Looking for useful websites to learn Tagalog? Kickstart your amazing language-learning journey through websites like Ling, Pimsleur, and Mondly.
The Filipino culture is gaining popularity worldwide, thanks in part to the hit TV series Maria Clara at Ibarra, which is topping the Netflix charts in Asia. With the growing interest in Filipino culture comes a renewed interest in the Tagalog language, one of the languages of the Philippines. So if you’re looking to learn Tagalog online, we’ve got you covered!
In this article, we’ll explore different language-learning websites to help you get started. From pros and cons to a clearer insight into each website, we’ll provide you with all the information you need to make an informed decision.
Websites To Learn Tagalog
Gone are the days when learning a new language was a daunting task. Thanks to technology, anyone can learn Tagalog with ease, anytime and anywhere. With a plethora of Tagalog apps and websites available, language learning has never been more accessible. While some websites require a paid subscription, many offer a free version or discounted trial lessons, making language learning more affordable and accessible than ever before. Ready to start learning? Here are our favorites!
Pimsleur
With a focus on conversation and vocabulary, Pimsleur’s audio-based lessons allow you to start speaking the language from your very first lesson. By listening to and breaking down real conversations between native speakers, you’ll learn useful expressions and vocabulary for a variety of situations. One of the unique features of Pimsleur’s course is its emphasis on spoken Tagalog, which can differ from the written language you’ll find in books. By learning through conversation, you’ll develop a better understanding of how native speakers communicate in everyday life.
Pros
- Convenient to use
- Uses spaced-repetition technology
- All recordings are delivered by native speakers
- Explanations throughout the lessons are included
- Interesting explanations of history and culture
- Lessons can be downloaded and finished anywhere
Cons
- Offers neither written nor video content. Only uses audio recordings.
- Examples given are out of date
- Not a lot of examples of grammar
- Few reading and writing exercises
Pricing
- $14.99 per month for one language and $20.99 per month
Mondly
Mondly’s beautifully designed app offers a unique approach to learning Tagalog, incorporating virtual reality for an immersive experience. Similar to Duolingo and Babbel, with a hint of Rosetta Stone, the lessons are presented in a map-like format that guides you through your language learning journey. Starting with smart flashcards featuring audio recordings from native speakers, photos, and engaging activities, you’ll quickly build your Tagalog vocabulary. And at the end of each lesson, there’s a review section to help reinforce what you’ve learned, making it easier to retain new information.
Pros
- Clear lesson progression
- Structured lessons
- Fun and engaging
- User-friendly interface
- Uses of virtual reality (VR) and augmented reality (AR)
- Affordable
Cons
- Lacks clear grammar
- Focuses mostly on words
- Tough refund policy
- There is no way to slow down sounds.
Pricing
- 1 month PHP 613 – 1 Language
- 12 months PHP 108.47 – 1 language
- 12 months PHP 2,945 – 33 languages
FilipinoPod101
For those who prefer learning through podcasts, FilipinoPod101 is a great option. Their short audio and video lessons make learning fast and easy, with study tools and personalized guidance from a teacher to help you along the way. The lessons cover not just listening skills but also important words, grammar, and other useful aspects of the language. To get started, simply determine your level (1-5) by taking a diagnostic test, or skip the test and jump right into the lessons.
Pros
- Provides downloadable lesson notes
- Downloadable lesson transcript
- Downloadable lessons
- A wide range of materials to teach Tagalog, which keeps growing
- Simple interface
- Audio recordings can be slower or faster
Cons
- Options for advanced content for advanced learners are limited
- Paid subscriptions are needed to access other features
- Too many English talks
- Although the instructional interface is appealing, the remainder of the site is overwhelming.
Pricing
- Basic: $3/Month (Discounted from $4)
- Premium $7/Month (Discounted from $10)
- Premium Plus $14.87/Month (Discounted from $23)
Memrise
If you’re looking for an effective memorization tool, Memrise is a website to try. Memrise is a game-like flashcard deck where people can learn Tagalog and other languages for free. What is unique about it is that it is community-driven. You choose a language or accent and then play the “watering plants” flashcard game.
Pros
- Everything is in the free version
- Utilizes spaced repetition system
- Gamified language-learning experience
- Video and sound of high quality
- A lot of programs, languages, and levels
- Can set your own goals and learn in a way that fits your needs
Cons
- Since it’s run by the community, you can’t always be sure of the quality
- Words and sentences that are taught separately and not in their context
- Few descriptions of Tagalog grammar rules
- Not much time to write or speak.
Pricing
- Monthly $8.49/month
- Annual $29.99/year (Discounted from $59.99)
- Lifetime $119.99 total
Drops
The Drops app makes it easy and quick for its users to learn new words. It has a beautiful look, and the science behind it helps you remember new things in the long run. With Drops, thousands of useful words and phrases can be learned. Playing enjoyable games and engaging in activities can aid in retaining vocabulary. Each word is accompanied by impressive animations.
Pros
- Sleek design and easy to use
- Comprehensive range of vocabularies subjects
- Activities that are both fun and interesting
Cons
- No practice in speaking or pronunciation
- The app only helps with words.
- The free version only works for a set amount of time.
Pricing
- US$13.00/month
- US$69.99/year
- US$159.99 lifetime
Italki
For beginners looking for structured Tagalog lessons and language exchange partners, Italki is the perfect solution. Connecting language learners with native speakers for one-on-one teaching through video chat, italki offers a personalized and effective way to improve your Tagalog skills.
Learning with a tutor or native speaker is one of the most helpful tips for language learners, providing immediate corrections and clarification to build a solid foundation. And with Italki, you can easily find a tutor or freelance tutoring job to take your Tagalog learning to the next level. So why wait? Sign up for Italki today and start speaking Tagalog with confidence.
Pros
- Connections and relationships with expert teachers are made easier
- Many Tagalog teachers are available
- Trial lessons are available
- Even at low prices, you can find skilled teachers
- Flexible lesson scheduling
- The italki Community’s added features make asking questions, getting your writing reviewed, and finding a free language exchange partner easy.
Cons
- Trial and error in finding the right tutor for you
- Unsure of the quality of learning learners will get.
- App-only community features.
Pricing
Prices range from $4 to $60 per hour, depending on the teacher and the language they teach. Most will be somewhere between $10 and $15 per hour. Right now, when you make your first buy on Italki, you can get a $10 credit.
Other Websites That Can Help You Learn Tagalog
Online Tagalog resources do not only limit to language learning apps. Remember that many people are learning languages by just watching films and series, listening to podcasts and music, and more. Here are other websites that you can maximize to learn Tagalog.
Netflix
If you want a full-package top-notched series that introduces the Filipino language and Filipino culture, “Maria Clara at Ibarra” is perfect for you. You’ll also learn a little bit of the Spanish language because this TV adaptation is set in the Spanish colonization period.
Youtube
Another website to learn Filipino or Tagalog online is Youtube. Aside from blogs from Filipino content creators, you’ll also see a lot of documentaries and short clips that have subtitles.
Spotify
Aside from music which Filipinos are also known for, you can also find pretty good podcasts from Filipinos that will help you learn languages. You can just play it when you’re preparing to go to school or work while driving or doing chores.
Start Learning Tagalog With The Ling App
Want to speak Tagalog like a native speaker? Look no further than the Ling app! With fun and engaging lessons, you’ll quickly expand your Tagalog vocabulary and improve your pronunciation and speaking skills through audio recordings from native speakers. Plus, it comes with gamified features and in-depth lessons that’ll surely push you to become proficient. So, if you’re looking for a full-package language learning website to learn Tagalog, download Ling now from the Play Store or App Store.
