10 Best Language Learning Apps for ESL Students

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10 Best Language Learning Apps for ESL Students

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Mane Solomonyan

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In the past, teachers struggled with coming up with engaging methods to simplify the process for students. However, today, the advent of online tools has decreased the pressure. Amidst the wide array of available options, determining the most suitable tools can be challenging.  

 

Which ones are user-friendly and cost-effective? To address these questions, we present you a list of ten language learning apps for ESL students. These tools are not only interactive but also readily accessible for both Android and iOS users.

 

By effectively using these resources, navigating the complexities of language learning becomes more manageable. Whether you are a non-native English speaker or simply seeking to enhance your linguistic skills, these tools offer a valuable means to improve your learning journey.

 

So, let’s start diving in!

Saima

 

Saima collaboration tool

 

Meet Saima, the first AI-based adaptive video assistant. It has come to transform users’ learning experiences by tailoring the video to their preferences. With Saima, expect a remarkable 30% improvement in comprehension, 65% time saved, and doubled focus. Say goodbye to pauses and rewinds with its adaptive video speed feature that aligns with your listening pace. This is extremely useful for non-native speakers who need more flexibility and personalization when learning a new language. Additionally, the focus boost function increases speed while helping to maintain concentration. Finally, the voice boosting feature for enhanced audio will help you learn pronunciation more effectively. 

 

Features

Pros

Cons

Unique Selling Point

Integrations/Platform Accessibility

Pricing

Video playback adaptation

Enhances video-watching efficiency

Premium features are limited to subscribers

Collaboration and comprehension

YouTube, Udemy, edX, Udacity, Skillshare, Coursera, Loom

Free (Basic)

Focus boost

Facilitates peer discussion

   

$4.99/month (Premium)

Silence removal

Integrates note-taking

   

Corporate packages upon request

Voice boost

     

Note-taking on the video content

     

Note-sharing

     

Busuu

 

Busuu language learning tool

 

Busuu is a modern language-learning platform that allows you to learn languages at your own speed. It uses gamification to help you practice a new language. Through Busuu, you can engage with numerous native speakers for one-on-one conversations in multiple languages. Additionally, it offers digital flashcards, a useful tool for building vocabulary. 

 

Features

Pros

Cons

Unique Selling Point

Integrations/Platform Accessibility

Pricing

Videos by native speakers

Expansive community for peer learning

Only 13 languages offered

Focus on boosting speaking confidence and fluency

iOS, Android, macOS, Windows via major browsers

Free (Limited)

Customizable study plans

 

Limited content for advanced learners

  

$4.99/month (Premium)

Quizzes

     

AI-driven grammar tools

     

Lessons created by experts

     

Duolingo

 

Duolingo language learning tool

 

Duolingo uses short lessons covering speaking, listening, reading, and writing. It teaches a new language or helps to practice a second one. The lessons are like games, with rewards for progress, motivating you to continue learning.

 

Features

Pros

Cons

Unique Selling Point

Integrations/Platform Accessibility

Pricing

Activity Dashboard

Regularly updated content

Premium features may be expensive

Free learning "forever"

Integrates with Incident IQ for K-12 education

Free

Asynchronous Learning

Exercises cover all language skills

   

$12.99/month (Super Plan)

Blended Learning

     

Gamification

     

Course Management and tracking

     

Tests/Assessments

     

Babbel

 

Babbel language learning tool

 

Babbel is driven by its purpose: creating mutual understanding through language. They build products to help people connect and experience the transformative power of language. Whether through the Babbel app, Babbel Live online classes, Babbel podcasts, or Babbel for Business, Babbel acts as a personal language coach. They guide learners toward real-life conversations in their target language.

Babbel, the leading language learning platform globally, has partnered with the Toucan browser extension. Toucan aids language learners in remembering new vocabulary as they browse the Internet. 

 

Features

Pros

Cons

Unique Selling Point

Integrations/Platform Accessibility

Pricing

Short lessons with audio and tests

Vocabulary in realistic contexts

Limited to 14 mainly European languages

First language-learning app created by experienced linguists

Partners with Toucan browser extension

$9.60/month

Everyday conversation practice

Progressive lesson complexity

Inconsistent content across languages

   

Memrise

 

Memrise language learning tool

 

Memrise is a language learning tool that is free to use. It provides courses made by expert language teachers. The app has an attractive design. Allowing students to choose their preferred languages and enroll in the courses. The language options include French, Spanish, German, etc. 

Memrise relies on strong scientific principles. It employs spaced repetition in a structured manner. With a user-friendly interface and flashcards, the tool offers a straightforward learning experience. 

 

Features

Pros

Cons

Unique Selling Point

Integrations/Platform Accessibility

Pricing

Spaced repetition

Based on strong scientific principles

Focuses mainly on vocabulary

User-created courses and native-speaker videos

Collaborates with Discord to enhance language learning

Free (Basic)

Extensive course options

User-friendly and flexible learning

Minimal grammar explanations

  

$14.99/month (Premium memberships)

Native material

     

MosaLingua

 

Mosalingua language learning tool

 

Mosalingua offers brief lessons customized to the time limitations of language learners. A key feature is the Pareto principle. This is also known as the 20-80 approach. It prioritizes the 20% of vocabulary commonly used in 80% of daily life. 

With MosaLingua you can start learning practical words and phrases immediately and memorize them through the repetition method. 

 

Features

Pros

Cons

Unique Selling Point

Integrations/Platform Accessibility

Pricing

Vocabulary flashcards

Immediate learning of practical phrases

Less intuitive interface

Focuses on the most frequently used 6,000 words in a language

Available on web and mobile platforms (iOS & Android)

$95.88/year or $7.99/month (Annual Subscription)

Spoken dialogues

Spaced repetition for effective retention

Not as effective for Chinese and Japanese

  

$179 (Lifetime membership for all languages)

Grammar and pronunciation lessons

 

Interface design could be improved

   

MosaChat-AI and MosaDiscovery

     

Video content

     

Hands-free mode

     

Cram

 

Cram language learning tool

 

Cram is a free flashcard app favored by millions of students and educators for learning new languages and memorizing topics. Its user-friendly interface and flashcards are ideal for microlearning and studying new languages on the go. 

Cram is a favorite among learners for its simplicity and accessibility. Users love the feature of adding images to flashcards, enhancing learning experiences.

 

Features

Pros

Cons

Unique Selling Point

Integrations/Platform Accessibility

Pricing

Learning Paths/Tracks

Allows adding images to flashcards

Lacks community features

Users can create and share both private and public flashcards

Available for web and mobile versions (iOS & Android)

Free (Basic)

Lesson Notes

Highly effective "Cram" mode for studying

Offline access only in premium mode

   

Parent/Student Portal

     

Progress Tracking

     

Mondly

 

mondly language learning tool

 

Mondly is both a language-learning app and a browser tool. It was the first to integrate chatbot technology and augmented reality (AR) into the learning process. With Mondly, you can learn various languages. The list includes Spanish, Russian, Italian, Chinese, etc.

Mondly provides affordable language learning with quick, engaging lessons. Their VR & AR apps revolutionize the experience, offering more fun, gamified learning focused on practical vocabulary.

 

Features

Pros

Cons

Unique Selling Point

Integrations/Platform Accessibility

Pricing

Over 1000 language combinations

Affordable with engaging, quick lessons

Limited focus on grammar and speaking skills

Uses speech recognition for pronunciation feedback and maintains engagement with daily lessons

Suitable for corporate learning environments to foster global outreach and cultural proficiency

Free (Basic)

Smart vocabulary builders

Innovative VR & AR apps for gamified learning

Basic lessons without advanced complexity

  

$10/month (Premium)

Real conversations

     

Daily lessons customized for various professions

     

Beelinguapp

 

Beelingu language learning tool

 

Beelinguapp takes language learning to the next level with engaging audiobooks. The tool immerses users in stories presented with bilingual text so they can learn naturally by reading in their native language alongside the target language. 

The platform offers a variety of content types, from classics to news articles, and allows users to build vocabulary while enjoying the immersive experience. Finally, with Beelinguapp, users can fully focus on learning without frequent interruptions or dictionary lookups. 

 

Features

Pros

Cons

Unique Selling Point

Integrations/Platform Accessibility

Pricing

Offline learning

Supports learning in target language with audio

Limited free stories

Enhanced learning experience with authentic content

Available on Android and iOS

Free (with ads)

Switchable language display

Multiple learning materials

Lacks comprehensive grammar explanations

  

$24.99 (Lifetime premium)

Variety of content, including stories and news

     

Drops

 

drops language learning tool

 

Drops is an innovative language learning application that offers gamified, bite-sized lessons lasting just five minutes. This prevents users from feeling overwhelmed while learning a new language. Visually appealing illustrations maximize user engagement and learning rates, offering a fun and accessible way to build vocabulary and explore new languages.

 

Features

Pros

Cons

Unique Selling Point

Integrations/Platform Accessibility

Pricing

Combines visuals, sounds, and words for memorization

Based on strong scientific principles

Focuses mainly on vocabulary, lacking other language components

Offers fun, fast-paced games to learn vocabulary in just five minutes daily

Available on Android and iOS

Free (Basic)

Layout designed for ease of use and engagement

Minimalist interface for easy navigation

Five-minute daily limit for free users

  

$13/month (Premium)

Emphasizes vocabulary through repetition

    

$159.99 (Lifetime subscription)

Conclusion

If you are a lifelong learner, learning a new language would be a fun experience with one of these apps. On the other hand, if you have a goal to learn and improve English for your career growth, think of more professional tools tailored to ESL students. 

Finally, you can balance these two by adding a level of professionalism and spicing everything with interaction for maximum effectiveness. 

What is the best English learning app?

The leading English learning apps are Duolingo and Memrise.

What is an ESL program?

ESL or English as a Second Language, is a program created to help ELL students. It includes listening, speaking, reading, writing, etc.

Can I study ESL online?

Yes, you can study ESL online through various platforms and courses created to meet your language learning needs.

Can Duolingo make you fluent?

No, only Duolingo will not make you fluent. But if you use Duolingo along with other resources and activities, it can contribute to improving your fluency.

Are these apps suitable for all levels of English proficiency?

Yes, the best language learning apps for ESL students typically are customized to learners at various proficiency levels, from beginners to advanced.

Master any content and stay focused with Saima. The ultimate tool for video speed personalization and shared note-taking on any platform.