuu caters to a diverse range of learners.

Best for: Community-focused learners

Pros:

  • Community-based learning
  • Personalized study plans
  • Offline mode

Cons:

  • Some features require subscription
Available on
iOS Android
Visit Website
Pimsleur

Pimsleur

4.3 ★ Free

Known for its audio-focused lessons, Pimsleur is ideal for those who learn best by listening. The app offers 30-minute audio lessons you can take anywhere, enhancing listening and speaking skills in real-life situations. With no typing or drilling involved, Pimsleur is tailored for auditory learners looking to improve conversation skills quickly.

Best for: Auditory learners

Pros:

  • Audio-focused lessons
  • Hands-free learning
  • Effective speaking practice

Cons:

  • Limited visual content
Available on
iOS Android
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Mondly

Mondly

4.3 ★ Free

Mondly stands out with its use of augmented reality and chatbot-based lessons. It helps users learn through conversation simulations and interactive learning strategies. Mondly is particularly appealing to tech-savvy learners intrigued by new ways to learn a language.

Best for: Tech-focused learners looking for modern learning methods

Pros:

  • Augmented reality features
  • Chatbot lessons
  • Interactive approach

Cons:

  • Occasional technical issues
Available on
iOS Android
Visit Website
Tandem

Tandem

4.2 ★ Free

Tandem offers a community of language learners who help each other with language practice. Like a pen-pal system for the digital age, users can voice or video chat to improve their conversation skills. Tandem also incorporates professional tutors for more structured lessons if needed.

Best for: Community-centric language exchange

Pros:

  • Community learning
  • Professional tutors available
  • Flexible learning methods

Cons:

  • Learning relies on interaction
Available on
iOS Android
Visit Website
HelloTalk

HelloTalk

4.0 ★ Free

HelloTalk is a language exchange app that connects users with native speakers around the world. It transforms your phone into a language learning tool by allowing text, voice, and video exchanges. HelloTalk also offers grammar correction tools, making language practice both dynamic and authentic.

Best for: Learners who prefer conversational practice

Pros:

  • Real-world practice
  • Connects with native speakers
  • Built-in translation tools

Cons:

  • Ads and in-app purchases
Available on
iOS Android
Visit Website

Comparison Overview

App Rating Price Best For
Rosetta Stone 4.8 ★ Subscription Rosetta Stone is acclaimed for its immersive method of language learning, focusing on intuitive language acquisition.
Lingodeer 4.7 ★ Free and Subscription Lingodeer is perfect for those interested in Asian and European languages.
Memrise 4.6 ★ Free and Subscription Memrise uses an engaging method to teach languages through gamified content and videos featuring native speakers.
Babbel 4.5 ★ Subscription Babbel offers interactive courses that focus on practical, real-life conversations.
Busuu 4.4 ★ Free and Subscription Busuu leverages community interaction alongside professional language courses to create a unique learning experience.
Pimsleur 4.3 ★ Subscription and Free Known for its audio-focused lessons, Pimsleur is ideal for those who learn best by listening.
Mondly 4.3 ★ Free and Subscription Mondly stands out with its use of augmented reality and chatbot-based lessons.
Tandem 4.2 ★ Free with in-app purchases Tandem offers a community of language learners who help each other with language practice.
HelloTalk 4 ★ Free with in-app purchases HelloTalk is a language exchange app that connects users with native speakers around the world.

Quick Tips

  • Set daily learning goals to stay consistent.
  • Practice speaking out loud, even if you make mistakes.
  • Use a language journal to track progress and notes.
  • Try language exchange with native speakers for real-life practice.
  • Incorporate language learning into daily activities, like listening to music or reading in that language.

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