Whether you’re learning at home or lounging by the French Riviera, there is no better way to immerse yourself in French culture than by learning the language.
However, it can be hard to know where to begin. Enter: language learning apps! Apps allow you to build your language skills on your own terms, and with hundreds of apps to choose from, there’s an option for everyone.
To help you work out which is best for you, we’ve delved into the pros and cons of some of the most popular language learning apps.
Things to Consider Before Choosing Your App
Here are a few questions to ask yourself before choosing a language learning app:
- What is your learning style? Do you prefer structure or novelty?
- Why do you want to learn French? Is your goal to move to France or is it just a hobby?
- What is your current level of French? Not all apps have placement tests, so it’s best to understand your aptitude.
- Are you willing to pay? While all the apps on our list have a free option, some features may require a paid subscription.
The Best French Language Learning Apps
1. Duolingo
Duolingo offers over 40 languages, as well as programs for math, music, and chess. Its structured courses, fun games, and leaderboards are great for keeping you engaged through your learning journey.
What we like:
- Comprehensive free version: The app’s free version offers a wealth of content.
- Unparalleled gamification: Leaderboards, streaks, goals, and monthly badges keep your motivation high.
- Vocabulary training: Duolingo excels at building your vocabulary.
What we don’t like:
- Punishment for mistakes: You can only make limited mistakes before you are locked out, which can be stressful.
- Inaccurate speech recognition: Speaking lessons are often inaccurate or ineffective.
- Limited use for advanced users: Although this app is excellent for beginners, advanced users may find it too basic.
Who should use this app: People new to French or who want to increase their vocabulary and build a daily habit of learning.
Subscription pricing: Super Duolingo is $13 per month or $84 annually, with a Family Plan (for up to five people) at $120 per year. Duolingo Max is $30 per month or $168 annually.
2. Babbel
Where Duolingo goes broad, Babbel goes deep, focusing on providing more in-depth, high-quality courses. This app also tailors lessons to your skill level and areas of interest. It particularly stands out for building capability in speaking and pronunciation.
What we like:
- Well-structured courses: Starting with grammar and progressing to conversation, Babbel’s structure is similar to that of traditional language courses.
- Applicability: Practical lessons are highly applicable to your specific needs.
- Live option: Book live online classes for additional support.
What we don’t like:
- Limited free usage: The free version offers limited content.
- Lack of gamification: Minimalist and straightforward design could make it challenging to stay engaged.
- Not suitable for advanced learners: Better for beginners and intermediate users.
Who should use this app: People who like a traditional, structured experience and are willing to pay for it.
Subscription pricing: Babbel is $15 per month, while Unlimited Babbel Live costs $99 per month. Discounts are available for longer commitments.
3. Rosetta Stone
Immersion is one of the best ways to learn a language quickly, and this is the approach taken by Rosetta Stone. As the oldest service on this list, Rosetta Stone has had ample time to refine its offerings, providing a well-rounded user experience for serious language learners.
What we like:
- Immersion: Lessons don’t include translations or explanations, so they really challenge your skills.
- Seek and Speak!: Augmented reality-style scavenger hunts make learning fun.
- Polished user experience: Offers easy-to-use interface, strong grammar explanations and speech recognition.
What we don’t like:
- Longer lessons: Lessons start at 30 minutes, which may not suit casual learners.
- Not for beginners: Immersive approach means new learners may struggle.
- Expensive subscription: Fees are on the higher end.
Who should use this app: People who already have a little French under their belt and enjoy immersive learning.
Subscription pricing: $44.85 for three months or $131.40 annually. Lifetime access is $219.
4. Lingopie
Another great way to learn French is by taking advantage of French media. Lingopie leverages this, allowing users to watch TV shows, movies, and documentaries in French. Plus, not only can you boost your language skills through popular media, but you’ll also get a hit of French culture at the same time.
What we like:
- Relaxed approach: Learning while you watch TV? What’s not to love!
- Subtitles and dubbing: Netflix integration allows you to add subtitles or a dub to your favorite shows.
- Interactive subtitles: Simply click on subtitles to find out what’s being said and add them to a list to review later.
What we don’t like:
- Not great for beginners: The lack of grammar and conjugation explanations means this is really best suited for those with at least a basic level of French.
- Not a standalone: Many users might find this works best as a supplement to a comprehensive language learning program.
- AI pronunciation: The review feature uses AI pronunciations, which can be imperfect.
Who should use this app: People who want a relaxed approach to learning French.
Subscription pricing: Three months costs $36, an annual plan is $144, and a lifetime subscription costs $650.
5. Busuu
Want feedback and support from real French speakers? With their community features, Busuu pairs learners with native speakers who review and provide feedback on your lessons. This feature, paired with its strong placement test and well-structured lessons, makes Busuu a great option.
What we like:
- Community feedback: Get matched with a native speaker who will give you real, practical feedback.
- Great placement test: Busuu has one of the best placement tests, providing a clear path for your progression.
- Almost a one-stop shop: With progress planning, engaging lessons, and community support, Busuu sets users up for success.
What we don’t like:
- Short lessons: Many of the lessons take less than five minutes, which is two to three times shorter than most other apps on this list. This can make it difficult to reinforce concepts and keep up momentum.
- Inconsistent community aspect: Native speaker support relies on other members to be available to provide feedback.
- Restricted free offerings: Free version is limited and doesn’t include most of the community aspects.
Who should use this app: People who want an all-in-one language learning app and access to native speakers for support.
Subscription pricing: Live lessons start at $13 each. Busuu Premium is $14 per month, $51 for six months, or $83 annually.
Final Thoughts
So, there are our pros and cons for five of the best language learning apps on the market right now. However, before you start downloading, it’s important to make sure you understand your learning style and goals to choose the right app for you.
It’s also good to remember that none of these apps are a one-stop shop. Many people find a mixed approach to learning works best, so look for ways to blend French into your everyday life, such as reading a book you know well in French, listening to French music and podcasts, or trying out your French with other francophones. For tips on learning French, check out our article detailing how long it takes to learn French.
An Australian freelance writer living in Paris, Joe Ciliberto has a background in international relations and renewable energy. He is passionate about gastronomy, politics, travel, and finding the best cold brew coffee in Paris.
