I don’t know about you, but as a language enthusiast, I believe that using any of the best apps to learn sign language adds another valuable skill that we can use in our lives. Learning American Sign Language (ASL) allows us to enter a new dimension of communication and visual perception.
Sure, we should learn vocabulary, but in my opinion, we should also embrace a visual way of interpreting everything around us. If you’re as eager as I am, finding the best sign language apps is the perfect first step.
After testing countless platforms as a language app fanatic, I’ve got the cream of the crop just for you. While I’m obsessed with ASL right now, it’s still worth sharing the Ling app for those looking to learn any language. With lessons in over 60 languages crafted by experts, Ling makes picking up a new language fun and easy! Transform Your Language Skills in a Week – Get the Ling App Today
Alright, enough chatter – let’s get into the ASL apps!
1. The ASL App: Ideal For Beginners
Right off the bat, The ASL App stands out by making learning incredibly hands-on and visual. This sign language app has a huge selection of over 2,000 signs and phrases and high-quality instructional videos that seal the deal. Each sign is demonstrated by real deaf people, which gives you authentic ASL representation.
The app starts you off with basic vocabulary and everyday phrases. This makes it possible to start signing about real life right away. For instance, you can quickly pick up signs for greetings, questions, and common activities essential for basic convos.
Another cool feature is the ability to slow down videos. This is clutch for beginners like us trying to pick up on subtle hand movements and facial expressions – so important in ASL! Being able to adjust the speed ensures even the most complex signs become accessible. Plus, the social sharing feature lets you engage with the ASL community for feedback and encouragement.
Devices: Android, iOS
Features
- Interactive practice sessions to simulate real conversations.
- Create custom playlists of signs and phrases.
- Participate in a community of learners for support.
Pricing
Free Content:
- Know Your ABCs, Numbers, Universal Gestures, Handshape Exercises, The Basics, Colors, Nyle Sampler, Sign and Vote.
Premium Content ($0.99 each):
- More Basic Sign, Looking Good Today, Mood Swings, Life of the Party, Dining & Signing, Foodies Rejoice, The Wilderness Beckons, LGBT & Pride Signs, Emergency Signs, and more.
2. SignSchool: Offers Interactive Learning Experiences
Sign language learners celebrate SignSchool for making learning ASL super interactive and personalized – way better than old-school methods, am I right? Instead of just memorizing stuff, SignSchool has you take interactive quizzes and play games to reinforce your skills.
For example, their “Sign of the Day” teaches you new vocabulary every single day – great for keeping things fresh! You can also customize your learning path based on your goals, whether professional or personal.
SignSchool offers different tracks to choose from, and as a bonus, you get feedback on your signing through the interactive exercises. This real-time correction helps you communicate effectively in ASL as soon as possible.
Devices: Android, iOS, Web
Features
- Daily sign challenges to keep learning engaging.
- Custom feedback system analyzes your signing.
- Live events connect you with the Deaf community.
Pricing
- Totally free!
3. Lingvano: Specializes In Conversational ASL
Lingvano stands out by focusing on conversational ASL, which lets you learn sign language casually in no time. It simulates real-life situations like ordering at a cafe or making daily plans. Super helpful for using ASL in everyday life!
A big plus is the structured lesson plans designed to progressively build your conversational skills. Each lesson ends with exercises where you apply what you learned in simulated dialogues. This reinforces your ability to actually communicate in ASL – none of those traditional textbook lessons.
Lingvano also teaches you about deaf culture, which I think we can all agree is important for truly mastering ASL. By blending practical skills with cultural insights, you get an awesome learning experience that goes beyond just vocabulary.
Devices: Android, iOS
Features
- Lessons designed for kids to learn ASL.
- Games focused on reinforcing ASL skills.
- Modules on Deaf culture and community.
Pricing
- Free for several lessons.
- Monthly premium: $22.99
- Quarterly premium: $62.99
- Yearly premium: $155.99
4. Marlee Signs: Learn From A Deaf Celebrity
With Marlee Signs, you have a unique chance to learn ASL from none other than Marlee Matlin herself! How cool is that? Learning from a legendary deaf celebrity takes it to the next level in terms of motivation and authenticity.
The app covers many topics, from basics to complex phrases, all taught through quality videos starring Marlee. Having a prominent deaf community figure teach you in real-life contexts is just mindblowing. Marlee’s spell feature rules, too – you can learn to fingerspell any word in ASL with it.
There are also themed lesson packs, like emotions, weather, and food, so you can learn more about topics you care about. With Marlee as your guide, you get a celebrity-level education!
Devices: iOS
Features
- Track your progress through lessons.
- Take quizzes after each lesson to test retention.
- Share progress and communicate with other learners.
Pricing
- Around You Lesson Pack: $1.99
- Home Lesson Pack: $1.99
- Around Town Lesson Pack: $1.99
- Around World Lesson Pack: $1.99
- Baby Signs Lesson Pack: $1.99
5. Hands On ASL: Best For Visual Learners
For people looking for language apps for visual learners like me, Hands On ASL is one of the best apps to learn sign language with its 3D models for teaching signs. You can view signs from all angles to ensure you truly understand the handshapes and movements.
The interactive quizzes and exercises of the Hands On ASL app allow you to practice in fun and rewarding ways instead of a drag. For instance, games challenge you to correctly recognize and form signs that help boost recall and skills.
The focus on fingerspelling and handshapes is another win since those tend to trip up beginners. With dedicated practice, you’ll have an awesome ASL foundation. The playful interface is excellent for learners of all ages, too. Overall, it turns consistent practice into a blast!
Devices: iOS
Features
- Collection of stories told in ASL.
- Adjust lesson speed to match your pace.
- Progressive learning levels from beginner to advanced.
Pricing
- Unlock Tests: $0.99
- Remove Ads: $0.99
- Unlock Skins – Basic: $0.99
6. ASL Dictionary: Perfect For Comprehensive Vocabulary Building
Looking to seriously expand your ASL vocabulary? The ASL Dictionary is the ASL app you need because it has over 5,000 video demonstrations. It’s an essential reference for learners of all levels. Each entry has a detailed video so you can learn and replicate signs accurately. You’ll find lots of relevant signs to suit your interests and needs.
One of my favorite features is the ability to practice ASL offline. No wifi, no internet data, no problem – you can keep learning wherever, whenever! The quizzes and exercises take it to the next level as a learning tool, too. You can actively test yourself and improve your signing skills. More than just a reference, the ASL Dictionary will be your trusty sign language app on your ASL journey.
Devices: Android, iOS, MacOS
Features
- Signs are organized into comprehensive categories.
- Tutorials on ASL grammar and sentence structure.
- Save favorite signs for quick access.
Pricing
- ASL Dictionary Sign Language: $7.99
- ASL Dictionary (5,200 Signs): $4.99
- ASL Dictionary American Sign Language for Mac: $4.99
- ASL Dictionary for iPad: $4.99
- ASL Translator: $4.99
- ASL Fingerspell Dictionary: $2.99
- ASL Baby Sign Language Dictionary: $2.99
7. Rocket Languages: Diverse Language Learning Including ASL
Rocket Languages takes a well-rounded approach to learning with courses tailored to different styles. While ASL is just one part of their broader platform, they apply the same thorough design to their sign language course. Lessons cover basic communication, advanced topics, real-world conversational practice – everything you need in an easy-to-digest format.
Their focus on practical conversational skills is super valuable for ASL learners. By simulating real interactions, Rocket Languages gets you using your sign language skills. You can also move at your own pace based on your schedule and preferences. If you want a sign language app that is comprehensive and includes ASL, then Rocket Languages is worth checking out.
Devices: Android, iOS, Web
Features
- Cultural lessons about the Deaf community.
- Speech recognition technology for feedback.
- Lifetime membership with all updates.
Pricing
- 6 months premium: $120.00 ($20.00/month)
- One-time payment: $99.95
8. InterSign ASL: Best For Interactive & Adaptive Learning
InterSign ASL stands out by making learning sign language fun and structured. We all need a solid plan to improve, am I right? This app gets that. The lessons take you from beginner to advanced step-by-step. I also appreciate how they include exams so you can track your progress. Seeing those A+ grades keeps learners motivated to stick with it.
InterSign ASL actually recognizes regional sign differences with so many local flavors and subcultures; this app celebrates that diversity. The developers keep adding new lessons and sections, too, so we get to keep learning.
If you’re just starting out, InterSign ASL breaks every lesson down nice and easy. And for real – the app’s dictionary, rewards system, and games are really engaging. Looking up new signs, earning points, and playing brain teasers will reinforce what you learn.
Devices: Android, iOS
Features
- Over 270 lessons give you a complete ASL education.
- Activities and games make learning a blast.
- The step-by-step approach is great for beginners.
Pricing
- Monthly premium: $6.99
- Quarterly premium: $29.99
- Yearly premium: $49.99
9. ASL Sign Language Pocket Sign: Best For Daily Communication And Family Learning
If you want to learn American Sign Language for everyday conversations, you should also consider ASL Sign Language Pocket Sign. If you wish to get involved with your community, make new friends, or talk with family members who are deaf or hard of hearing, this app will hook you up. With a variety of interactive video lessons, Pocket Sign makes learning ASL practical and fun.
The app focuses on real-life phrases, greetings, and even baby sign language, which are so helpful, especially for moms! That also means that people of all ages can start signing right away in daily situations, and I love that. Too many apps overload beginners with complex grammar and abstract vocab. Pocket Sign keeps it real.
Devices: Android, iOS
Features
- Hundreds of video lessons with interactive elements.
- The ASL dictionary gives you quick access to a solid vocabulary foundation.
- Baby sign language lessons foster early communication between parents and little ones.
Pricing
- Monthly premium: $5.99
- Yearly premium: $59.99
Why You Should Learn Sign Language With Apps
Learning with the best apps to learn sign language offers you modern, flexible benefits that make acquiring this skill incredibly valuable. Here are the reasons why you should use an app for learning sign language:
- Enhanced Communication – Apps break down complex signs into manageable video lessons and exercises. This allows you to gain valuable communication skills to connect with the deaf and hard-of-hearing community and promote inclusivity.
- Increased Accessibility – According to the National Institute on Deafness and Other Communication Disorders, approximately 15% of American adults have some degree of hearing loss. Learning through sign language apps can help bridge communication gaps for greater accessibility.
- Cognitive Benefits – The National Institutes of Health said that learning a second language, like sign language, can enhance cognitive functions, including memory, problem-solving, and attention. This mental stimulation promotes lifelong brain health.
- Convenient and Flexible Learning – A major advantage of app-based learning is the convenience and flexibility it provides. You can study sign language anywhere, anytime, fitting lessons into your schedule with ease.
- Career Advancement – Being skilled in sign language is an asset across healthcare, education, customer service, and more. It allows you to better serve clients and patients, leading to new opportunities. Who wouldn’t want that?
Use The Best Apps To Learn Sign Language With Ling!
You guys have gone over some seriously awesome apps for learning sign language. Each one brings unique bonuses to step up your ASL game. But let me put the Ling app on your radar to take your learning to new heights.
The Ling app makes picking up a language super engaging and effective. You can download it easily from the App Store or from Google Play, so both iPhones and Androids are covered, and you can use it on your desktops, too. Whether you’re just starting out or want to polish your language skills, Ling provides comprehensive lessons, interactive exercises, and a user-friendly design to set you up for success.
Here are some of its best features:
- 60+ language courses (with new languages added frequently)
- 200+ lessons per language
- Retention-focused lesson structures
- Beginner, intermediate, and advanced vocabulary, phrases, and topics
- Course content made in collaboration with native speakers
- Grammar tips with practical examples
- Ability to practice conversations with a smart chatbot
- Receive instant feedback on your pronunciation
- Short exams to test your knowledge
As for the pricing, you won’t be charged too much compared to other language apps available on the market. Let me break it down for you:
- Free with beginner lessons and an introductory Chatbot.
- Monthly: $14.99
- Six Months: $39.99
- Yearly: $79.99 (7-day free trial)
- Lifetime: $149.99
By pairing the Ling app with the best apps to learn sign language, you score the ultimate learning combo. I’d recommend trying out Ling’s free 7-day trial to experience the magic firsthand. In just one week, you’ll make significant progress with all the great features and resources.
