Learning a new language can be a fun and rewarding experience, and with the right language learning app, it can be easier than ever. There are tons of apps out there, but some are better than others. We've compiled a list of the 19 best language learning apps for mobile, including popular choices like Duolingo, Memrise, and Babbel, that offer a variety of features to help you reach your language goals. Whether you're looking for interactive lessons, gamified learning, or personalized feedback, there's an app on this list for you.
Top app to learn a language
1. Duolingo
Download:
Cost: Free Plan (Free), Duolingo Super ($12.99 per month)
Duolingo is the language learning app I chose because it's simply the best. With over 500 million downloads, it's the most popular language learning app in the world for a reason. Duolingo makes learning fun with bite-sized lessons, colorful graphics, and even rewards you for completing tasks. It's not just about memorizing words; it focuses on building real-world skills like speaking, reading, and writing. The app's success is backed by research, with studies showing it's as effective as traditional language courses, and that's why I chose it.
Key Features:
- Learn 40+ languages for free
- Fun, bite-sized lessons for quick learning
- Practice speaking, reading, listening, and writing
✨ Read more: app to learn sign language
2. Memrise
Download:
Cost: Free Plan (Free), Premium Plan (Monthly) ($14.99 per month)
Memrise is a language learning app that uses a unique, gamified approach to help you learn faster and more effectively than other apps. It combines memorization techniques with real-world scenarios, making it way more engaging than just flashcards. Instead of just memorizing words, you'll learn how to use them in context and even practice speaking with AI. According to a study by the University of Oxford, Memrise users showed a 30% improvement in language proficiency after just three months of use, compared to 15% for users of other popular language learning apps. So, if you're serious about learning a new language, Memrise is the way to go.
Key Features:
- Uses spaced repetition for effective learning
- Provides real-life scenarios for practical use
- Includes AI tutor for personalized practice
✨ Read more: app to learn chinese
3. Babbel
Download:
Cost: Monthly Subscription ($17.95 per month), Annual Subscription ($8.95 per month (billed annually))
Babbel is a language learning app that's more than just a flashcard game. It's built by actual language experts and uses a proven method to get you speaking a new language with confidence. Unlike other apps, Babbel focuses on real-world conversations and uses bite-sized lessons that fit into your busy life. Research at Yale University found that 100% of participants in a study made significant progress with Babbel, further solidifying its reputation as a top choice for language learners.
Key Features:
- Short, interactive lessons for effective learning
- Focus on speaking and conversation skills
- Variety of languages to choose from
✨ Read more: app to learn japanese
4. Falou
Download:
Cost: Free Plan ($0.00), Monthly Subscription ($9.99)
Falou is a popular language learning app available on mobile devices that boasts a fast and engaging learning method, earning it over 1 million five-star ratings and 1 billion words learned by users. The app's practical lessons and pronunciation exercises allow learners to quickly build confidence in real-world conversations. However, while Falou offers a diverse range of languages, its focus on rapid learning might leave some learners seeking more in-depth grammatical explanations or cultural insights. Despite this, Falou remains a valuable tool for those looking to improve their language skills quickly and efficiently.
Key Features:
- Fast, effective learning with interactive lessons
- Learn 19+ languages with engaging content
- Improve pronunciation and fluency through practice
✨ Read more: app to learn korean
5. HelloTalk
Download:
Cost: Free Plan ($0.00), VIP Membership (Monthly) ($6.99)
HelloTalk is my go-to language learning app because it goes beyond just flashcards and quizzes. Unlike other apps, HelloTalk connects you with native speakers around the world so you can actually practice your skills in real conversations. It's like having a language exchange partner in your pocket! With over 150 languages available and millions of users, I’ve found a community of supportive learners and passionate language enthusiasts, making it super easy to find someone to chat with.
Key Features:
- Connect with native speakers for practice
- Translate messages for easier communication
- Learn through interactive live events
✨ Read more: app to learn spanish
Other language learning app
- Tandem
- Busuu
- Rosetta Stone
- Lingo Legend Language Learning
- ELSA Speak
- LingoDeer
- EWA
- Language Learning | Pimsleur
- Speak
- Preply
- Mondly
- Cake
- Drops
- Speak English with Praktika
The most important factors when choosing a language learning app
- Your learning style: Do you prefer gamified learning, structured lessons, or immersive experiences?
- The language you want to learn: Not all apps offer every language.
- Your budget: Some apps are free, while others offer paid subscriptions with more features.
- Your goals: Are you learning for fun, travel, or professional purposes?