Learning a new language has never been more accessible, thanks to the wealth of free apps available at our fingertips. We’ve thoroughly tested and reviewed a wide range of language learning applications, evaluating their effectiveness, user-friendliness, and overall learning experience.
Whether you’re looking to brush up on your French, master Mandarin, or dive into Dutch, our curated list of the best free language learning apps has something for everyone. We’ve considered factors such as teaching methods, interactive features, and progress tracking to ensure you find the perfect tool to kickstart your linguistic journey—without spending a penny.
Our Top Tested Picks
Duolingo | Best for Gamified Learning | |
Memrise | Best for Native Speaker Content | |
Busuu | Best for Structured Courses |
Duolingo
Duolingo is one of the most popular free language learning apps, offering a gamified approach to language acquisition. The app’s bite-sized lessons make learning engaging and accessible, perfect for fitting into busy schedules.
With over 30 languages available, including less common options like Hawaiian and Navajo, Duolingo caters to a wide range of learners.
The free version provides access to all language courses and features, including speaking, listening, reading, and writing exercises. Users can set daily goals and track their progress with a streak system, encouraging consistent practice.
The app also incorporates a variety of interactive exercises, such as matching pairs, translating sentences, and speaking tasks, to keep learners engaged.
Key Features
- Gamified learning experience with points and achievements
- Personalised learning paths
- Speaking and listening exercises
- Progress tracking and performance analytics
- Community forums for peer support
While the free plan offers comprehensive content, a paid ‘Super Duolingo’ subscription removes ads, allows offline access, and provides unlimited hearts (attempts) for lessons. The paid plan starts at £6.99 per month after the free version.
Memrise
Memrise takes a unique approach to language learning by incorporating mnemonic techniques and spaced repetition. The app uses real-life video clips of native speakers, helping learners grasp authentic pronunciation and colloquial usage. With courses in over 20 languages, Memrise offers a blend of official content created by language experts and user-generated materials.
The free version of Memrise provides access to a wealth of vocabulary and phrase lessons. Users can learn through flashcards, multiple-choice questions, and typing exercises. The app’s adaptive algorithm tailors the learning experience to each user’s progress, focusing on areas that need more practice.
Key Features
- Video clips of native speakers
- Spaced repetition system for efficient memorisation
- User-generated content for diverse learning materials
- Pronunciation practice with speech recognition
- Offline mode for learning on-the-go (premium feature)
While the free plan offers substantial content, the premium version unlocks additional features such as grammar lessons, listening skills exercises, and the ability to learn multiple languages simultaneously. Premium plans start at £8.99 per month after the free version.
Babbel
Babbel offers a more structured approach to language learning, focusing on practical conversation skills and cultural insights. The app provides courses in 14 languages, with lessons designed by linguistic experts to help learners achieve conversational fluency quickly. Babbel’s method emphasises real-life scenarios and dialogue, making it particularly useful for those planning to use their language skills for travel or work.
While Babbel is primarily a paid service, it offers a free trial that allows users to sample the first lesson of every course. This trial gives learners a taste of Babbel’s teaching style and content quality. The lessons incorporate various exercise types, including fill-in-the-blank, listening comprehension, and speaking practice with speech recognition technology.
Key Features
- Lessons focused on practical, real-life conversations
- Speech recognition for pronunciation practice
- Review sessions using spaced repetition
- Offline mode for learning without internet connection
- Synchronisation across devices
After the free trial, users can subscribe to Babbel’s paid plans, which start at £5.99 per month for a 12-month subscription. The paid version unlocks full access to all lessons and features across all language courses.
Busuu
Busuu offers a comprehensive language learning experience with a strong emphasis on community interaction. The app provides courses in 12 languages, developed by expert linguists and following the Common European Framework of Reference (CEFR) for languages. Busuu’s unique selling point is its language exchange feature, which connects learners with native speakers for mutual language practice.
The free plan gives users access to a limited selection of lessons in one language. These lessons cover vocabulary, grammar, and pronunciation through various exercise types such as fill-in-the-blanks, matching, and multiple-choice questions. Free users can also participate in the language exchange community, getting feedback on their writing and speaking exercises from native speakers.
Key Features
- Lessons aligned with CEFR levels
- Language exchange with native speakers
- Vocabulary and grammar exercises
- Offline mode (premium feature)
- Personalised study plans
While the free plan offers a good starting point, the premium version unlocks full course content, grammar lessons, and additional features like AI-powered conversations. Premium plans start at £5.83 per month for a 12-month subscription.
HelloTalk
HelloTalk takes a unique approach to language learning by focusing primarily on conversation practice with native speakers. The app functions as a language exchange platform, connecting users who want to learn each other’s languages. With support for over 150 languages, HelloTalk offers an immersive experience in language and cultural exchange.
The free version of HelloTalk allows users to connect with language partners, engage in text, voice, and video chats, and use built-in translation tools. Users can correct each other’s messages, helping both parties improve their language skills. The app also includes a “Moments” feature, similar to social media posts, where users can share content in their target language and receive corrections from native speakers.
Key Features
- Text, voice, and video chat with native speakers
- Built-in translation and pronunciation tools
- Correction feature for language practice
- Language exchange community
- Transliteration for languages with different writing systems
While the free plan offers extensive features, a VIP subscription removes ads, increases daily translation limits, and allows users to learn multiple languages simultaneously. VIP plans start at £6.99 per month after the free version.
BBC Languages
BBC Languages offers a wealth of free resources for language learners, focusing primarily on European languages. While not a traditional app, the BBC’s language learning website provides a variety of materials that can be accessed on mobile devices through a web browser. The platform is known for its high-quality, professionally produced content, including audio and video lessons, vocabulary lists, and cultural insights.
Users can access a range of language courses, including French, Spanish, Italian, German, Greek, Portuguese, and Chinese. The courses typically include audio lessons, transcripts, and interactive exercises. BBC Languages also offers “Quick Fix” phrases for travellers, providing essential vocabulary for common situations encountered abroad.
Key Features
- High-quality audio and video lessons
- Courses for multiple European languages
- Cultural notes and travel phrases
- Interactive vocabulary and grammar exercises
- News-based language learning materials
All content on BBC Languages is completely free, with no paid upgrades or subscriptions required. Users can access the full range of materials without any limitations.
Clozemaster
Clozemaster offers a unique approach to language learning, focusing on learning vocabulary and grammar in context through fill-in-the-blank exercises. The app provides courses for over 50 languages, making it one of the most diverse platforms available. Clozemaster’s method is based on the principle of mass exposure to authentic sentences, helping learners understand how words and phrases are used in real-life contexts.
The free version of Clozemaster gives users access to all languages and a significant portion of the sentence database. Learners can engage in multiple-choice and text-input exercises, filling in missing words in sentences. The app tracks progress and uses spaced repetition to reinforce learning. Free users can also participate in daily goals and leaderboards for added motivation.
Key Features
- Context-based learning with fill-in-the-blank exercises
- Over 50 languages available
- Spaced repetition system
- Progress tracking and statistics
- Gamification elements like points and leaderboards
While the free plan offers extensive content, the Pro version unlocks additional features such as listening exercises, custom word lists, and more detailed progress tracking. Pro subscriptions start at £6.99 per month after the free version.
Mango Languages
Mango Languages is a comprehensive language learning platform that offers courses in over 70 languages, including less commonly taught languages and specialised courses like medical Spanish. While typically a paid service, Mango Languages is available for free through many UK public libraries, making it an excellent resource for library card holders.
The app uses a conversational approach, teaching through real-life situations and cultural notes. Lessons include interactive audio and text, pronunciation practice with voice comparison technology, and grammar insights. Mango’s unique feature is its adaptive algorithm that adjusts the review frequency based on the learner’s performance.
Key Features
- Courses in over 70 languages
- Conversational approach with cultural insights
- Voice comparison technology for pronunciation
- Adaptive review system
- Offline learning mode
Access to Mango Languages is free for users with a participating library card. Without library access, subscriptions start at £17.99 per month for individual users.
Drops
Drops offers a visually appealing and fast-paced approach to vocabulary learning. The app focuses on teaching words and phrases through quick, engaging five-minute sessions, making it ideal for busy learners or those with short attention spans. Drops provides courses in over 45 languages, including endangered languages like Hawaiian and Ainu.
The free version of Drops allows users to access a five-minute learning session each day. These sessions use a variety of mini-games and exercises to teach vocabulary, including matching words to images, swipe-based exercises, and word puzzles. The app’s clean, minimalist design and smooth animations make the learning process visually enjoyable.
Key Features
- Visual vocabulary learning with illustrations
- Short, focused five-minute sessions
- Courses in over 45 languages
- Various mini-games and exercise types
- Progress tracking and spaced repetition
While the free plan is limited to five minutes per day, premium subscriptions remove this time limit and offer additional features like offline mode and custom word lists. Premium plans start at £7.49 per month after the free version.
Lingodeer
Lingodeer is a language learning app that initially focused on Asian languages but has since expanded to include European languages as well. The app has a comprehensive approach to grammar explanations and its focus on building a strong foundation in the language. Lingodeer is particularly popular among learners of Korean, Japanese, and Chinese.
While primarily a paid service, Lingodeer offers a free trial that gives users access to a limited number of lessons in their chosen language. The app uses a variety of exercise types, including multiple-choice questions, word ordering, and speaking practice. Lingodeer also includes detailed grammar notes and cultural insights, making it suitable for learners who prefer a more structured approach.
Key Features
- Comprehensive grammar explanations
- Focus on Asian and European languages
- Various exercise types including speaking and listening
- Offline mode for learning without internet
- Customisable review sessions
After the free trial, users can subscribe to Lingodeer’s paid plans, which start at £11.99 per month. The paid version unlocks full access to all lessons and features across all language courses.
How to choose the best language learning app for you
Understanding Your Learning Style and Goals
Embarking on a linguistic journey? With a plethora of free language learning apps at your fingertips, picking the right one can feel like navigating a labyrinth. First off, consider your learning style. Are you a visual learner who thrives on colourful graphics and interactive games? Or do you prefer a more structured approach with grammar lessons and vocabulary drills? Next, think about your goals. Are you aiming to become fluent, or do you just want to learn enough for your next holiday? Apps vary in their depth of content and approach, so choose one that aligns with your learning preferences and objectives.
User Interface and Language Availability
Don’t overlook the importance of the app’s user interface. A clunky or confusing design can quickly dampen your motivation. Look for an app that’s intuitive and enjoyable to use – you’re more likely to stick with it if it doesn’t feel like a chore. Additionally, consider the languages on offer. While most apps cover popular languages like Spanish or French, if you’re keen on learning a less common language like Icelandic or Swahili, ensure your chosen app supports it.
Enhancing Learning with Extra Features
Lastly, think about additional features that might enhance your learning experience. Some apps offer speech recognition to help with pronunciation, while others include cultural notes for better context. Peer-to-peer practice with native speakers can be invaluable, so look out for apps that facilitate language exchange. The best app is the one you’ll consistently use, so take advantage of free trials or limited versions to find the perfect fit for your linguistic goals.
Which Language Learning App Is Best?
For beginners or casual learners, Duolingo is a great choice with its gamified approach and a comprehensive free tier, making language learning fun and accessible to everyone.
If you prefer learning through real-world interactions, Memrise incorporates native speaker videos for more authentic exposure, while Babbel offers structured courses that might suit those who prefer a more traditional learning path.
For learners who enjoy social interaction, HelloTalk allows you to practice with native speakers through language exchange, while budget-conscious learners can benefit from free resources like BBC Languages or Mango Languages if available through local libraries.
Frequently Asked Questions about Free Language Learning Apps
Are free language learning apps effective?
Yes, free language learning apps can be quite effective, especially for beginners and intermediate learners. They offer a convenient way to practice regularly, learn new vocabulary, and improve pronunciation. However, their effectiveness depends on your commitment and consistency in using them.
Can I become fluent using only free language apps?
While free apps are excellent tools for learning, achieving fluency typically requires a more comprehensive approach. Combining free apps with other resources like language exchange, reading, and listening to native content will yield better results. Some apps, like HelloTalk, offer language exchange features that can help with conversational skills.
Which free app is best for beginners?
Duolingo is often recommended for beginners due to its gamified approach and gradual progression. Memrise is also excellent for vocabulary building. Both offer free plans that cover basic language skills.
Do I need to pay for premium features to learn effectively?
Not necessarily. Many apps offer robust free versions that can take you quite far in your language learning journey. However, paid features often provide additional benefits like offline access, more extensive content, or personalised learning plans.
How do apps like Babbel and Busuu differ from completely free options?
Babbel and Busuu offer more structured courses and often include features like speech recognition and writing exercises. While they have free trials or limited free plans, their full courses require payment. They’re typically more comprehensive than completely free apps.
Is BBC Languages still a good option for learning?
Yes, BBC Languages remains a valuable resource, especially for learners who prefer a more traditional approach. It offers free, high-quality content for various languages, including audio and video materials.
How can I access Mango Languages for free in the UK?
Many UK libraries offer free access to Mango Languages. Check with your local library to see if they provide this service. You’ll typically need a library card to access it.
Are there any limitations to using free language learning apps?
Yes, free versions often have limitations such as ads, restricted content, or daily usage limits. For example, Drops limits free users to 5 minutes of learning per day. However, these limitations don’t necessarily hinder learning progress if you use the apps consistently.
Can these apps help with speaking and pronunciation?
Many of these apps include speaking exercises and pronunciation guides. Duolingo, Babbel, and Busuu offer speech recognition features to help improve pronunciation. HelloTalk goes a step further by connecting you with native speakers for real conversation practice.
How do I choose the right app for me?
Consider your learning style, target language, and goals. Try out a few different apps to see which interface and method you prefer. Some apps, like Duolingo and Memrise, are great for casual learning, while others like Babbel and Busuu offer more structured courses. It’s also worth considering apps that specialise in your target language, like Lingodeer for Asian languages.
