Choosing the right app can accelerate your language learning journey. Whether you're a complete beginner, an advanced learner, or someone in between, these 7 best language-learning apps of 2025 each offer something unique to help you succeed.
1. Duolingo – Best for Beginners
Duolingo makes language learning fun and addictive. With lessons designed like games, it encourages consistent daily practice through rewards, streaks, and friendly competition. You can start learning a language in just minutes a day.
Duolingo - The world's best way to learn a language
Why it works:
- Gamified approach with streaks, XP, and levels.
- Bite-sized lessons for grammar, vocabulary, listening, and reading.
- Covers 40+ languages with frequent content updates.
Who it’s for: Beginners or casual learners looking for a fun, structured way to stay consistent.
Price: Free with ads; Duolingo Plus offers an ad-free experience with extra features.
2. WordWise – Best for Personal Vocabulary
WordWise is designed for learners who pick up new words from real-life situations—while watching shows, reading articles, or chatting. You can instantly save, translate, and tag words, and review them later with spaced-repetition flashcards.
WordWise: Learn new words. Keep them forever.
Why it works:
- Translate and save words instantly as you encounter them.
- Add notes, emojis, and tags for rich, personal context.
- Smart flashcards with spaced repetition and progress tracking.
Who it’s for: Intermediate learners or anyone building a personal, meaningful vocabulary.
Price: Free to use, and works entirely offline.
3. AnkiDroid – Best for Custom Flashcards
AnkiDroid is a flashcard powerhouse. It lets you build or download card decks with fine-tuned control over when and how often you review. It's ideal for learners who thrive on repetition and detailed customization.
AnkiDroid: The best flashcard app for learning
Why it works:
- Full control over flashcard format and scheduling.
- Supports text, images, audio, and even custom HTML.
- Syncs across devices via AnkiWeb.
Who it’s for: Advanced learners and memorization pros who want full flexibility.
Price: Free and open source.
4. Memrise – Best for Learning with Native Speakers
Memrise emphasizes real-world communication. It uses video clips of native speakers and practical vocabulary to help you sound natural and confident in your target language.
Memrise: Learn with native speakers
Why it works:
- Authentic video examples of native speakers in context.
- Courses built around useful everyday expressions.
- Gamified review tools for memory reinforcement.
Who it’s for: Learners who want to improve listening, pronunciation, and conversational fluency.
Price: Free with limited access; full features require a subscription.
5. HelloTalk – Best for Language Exchange
HelloTalk connects you with native speakers through text, voice, and video chat. It’s like a global language exchange community in your pocket, with tools to help both sides learn from each other.
HelloTalk: Learn with native speakers
Why it works:
- Real-time conversations with corrections and translation tools.
- Social features like Moments, voice notes, and live classes.
- Built-in tools for learning from real interactions.
Who it’s for: Learners ready to practice with native speakers and improve organically.
Price: Free with optional premium membership.
6. LingQ – Best for Immersive Reading
LingQ turns reading and listening into a powerful language learning experience. You explore native content—articles, podcasts, and books—while tracking every new word you encounter.
LingQ: Language learning
Why it works:
- Learn through native content with interactive word tracking.
- Automatically saves new vocabulary as you read or listen.
- Huge library of stories, news, and podcasts.
Who it’s for: Advanced learners who want to absorb language from natural content.
Price: Free limited access; full library and tools require a subscription.
7. Pimsleur – Best for Speaking Practice
Pimsleur is audio-based and designed to build your speaking confidence from day one. Each lesson guides you through listening and repeating natural dialogues at a comfortable pace.
Pimsleur app preview
Why it works:
- Audio-first approach focused on pronunciation and recall.
- Encourages you to speak aloud and think in the language.
- Great for learning during commutes or walks.
Who it’s for: Auditory learners and anyone focused on verbal communication.
Price: Subscription-based with a 7-day free trial.
Final Thoughts
There’s no one-size-fits-all when it comes to language learning. Try mixing apps to suit your needs:
- Start with Duolingo for daily structure.
- Use WordWise to capture and master the words that matter to you.
- Explore AnkiDroid or LingQ to go deeper in vocabulary or reading.
🎯 Want a personal, relevant vocabulary?
Try WordWise — designed to turn everyday encounters into learning moments.
