The 4 Best Language Learning Apps in 2024
For input, output, and interaction
With so many apps and online language learning tools available to choose from, it can be hard to navigate through the options and find the most effective methods to reach your goals.
Even if you’re enrolled in a traditional language learning course, you’ll find that nothing beats the convenience, accessibility, and extra practice these apps offer.
I’ve tried and tested so many apps and found that these 4 apps have been the most effective for language input, output, and interaction — the three points you need to fill into your learning journey.
The reason why most of us can’t remember any of the Spanish we learned in high school is because there was only input (reading and answering questions in writing).
LingQ, Memrise, Ling, and HelloTalk hits all these necessary components to reach fluency in your target language. There is an app and web version for each so you can learn according to your preference. These tools include content and methods for different learning styles and levels making them ideal for everyone.
LingQ — Learn languages from content you love
LingQ’s focus is on input and immersion when it comes to language learning. The goal is to learn by reading and listening to content that you actually find interesting.
With a vast content library with stories and articles on almost any topic, you’ll be sure to find something you like. With premium, you can also import your own content from the web from podcasts, stories, videos, etc. to read and listen to in your target language.
LingQ offers both a free and premium subscription. With the free version, you can still access thousands of hours of audio and transcript content.
Features
Currently offers 45 languages
Vocabulary tools to save words and phrases
Tracking system to store words you have learned
Personal tutor, premium lessons, and other features are available with premium
Memrise — Learn the language like you’re living there
Memrise is great for input and output as it helps to build vocabulary and learn pronunciation. Listening for pronunciation and memorizing important and most-used words is essential. With Memrise, you can also practice speaking by repeating what you hear and by practicing with chat.
With phrases and vocab tests, you’ll hear and see how a local speaks. The main goal isn’t just to memorize words. It’s also to expose you to real-life situations and context so you understand how native speakers use these words.
Memrise offers a free and pro plan. Again, the free plan offers more than enough to get you started well on your way to fluency.
Features
Currently offers 23 languages
Free courses with recommended lessons for beginners
Spaced-repetition flashcard game for interactive and quick learning
Choose a topic to focus on for each lesson
Phrasebooks with native speaker videos and audio files to hear pronunciation
Personalized review plans and AI-powered speaking practice
Ling — Connect through language
Ling is a fun and interactive learning app with games and quizzes that help you learn sentence structure and practice writing. With the chatbot, you can also practice speaking by writing or by voice.
The exercises, activities, and exams are engaging and help you practice your language skills. With this interactive and effective learning method, practicing just 10 minutes a day will go a long way.
Ling can be used free but to access more lessons and get the most out of the app, the subscription is worth it.
Features
Currently offers 60+ languages
Quizzes to test and track your progress
Interactive chatbot and exercises
Writing practice and grammar
Game-based learning backed by linguistic research
HelloTalk — Language acquisition the natural way
HelloTalk is a language exchange app with an emphasis on output. By chatting and speaking with native speakers, you can dramatically improve your ability to hold a real-life conversation and fix your mistakes.
HelloTalk is free to use but with limited features. To get the most out of it, a VIP subscription would be needed especially if you’re at the beginner level of the language you’re learning.
Features
Currently offers 150+ languages
Built-in language correction and translation tools
Talk with language partners through text, voice messages, and calls
Join voice rooms for group conversational practice
Social feed for posting and asking questions
To find the best fit for you, try these out and experiment with the different learning methods. Every language learning tool has something to offer with both pros and cons. But I believe that these 4 tools used together would tremendously improve your language skills!
Tip: it’s always good to have one good grammar book and a pocket dictionary (physical copies) that you can refer to.
If you set a daily or weekly schedule and stay consistent in using these resources, you’ll be closer to fluency than you ever were before.