5 Duolingo alternatives for next-level foreign language learning
Language learning is now more accessible than ever, thanks to technology. While Duolingo’s gamified approach makes learning fun, it can feel repetitive and lacks depth for real conversations. If you want an alternative for learning languages on your Android phone, Memrise emphasizes context and pronunciation, Babbel provides detailed grammar and real-world dialogue, and Pimsleur focuses on audio-based pronunciation training.
Each of these options caters to different learning styles, offering a more tailored approach than Duolingo. If you want a more effective way to learn a language, here are five great alternatives to Duolingo.
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Memrise
Learn from native speakers with video-based lessons
Memrise differentiates itself from Duolingo by emphasizing video-based learning featuring native speakers. Unlike Duolingo, which relies on AI-generated sentences and gamified exercises, Memrise helps learners absorb new languages through real-world speech and context-based practice.
A key feature of Memrise is its short video clips of native speakers using phrases in everyday situations. This approach helps learners pick up pronunciation, intonation, and natural speech patterns more effectively than traditional text-based exercises.
Whereas Duolingo follows a rigid, game-like progression, Memrise is more adaptable, allowing you to focus on the phrases most relevant to your needs. If your goal is to pick up conversational skills for an upcoming vacation, Memrise may be a better fit than Duolingo’s more generalized approach.
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Babbel
Structured lessons with a focus on real conversations
Like Memrise, Babbel is designed for practical language use but takes a more structured approach. While Duolingo relies heavily on gamification, Babbel integrates grammar explanations, cultural insights, and real-world dialogues to reinforce learning.
Each lesson is about 15 minutes long, making it easy to fit into a busy schedule. However, Babbel emphasizes active speaking and listening, using speech recognition technology to improve pronunciation. The app also features dialogues that simulate real-world conversations.
One of Babbel’s standout features is its specialized courses for travel, business, and culture, catering to different learning goals. The app supports 14 languages, and the first lesson is free. After that, a subscription costs $18 per month, with discounts available for longer-term plans. Alternatively, you can opt for Babbel Live, a premium upgrade offering virtual classes with live instructors.
If you prefer structured lessons that focus on speaking and listening, Babbel offers a more comprehensive and immersive experience than Duolingo.
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Mondly
AI-powered conversations with AR and VR integration
Mondly is another app that prioritizes speech-based learning. It stands out with its AI-driven chatbots and interactive dialogues. Instead of translating sentences, you engage in real conversations powered by speech recognition technology.
One of Mondly’s most useful features is its verb conjugation tool. Tap a verb to see its different forms. This makes learning grammar more intuitive, something that Duolingo often lacks.
What sets Mondly apart is its augmented reality and virtual reality integration. With Mondly VR for Meta Quest and other headsets, you can immerse yourself in simulated real-world conversations, enhancing comprehension and confidence.
Mondly offers a free version and a Premium tier, which unlocks all content for $12 per month or $90 for lifetime access. If you’re looking for a cutting-edge, conversation-driven experience, Mondly’s AI, AR, and VR tools make it a compelling alternative to Duolingo.
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Busuu
Personalised learning plans with native speaker feedback
Busuu takes a goal-driven approach to language learning, offering personalized study plans based on your skill level, learning goals, and available time. When you sign up, the app estimates how long it will take to reach fluency and tailors its lessons accordingly.
One of Busuu’s advantages is its native speaker feedback system. Unlike Duolingo, which relies on AI-generated exercises, Busuu allows learners to submit writing and speech exercises for real corrections from native speakers. This feature helps fine-tune pronunciation, grammar, and fluency in a way that automated lessons cannot. Busuu also uses spaced repetition to reinforce learning, ensuring that users review weaker vocabulary words at the right time.
The app supports 14 languages and offers a free basic plan. To unlock full access, including structured lessons and community feedback, a Premium subscription costs $14 per month or $83 per year.
If you want a clear roadmap to fluency with interactive, real-world practice, Busuu’s personalized approach makes it a strong contender.
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Pimsleur
Audio-based learning for speaking fluency
Unlike the other apps on this list, Pimsleur focuses on spoken conversation and auditory immersion rather than gamified exercises. Instead of matching words to pictures or filling in blanks, Pimsleur follows a science-backed audio method that mimics how we naturally acquire languages: by listening, repeating, and gradually building sentences.
This makes Pimsleur an excellent choice for learners who want to develop strong speaking and listening skills rather than focusing on reading and writing.
A standout feature of Pimsleur is its interactive audio lessons, which are designed to be hands-free. These are perfect for learning while driving, exercising, or doing daily tasks. Each lesson introduces new vocabulary and grammar in real conversational contexts, reinforcing learning through spaced repetition and recall techniques.
Pimsleur offers courses in 51 languages, more than other language apps. The platform provides a free trial, and a subscription costs $20 per month for one language or $21 per month for all languages.
If your priority is speaking fluency and comprehension, Pimsleur’s audio-driven, conversation-based approach offers a unique and effective alternative to Duolingo.
Find the right language app for your learning style
While Duolingo is popular, these alternatives cater to different learning styles. Memrise uses video immersion with native speakers for conversational phrases, while Babbel offers structured lessons with cultural insights and speech recognition. Mondly leverages AI, AR, and VR for an interactive experience. Whether you prefer structured lessons, real-world practice, or hands-free learning, the right app can accelerate your progress and keep you motivated.
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