List of the best apps to learn English
1. Preply: Personalized learning with live tutors
Preply is a new kind of platform that combines the classic private lessons with the flexibility of modern apps. This hybrid approach is meant to give you a customized learning experience tailored to your pace and needs.
The platform offers instant feedback so you can correct your mistakes in real time. This will speed up your learning and make sure you understand the concept before moving on.
Features
Preply has got severals tools to help you learn:
- One huge network of over 32,000 certified tutors with different teaching styles and specializations
- Individual videoconference courses for all levels, from beginner to advanced
- Simplified lesson planning, available 24/7, to fit your busy schedule
- Custom dashboard to track your progress in detail
- Interactive tools like quizzes and flashcards to reinforce learning between sessions
- Change tutors for free if the first one doesn’t work out, so you can be 100% satisfied
Pricing
Preply has a flexible but pricey structure:
- Hourly rates range from $10 to $40 depending on the tutor you choose
- Packages of 5, 10 or 20 hours are available if you want to commit for a longer period
- Refund policy for the first lesson if you’re not satisfied
- No subscription, payment is made as you go which can be good for some but not so economical for others
Review
Preply offers a personalized and flexible learning experience perfect for those who want customized learning. However, some occasional technical issues and complex pricing can be a bummer. But still a good option for adaptive learning if you’re willing to invest time and money.
FIND OUT MORE: Visit the Preply website
2. Memrise: Fun learning with videos
Memrise is an app for vocabulary building, great for short and frequent learning sessions.
It’s not meant to replace full language learning but to help you memorize English vocabulary effectively and for good.
Features
Memrise has a fun and interactive way to learn vocabulary:
- One database of over 20,000 words and phrases in English and other languages
- Spaced repetition system scientifically proven for long-term memory
- Native speaker videos to improve pronunciation and cultural immersion
- Offline mode so you can learn without internet
- Interactive games and fun quizzes to make learning more enjoyable
- Speech recognition technology to practice pronunciation
Pricing
Memrise has different pricing options to fit your needs and budget:
- Free version with limited but enough content to get you started
- Monthly subscription at $8.99 for full short-term access
- Annual subscription at $59.99 (about $5/month) for better value
- Lifetime subscription at $139.99 one-time payment for users who are committed long term
Review
Memrise is great for teaching vocabulary because of its spaced repetition and native speaker videos. However, the app is limited for advanced learners especially in grammar and conversational practice. Still a good tool to enrich your vocabulary in a fun and flexible way.
FIND OUT MORE: Visit the Memrise website
3. Grammarly: Improving English Writing
Grammarly is for advanced English learners and even native speakers. Although not a language learning app, it’s been a great tool to improve your English writing.
Features
Grammarly has tools to improve English writing:
- One grammatical and spelling correction by artificial intelligence
- Style suggestions to make sentences clearer and more effective
- Plagiarism detection (premium version) to ensure content originality
- Integration with various platforms (web browser, Microsoft Word etc.)
- Personal dictionary to add custom terms
- Weekly writing reports
Pricing
Grammarly has different pricing options:
- Free version with basic features
- Monthly premium subscription at $30/month
- Quarterly premium subscription at $60/quarter ($20/month)
- Annual premium subscription at $144/year ($12/month)
Review
Grammarly is a great tool to improve English writing, with style and grammar suggestions in real-time. It’s also integrated with many platforms so it’s a great companion for any writing task.
However, the tool sometimes gives unsuitable suggestions for technical or complex texts. Also, while the free version is useful, the advanced features are only available in the premium version which can be pricey for some users. Grammarly is a good addition for advanced learners but not a replacement for full English language training.
FIND OUT MORE: Visit the Grammarly website
4. Babbel: Structured and Effective Lessons
Babbel is a balanced tool between fun apps and traditional English courses.
It’s great for learners who want to strengthen their grammar skills while having a structured approach to language learning.
Features
Babbel has a methodical and comprehensive approach to learning English:
- 14 thematic units covering A1 to B2 levels of the Common European Framework of Reference for Languages
- Pronunciation exercises with speech recognition technology
- Personalized revision system that adapts to the learner’s performance
- Offline mode to learn without internet connection
- Grammar lessons integrated into thematic lessons
- Podcasts for additional linguistic immersion
Pricing
Babbel has different subscription options to fit different learners’ needs:
- 3-month subscription: $26.85 ($8.95/month)
- 6-month subscription: $44.70 ($7.45/month)
- Yearly subscription: $83.40 ($6.95/month)
- Lifetime subscription (all languages): $199 one-time payment
Review
Babbel has well-structured courses aligned with European standards and speech recognition technology. However, some users find the app less dynamic than its competitors and repetitive.
Good for grammar learning but could use live speaking exercises for more practice.
FIND OUT MORE: Visit the Babbel website
5. Duolingo: Gamified and Accessible Learning
Duolingo is famous for its gamified approach to language learning, with reminders and rewards to encourage daily practice.
The app focuses on memorizing sentences which can be good for creating a habit but may require extra resources for deeper language understanding.
Features
Duolingo has a fun and engaging learning experience:
- Over 150 gamified learning units to keep you motivated
- Interactive stories to reinforce oral and written comprehension
- Pronunciation exercises with speech recognition
- Rewards and ranking system to motivate you
- Podcasts for additional linguistic immersion
- Duolingo events to practice with other learners
Pricing
Duolingo has a freemium model with subscriptions:
- Free version with ads
- Duolingo Plus $6.99/month
- Annual subscription $79.99 (about $6.67/month)
- Family plans for up to 6 accounts
Review
Duolingo is great for the fun approach, good for beginners and for creating a habit. But advanced users may find the content limited especially for complex grammar. Very accessible but could use more content for higher levels.
FIND OUT MORE: Visit the Duolingo website
6. Rosetta Stone: Full Immersion
Rosetta Stone is presented as the full immersion method from English.
This one of the oldest and most recognized in the market requires a high level of commitment from the learner and has a unique approach of total immersion.
Features
Rosetta Stone stands out for its translation-free immersion:
- Learn by total immersion without using your native language
- TruAccent voice recognition to perfect your pronunciation
- Interactive stories to learn in context
- One Phrasebook to learn everyday expressions
- A mobile mode to learn on the go
- Live classes with native tutors available as an option
Pricing
Rosetta Stone has several subscription options with a focus on long term commitment:
- 3 months: $35.97 ($11.99 per month)
- 12 months: $95.88 ($7.99 per month)
- 24 months: $143.76 ($5.99 per month)
- Lifetime access (all languages): $199 one time payment
Review
Rosetta Stone is a full immersion experience that can be very effective for some learners, especially intermediate to advanced. But without translations and longer learning curve can be frustrating for beginners. Despite the high initial cost, the platform is competitive for long term access, a proven method of language learning.
FIND OUT MORE: Visit the Rosetta Stone website
7. LingoDeer: Perfect for Asian languages
LingoDeer is presented as a more serious learning platform, especially recognized for its effectiveness in teaching Asian languages like Japanese, Korean and Mandarin.
Although it also teaches English, its structured approach and detailed grammar explanations sets it apart from more game-like apps.
Features
LingoDeer has a methodical approach to language learning:
- Structured courses from A1 to B2, with focus on East Asian languages
- Extensive grammar explanations with examples
- Pronunciation exercises with voice recognition
- Revision system with spaced repetition
- One level test to track progress
- Specific tools like character drills for Asian languages
Pricing
LingoDeer has several options:
- One free version with limited content
- Monthly subscription for $14.99
- Annual subscription for $79.99 (about $6.67/month)
- Lifetime access for one time payment of $159.99
Review
LingoDeer excels with its grammar explanations and structured approach, especially for Asian languages. But for more common languages like English, the app seems less comprehensive. Solid for theoretical learning, would benefit from more conversational practice for a more balanced learning experience.
FIND OUT MORE: Visit the LingoDeer website
8. Mondly: Immersive VR Experience
Mondly is known for its innovative approach using augmented reality for language learning.
Especially for beginners to overcome the fear of speaking out loud, Mondly was recognized by C-net in April 2020 as best at remembering specific sentences.
Features
Mondly has an immersive and techy learning experience:
- Personalized and short daily lessons for regular practice
- Chatbot with voice recognition to practice conversations
- Augmented and virtual reality for immersive learning
- Interactive conjugation tables to understand verbs better
- Offline mode to learn without internet connection
- Progress tracking with statistics on achievements
Pricing
Mondly has several options:
- One free version with limited features
- Monthly subscription for $9.99 for one language
- Annual subscription for $47.99 for one language
- Lifetime access (all languages) for one time payment of $199.99
Review
Mondly excels with its use of virtual and augmented reality, especially for visual learners. But short lessons and lack of content can be a letdown for learners looking for more depth. Great for practicing pronunciation, would benefit from clearer grammar explanations and more substantial lessons.
FIND OUT MORE: Visit the Mondly website
9. Busuu: Structured learning with native speakers
Busuu is a platform to get familiar with the pronunciation of basic English sentences, offers more flexibility to premium users.
The app is good for learning vocabulary on the go, but like its competitors, it’s not enough to be fluent.
Features
Busuu has a structured approach and interaction with native speakers:
- Courses aligned with the Common European Framework of Reference for Languages (A1 to B2)
- Receive corrections from native speakers for authentic interaction
- Official language certificates from McGraw-Hill
- Personalized learning plan based on the learner’s goals
- Pronunciation exercises with voice recognition
Pricing
Busuu has several options:
- Free version with limited content
- Premium: $9.99/month (billed annually)
- Premium Plus: $13.99/month (billed annually)
- Lifetime access : one time payment of $249.99
Review
Busuu excels with its native speaker correction system, offers a more authentic learning experience. Well structured courses aligned with European standards is a big plus. But some users find the lessons repetitive and not interactive enough compared to other apps. Good for basic learning, Busuu could benefit from more dynamic and varied content to keep learners engaged in the long run.
FIND OUT MORE: Visit the Busuu website
10. Beelinguapp: Learning through bilingual reading
Beelinguapp is a new learning app, focused on developing listening and reading skills in English.
Although it doesn’t target written or spoken expression, it offers a unique and free way to supplement the language learning experience.
Features
Beelinguapp has a bilingual reading method:
- Bilingual stories and articles with audio narration for simultaneous reading and listening
- One “Karaoke reading” mode to monitor the text in real time
- Flashcards to reinforce the learned vocabulary
- Variety of literary genres, from stories to news articles
- Quizzes to test comprehension after each reading
Pricing
Beelinguapp has several options:
- Free version with ads and limited content
- Monthly subscription: $7.99/month
- Annual subscription: $39.99/year (about $3.33/month)
- Lifetime access : one time payment of $99.99
Review
Beelinguapp excels with its bilingual stories approach, good for improving written and auditory comprehension. The app has generous free content and an engaging method for intermediate to advanced learners. But not suitable for complete beginners who need a more traditional structure. While good for reading and listening, Beelinguapp could benefit from more content and exercises for expression skills.
FIND OUT MORE: Visit the Beelinguapp website
11. Tandem: Language exchange with native speakers
Tandem is an innovative platform where English language learners can practice with native speakers.
This approach gives you the opportunity to test and improve your language skills in real life, for free and from home. Especially for intermediate learners, Tandem is an immersive way to reinforce what you have learned.
Features
Tandem offers a learning experience based on language exchange:
- Connect with native speakers for language exchange
- Integrated text, audio and video chat for multiple interactions
- Correct your exchange partner’s texts
- Translation tool integrated to facilitate conversations
- Search filters to find partners matching your needs
- Over 10 million active members
Pricing
Tandem has several options:
- Free version with basic features
- Tandem Pro (monthly): $6.99/month
- Tandem Pro (annual): $49.99/year (about $4.17/month)
Review
Tandem excels in language exchange, offers unparalleled virtual immersion. The app is good for conversation skills and self confidence. But the learning experience varies with the quality of the partners you find. Exchanges can be hard to organize at first but they are priceless for practicing the language in real life. Tandem is a great complement to more structured methods, good for motivated learners who want to improve their English in an authentic context.
FIND OUT MORE: Visit the Tandem website
How to learn English with apps?
Apps and methods
English learning apps get a bad rep, but they can work if used wisely. The key is to combine different apps and methods to cover all language skills.
No app is good for everything, so diversify your tools:
- Memrise for vocabulary
- British Council Learn English Grammar App for grammar
- Fluentu to see words in context
Don’t forget to complete your training with online courses or in person. As John Fotheringham, creator of languagemastery.com, says: “Apps are a great addition to a balanced language diet... but they shouldn’t be the main course”
Focus on your weaknesses
With so many apps to choose from, don’t scatter. Focus on one or two skills you want to improve first.
For example:
- For speaking practice, choose Busuu or Mondly
- For writing in informal situations, try Tandem and Grammarly
This targeted approach will help you make faster progress in the areas that need it most.
Prioritize speaking practice
Many apps are great for vocabulary, reading and spelling, but there’s no substitute for speaking with a native speaker.
Apps like Preply give you the chance to practice speaking regularly, a key aspect that’s often neglected in language learning.
By combining these approaches you’ll get the most out of your English language learning with apps and avoid the trap of shallow and unproductive learning.
FAQs
How to learn English?
The combination of a well-planned study schedule covering all language skills, digital tools and traditional methods like online courses or tutoring.
What are the best apps for vocabulary?
Memrise, British Council Learn English Vocabulary App, FluentU and Tandem are good for vocabulary. They use interactive games, audio recordings and visual aids. Some offer free lessons.
Tutor or app?
A combination of both is often the best. Tutors offer personalized advice, apps offer structure and independence. Preply for example offers both qualified tutors and digital resources.
Summary
In summary, the English learning app market has tools for all levels and learning styles. From gamified platforms like Duolingo to immersive experiences of Mondly, to language exchanges of Tandem, every learner can find what suits them.
Combine your learning. For example, use Grammarly to polish your writing while reading with Beelinguapp. Complete your learning with our articles on best TV shows to learn English Or educational podcasts in English.
Remember, the key is to practice regularly and immerse. Check out our resources on vocabulary memorization techniques And tips to improve your pronunciation to make the most of it.
Whatever app you choose, remember learning a language is a journey. Enjoy and celebrate each step!
