Learning a new language has never been easier thanks to the many free apps available today. You can pick up new words and grammar from your phone or computer without spending any money. The best free language learning apps offer fun lessons, useful practice, and steady progress without charging users a dime.
Many people want to learn languages for travel, work, or personal growth. Apps like Duolingo and Memrise have changed how we learn by making it more like a game. Each app has different strengths, whether it’s teaching reading, speaking, or helping busy people fit learning into their day.
1) Duolingo
Duolingo stands as one of the most popular free language learning apps available today. It offers lessons for over 40 languages through a game-like interface that makes learning fun and engaging.
The app breaks down language learning into small, bite-sized lessons. These quick sessions are perfect for busy people who want to learn a new language but don’t have much time to spare each day.
Duolingo is completely free to use with all core features accessible without payment. The company offers a paid version called Super Duolingo for $13 per month or $84 annually, which removes ads and adds extra features.
The learning method focuses on multiple skills at once. Users practice speaking, reading, listening, and writing during lessons, helping build a well-rounded understanding of their chosen language.
Science backs Duolingo’s teaching approach. The app uses proven learning techniques and spaced repetition to help users remember vocabulary and grammar rules more effectively.
The platform works well across devices. Learners can use Duolingo on their phones through apps or on computers through the website, making it easy to practice anywhere.
For Spanish learners, many users find Duolingo particularly helpful. The Spanish course offers one of the most complete learning experiences on the platform with extensive vocabulary and grammar lessons.
Duolingo keeps users motivated through streaks, points, and achievements. This game-like system encourages daily practice, which is key to successful language learning.
2) Babbel
Babbel offers a different approach to language learning than many free apps. It’s a paid service with a subscription model, but it does offer some free lessons to try before you buy.
The app teaches 14 different languages including Spanish, French, Italian, and German. Each lesson is short and focused on practical conversation skills you can use right away.
Babbel’s strength is its structured learning path. The lessons build on each other in a way that helps you make steady progress. This makes it good for beginners and intermediate learners.
The app uses speech recognition technology to help improve your pronunciation. This feature gives you feedback on how well you’re saying words and phrases.
Users often praise Babbel for its real-world focus. The app teaches useful phrases you might actually say when traveling or speaking with native speakers.
The interactive lessons are designed to be completed in short bursts of about 15 minutes. This makes it easy to fit language learning into a busy schedule.
While not completely free, Babbel is often considered a good value. Some users find it more effective than free options for serious language study.
The app works well on both Android and iOS devices. It syncs your progress across devices, so you can switch between your phone and tablet seamlessly.
According to many users, Babbel feels more like a digital textbook designed specifically for self-learners. This makes it especially helpful for beginners who want clear structure.
3) Memrise
Memrise is a popular free language app that focuses on vocabulary building. It offers official courses for 23 languages, making it a solid choice for beginners and intermediate learners alike.
The app stands out with its use of video clips showing native speakers using phrases in real life. This feature helps users learn authentic pronunciation and natural usage of the language they’re studying.
Memrise uses a gamified approach to keep learning fun. The app includes various tests and games that train different language skills while keeping users engaged.
One of the best things about Memrise is how it personalizes your review sessions. The app tracks what you’ve learned and what you need to practice more, creating a custom learning path.
Unlike some other apps, Memrise puts more emphasis on teaching vocabulary rather than sentence formation. This approach helps build a strong word base before tackling grammar.
The app works on multiple devices and syncs your progress. You can download Memrise on both iOS and Android, then switch between your phone, tablet, or computer without losing track of your learning.
Users praise Memrise for being easy to use, especially for those starting a language from scratch. The interface is simple and the learning path is clearly laid out.
For those who want to learn at their own pace, Memrise offers a free plan with plenty of content. Premium features are available but not required to get good value from the app.
4) Beelinguapp
Beelinguapp offers a fresh approach to language learning. It uses audiobooks and texts in two languages side by side, helping you learn by reading and listening at the same time.
The app supports 23 different languages including Spanish, English, and many others. You can pick from a wide range of stories and texts based on your interests.
What makes Beelinguapp stand out is its reading format. The text appears in both your native language and the one you’re learning, making it easy to compare and understand.
The app works like a language-focused Netflix where you can browse through different content. Many texts are free, with premium options for those wanting more.
Beelinguapp includes audiobooks read by native speakers. This feature helps with pronunciation and listening skills, which are key parts of learning any language.
Music lovers will enjoy the song lyrics feature. It lets you learn through popular songs while following along with the words in both languages.
The app is available for both iOS and Android devices. Its clean design makes finding new content simple, even for beginners.
PCMag reviews praise Beelinguapp for its focus on reading and reading comprehension. These skills often get less attention in other language apps.
The free version gives you good access to basic features. This makes it perfect for trying out before deciding if you want to pay for more content.
5) Busuu
Busuu stands out as a popular choice for language learners. It offers free language learning courses in 14 different languages, making it accessible for beginners and advanced students alike.
What makes Busuu special is its community approach. Users can learn together with native speakers who provide feedback on their exercises. This real-world practice helps students gain confidence quickly.
The app works well for busy people. You can learn on your mobile device whenever you have free time. The lessons are designed by language experts and broken into manageable chunks.
Many users prefer Busuu over other apps. According to some language learners on Reddit, it’s better than Duolingo for Spanish learning. The structured approach seems to help people make faster progress.
The app includes various learning tools. These range from vocabulary builders to grammar exercises and speaking practice. Each lesson builds on previous knowledge to strengthen language skills.
Busuu also offers a premium version with more features. However, the free version provides enough content for casual learners to make good progress. The expertly designed lessons cover essential topics for everyday communication.
For those who want to learn multiple languages, Busuu allows access to all 14 language courses with the same account. This flexibility makes it a good choice for curious language enthusiasts who want to try different languages.
6) HelloTalk
HelloTalk is the largest language exchange app available today. It connects users with native speakers to practice languages in a natural way.
The app lets you learn many popular languages including English, Japanese, Korean, Spanish, French, and Mandarin. You don’t just study from textbooks – you chat with real people.
HelloTalk works by matching you with native speakers of your target language. These people want to learn your language too, so everyone benefits.
The app includes helpful learning tools like translation and instant captions. These features make conversations with language partners much easier.
Users can practice both writing and speaking skills. You can send text messages, voice messages, or even have calls with your language partners.
One great thing about HelloTalk is that it’s completely free to use. There are premium features available, but the core experience costs nothing.
The HelloTalk community includes millions of users from around the world. This means you can find native speakers no matter which language you’re learning.
Beyond just language practice, HelloTalk helps users explore different cultures. Many people make friends while using the app.
The app is available on both iOS and Android devices. This makes it easy for anyone to download and start learning right away.
7) Drops
Drops is a free language learning app that focuses on teaching vocabulary through quick, engaging games. It offers over 50 languages including Spanish, Korean, Japanese, Arabic, and French.
What makes Drops stand out is its time-limited approach. Each free lesson lasts just 5 minutes per day. This short time frame helps prevent overwhelm and keeps learning focused.
The app uses simple mnemonic images to help you remember new words. These visual connections make it easier to recall vocabulary later when you need it.
Drops teaches language word by word rather than with full sentences. This bit-by-bit method works well for building basic vocabulary in a new language.
The gameplay is fast-paced and fun. Users drag words to match images, swipe to answer questions, and interact with words in various ways. These quick actions keep lessons interesting.
Free users get 5 minutes of learning per day. This might seem short, but it’s enough to pick up new words consistently over time.
For those who want more study time, paid plans are available. However, even with just the free version, you can make steady progress in learning new vocabulary.
The app works best as a supplement to other language learning methods. It excels at teaching words but doesn’t focus much on grammar or conversation skills.
Reviews suggest Drops works well for vocabulary study but shouldn’t be your only learning tool. It’s most effective when combined with other resources that teach grammar and speaking.
8) Tandem
Tandem is a popular language exchange app that connects learners with native speakers. This free platform allows users to practice languages through direct conversations with people around the world.
The app offers a global language exchange community where users can find partners who speak the language they want to learn. In return, users help others learn their native language.
One of Tandem’s key features is its chat function that lets people connect one-on-one. The app also includes “Parties,” which are group audio spaces for learning together with multiple speakers.
Millions of language learners use Tandem to improve their skills. The app is available on the App Store for iPhone users and Google Play for Android users.
Many people consider Tandem to be one of the best resources for finding language exchange partners. The platform makes it easy to find someone who shares your interests and learning goals.
For those looking for alternatives, there are other options like languageXchange, which is a completely open-source platform similar to Tandem.
The main benefit of using Tandem is the chance to learn from actual native speakers. This gives users real-world practice that’s hard to get from textbooks or classroom settings alone.
9) Clozemaster
Clozemaster stands out as a unique language learning app that focuses on helping learners build vocabulary through context. The app works with over 50 languages and uses a fill-in-the-blank approach to teach words.
Users see sentences with missing words and must choose the correct option to complete them. This method helps with both understanding and recall, which are key skills for language mastery.
The game-like format makes learning fun rather than boring. You earn points as you correctly fill in blanks, which keeps many users motivated to continue practicing.
Clozemaster is especially useful for intermediate and advanced learners who already know some basics. It helps them move beyond beginner phrases and start using real-world sentences.
The app offers thousands of sentences in each language. This gives users plenty of practice material without repeating the same content too often.
You can play Clozemaster on both your computer and phone. The mobile app is available for Android and iOS devices.
What makes Clozemaster different is its focus on recall skills. Many apps help you recognize words, but Clozemaster trains you to remember and use them actively.
The basic version is free, though a paid option offers more features. For someone wanting to build vocabulary in context without spending money, this app provides excellent value.
10) LingoDeer
LingoDeer is a highly-rated language learning app with 4.9 stars on the App Store. It stands out for its structured lessons created by actual language teachers.
Unlike some free apps, LingoDeer offers quality content without forcing users to pay. Free users get access to alphabets, the first unit, Test Outs, Flashcards, and Reviews according to LingoDeer support.
The app shines when it comes to Asian languages. Many language learners recommend LingoDeer as a great alternative to Duolingo, especially for Japanese, Korean, and Chinese.
LingoDeer teaches through practical bite-sized lessons with native speaker audio. This approach helps users learn naturally and effectively.
The app serves over 20 million people worldwide. Its clean design and clear progression make learning less overwhelming for beginners.
For English speakers, LingoDeer offers courses in Japanese, French, Spanish, Korean and other languages. The lessons build on each other in a logical way.
Each lesson includes vocabulary, grammar rules, and practice exercises. Users can test their knowledge with quizzes and review sessions.
The free version provides enough content to get started with a new language. This makes it perfect for curious learners who want to try before committing.
Benefits of Using Language Learning Apps
Language learning apps have transformed how people learn new languages. They offer unique advantages that traditional methods often lack, making language acquisition more accessible for everyone.
Flexibility and Convenience
Learning a language through apps gives you freedom to study anywhere, anytime. You can practice during lunch breaks, while commuting, or before bed. This helps increase motivation since you can fit learning into your schedule without major lifestyle changes.
Most apps work offline, allowing users to download lessons for times without internet access. This feature is perfect for travelers who want to practice while actually visiting countries where the target language is spoken.
Apps also remove the pressure of in-person classes. Learners can make mistakes privately and practice difficult pronunciations without feeling embarrassed, which often leads to better retention and confidence.
Key Convenience Features:
- 24/7 access to lessons
- No travel time or fixed schedules
- Progress tracking across devices
- Short, bite-sized lessons that fit busy lifestyles
Cost-Effectiveness
Language apps offer substantial savings compared to traditional methods. Many high-quality apps provide free versions with enough content to build basic skills in a new language without spending anything.
Even premium versions of language apps typically cost less than private tutoring or classroom courses. A year’s subscription to most language apps costs about the same as just a few hours with a private tutor.
These apps eliminate extra expenses like commuting costs, textbooks, and printed materials. Everything needed for learning is contained within the app itself.
For families, language apps are especially economical since one subscription often allows multiple profiles, letting several family members learn different languages under a single account.
Personalized Learning Experience
Modern language apps use AI technology to adapt to each user’s learning style and pace. They identify patterns in mistakes and automatically provide extra practice in weaker areas.
Apps employ gamification through points, badges, and leaderboards to make learning fun. This game-like approach turns routine practice into engaging activities that keep users coming back.
Many apps now offer speech recognition to help with pronunciation, giving immediate feedback on how well users pronounce words and phrases. This technology has improved dramatically in recent years.
Some advanced apps create customized learning paths based on why you’re learning a language – whether for travel, business, or academics. This targeted approach helps users learn relevant vocabulary first, making the language immediately useful.
Comparing Free and Paid Language Learning Apps
Most language learning apps offer both free and paid versions with significant differences in features, lesson content, and learning support. Understanding these differences can help you choose the right option for your learning journey.
Key Differences
Free language apps like Duolingo typically offer basic vocabulary and grammar lessons with limited features. They often include ads and restrict how much you can learn each day.
Paid versions remove these limits and add extra tools. For example, Babbel’s paid version offers a more structured class-like experience with deeper grammar explanations.
The main differences include:
- Learning depth: Free apps focus on basics while paid versions offer more advanced content
- Ad experience: Free versions show ads; paid versions are ad-free
- Practice options: Paid apps provide more speaking practice and feedback
- Offline access: Many paid apps let you download lessons for offline use
Limitations of Free Versions
Free language apps come with several restrictions. Most notably, apps like Memrise and Duolingo limit how many lessons users can complete daily or how many mistakes they can make.
Free apps often lack speaking practice components. While they may include basic pronunciation checks, they rarely offer conversation practice with feedback.
Grammar explanations tend to be brief in free versions. Users might learn how to form sentences but not understand the underlying rules.
The learning path is also less flexible. Free apps typically follow a set course without options to focus on specific skills or topics that interest the learner.
When to Upgrade to a Paid Version
Consider upgrading when you feel limited by the free version’s restrictions. If you find yourself waiting for lives to regenerate or hitting daily limits, it’s a sign you might benefit from a paid plan.
Serious language learners should upgrade when they need more comprehensive grammar explanations or want to focus on specific skills. Wirecutter’s reviews suggest that dedicated learners get more value from paid versions.
Upgrade if you:
- Study regularly (more than 15 minutes daily)
- Plan to travel soon and need targeted travel phrases
- Want to develop conversational skills quickly
- Need offline access for learning during commutes
- Prefer learning without ads interrupting your focus
Apps like Lirica offer unique paid features such as learning through music, which might be worth the cost for certain learning styles.
Frequently Asked Questions
Learning a new language with free apps can be convenient and effective. Several quality options exist for different needs and learning styles.
What are the top-rated free language learning apps for adults?
Adults looking for top-rated free language learning apps have several excellent choices. Duolingo offers a generous free version with engaging lessons covering various topics.
Memrise provides free daily lessons in 30 languages, making it popular among adult learners. The app uses memory techniques that work well for mature students.
Busuu also offers free features that adults appreciate, including grammar explanations and vocabulary practice.
Which free language learning apps offer the best experience without requiring a subscription?
Duolingo stands out as an excellent free option with no subscription needed for core features. Users can access complete courses without paying.
Beelinguapp helps improve reading skills at no cost. The app shows text in two languages side-by-side, which helps users understand context better.
Memrise offers a solid free tier with daily lessons that many users find sufficient for basic language learning.
Can you recommend any free language learning apps that are considered superior to Duolingo?
For those wanting alternatives to Duolingo, Babbel’s free trial provides comprehensive grammar instruction. The teaching approach is more structured than Duolingo’s game-like system.
Memrise often ranks highly for word association techniques, which some learners find more effective than Duolingo’s methods. The app focuses on vocabulary in real-world contexts.
Busuu offers free community corrections from native speakers, a feature some users prefer over Duolingo’s automated feedback.
What are the best free language learning apps available on Android devices?
Android users have access to all major language learning apps. Duolingo performs extremely well on Android with regular updates and full functionality.
Memrise and Beelinguapp are optimized for Android, offering smooth experiences without technical issues. Both apps make good use of Android’s notification system for learning reminders.
Pimsleur offers a free trial on Android and excels at listening and speaking practice with its audio-based methodology.
Which free language learning app is the most effective for learning French?
For French learners, Duolingo provides a comprehensive free course covering vocabulary, grammar, and pronunciation. The French course is one of their most developed programs.
Memrise offers French courses with authentic audio from native speakers. This helps learners get comfortable with real French accents and expressions.
Busuu’s free version includes basic French lessons with good pronunciation guides and cultural notes that give context to the language.
Are there any free language learning apps that focus on improving speaking skills?
Pimsleur focuses strongly on speaking practice with its audio-based learning method. Their free trial helps beginners start forming sentences quickly.
Memrise includes speaking exercises in some of its free lessons. Users can record themselves and compare their pronunciation to native speakers.
Duolingo has added more speaking components to its free version, including pronunciation exercises and speaking challenges that provide feedback on accuracy.
