Are you wondering if language exchange apps really work? In this Tandem review, we will walk you through what the platform is all about and our unbiased opinion about its use in language learning. After all, there really must be a good reason why there is a buzz around this particular language platform, right? Towards the end, we will also describe what makes Ling App a better alternative and why you should download it today!
There is no denying that a lot of people are quickly becoming interested in the idea of participating in a language exchange program given that it offers unique benefits- from having the chance to practice with native speakers to even developing friendships! Of course, you can always try to learn a foreign language on your own by using books and language resources, but nothing beats the excitement of being able to speak your target language in front of someone. So, if you are still stuck on the rut and wondering if this is a good way to learn, then allow me to share with you a few reasons why you must try it:
- The latest research suggests that speaking is one of the most challenging skills. The best way to keep yourself honing skills (and developing confidence in your target language) is through joining conversation or language exchange programs.
- Language exchange (may it be face to face or via chats) is a great way to enhance your communicative skills as you are free to connect with anyone you are comfortable with and start conversations about topics that both interest you.
- This is important in your language learning journey as speaking with native speakers will help boost your speaking, writing, and listening skills.
- Modern language exchange will save you time and money since you can now find a partner even through social media apps or language learning platforms like Tandem, Preply, and Italki.
- Language exchange programs will allow you to learn a language and be exposed to its different varieties since every native language speaker has their own unique way of speaking.
- Learning a language through exchange programs allows you to take ownership of your learning, and it also provides a chance to personalize it.
Now that we know precisely how this works, allow us to give you a glimpse of what Tandem is all about and why it is considered to be the best option to give you a quick start in foreign languages.
Tandem Review: Connect With Language Learners
The Tandem app is a language learning platform that allows users to work on their proficiency in a foreign language by being in “tandem” with a native speaker. It was launched in February 2015 and was founded by Arnd Aschentrup, Tobias Dickmeis, and Matthias Kleimann under the company name Tripod Technology GmbH. Despite being a newer app compared to its competitors, Tandem proves to be a service worth the look since it already boasts about 10 million users from around the world today! This is what allowed them to become part of the PlayStore’s Best of 2017 and AppStore’s Best of 2015!
What makes the Tandem app interesting is that it makes learning fun without needing to stick to structured lessons at all. This means that you are free to practice/chat with your tutors about any topic at any time. In addition, from the inside of the app, you’ll get to see slick features that will make your interactions a whole lot easier, especially if you find yourself having a hard time expressing something.
We really like the platform because it has a very active community, which means that finding the right partners will be pretty basic. For instance, you can simply look at the community and tutors’ section and search for a partner or a tutor that fits your needs. Before you start a conversation, you will also get to review their profile and see what the ratings given to them are. The ratings can be a great ballpark figure to set your expectations about how good they are and whether they are worth your time. Then, once you are ready, you can simply shoot them a message and start learning.
Pricing
Currently, the Tandem app has two major subscription offers: FREE and Tandem Pro. The free version already offers you a lot of features and will give learners everything they need to start their language practice on the right foot. The only difference is that it has ads and a few limitations when finding tutors within your area.
The Tandem Pro is a premium subscription worth $6.99/mo that allows you to get unlimited in-app translations (on the messages section), an ad-free version of the platform, additional filtering options to find language partners within the same city, and you will also get profile view insights.
Best Features
Whether you want to learn Mandarin Chinese, French, German, Tandem app, go your back since it has a community of tutors for over 160 languages! No matter what your subscription is, you are free to practice with your partner anytime by using the messaging feature. The messaging features a complete range of tools including video record, voice chat, call, and chat. There are also additional tools where your partner can correct your sentence, get translations within the app, or add a comment to ensure the quality of your text.
There is also a Goals section where you can motivate yourself and see your friends’ goals for the year. You can set any type of goal depending on the level of fluency that you want to be at. You can be as specific as you want, and I highly recommend that you add your goal here so that interested tutors can also reach out to you.
How To Use Tandem App For Language Exchange
To use the Tandem App, you simply can access it using the web version or download the app to your mobile devices. Once you click on the app, you will be prompted to create a profile and connect it with your social media profile. Then, you will answer a few questions and add your profile pictures. Depending on your answers, your application for the app will be reviewed first to ensure that there will be no sketchy people in the community. Usually, the waiting period is about a few hours to a maximum of 7 days.
Once they have approved your profiles, you can start navigating the platform and start looking at its main interface. Basically, your account will show you major tabs, including the following:
- Community = where you can find members’ profiles and start a conversation with a partner.
- Tutors = where you can get professional tutors but please do note that this might cost you depending on the rate provided on every profile.
- Chats = where you can review the messages and where the learning happens.
- Goals = A special place where members can add their specific goals and share them with the public.
Tandem App: Pros And Cons
Pros | Cons |
It has good features perfect for mastering different foreign languages. | It does not have a structured lesson guide which means that you need to use other applications or language resources too. |
The free version is already complete with everything a learned may need. | Others believe that Tandem is a dating app than a language learning platform. |
The user interface of the app is easy to use and is not overwhelming. | The learning tool is highly reliant on the use of the internet. |
There are tons of available language exchange partners within the application. | The pro version is pricey. |
Are you going to subscribe and use the Tandem app today? Let us know what you think in the comment section below. As we reach this part of the post, we hope that you were able to discover what Tandem has to offer and why it is a good application to use while mastering a foreign language. If you enjoyed this post, be sure to read our reviews about other language resources like Busuu, Quizlet, Anki, and Lingvist.
Also, if you are truly passionate about developing your skills in a particular language, we invite you to check out our most recommended application below.
The Best Alternative To Tandem App
Contrary to popular belief, you can master any foreign language on your own without having to purchase expensive resources. In fact, you can simply use Simya Solutions’ Ling App to get best-in-class support and FREE courses right on your mobile device.
The Ling App is a language learning application built to help enthusiasts get updated learning content that real native speakers and language professionals develop. It also comes equipped with fun and exciting features that will keep you on your toes while using the app. And the best part of it all? You will only need 10 minutes or less every day! So develop your skills today by downloading this app now!
One Response
Wow, what a comprehensive article on the best apps to learn Turkish! As someone who’s been wanting to explore the beauty of the Turkish language, this piece has been incredibly helpful in narrowing down my options. I’ve heard great things about Duolingo and its gamified approach, but I’m also intrigued by Memrise’s mnemonic techniques for vocabulary retention. It’s fantastic to see apps like Babbel and Rosetta Stone offering structured curricula to guide learners through their Turkish language journey. The language exchange platforms, Tandem and HelloTalk, seem like fantastic opportunities to practice conversational skills with native speakers. And the augmented reality aspect of Mondly adds an exciting immersive element to the learning process. I appreciate the inclusion of Pimsleur’s audio-based program, as I find auditory learning quite effective. Lastly, TurkishClass101’s comprehensive online platform looks like a treasure trove of resources. Thank you for shedding light on these apps and providing pros and cons for each. It’s truly made my decision-making process much easier. I can’t wait to start my Turkish language learning adventure and see where these apps take me! Kudos to the writer for such an informative and engaging article.