Picking up a new language no longer needs a classroom. The three best-known apps, Duolingo, Babbel and Rosetta Stone, can all get you speaking, but they take very different routes. Start by asking yourself one question: what do I want to be able to do, and by when?
If you want a daily habit: Duolingo
Duolingo is built around bite-sized lessons, streaks and friendly competition. Lessons take a few minutes, so it's easy to fit one in while waiting for the kettle. The core courses are free.
- Strengths: motivation, vocabulary and a gentle start.
- Limits: light on grammar explanations and real conversation practice.
If you want to hold a conversation soon: Babbel
Babbel's lessons are built around everyday situations, from checking in at a hotel to chatting with a neighbour. Grammar is explained briefly in English as you go, and regular reviews help new words stick.
- Strengths: practical phrases and clear structure.
- Limits: a subscription is needed after the trial lessons.
If you want to sound natural: Rosetta Stone
Rosetta Stone avoids translation altogether. You learn by linking words to pictures and situations, and its speech recognition gives feedback on your pronunciation.
- Strengths: listening, speaking and accent.
- Limits: early lessons can feel slow if you prefer clear explanations.
At a glance
| Duolingo | Babbel | Rosetta Stone | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Lesson length | 3 to 5 minutes | 10 to 15 minutes | 10 to 30 minutes |
| Approach | Games and streaks | Everyday dialogues | Full immersion |
| Grammar help | Light | Clear notes | Learned by example |
| Cost to start | Free | Free trial | Free trial |
Five habits that make any app work
- Attach practice to something you already do every day, such as your morning coffee.
- Speak every new phrase out loud, even if you feel silly.
- Use headphones so you hear every sound clearly.
- Set a weekly review session for older lessons.
- Switch your phone's language for a day once you know the basics.