The best Apps to learn German online
Have you ever considered learning German online? If not, it’s high time you explore the endless possibilities of online language resources. While online courses and apps may not make you fluent in German without a real teacher, they undoubtedly serve as a valuable addition to your language learning journey, enhancing your vocabulary and making the process more enjoyable.
In this blog post, I’ll be sharing my personal experiences and insights after comparing three renowned language learning apps: RosettaStone, Babbel, and Duolingo. Each of these apps comes with its unique features and pricing structure. RosettaStone, known for its comprehensive language courses, comes at a premium cost. On the other hand, Babbel offers a relatively affordable option, while Duolingo stands out as a free platform.
But which one is truly the best for learning German?
Having put all three apps to the test, I’ve carefully evaluated their advantages and disadvantages, keeping in mind that every learner has their preferences and learning style. Instead of proclaiming a single app as “the best,” I believe that each app serves its purpose effectively, catering to different types of learners.
#1 ROSETTA STONE – Great for intuitive learners
If you consider yourself an intuitive learner, Rosetta Stone is the perfect choice for you:
Are you the right fit for Rosetta Stone?
If you prioritize speaking and communication over grammar intricacies, if you learn best by doing, and if you prefer not to delve into the inner workings of a language, then Rosetta Stone suits your learning style. Word endings and meticulous details don’t excite you, but being able to communicate effectively does.
If these qualities resonate with you, I highly recommend starting your German learning journey with Rosetta Stone Software.
Undoubtedly, this comprehensive software comes with a financial investment, but let me assure you, as an intuitive learner, it offers an incredibly fast and straightforward way to pick up German.
One of the great advantages of online courses, including Rosetta Stone, is the flexibility they provide. Whether you have an entire weekend to dedicate to learning German or only fifteen minutes each evening after a long day at work, Rosetta Stone allows you to go at your own pace.
Here’s a summary of using Rosetta Stone for learning German:
Pros:
Cons:
#2 BABBEL – Who could know learning German could be fun?
Let me introduce you to Babbel, an exciting software and app designed to teach up to 12 languages, including German, with a touch of fun and interactivity. Initially launched with German as one of its primary languages, Babbel is a project funded by the European Commission, aiming to promote understanding and communication within Europe.
What sets Babbel apart from other language learning software is its playful approach to learning. Engaging with Babbel feels like playing a game rather than studying. It effortlessly guides you through different levels with entertaining quizzes and challenges. Visual chapters help you associate words with photos, and various exercises, such as word filling and pronunciation practice, keep the learning experience engaging.
The voice recognition feature is a standout, detecting major pronunciation mistakes and offering real-time feedback. However, it’s important to note that while Babbel offers excellent support, it shouldn’t be considered a complete substitute for a real German teacher.
Babbel is an excellent complement to traditional language courses or private lessons. It particularly shines for absolute beginners, thanks to its simple and understandable grammar explanations. Additionally, it provides valuable tips and tricks for memorizing words and grammar rules effectively.
Now, who would benefit most from using Babbel? Primarily, it’s a fantastic app for those seeking a fun and interactive way to learn. While Babbel won’t make you fluent in German on its own, it significantly enhances your language skills when used alongside other learning methods.
As for the cost, Babbel offers a free trial version to test the waters. If you enjoy the experience, you can subscribe on a monthly or yearly basis, with better deals available for longer subscriptions. Canceling your Babbel subscription is straightforward through your iTunes account settings.
To get started with Babbel and learn German in English, follow these steps:
Babbel is a versatile platform, offering various language options. However, remember that your subscription provides access to one language only.
My view on Babbel:
4/5 Stars
Pros:
Cons:
#3 DUOLINGO – The free way of learning German online
Looking for a free way to learn German online? Look no further than Duolingo! The major difference between Duolingo and other language learning platforms, like Rosetta Stone, is that Duolingo is entirely free. But that’s not the only distinction – Duolingo also focuses heavily on visual learning with pictures.
My thoughts on Duolingo:
Upon exploring Duolingo, I noticed that it seems perfectly tailored for kids. While Rosetta Stone also integrates visual elements, it provides more explanations and texts to support learning. Duolingo, on the other hand, feels like a puzzle where learning happens solely through images. Personally, as an adult learner, I prefer a more varied learning approach with comprehensive explanations.
But let’s not forget that Duolingo is a free software, so one can’t really complain too much about its limitations.
Who should use Duolingo?
I believe Duolingo is a fantastic tool for two particular groups of people:
My conclusion:
3/5 Stars for Duolingo as a German learning tool*
Pros:
Cons:
*While Duolingo works well for languages simpler than German, the complexities of the German language demand more extensive explanations. For other languages like English or Spanish, I would give Duolingo 4/5 stars!
