All 2027 shelves · language learning
The best language learning app of 2027
Our pick: Duolingo. It is the best app for making language practice a daily habit, with short lessons, streaks and a free version that covers dozens of languages. If you want structured lessons with grammar explained, choose Babbel.
The 2027 picks
Duolingo
Best language learning app of 2027Duolingo is the best app for turning language study into a daily habit, and the habit is most of the battle. Lessons take a few minutes, streaks and leagues keep you coming back, and the free version teaches dozens of languages with ads. Paid tiers remove ads and add extras, including AI-powered conversation and explanation features on its top tier.
It is strongest for building vocabulary and comfort in the first months. Pair it with real conversation as you progress.
Babbel
Best for structured lessonsBabbel teaches with structured, conversation-focused lessons that explain grammar as you go. It suits adults who want to understand why a sentence works and be ready for everyday conversations. Babbel also offers live online classes as a separate option.
Busuu
Best for feedback from native speakersBusuu combines structured courses with a community of native speakers who correct your written and spoken exercises. That human feedback is rare among language apps and very useful for writing and pronunciation.
Pimsleur
Best for learning by earPimsleur is audio-first: you listen, repeat and answer out loud, which makes it ideal for commutes and for people whose priority is speaking and understanding speech.
Memrise
Best for real-world listeningMemrise uses short videos of native speakers saying everyday phrases, so you hear how people really talk, and adds AI conversation practice.
Side by side
| App | Best for | Style | Free option |
|---|---|---|---|
| Duolingo | Daily habit | Gamified lessons | Yes, with ads |
| Babbel | Structured lessons | Conversation-focused courses | — |
| Busuu | Native-speaker feedback | Courses + community | Yes |
| Pimsleur | Speaking by ear | Audio lessons | Free trial |
| Memrise | Real-world listening | Native-speaker videos | Yes |
Plans as described by each company; prices vary by country and change often, so we describe the plan rather than quote a price.
A simple plan for 2027
- Pick one app and one language. Switching apps is the most common way progress stalls.
- Do ten minutes a day at a fixed time.
- Speak out loud from week one, even alone.
- Add a real conversation once a week after the first few months.
Questions people ask
What is the best language learning app of 2027?
Duolingo, for most people, because it is the best at building a daily habit and has a generous free version. Babbel is the best for structured, conversation-focused lessons.
What is the best free language learning app?
Duolingo. Its free version, with ads, covers dozens of languages. Busuu and Memrise also have free versions.
Can you become fluent with an app alone?
Apps are excellent for vocabulary, habit and listening, but fluency needs real conversation. Use an app daily and add speaking practice with people, a tutor or a class.
Duolingo or Babbel: which is better?
Duolingo is better for consistency and fun, and it is free to start. Babbel is better for structured lessons with grammar explanations, and it is a subscription.
How these picks are made: how we pick. Changes: updates.