Top 15 Language Learning Apps to Replace Duolingo

Learning new languages from the comfort of your own home has never been easier with the advent of language learning apps. These digital platforms have democratized language education, breaking down the barriers of traditional language schools.

Duolingo, a frontrunner in this digital language revolution, has captivated millions of users with its gamified learning approach and its provision of over 40 languages. Despite its widespread appeal, there are several other apps like Duolingo worth exploring for a comprehensive language learning experience.

In this article, we’ll go through 15 of the best and most popular Duolingo alternatives that you must try! But first, here’s an overview of these apps:

Duolingo: Overview, Features & Limitations

Duolingo is the most downloaded education app worldwide.

Duolingo owes its success to a number of factors. It boasts a fun and intuitive interface that turns language learning into a game-like experience, keeping learners engaged and motivated. Moreover, Duolingo provides access to an extensive array of languages, catering to a wide spectrum of learners’ interests.

However, despite its popularity, Duolingo is not without its limitations. It often lacks comprehensive grammar instruction and fails to provide learners with enough context to use the language authentically. As a result, Duolingo is best used as a supplementary tool to other language learning methods.

Top 15 Alternative Language-Learning Apps Like Duolingo

Exploring other apps like Duolingo provides language learners with a more holistic approach. While Duolingo is an excellent primer for language study, it often lacks depth. These alternatives can fill the gaps left by Duolingo, offering robust vocabulary lists, in-depth grammar drills, ample conversation practice, and so much more.

The world of language learning apps is vast, and every app brings a unique approach to the table that may cater better to a learner’s specific needs. Here are the top 15 alternatives to Duolingo that you must try:

1. Babbel

Babbel is a versatile language learning app offering courses in 14 languages. It stands out with its interactive lessons, efficient speech recognition technology, and personalized review sessions designed to consolidate learning.

Pros & Cons

While Babbel is an excellent tool for beginners looking to learn the basics of a new language, it may not cater to the needs of advanced learners seeking high-level conversation practice.

Pricing

Babbel’s one-month subscription costs $14.95, a three-month subscription costs $37.95 ($12.65 per month), and a yearly subscription costs $89.40 ($7.45 per month).

2. Rosetta Stone

Rosetta Stone is a classic language learning software known for its immersive approach. It utilizes images, text, and sound to teach words and grammar through spaced repetition. The platform offers over 20 different languages.

Pros & Cons

Rosetta Stone’s strength lies in its comprehensive and immersive curriculum, but it may feel tedious for those who prefer a more game-like learning experience.

Pricing

Rosetta Stone offers both subscription-based and lifetime access options.

3. Memrise

Memrise sets itself apart with its emphasis on immersive language learning, offering courses in over 20 languages. It uses gamification to help users learn new words and phrases, using flashcards, quizzes, and video clips to ensure engagement and retention.

Pros & Cons

Memrise is a fantastic tool for intermediate learners looking to expand their vocabulary. However, it may not provide as thorough a grammar instruction as some other platforms.

Pricing

Memrise operates on a subscription-based model that allows users to access all its features for a fee of Monthly: $14.99, Annual: $7.50/month. $89.99 and Lifetime. $199.99.

4. Busuu

Busuu offers courses in 12 different languages and provides interactive lessons, speech recognition technology, and personalized review sessions. Its unique selling proposition is its social component, enabling users to connect with native speakers.

Pros & Cons

Busuu is an excellent resource for intermediate learners who want to practice speaking with native speakers. However, beginners may find it challenging due to the lesser focus on basic grammar and vocabulary.

Pricing

Busuu offers both free and premium versions. Basic (Free), Premium ($5.45 – $12.95/Month) and Premium Plus ($6.45 – $13.95/Month).

5. Lingodeer

Lingodeer uses gamification in its courses that cover over 10 different languages. Its variety of features includes interactive lessons, speech recognition technology, and personalized review sessions.

Pros & Cons

Lingodeer is best suited for beginners looking to learn the basics of a new language. However, advanced learners might find it less challenging.

Pricing

Lingodeer operates on a subscription-based model. Its cost is $14.99 per month, $39.99 for 3 months, or $79.99 per year and a lifetime membership costs $159.99.

6. Drops

Drops, with its focus on vocabulary acquisition, offers courses in over 40 languages. Features include interactive lessons, speech recognition technology, and personalized review sessions.

Pros & Cons

While Drops is an excellent tool for beginners wanting to learn the basics of a new language, it might not satisfy those who prefer a more grammar-focused approach.

Pricing

Drops operates on a subscription-based model. A Premium subscription costs $13.00 per month, the yearly price is $89.99 ($7.50 per month), and a lifetime subscription is $159.99.

7. Mondly

Mondly has different games to help users learn new words and phrases. It offers courses in over 40 different languages and features interactive lessons, speech recognition technology, and personalized review sessions.

Pros & Cons

Mondly is suitable for intermediate learners who wish to expand their vocabulary. However, its lack of emphasis on grammar might deter some users.

Pricing

Mondly uses a subscription-based model. It costs $9.99 per month or $47.99 for one year for one language, or a lifetime subscription for $8\9.99 and have access to all 41 languages.

8. HelloTalk

HelloTalk is a language exchange app that allows users to connect with native speakers of the language they are learning. It includes features such as text messaging, voice messaging, and video chat.

Pros & Cons

HelloTalk is ideal for intermediate learners seeking to practice speaking with native speakers. Still, it might not be the best option for grammar instruction and vocabulary building.

Pricing

HelloTalk offers both free and premium versions. The monthly memberships cost $6.99 per month, whereas $45.99 per year. There’s also a lifetime membership for $175.00.

9. Pimsleur

Pimsleur is an audio-based language learning program that focuses on conversation skills. It offers courses in over 50 languages, including interactive lessons and personalized review sessions.

Pros & Cons

Pimsleur is excellent for intermediate learners looking to improve their conversation skills, but it might not be the best choice for those wanting a more written and grammar-focused approach.

Pricing

Pimsleur offers monthly plans ranging from $19.95 a month for a single language to $20.95 a month for all audio lessons in 50+ languages.

10. Tandem

Tandem is a language exchange app that encourages users to practice speaking with native development. Its key features include text messaging, voice messaging, and video chat, supporting an immersive language learning experience.

Pros & Cons

Tandem is best suited for intermediate learners looking to refine their conversational skills. However, the app might be less beneficial for those seeking formal grammar and vocabulary lessons.

Pricing

Tandem offers a completely free version that gives you access to the most important features. There is also a Tandem Pro subscription that costs $13.99 per month, $31.99 for 3 months ($10.67 per month), or $79.99 for 12 months ($6.67 per month).

11. Lingvist

Lingvist utilizes gamification to facilitate learning new words and phrases, with courses spanning over 10 languages. It emphasizes interactive lessons, speech recognition technology, and personalized review sessions.

Pros & Cons

Lingvist is a reliable resource for intermediate learners aiming to expand their vocabulary, but it might not be as comprehensive for grammar instruction.

Pricing

A monthly subscription costs $9.99/month. A yearly subscription costs $79.99 ($6.67/month). If you need more than one Lingvist account, you can connect up to 6 accounts for $119.99/year.

12. FluentU

FluentU turns music videos, movie trailers, news, and inspiring talks into language-learning experiences. It uses real-world videos and interactive subtitles to teach users a new language.

Pros & Cons

FluentU provides an immersive language learning experience, making it a fun and engaging tool. However, it might not offer the structured grammar lessons that some users seek.

Pricing

FluentU follows a subscription-based model, with a free trial available for new users.

13. Learn with Oliver

Learn with Oliver is an online language learning website offering courses in various languages. It provides flashcards, quizzes, and interactive exercises to help users learn and memorize new words and phrases.

Pros & Cons

Learn with Oliver is a great tool for self-learners due to its interactive features. However, the lack of a social component for conversational practice might be a drawback for some users.

Pricing

Learn with Oliver has both free access and a premium subscription at $10.00/Month or $108/Year.

14. Lingualift

Lingualift provides a more traditional approach to language learning, focusing on grammar and vocabulary lessons. It offers support from real language tutors and study plans personalized to the user’s pace.

Pros & Cons

While Lingualift’s tutor support and personalized study plans can be a boon to dedicated language learners, the lack of interactive game development-like features might make it less appealing to those seeking a more dynamic learning experience.

Pricing

Lingualift costs $19.99 for one month, $50.97 for three months, $89.94 for six months, and $155.88 for twelve months.

15. uTalk

uTalk stands out with its vast language selection, offering courses in over 140 languages. It focuses on teaching key words and phrases, making it perfect for beginners and intermediate learners filling gaps in their vocabulary.

Pros & Cons

uTalk’s extensive language range makes it a fantastic resource for learners interested in less commonly taught languages. However, it may not provide a deep dive into complex grammar rules.

Pricing

uTalk offers a one-time payment for lifetime access to each language, with a free version providing limited access: $4.99 monthly per language, $9.99 for all 140 languages, $99.99 for a lifetime subscription.

Conclusion: Which App Is The Best Alternative To Duolingo?

As you venture into the world of language learning, exploring an app like Duolingo can significantly enhance your learning experience. These language apps like Duolingo bring their unique strengths to the table, offering you a rich tapestry of resources to help you master your target language.

Remember, the best app will largely depend on your personal learning style, budget, and specific language goals. Be sure to use these apps as a supplement to active practice and real-world conversation for a truly successful language learning journey. Happy studying!