Reading is your trusty ally in mastering Chinese. Every page you turn, every article you skim, you’ll find yourself soaking up new words and getting the hang of those tricky grammar twists.
Over the years, I’ve dabbled with many apps, each promising to be the magic wand for language learning. Some, like the Ling app, were hits, others were misses.
So, if you’re looking to sift through the noise and zero in on the apps for advanced Chinese learners, this article is worth a read. Join me as we dive into some apps to learn Chinese that genuinely stand out and can give your fluency that extra push.
Why Should You Learn Advanced Chinese?
Pushing your Chinese skills from “I can get by” to “I totally get this” is going deep into the heart of a culture with over 5,000 years of history. Here’s why leveling up in Chinese is worth every bit of effort:
- Business Talks: China is the world’s second-biggest economy. So, knowing advanced Chinese is a game-changer in business chats, helping you catch those tiny details that matter a lot.
- Classic Reads: Ever heard of the Tang Dynasty or poets like Li Bai? With advanced Chinese, you can dive into these gems, feeling the depth and beauty that translations might miss.
- Local Lingo: Sichuan’s fiery dialect or Shanghainese’s musical tones – learning Chinese lets you chat like a native wherever you are in China.
- Deep Discussions: From the Ming Dynasty’s adventures to Daoism’s deep thoughts, advanced Chinese lets you jump right into these conversations, getting the real feel of Chinese history and philosophy.
- Specialized Studies: Be it the latest AI buzz in Shenzhen or age-old acupuncture wisdom, advanced Chinese takes you straight to the source, with no translations needed.
Now that you’re clued in on advancing perks, take a peek at our comparison table. It’s your quick guide to the best Chinese learning apps that’ll help you on this journey.
| App | Best For | Starting Price |
|---|---|---|
| Ling | Comprehensive Gamified Learning | $8.99/month (Free Trial Available) |
| ChinesePod | Immersive Listening and Cultural Understanding | $14.00/month |
| Skritter | Mastering Chinese Character Writing | $14.99/month |
| iTalki | Personalized Lessons with Native Speakers | $4 to $80/hour |
| Du Chinese | Advanced Reading Comprehension | $14.99/month |
| Tandem | Authentic Conversations with Native Speakers | $13.99/month |
The Ling App: Best For Comprehensive Gamified Learning
If it’s your first time using the Ling app, you’ll be genuinely taken aback by its depth. With over 60 courses and more than 200 lessons for each language, you can say that you hit the jackpot.
The chatbot? Oh, it’s a game-changer for all language learning levels. You’ll feel like you’re talking with a friend who’s always ready to converse in Chinese.
And those grammar tips sprinkled with real-world examples? They’ve saved me more times than I can count.
What I genuinely appreciate about the Ling app is its authenticity. The courses, crafted with input from native speakers, have this genuine feel.
Of course, you’ll be learning words. But you’ll also be understanding their context and their nuances.
So, whether you’re diving into advanced vocabulary or challenging yourself with short quizzes, I can honestly say the Ling app is a one-stop shop for all things Chinese.
The Ling App’s Standout Features
- Gamified Learning Approach: The Ling app turns learning Mandarin Chinese into an engaging experience. With its gamified lessons, you’re studying and taking on challenges, making the process fun and effective.
- Regular Content Updates: Stagnation isn’t in the Ling app’s vocabulary. They’re always rolling out new content, ensuring that every time you log in, something new awaits you, especially if you’re keen to learn Chinese online.
- Instant Pronunciation Feedback: Ever wondered if you’re pronouncing that tricky Chinese vocabulary correctly? The chatbot’s real-time feedback helps you sound more like a native speaker with each practice.
What Are Users Saying About The Ling App?
- Google Play Rating: 4.3 stars from 10.4K reviews.
- Positive Feedback: Users commend the Ling app’s diverse language offerings. One mentioned that the lessons are “fun and fast” and “really stick with you.” This suggests efficient retention of intricate topics. Another user highlighted, “Ling is probably my favorite app for learning languages on the go,” indicating its utility for consistent practice.
- Room for Improvement: A user pointed out an “earlier problem with audio questions.” Accurate audio is crucial for mastering intonations at higher levels.
How Much Does The Ling App Cost?
| Plan | Price | Features |
|---|---|---|
| Basic | $0 | -Beginner lessons -Introductory chatbot |
| Monthly | $8.99 | -Beginner lessons -Introductory chatbot -200 lessons in 50 units -Access to 60+ languages -Sync across all your devices -Talk with the chatbot about 20 topics -Grammar tips in multiple languages |
| Yearly | $79.99 ($6.67/month) | -Same as the Monthly plan |
| Lifetime | $149.99 | -Same as the Monthly plan |
ChinesePod: Best For Immersive Listening & Cultural Understanding
ChinesePod was a revelation for me. The sheer variety of audio lessons, each echoing real-life chats in China, was something new. Whether it’s a casual talk about daily routines or a deep dive into cultural norms, there’s always something new to explore.
But it’s not only the content. It’s the context. ChinesePod, much like the Ling app, immerses you in the culture and the traditions. While its audio lessons are effective, you may want to pair it with other apps for advanced Chinese learners, especially when brushing up on your writing or speaking skills.
ChinesePod’s Standout Features
- Tiered Lesson Difficulty: ChinesePod categorized its content, allowing you to pick lessons that match your proficiency and push your boundaries.
- Video Lessons: Audio’s great, but sometimes you need a visual. ChinesePod’s video lessons add that extra layer of context, making comprehension a breeze.
What Are Users Saying About ChinesePod?
- Google Play Rating: 2.8 stars from 211 reviews.
- Positive Feedback: ChinesePod has its dedicated fans. Users appreciate the transition from Spotify to the app, indicating diverse content sources can enhance learning.
- Room for Improvement: Tech issues seem prevalent. With mentions of the app “constantly crashing,” uninterrupted studies might be a challenge.
How Much Does ChinesePod Cost?
| Plan | Price | Features |
|---|---|---|
| Free | $0 | -Access to select lessons from each level |
| Basic Plan | $14/month | -Full library access -HD video lessons -Printable notes |
| Premium Plan | $29/month | -All Basic features plus lesson downloads -Grammar Breakdown -Vocab Manager -Exclusive video courses |
| Light Classroom Plan | $99/month | -Four 20-minute private lessons -Full library access -Lesson reviews -App access |
| Regular Classroom Plan | $159/month | -Eight 20-minute private lessons -Light plan features |
| IntensiveClassroom Plan | $299/month | -Twenty 20-minute private lessons -Light plan features |
Skritter: Best For Mastering Chinese Character Writing
Skritter is the perfect tool for learning Chinese characters. The way it breaks down each Chinese character, guiding you through every stroke, is nothing short of brilliant.
There’s one thing I want to point out with Skritter—it’s laser-focused on writing. Sure, it’s a dream for anyone looking to write Chinese characters and master them.
But if you’re like me and want a bit of everything—speaking, listening, the works—you might want to mix in a few other resources.
Skritter’s Standout Features
- Offline Mode: Skritter lets you download lessons, ensuring your practice of writing Chinese characters doesn’t have to stop.
- Daily Goal Setting: With Skritter’s daily goals, you have a clear target to hit daily, keeping you on track and motivated.
What Are Users Saying About Skritter?
- Google Play Rating: 4.4 stars from 2.82K reviews.
- Positive Feedback: Skritter receives praise from language enthusiasts. Feedback like “Skritter has blown me away with the level of detail” suggests a deep dive into character nuances is possible.
- Room for Improvement: Some users found glitches with the writing feature. Precise character writing is essential, so any glitch can hinder progress.
How Much Does Skritter Cost?
| Plan | Price | Features |
|---|---|---|
| 1 Month | $14.99 | -Access to iPhone and iPad app -Handwriting recognition -Writing style corrections -Stroke order help -Spaced repetition system -Personal progress stats -Audio reinforcement |
| 6 Months | $59.99 | -Same as the 1-month plan |
| 1 Year | $99.99 | -Same as the 1-month plan |
iTalki: Best For Personalized Lessons With Native Speakers
iTalki offers a fresh perspective on language learning. The idea of connecting with native tutors and having sessions tailored just for me? Pure gold. Each chat feels like catching up with a friend over coffee, except by the end, you’ve learned a lot of Chinese.
The strength of iTalki is its adaptability. Whether discussing intricate Chinese literature or debating current events, the platform offers unmatched flexibility. However, as iTalki thrives on one-on-one sessions, learners who prefer a structured course might benefit from exploring other platforms.
iTalki’s Standout Features
- Diverse Tutor Specializations: iTalki’s tutors have diverse specializations, so you’ll always find the perfect fit.
- Integrated Payment System: No one likes payment hassles. iTalki’s seamless system means booking lessons is a breeze, letting you focus on what’s important: learning.
What Are Users Saying About iTalki?
- Google Play Rating: 4.7 stars from 11.6K reviews.
- Positive Feedback: iTalki resonates well with its community. One mentioned, “It really is an excellent resource.” Personalized feedback can be a game-changer for refining fluency.
- Room for Improvement: Issues with the “recording feature” were highlighted. Recording sessions are vital for self-assessment.
How Much Does iTalki Cost?
| Plan | Price | Features |
|---|---|---|
| Community Tutors | $4 – $30 | -Informal practice and conversation exchange -Native or advanced speakers -Flexible scheduling |
| Professional Teachers | $10 – $80 | -Certified professionals -Detailed questions and advanced topics -Test preparation |
| Trial Lessons | Highly Reduced Rates | -30-minute lessons with different teachers |
| Lesson Packages | Varies | -Agree on the number of lessons with the teacher |
Du Chinese: Best For Advanced Reading Comprehension
When I first tried Du Chinese, I was hooked. The selection of articles, each more engaging than the last, was a reader’s delight.
From world news to tales from the past, there’s no shortage of content to dive into. And the challenge? It pushes you to think, to analyze, to truly understand.
But while Du Chinese is a reader’s paradise, it’s primarily about reading. It’s perfect for those evenings when you want to curl up with a good article.
Du Chinese’s Standout Features
- Adjustable Reading Speed: We all learn at our own pace. Du Chinese gets that. Whether you want to take it slow or challenge your listening skills, the control’s in your hands.
- Integrated Dictionary: Stumbled upon a word you don’t recognize? No need to switch apps. Du Chinese’s built-in dictionary ensures you stay in the flow.
What Are Users Saying About Du Chinese?
- Google Play Rating: 4.9 stars from 8.3K reviews.
- Positive Feedback: Du Chinese earns high marks for its user-friendly features. Comments like “lets you save words you don’t know to study later” indicate a focus on vocabulary enhancement.
- Room for Improvement: Some find navigation a bit tedious. Seamless transitions are key to maintaining a steady study rhythm.
How Much Does Du Chinese Cost?
| Plan | Price | Features |
|---|---|---|
| 1 Month | $14.99 | -Access to all lessons -Articles across six levels (Beginner to Master) -Easy word lookup -Complete translations -Professional audio -Endless study material |
| 6 Months | $79.99 | -Same as the 1-month plan |
| 1 Year | $119.99 | -Same as the 1-month plan |
Tandem: Best For Authentic Conversations With Native Speakers
Tandem offers a unique proposition: genuine conversations with native speakers. It’s real, spontaneous, and provides a window into the nuances of everyday Chinese speech.
For language learners eager to practice and perfect their conversational skills, Tandem is an invaluable resource.
But while Tandem thrives in fostering authentic interactions, its core is conversation-centric. It’s a fantastic platform for those wanting to dive into natural dialogues.
However, for a more structured approach covering grammar, vocabulary, and other language pillars, exploring additional platforms like the Ling app could complement the Tandem experience.
Tandem’s Standout Features
- Language Exchange: Tandem takes the phrase “give and take” to heart. Connect with native Chinese speakers and, in return, offer insights into your language.
- In-App Translation: Conversations can sometimes hit a language barrier. But with Tandem’s in-app translation, you’ll never be lost for words.
What Are Users Saying About Tandem?
- Google Play Rating: 4.3 stars from 330K reviews.
- Positive Feedback: Tandem’s adaptability shines through. A user’s comment, “Tandem is what you make out of it,” hints at its flexibility, allowing for specialized practice.
- Room for Improvement: Glitches with “audio and photo messages” were noted. Clear communication channels are essential for effective exchanges.
How Much Does Tandem Cost?
| Plan | Price | Features |
|---|---|---|
| Free | $0 | -Unlimited messaging with other users -Language exchange with native speakers -Voice and video calls -Ability to create and join groups -Ability to leave reviews to other users |
| Tandem Pro | $13.99/month $31.99/3 months $79.99/year | -All features of the Free Plan -See who has read your messages -Send unlimited voice notes -Prioritize your messages -Use translation tools offline -No ads |
| Tandem Premium | $29.99/month $119.99/year | -All features of the Pro Plan -Have 3 active language exchanges at the same time -Create and join private groups -Get priority support |
How To Choose Among The Apps For Advanced Chinese Learners?
Choosing through the myriad of Chinese language apps can be a bit overwhelming. So, let’s simplify the process:
- Define Your Goal: Are you keen on improving your reading skills or conversational fluency? Identify your primary objective.
- Learning Style: Consider if you prefer structured lessons, interactive games, or personal tutor sessions. Choose an app that aligns with your preferred learning method.
- Budget Considerations: While investing in your education is invaluable, selecting an app that offers value for your money is essential.
- User Feedback: Reviews provide insights into the user experience. Take a moment to see what others have to say.
- Content Updates: Opt for apps for advanced Chinese learners that regularly update their content, ensuring a fresh learning experience.
While each app brings something unique, the Ling app obviously stands out as a comprehensive solution for advanced Chinese learners.
It seamlessly blends interactive lessons with cultural insights. This makes the learning journey enriching and enjoyable.
To elevate your Chinese learning experience, download the Ling app from Google Play or the App Store now!
