Top 10 Free Applications for Learning English

Top 10 Free Applications for Learning English

28 Feb 2025
Julianne Arteha
5:51 m read
Top 10 Free Applications for Learning English

Discover the top 10 free apps for learning English, each offering unique tools for reading, speaking, and vocabulary building. Start learning today!

1. Duolingo

2. WholeReader

3. Busuu

4. Memrise

5. HelloTalk

6. ELSA Speak

7. BBC Learning English

8. Anki

9. Tandem

10. LingQ

Conclusion


Learning English has become more accessible with the advent of various free applications designed to enhance language skills. Below is a curated list of the top 10 free apps that offer unique features to aid learners in mastering English, as well as other languages.


1. Duolingo

Duolingo offers gamified lessons that cover reading, writing, listening, and speaking. Its interactive approach makes language learning engaging and effective.

Duolingo

Free Features:

  • Access to all language courses
  • Daily practice reminders
  • In-lesson grading

Advantages:

  • User-friendly interface
  • Adaptive learning techniques
  • Community support

Website: Duolingo



2. WholeReader

WholeReader offers an immersive reading experience by combining text with human narration. This approach enhances comprehension and vocabulary acquisition through synchronized audio and visual learning. It is particularly useful for intermediate and advanced learners who want to improve their reading and listening skills simultaneously.

WholeReader

Free Features:

  • Access to a library of classic literature aligned with human narration
  • Vocabulary highlighting and tracking
  • Useful Articles and Courses

WholeReader is a non-profit organization dedicated to making education accessible to everyone. All functionality is completely free, with no premium plans or hidden costs, ensuring that every user can enjoy the full experience without limitations.

WholeReader2

Advantages:

  • Improves reading and listening comprehension together
  • Helps learners with pronunciation through synchronized narration
  • Encourages deeper engagement with English literature while enriching vocabulary

Website: Read a book here



3. Busuu

Busuu combines language lessons with a social platform, allowing users to learn from native speakers. It offers structured courses tailored to various proficiency levels.

Busuu

Free Features:

  • Access to basic language lessons
  • Vocabulary and grammar practice
  • Community feedback

Advantages:

  • Personalized study plans
  • Offline mode availability
  • Official certification options

Website: Busuu



4. Memrise

Memrise uses spaced repetition and mnemonic techniques to help users memorize vocabulary effectively. It offers a variety of courses created by both the platform and its community.

Memrise

Free Features:

  • Access to user-generated courses
  • Daily goals and progress tracking
  • Audio and visual learning aids

Advantages:

  • Engaging learning methods
  • Diverse course selection
  • Community interaction

Website: Memrise



5. HelloTalk

HelloTalk connects users with native English speakers worldwide for language exchange. It focuses on real-time communication to improve speaking and listening skills.

HelloTalk

Free Features:

  • Text, voice, and video chat
  • Translation and pronunciation tools
  • Language correction by native speakers

Advantages:

  • Cultural exchange opportunities
  • Practical language usage
  • Community engagement

Website: HelloTalk



6. ELSA Speak

ELSA Speak focuses on pronunciation, using advanced speech recognition technology to help users sound like native speakers. It provides instant feedback and tailored exercises.

ElsaSpeak

Free Features:

  • Pronunciation assessment
  • Basic pronunciation exercises
  • Progress tracking

Advantages:

  • Personalized learning paths
  • Detailed feedback on pronunciation
  • User-friendly interface

Website: ELSA Speak



7. BBC Learning English

BBC Learning English offers a wealth of resources, including videos, audio programs, and quizzes, to help users improve their English proficiency. The content is designed by language experts and covers various topics.

BBC

Free Features:

  • Daily lessons and updates
  • Grammar, vocabulary, and pronunciation guides
  • Downloadable audio programs

Advantages:

  • High-quality, authentic content
  • Suitable for self-paced learning
  • No subscription required

Website: BBC Learning English



8. Anki

Anki is a flashcard app that uses spaced repetition to help users memorize vocabulary and phrases efficiently. It's highly customizable and supports multimedia content.

Anki

Free Features:

  • Creation of custom flashcards
  • Access to shared decks
  • Progress synchronization across devices

Advantages:

  • Effective memorization technique
  • Supports images and audio
  • Open-source and community-driven

Website: Anki



9. Tandem

Tandem connects users with native speakers for language exchange through text, voice, or video chats. It also offers professional tutors for structured learning.

Tandem

Free Features:

  • Unlimited language exchanges
  • Translation and correction tools
  • Community discussions

Advantages:

  • Real-world conversational practice
  • Cultural insights from native speakers
  • Flexible learning schedule

Website: Tandem



10. LingQ

LingQ is a powerful tool for language learners that provides a vast library of real-world content, including articles, podcasts, and books. The platform helps users build vocabulary by allowing them to interact with texts, save new words, and review them later.

LingQ

Free Features:

  • Access to a limited number of lessons
  • Vocabulary tracking and word-saving features
  • Audio and text synchronization for some materials

Advantages:

  • Wide selection of authentic content for all levels
  • Personalized vocabulary learning system
  • Supports passive learning through listening

Website: LingQ


Conclusion

Learning English has never been easier with the variety of free apps available today. Whether you're looking to build vocabulary, improve pronunciation, or enhance listening and reading comprehension, these tools provide effective and engaging methods to suit every learning style.

  • If you enjoy gamified learning, try Duolingo or Memrise.
  • For conversation practice with native speakers, HelloTalk and Tandem are excellent choices.
  • If you prefer reading-based learning, WholeReader and LingQ offer immersive experiences.
  • For those focusing on pronunciation, ELSA Speak is a fantastic tool.

Each app offers unique advantages, and the best approach is to combine multiple resources to develop a well-rounded English proficiency. Start exploring these apps today and take your English learning journey to the next level!