Anki
Spaced-repetition flashcard app widely used for memorizing vocabulary and other material.
Edition 2026
The best language learning apps
Streaks are a retention mechanic, not evidence of learning. The apps worth a place here can point at somebody who reached a measurable level, and say how long it took.
What we look at
- Outcomes measured against an external standard, not app points
- Speaking and listening weighted as heavily as vocabulary
- Content for the language pair you actually need, not only from English
- Works offline for a commute
- No dark patterns in the cancellation flow
Helps if you have it: A study or dataset relating app hours to a CEFR or equivalent level.
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Babbel
Offers structured language courses built by linguists, aimed at conversational skills.
Busuu
Teaches languages through lessons and exercises reviewed by native-speaker community members.
Duolingo
Teaches languages through short, gamified lessons with streaks and points.