The "best" site for learning a language depends largely on your individual needs, learning style, and goals. However, several platforms are consistently rated highly for different aspects of language acquisition.
Here are some of the top recommendations:
For overall comprehensive learning:
Rosetta Stone: This program is known for its immersive approach, focusing on teaching a new language without translation, much like how you learned your first language. It's highly polished and offers plenty of extra features.
Fluenz: If you prefer a more structured approach with a teacher guiding you through lessons, Fluenz is an excellent option. It uses videos of instructors to introduce concepts, followed by interactive exercises.
Babbel: Babbel is often described as a more "grown-up" version of Duolingo, offering well-structured 10-15 minute lessons that delve deeper into grammar explanations and cultural information.
For free and accessible learning:
Duolingo: Widely considered the best free app for language learning, Duolingo offers bite-sized, game-like lessons in over 30 languages. It's excellent for beginners and for maintaining existing skills.
YouTube: An incredible free resource, YouTube hosts numerous channels dedicated to language learning, offering grammar lessons, comprehensible input, and real-speaker interactions.
Library resources: Many city libraries offer free access to paid language learning platforms like Mango Languages and Transparent Language with a library card.
For specific learning needs:
Lingoda: For those who thrive in a classroom setting, Lingoda offers live, video-based group classes with a limit of five students, designed to get you speaking. They also offer one-on-one sessions.
italki and Preply: These platforms are excellent for connecting with native-speaking tutors for personalized one-on-one lessons, which can be highly effective for speaking and writing practice.
HelloTalk and Tandem: These apps facilitate language exchange, allowing you to connect with native speakers and practice your target language.
Clozemaster, Memrise, and Anki: These are top picks for vocabulary acquisition.
Speechling: Great for listening and speaking practice, and it's free.
Other notable mentions:
Pimsleur: Another highly-rated program for general language courses.
Busuu: Allows you to set daily study goals and creates a study plan to help you reach your desired fluency level.
Drops: This app uses a fun, colorful layout to make learning less intimidating, especially for languages with different alphabets, and focuses on vocabulary acquisition.
Ultimately, the best approach often involves using a combination of resources to address different aspects of language learning, such as grammar, vocabulary, speaking, listening, and reading.