10 Best Apps to Learn German

One of the best things about the internet is how it simplifies learning new skills, including foreign languages. If you’re among the many students eager to learn German without stepping into a traditional classroom, finding the right app is essential.

But which app is the best for learning German? Different apps employ various approaches to language learning. For instance, some use gamification to make the process fun and engaging, while others offer a more structured approach, guiding you from beginner to advanced levels, ultimately leading you to fluency.

This means that the app you choose will significantly impact how quickly you can master the language and the specific skills you acquire, such as pronunciation versus grammar.

In this article, we’ll explore 10 incredible apps that will make learning German a smooth and enjoyable experience. Let’s dive in!

1. lingoni

lingoni provides a vast variety of audiovisual content made by native German speakers to help you master every aspect of the language. From videos and worksheets to interactive exercises, pronunciation practice, and podcasts. The app ensures you have all the resources you need to develop your German vocabulary, grammar, and conversational skills.

One of the other things that make lingoni stand out is the control and flexibility it gives learners. The lingoni app lets you control your learning pace. 

So it’s up to you whether you want to move fast or take it easy due to other commitments. This is very helpful because, as you will see below, some apps limit how much you can learn every day. 

lingoni also lets you monitor your own progress to keep you motivated. We’ve employed a points system, which lets you gain points as you complete each learning unit. This adds some fun to the learning process and can be instrumental in speeding up your learning.

Pros

• Ideal for beginner, intermediate, and advanced learners
• Develops your reading, writing, pronunciation, and listening skills
• Tons of downloadable resources to learn from

Cons

• There’s no free plan

Prices start at €19 per month for the 3-month plan (€57 in total). There’s also a lifetime package going for €299.25, giving you access to all learning materials.

2. Babbel 

Babbel focuses on practical language use, aiming to get users speaking from the very first lesson. The app offers a structured approach to language learning, emphasizing real-life conversations and cultural contexts. 

Lessons are designed by language experts to ensure a gradual and logical progression. 

The app also adapts to individual learning speeds. When you start learning German, Babbel will quiz you to understand your skill level and goals. It then places you in the appropriate class. 

The app provides diverse learning materials, including audio sessions, podcasts, and games to enhance the experience.

Pros

• Personalized learning paths based on user level and goals
• Diverse learning materials to keep the lessons engaging

Cons

• Free content is very limited. You’ll need to pay for a subscription to access valuable resources
• It seems to focus on newbies and intermediates. You may want another option if you want advanced German lessons

Babbel plans start at $8.45 per month for 6 months.

3. DW Deutsch Lernen

DW Deutsch Lernen, developed by the renowned Deutsche Welle, follows the Common European Framework of Reference for Languages (CEFR). It offers structured content from beginner to intermediate levels free of charge, making it one of the best apps for learning German on a budget. 

The app focuses on developing conversational skills by presenting content through interactive exercises and engaging videos tailored to real-life situations. You’ll also go through regular assessments to ensure comprehension. 

In addition to the course materials, learners will also get access to a podcast and downloadable assets like PDFs. Additionally, it extends learning beyond the app with podcasts and downloadable materials available on its website, reinforcing the language learning journey.

Pros

• Focus on conversational German
• Fun, interactive exercises
• CEFR-based learning structure
• Additional learning materials available

Cons

• Intermediate and advanced users may find the content too simplistic.

As mentioned earlier, this app from DW is completely free.

4. Memrise

Memrise combines mnemonics and spaced repetition to transform vocabulary learning into an engaging and effective process. The app features colorful flashcards with entertaining and often humorous contexts to ensure words stick in your memory. 

Additionally, it enhances your listening skills through short videos featuring real German speakers, making the learning experience more relatable and immersive. 

While primarily a vocabulary trainer, Memrise also introduces phrases, allowing users to progress through seven different German levels.

Pros

• The mnemonics technique and the Membot make vocabulary learning engaging
• Uses varied content types, including user-generated courses.
• Takes a multimedia approach combining flashcards with video clips to enhance understanding

Cons

• Grammar instruction is limited, so you might need additional resources for grammar mastery
• Some user-generated courses lack depth
• Pronunciation feedback could be better to ensure learning accuracy.

Memrise has a free plan but it has ads and lacks several learning features like conversation practices. Paid plans start at $22.99 per month. 

5. Busuu

Busuu takes a holistic approach to language learning, offering a wide array of resources tailored for German learners at various stages. The app provides clear explanations of German grammar, making it an invaluable tool for those looking to build a solid foundation in the language. 

The app’s structured courses cover everything from travel phrases to business language, ensuring you’re well-equipped for a variety of situations.

Another of Busuu’s interesting features is language exchange, which allows you to interact with native speakers. 

Busuu also provides an offline mode, helping you learn German on the go without connecting to the internet.

Pros

• Comprehensive app covering grammar, vocabulary, and conversation
• Language exchange opportunities with native German speakers
• Learning available offline
• Grammar review

Cons

• The exercises start feeling repetitive after some time
• You’ll need a subscription to access the full suite of features

Premium plans start at $6.95 per month.

6. Drops

Learning German doesn’t have to feel like homework. Drops is a refreshing visual app that turns German vocabulary building into a fun and fast-paced game. It’s great for visual learners.

Using beautiful illustrations and a swipe-based system, Drops keeps you engaged with quick, five-minute lessons that fit seamlessly into your busy day. Focus is on practical words and phrases you’ll actually use, making those real-life conversations a breeze. 

Pros

• Highly visual learning approach suitable for those who learn best through imagery
• Short, timed sessions encourage regular, focused learning without fatigue
• Includes pronunciation tests to complement vocabulary learning
• Learn words and phrases you’ll use in everyday German conversations

Cons

• The lesson cap in the free plan may restrict those who wish to study more intensively
• Lacks comprehensive grammar instruction, so you may need additional resources for that

Drops premium version starts at $13 per month.

7. Tandem

Forget classrooms and textbooks! The Tandem German learning app takes a unique approach to language learning by emphasizing communication with native speakers. 

This German language learning app connects learners with others around the world, facilitating language exchange through text, voice, and video. Its community-driven model encourages real-life practice and cultural exchange, making it a dynamic tool for improving conversational skills. 

You can choose to find exchange partners for free or to engage with professional tutors for more structured learning. This blend of informal interaction and formal instruction caters to a wide range of learning preferences and goals.

Pros

• Real-time conversation practice with native speakers
• Flexible learning options ranging from free language exchange to paid tutoring

Cons

• Focuses on conversations only, so it’s not the most appropriate option if you want grammar lessons
• Requires a proactive approach to enhance your learning
• Quality of conversation partners can vary significantly

8. Duolingo

Duolingo is a household name in language learning, boasting over 500 million users worldwide. The app is popular for its gamified approach, which turns German study into an engaging daily habit.

For example, it uses a system of hearts to encourage accuracy; incorrect answers lead to lost hearts, while correct ones help you progress. This method keeps learners motivated and ensures regular practice.

The app is designed for a wide audience, from beginners to intermediate learners. It provides repetitive, bite-sized lessons that reinforce vocabulary and grammar, making learning manageable and fun. You’ll learn basic vocabulary and practical vocabulary, which is why it’s recommended by German teachers.

Despite its widespread popularity, Duolingo’s one-size-fits-all approach might not suit all learning styles. It’s great for spaced repetition. It won’t work if you’re seeking in-depth cultural immersion or advanced conversation skills.

Pros

• Gamified elements make learning German feel less like work and more like play
• Short, manageable lessons fit perfectly into busy schedules
• Uses AI and language science to deliver a personalized learning journey

Cons

• Excels at building a foundation, but for advanced learning, you might need something else
• The heart system can limit learning time, pressuring users to purchase the premium version

Duolingo premium starts at $1.99 per month, which is billed annually for a total of $23.99. 

9. Lingopie

Lingopie offers an immersive way to learn German by leveraging the power of TV shows and movies. This platform gives you access to a vast library of native content, allowing you to learn the language naturally and contextually. You’ll also pick up some useful insights into German culture.

As you watch, you can click on any subtitles to get instant translations and add new words to your German vocabulary list. This approach not only improves your listening and comprehension skills but also gives you a deep dive into the cultural nuances and everyday slang that traditional textbooks might miss. It’s a great complement to learning with German tutors.

Pros

• Immersive learning experience through native media content
• Interactive subtitles allow for real-time translation and vocabulary building
• Cultural immersion helps understand contextual and colloquial language use

Cons

• The free version offers a taste of the app but limits your learning opportunities
• Lacks structured grammar lessons and traditional language teaching methods

Prices start at $12 per month for a 3-month plan ($36 in total).

Factors to Consider When Choosing the Best App to Learn German

Consider the following factors when choosing the best apps for learning German language.

• Curriculum: Look for an app with comprehensive content that covers grammar, vocabulary, pronunciation, and conversational skills. A good language-learning app should offer a clear learning path and a range of lessons, tasks, and games to effectively support your progress​​.
• Learning activities and exercises: Apps that provide interactive and engaging learning activities are ideal. These could include games, tests, flashcards, and other exercises that make learning enjoyable and interesting. Make sure the language app caters to different skill levels and adapts to your learning pace​​.
• Feedback and progress tracking: Choose apps with built-in progress tracking and personalized feedback. This helps you stay motivated by visualizing your improvement and identifying areas that need more attention​​.
• Interactive features and community support: Interactive elements like games, chatbots, and community forums can enhance your learning experience by allowing the practical application of language skills in natural settings. They also provide opportunities to connect with other language learners and practice conversational skills​​.
• Accessibility: Consider apps that offer offline accessibility if needed. This ensures you can practice anytime and anywhere.
• Cost and subscription models: Check the app’s pricing and subscription options to ensure they fit your budget and learning needs. Consider whether the benefits provided justify the cost and whether flexible payment options or free trials are available​​.

Best Apps to Learn German FAQs

1. Can I Learn German on My Own for Free?

Yes, you can learn German on your own for free using the apps discussed above. These apps provide quality audiovisual content with tons of interactive exercises to help you master German.

2. How can I Teach Myself German?

You can teach yourself German online using language applications like Lingoni, Babbel, and Memrise. This article covers the top apps for learning German by yourself.

3. What is the German App for Beginners?

Lingoni is the best German App for beginners. This app features thousands of learning resources made by native Germans to make your learning experience smooth and exciting. 

In Closing: Which App is Better for Learning German?

This article looked at the best apps for learning Germans. These apps include Lingoni, Babble, Memrise, Duolingo, Busuu, Tandem, DW Deautsch Lernen, and Lingopie. The apps provide different approaches to learning German.

For example, lingoni focuses on enhancing all aspects, from grammar and vocabulary to pronunciation and listening, while an app like Tandem focuses on just real-life conversations. 

lingoni is a well-rounded app that will cater to most learners. Check out everything on the app and what you get with the German language course here. We hope the above guide will help you settle for a solution that will be right for you.