Alternatives To Duolingo

If you want to learn a language, but aren’t loving Duolingo, then you’ve come to the right place.

Now more than ever, tons of alternatives exist to help you learn new languages – and the industry is far from slowing down.

The global language learning app market is growing, reaching $6.34 billion in 2024 and expected to hit $24.39 billion by 2033 (Stratis). Of this, Duolingo has a massive market share, reporting over 130 million monthly users.

But it’s not just volume of users that’s so impressive, it’s retention too.

According to Duolingo, over 10 million people have a streak longer than a year, and it’s regularly voted one of the world’s most popular language learning apps – supporting 43 different dialects.

Of these, English regularly comes up top for the most popular language studied, followed by Spanish, French, German, Japanese, Italian, Korean, Chinese, Portuguese and Hindi. (Duolingo 2024 language report)

But it’s true that Duolingo isn’t for everyone. The app has come under fire for its lack of grammar teaching, persistent notifications and strange phrase examples.

And if you do want to learn a language, but aren’t quite sure which app to choose, then fear not – we’ve pulled together some alternatives!

Let’s take a look…

Preply

For those wanting to learn through human interaction, Preply works by connecting tutors with tutees that want to learn a language.

First, the app connects users with a tutor, then, they start learning through video calls. With transparent pricing and an easy to use interface, Preply helps people access language lessons anytime, anywhere.

Pimsleur

Pimsleur is a language learning app that allows people to learn online through a variety of tactics. With listening and speaking exercises, as well as cultural lessons, the app uses specialised techniques to help improve retention.

Using the proven Pimsleur method, users are able to learn at their own pace, practicing in ways that will help them read, write and speak a new language in no time.

Babbel

Babbel is one of the world’s most popular language learning apps, offering subscription-based learning services that include a variety of ways to learn a new languages.

With 14 languages on the platform and 15 million people using their services, Babbel’s lessons are helping people speak new languages confidently in everyday situations.

Busuu

Busuu is a language learning app that connects learners with native speakers to help them pick up words and phrases faster.

With real feedback, speaking practice and over 120 million learners, the app allows people to pick up languages at their own pace, whilst teaching them how to use it in real-life situations.

Univerbal

Univerbal is an AI language tutor that helps guide learners through classes anytime, anywhere. Formally known as Quazel, the app supports 22 languages including Spanish, French Japanese and more.

By immersing in specific topics and practicing real-world conversations, the app is helping more people expand their language repertoire.

Memrise

One of the most difficult parts of learning a language is retention. Memrise helps by using flashcards to help people learn vocab and grammar long-term.

Using mnemonic techniques, the company’s USP is their ability to help people not just learn, but retain language.

Talkpal

Talkpal is a GPT-powered AI language teacher, designed to help people boost their speaking, listening, writing, and pronunciation skills.

With 57 languages available, Talkpal is able to adapt to each learner, driving retention and improving fluency.

The app also gives personalised stats and real-time feedback, helping people learn faster and more efficiently.

Ling

Ling describes itself as the ‘easy path to hard languages’ focusing on Asian and Eastern European dialects. With immersive lessons, review features and content made by native speakers, it has been shown to help people learn new language skills in record time.