English is one of the most widely spoken languages in the world, with almost one billion English speakers worldwide. It has become one of the most important social, academic, and working languages, as it gives you the opportunity to have a greater global reach and communicate with other English speakers. Especially if you are not from an English-speaking country.
There are different ways to learn English, but language learning apps have proven to be one of the best options for learning with practical lessons at your own pace. Also, almost everyone uses a smartphone, making it super easy to learn on the go.
However, aspiring learners are often faced with the challenge of choosing the right app, especially when there are thousands of English language apps to choose from. Well, I have great news!
After testing numerous English learning apps, we’ve come up with a list of the best ones for learning English. These apps come with everything you need to become a fluent English speaker, including grammar lessons, vocabulary, and practical exercises. Without further ado, let’s take a closer look at the best apps to learn the English Language.
Best Apps To Learn English: Prices And Features
| Apps | Why Is It Best? | Plans & Pricing |
|---|---|---|
| Ling | Gamified method | Monthly plan: $14.99 Annual plan: $79.99 Lifetime subscription: $149.99 Free 7-day free trial available |
| Babbel | Short and effective lessons | 1-month plan: $13.95 3-month plan: $29.85 6-month plan: $50.70 12-month plan: $83.40 Lifetime plan: $299.99 |
| Duolingo | Improve long-term language memory | Duolingo Super: $6.99 per month |
| Rosetta Stone | Pronunciation practice | 3-month plan: $35.97 12-month plan: $95.88 Lifetime subscription: $299 |
| Memrise | Improve vocabulary skills | Monthly subscription: $14.99 Monthly plan: $14.99 Annual plan: $89.99 Lifetime subscription: $199.99 |
| FluentU | Using Video for Language Learning | Monthly subscription: $29.99 Annual subscription: $359.99 |
| ELSA speaks | Conversation and pronunciation practice | Free for practice tests 1-3 From practice test 4: $4.99/test |
| Lingodeer | Short and interactive lessons | Free for practice tests 1-3 From practice test 4: $4.99/test |
| iTalki | Personalized lessons | Price varies based on the online tutor |
| Busuu | Master languages with native speakers | 1-month plan: $13.95 6-month plan: $83.70 12-month plan: $167.40 |
| Pimsleur | Focus on conversational skills | Buy 1 level for $150 Buy the complete course (5 levels) for $575 |
| IELTS Prep | Useful tips for the IELTS test | Free for practice test 1-3 From practice test 4: $4.99/test |
| Mondly | Everyday-life-focused chatbots | 1-month/1-language plan: $9.99 1-year/1-language plan: $47.99 Lifetime subscription /41 languages: $1999.99 |
| Lingokids | Children learning methods | Monthly plan: $14.99 Annual plan: $89.99 |
1. Ling App
Ling App is one of the best language tools that offers an advanced gamified experience, grammar explanations, loads of quizzes, games, and much more at a self-learning pace. Ling’s English app focuses on all-around learning, working on writing, reading, speaking, and listening skills.
The app comes with structured lessons you can complete in 15 minutes per day, and each lesson is built on the previous one, so you have a progressive learning journey. Also, the lessons are enriched with audio clips that you can listen to and practice along with the speakers. There’s also a review option that allows you to retake the lessons until you master them completely.
Ling App comes with a lot of quiz options. Besides the standard fill-in-the-gap puzzles, that most apps have, the Ling app comes with word sorting, writing tests, a chatbot, flashcards, sentence completion, dialogue completion, and other quizzes that make learning much more enjoyable.
Features
- 200+ lessons per language
- Beginner, intermediate, and advanced vocabulary, phrases, and topics
- Grammar notes with practical examples
- Audio from real native speakers
Price
- Free for beginner lessons
- Monthly subscription: $14.99
- Annual subscription: $79.99
- Lifetime membership: $149.99
Device Compatibility
Android, iOS, Desktop
2. Babbel
Babbel starts out strong as one of the best apps for learning English with its robust features and lessons. It does an excellent job covering almost every aspect of the communication skills, such as speaking, pronunciation, writing, grammar, and vocabulary.
It offers 15-minute grammar lessons that focus on interactive and real-time activities such as introducing yourself, ordering food, or traveling vocabulary. In addition, you have access to native English speaker audio that helps you speak the language more naturally.
Another of Babbel’s standout features is its optional live classes. If you are interested in taking your speaking skills to the next level, the speech recognition feature allows you to answer questions verbally.
Overall, Babbel is a great tool, that offers practical grammar explanations, exercises, quality audio lessons, speaking practice, and so much more.
Features
- Downloadable courses to study without an internet connection.
- Useful grammar tips and tricks.
- Highly accurate voice recognition technology.
Price:
- 1-month plan: $13.95
- 3-month plan: $29.85
- 6-month plan: $50.70
- 12-month plan: $83.40
- Lifetime plan: $299.99
Device Compatibility
Android, iOS, Desktop
3. Duolingo
Duolingo is one of the best free English learning apps one can come across, and while one may think that its tradeoff will be the quality of the lessons, that’s not the case. Duolingo offers a gamified experience and advanced technology to turn new English language learners into intermediate speakers in no time.
Duolingo is a great app if you are completely new to the English language and you want to learn the basics of the language. The app includes reward systems, and advanced technology to ensure that your learning experience is seamless and concise.
It also tracks your daily learning activities and offers an offline mode for users to keep learning even if they are in a place with a poor internet connection.
In addition, Duolingo comes with sentence-building and interactive exercises that are not easily found in other language-learning apps. You can match pictures with words, translate English sentences back to your native language for better comprehension, and build basic English sentences block by block.
And that’s not all! Duolingo uses AI to detect words you have problems with and brings them up periodically until there is a significant improvement.
The app integrates other add-ons such as Duolingo Stories for reading practice, Tinycards for vocabulary flashcards, and Duolingo Podcasts for improving listening skills
Overall, Duolingo focuses on all-around English-building skills, and it’s one of the best free apps to build a basic foundation in the language. However, if you want to move forward, Duolingo is not the best option because it is mostly focused on complete beginners.
Features
- Engaging lessons with animated characters.
- Rewards system that encourages you to make practice a daily habit.
- Allows you to learn with people worldwide and keep yourself motivated with their online leaderboards.
Price
Duolingo Super: $6.99 per month
Device Compatibility
Android, iOS, Desktop
4. Rosetta stone
Rosetta Stone is one of the most popular apps, and it takes a different approach to language learning. Instead of teaching you English in a traditional way, Rosetta Stone mimics the learning experience of native speakers. This approach can spring up mixed feelings depending on people’s learning goals. While some find this immersive approach helpful, others find it extremely intimidating.
Rosetta Stone provides visual and audio lessons that are repeated systematically to help learners learn English passively. This has pros and cons because these lessons can quickly become boring and repetitive for learners.
The app uses features exercises like filling in the gap, audio questions, selecting a correct text from a group of texts, and many others. In addition to all these features, its accent speech recognition technology helps you improve your speaking skills by assessing your pronunciation.
Overall, Rosetta Stone does a great job teaching people English using the English Language. However, the painful tradeoff is a lack of writing exercises and in-depth grammar explanations.
While Rosetta Stone has its own unique strengths that some learners love, it may not be suitable for learners looking for an engaging, gamified, and writing skill-focused app for learning English.
Features
- Downloadable resources so you can learn anywhere.
- Immediate feedback to help you improve your pronunciation.
- Share your progress on all of your devices.
Price
- 3-month plan: $35.97
- 12-month plan: $95.88
- Lifetime subscription: $299
Device Compatibility
Android, iOS, Desktop
5. Memrise
Memrise is an app that focuses on memorization and engagement. It features flashcards that help you learn new vocabulary and practice English pronunciation. Also, Memrise allows the creation of user-generated courses, which means you can access many English lessons. These courses are arranged in an intuitive way where the lessons start at an easy pace and get more challenging as you progress. Some English courses have interactive video lessons to help with understanding and retention.
Another feature worth mentioning is the spaced repetition technology Memrise adapted, which reminds you of learned words at strategic periods.
Memrise added a bit of fun and gamified experience to their learning app with fast-paced exercises in the form of multiple choices where you have to pick the correct words quickly.
The speech recognition system allows learners to pronounce words and get graded with a pass or fail mark. Another interesting thing about Memrise is its grammar bot feature that works like a chatbot. These bots chat with you in your native language while inputting some of your target language’s texts as options to reply.
In general, Memrise is a great English app that is beginner-friendly friendly, focuses on pronunciation practice, and memorization in a short period of time.
Features
- Watch 30,000+ conversations between native speakers.
- Speak with its AI language tutor.
- Learn vocabulary relevant to your life.
Price
- Monthly subscription: $14.99
- Annual subscription: $89.99
- Lifetime membership: $199.99
Device Compatibility
Android, iPhone, Desktop
6. FluentU
FluentU is an app that focuses on interacting and learning real-life English. One proven way to learn a new language fast is to be immersed in authentic day-to-day conversations and videos of that particular language. Fortunately, FluentU took that into consideration and came up with an application where both beginners and intermediates can become conversational by watching authentic English videos.
The less than 5-minute, subtitle-heavy FluentU videos range from news, music videos, interviews, advertisements, and so on. That means that you can decide on the type of videos you would like to watch. These videos come with two sets of subtitles; one that translates the video into your native language and two, subtitles in your target language, making interacting with the video a seamless process. After each video, you get access to quizzes and flashcards based on what you’ve watched. Some of these quizzes are sound snippets and speaking questions where you need to reply orally, which is great for practicing pronunciation
Aside from these features, FluentU doesn’t offer much more. If you want to improve your English grammar and writing skills, you must rely on other sources.
Features
- Video-based language instruction based on real-world situations.
- Flashcard courses
- Audio samples
Price
- Monthly subscription: $29.99
- Annual subscription: $359.99
Device Compatibility
Android, iOS, Desktop
7. ELSA speaks
One of the problems learners face when starting out with a new language is the speaking part. Some learners might be able to write and read in English, but when it comes to speaking with native speakers, it’s a different story. However, ELSA Speaks solves that problem. This is an English learning app that uses AI technology to give you detailed feedback on your English pronunciation and grade you on how much you sound like a native speaker.
Upon starting with ELSA, you will be required to read out some sentences. Afterward, you will get instant feedback about how well you performed. One impressive thing I would like to point out is how detailed the feedback is. It grades you in percentage based on pronunciation, intonation, and fluency and gives you valuable tips on how to improve. The following lessons will automatically focus on your weak points.
ELSA speaks comes with a range of content, including vocab pronunciation, dialogues, listening, and syllable stress. There are other supportive features, such as a word bank, which keeps track of words and phrases you’ve worked on so far, a dictionary, and an assessment.
If you are looking for an app that focuses on pronunciation and helps you to sound more like a native speaker, then ELSA Speaks is your way to go. However, it doesn’t provide features geared towards improving your reading and writing skills.
Features
- AI scoring system upon pronunciation.
- Give language learners individualized examinations that measure their technical and skill development.
Price
- ELSA PRO pack for 1-year: $59.99
- ELSA PRO pack for lifetime: $98.99
Device Compatibility
Android, iOS, Desktop
8. Lingodeer
Lingodeer takes a gamified approach to learning English, just like Duolingo. However, Lingodeer focuses more on advanced grammar lessons and more goal-oriented progress. The lesson structures were organized by experts, so you rest assured that your learning progress will move from beginner to an advanced level. Also, Lingodeer features high-quality native speaker audio to improve your listening skills as well.
One interesting feature is that lessons are categorized based on useful topics. For example, there are lessons on ‘occupation and people,’ ‘greetings’ and so much more. You also get access to versatile practice by doing exercises such as filling in the gap, matching images with words, translations, and other puzzles. It comes with another feature that ensures you really know what you’ve learned so far. The ‘review’ tab is a section where you can find all the words and grammar courses you’ve learned that need improvement, and also the ‘download section’ where you can download and keep your courses.
Features
- Quick, easy, everyday lessons that only take 5 minutes
- Offer travel phrasebook
- Studio-recorded audio from native speakers
Price
- Monthly plan: $8.99
- Quarter plan: $19.99
- Annual plan: $54.99
Device Compatibility
Android, iOS, Desktop
9. italki
Italki is a tutoring app that connects you with online tutors teaching your language of interest. At the moment, italki is one of the best places to have access to professional and community online tutors where you can take online classes and improve your English.
As for now, there are over 4000 native speakers teaching English on italki, so you have limitless options to find that perfect online tutor that understands your goal and needs. Also, you have the autonomy to choose the right online tutor based on price, experience, reviews, age group, and much more. For example, there are online tutors that charge $60/hr for tutoring, while others charge $4/hr.
For those who prefer learning English through their native language, you can find tutors who speak both your target language and your native language.
Lastly, italki has a helpful online community where you can ask questions, get your grammar corrected, and network with other learners for language exchanges.
Without a doubt, italki is the best place to find an online teacher who can help you achieve your English learning goals.
Price
Price varies based on the online tutor
Device Compatibility
Desktop and Mobile
10. Busuu
Busuu is a great app for learning English, and it offers comprehensive tutorials and lessons that will be very helpful in your language-learning journey.
When you join Busuu, you will have to choose your learning level from Beginner to Intermediate. Based on your choice, Busuu will create tailored, comprehensive courses. Also, a useful feature is the personalized learning curriculum, where you can choose tailored lessons on certain topics. For example, if you are interested in learning traveling phrases and dialogue in Spanish because travel to Spain or Latin America for vacation every year, you can find that on Busuu.
The speech recognition system allows you to practice with native speakers and get useful feedback about your English pronunciation. You also get access to a writing practice session, a recording session, a lesson review, and interactive exercises.
The Busuu Live feature connects you with an online tutor who works you through the Busuu content. It is particularly helpful if you are looking for an in-depth explanation of each of Busuu’s topics.
Overall, Busuu is a great app to hone your writing, listening, speaking, and reading skills.
Features
- The Smart Review feature neatly stores your grammar and vocabulary lessons for you to review.
- Connect you with a community of native speakers.
- Access to specialized cultural-related courses
Price
- 1-month plan: $13.95
- 6-month plan: $83.70
- 12-month plan: $167.40
Device Compatibility
Android, iOS, and Desktop
11. Pimsleur
Looking for an English app that is audio-focused? Pimsleur is your answer. This app focuses heavily on audio lessons and passive learning and not much on grammar explanation or writing practice. However, Pimsleur did a great job of creating interactive, high-quality audio. The audio lessons are 30 minutes long and can be fit into any schedule, maybe when driving or doing chores. These lessons were designed to allow you to interact with the speakers, and practice your pronunciation as you listen.
Also, Pimsleur uses flashcards that display a word and audio translation, which can be a great help for fixing in your memory what you’ve learned.
When it comes to exercises and quizzes, Pimsleur is generous with its quizzes. You have access to a quick match that allows you to choose from multiple answers, a speaking mode to help you listen to individual sentences, a speed round exercise that displays words moving down the screen at a fast rate, and you are expected to choose the correct translation before the terms get to the bottom of the screen. Lastly, Pimsleur allows you to practice pronunciation by comparing your pronunciation with that of a native speaker.
Pimsleur is undoubtedly one of the top-rated applications for audio-based English lessons. However, it is essential to note that this app may lack adequate support for writing, grammar comprehension, and oral proficiency.
Features
- Core conversational lessons
- Digital flashcards
- Role-play while reading through transcripts
Price
- Buy 1 level for $150
- Buy the complete course (5 levels) for $575
Device Compatibility
Android, iOS, and Desktop
12. IELTS Prep
Owned by the British Council, the IELTS prep app is focused on preparing those who will take the IELTS, and it comes with loads of practice. You get to practice IELTS exams for each section, such as writing, speaking, reading, and listening. One useful feature is that you can track your progress and find your weakness areas.
However, the IELTS prep app is not a full-blown learning English app, so you won’t get much out of it if you are a complete beginner.
Features
- An in-depth look at the IELTS exams
- Give several sample exams
- Exercises that help you hone your grammatical skills
Price
- Free for practice tests 1-3
- From practice test 4: $4.99/test
Device Compatibility
Android and iOS
13. Mondly
Mondly is an app that takes language learning to another level. It has integrated AR (augmented reality) functions that provide you with a virtual language learning assistant/ tutor who will help you out anytime, no matter where you’re located.
Apart from this feature, Mondly has a supporting app called Mondly VR that serves as a complement to the main one. On Mondly VR, you can interact with the 3D teacher and use speech recognition to practice your pronunciation.
Mondly, just like every other language app, breaks lessons down into digestible sections and also integrates reminders that notify you at a specific time. The lessons are categorized into themes such as travel, grammar, and transportation, so you can get started with the theme you are interested in.
You have access to weekly quizzes, monthly challenges, and leaderboards to keep you motivated in your learning journey.
Lastly, you can find the Oxford English Course created in partnership with the Oxford University Press in the app.
Features
- Everyday-life-focused chatbots.
- Lessons aimed at expanding your vocabulary.
- Enhance your pronunciation with the help of speech recognition technology.
Price
- 1-month/1-language plan: $9.99
- 1-year/1-language plan: $47.99
- Lifetime access/41 languages: $1999.99
Device Compatibility
Android, iOS, and Desktop
14. Lingo Kids
If you are looking for a gamified, simple English learning app for children ages 2-8, then Lingo Kids is a great learning app to try out. It comes with loads of gamified activities, vocabulary-building lessons, and engaging games to keep kids hooked. Apart from English building, Lingo Kids promises to develop critical thinking and collaboration skills in kids.
Features
- The app is designed for children between 2 and 8 years old.
- Interactive activities.
- Academics and modern life-related lessons come together.
Price
- Monthly plan: $14.99
- Annual plan: $89.99
Device Compatibility
Android, iOS
We’ve Come To The End Of The Journey
As much as I hate to conclude this article, now I want to give you time to check out the apps and find the one that is right for you. These apps, without a doubt, are the best to learn English, and they guarantee a valuable and fun learning experience.
Learn English With The Ling App
If you are wondering about the best platform where you can learn English and over 60+ languages, then your answer is the Ling App. Ling App provides intuitive courses that will only take 10-15 minutes per day. It comes with a gamified experience and enjoyable quizzes that help you to learn while enjoying the process.
Most English learners have picked the Ling app, so why not join them? Download it for free from the App Store or Google Play Store today, and start speaking English with Ling!
