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Babbel vs Rosetta Stone

Saturday, December 14th

2024 Language Learning Program Reviews

Babbel Review 3.5 Star Rating

Babbel

3.5 Star Rating
  • Yearly fee of $107 for the Self-Study plan
  • Live classes start at $50 a month
  • Lessons in 14 different languages
  • Provides cultural insights from the start
  • Freedom to learn and review according to your interests
  • Babbel Live drop-in classes capped at 6 students for personalized attention

Babbel, a language learning app, lets you learn 14 languages at your own pace, with engaging bite-sized lessons that offer fun cultural insights along the way. You'll have the freedom to choose topics and review methods that suit your style, but be aware that Babbel's pronunciation tool could be better. While it's not the cheapest option, with a yearly fee of $107 for the Self-Study plan, you do get access to all of Babbel's languages. Babbel Live classes are an added cost and only offered in select languages. Overall, while Babbel is well-rated and effective, we recommend checking out more budget-friendly options first.

Rosetta Stone Review 2 Star Rating

Rosetta Stone

2 Star Rating
  • Pricing starts from $47.97 for 3 months with options for 12 months and Lifetime subscriptions
  • Access to all language programs with a Lifetime subscription
  • Offers 23 different languages
  • Provides a 3-day free trial of one language
  • Available on web, iOS, Android
  • Offers an alphabet study section for languages with non-Latin characters
  • Features interactive stories to help improve reading comprehension

Rosetta Stone, a well-known name in language learning, offers programs for 23 different languages, accessible on nearly any device. While the service promotes an immersive learning experience, you're guaranteed to find yourself frustrated as it throws you into new vocabulary and sentences without explanation or translation. The program does offer one or two tools you may find useful, like alphabet study for languages with non-Latin characters. However, the absence of cultural and grammatical instruction and reading exercises that are too challenging will leave you far behind savvy language learners who chose better programs. Despite its reputation, we recommend exploring other language learning programs with a better curriculum and user experience.

What is the Best Language Learning Program?

Language learning programs are great for all kinds of people. Students often find them useful for supplementary learning in tandem with their school coursework. Professionals might use them to gain an edge in the global job market, where knowing more than one language can be a big advantage. Travelers can use these programs to learn the basics of a language before visiting a new country.

Online language learning programs can solve several problems. Traditional classes can be expensive, time-consuming, and inflexible, with fixed schedules that can be hard to fit into a busy life. Language learning programs, on the other hand, are often more affordable and can be used anytime and anywhere you have an internet connection. They offer different ways to learn, such as interactive exercises, games, and conversation practice, making learning more engaging and effective.

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Language Learning Program FAQ

Language learning programs usually offer a wide range of languages. You'll find popular options like Spanish, French, German, and Mandarin, along with some less common languages. It's always a good idea to check the list of available languages to make sure the platform offers the one you want to learn.
The cost can vary a lot. Some programs have free versions with basic features and offer premium upgrades, while others might require a subscription. These usually start at $10 per month and can be as high as $80. It's smart to look at the pricing details and see if there's a free trial so you can decide what program is most worth it to you.
Absolutely. Virtually every language learning program is designed to be beginner-friendly. They often start with the basics, like travel vocabulary and simple grammar, and then gradually move on to more advanced stuff. If you're just starting out, make sure the program has a clear learning path for beginners. If you're a more advanced learner, make sure their higher levels are sufficiently challenging for you.
Yes, most language learning programs are really flexible. You can learn whenever you have time, fitting it into your schedule as you like. Some apps have audio-only lessons so you can practice while you commute. This way, you can balance your language learning with everything else going on in your life. The only "pressure” can come with platforms that use gamification features where you try to earn enough points for leaderboards and so on.
Speaking practice is super important, and many programs know that. They often have features like voice recognition, conversation practice with native speakers, or live tutoring sessions. These can really help you get comfortable speaking the new language.
Yes, they do! Many programs include games, quizzes, and exercises to make learning more fun and engaging. These interactive features help reinforce what you've learned and keep you motivated to continue. Look for programs that utilize spaced repetition.
Spaced repetition is a learning technique that involves reviewing information at increasing intervals over time. The idea is to reinforce your memory just before you are likely to forget the information, which helps to improve long-term retention. Many language learning programs use spaced repetition to help you remember vocabulary and grammar rules more effectively by scheduling reviews at optimal times.
Definitely. Most programs are available on smartphones, tablets, and computers. This makes it easy to practice whenever you have a spare moment, whether you're at home or on the go.
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Continued from above...

Imagine this: In high school, you struggled through Spanish class, barely passing and feeling frustrated every step of the way. The rigid schedule and overwhelming, boring homework of the traditional classroom setting just didn't work for you. Years later, as an adult, you find yourself wishing you could speak another language fluently.

Maybe you want to try again with Spanish, or branch out to something new, like French, German, Italian, or even Arabic. You realize there must be a better way to learn than those old high school methods, and you start exploring language learning programs designed to fit into your busy life.

Language enthusiasts and lifelong learners can use these tools to explore new languages and cultures. There are many types of language learning programs, each with its own strengths. Some focus on "immersive” learning, using pictures and audio to teach you in a way similar to how babies acquire their first languages. Others use games and competition with other students to make learning fun. Some programs offer audio-based instruction, which is great if you prefer to listen and practice speaking while on the go.

There are a handful of things to keep in mind when choosing the best language learning program for you:

  • Learning style. Think about how you learn best. Do you prefer seeing, hearing, or interacting with what you are learning? Pick a program that matches your learning style to help you stay interested and retain more information.
  • Language focus. Not all programs offer every language. Make sure the program you choose has good resources for the language you want to learn, including conversation practice, grammar lessons, and cultural insights.
  • Cost. Language programs can be free, paid, or a combination of both. Consider what you can afford and compare the cost with the features and benefits. Free programs can be great, but paid services often offer more comprehensive and structured content.
  • Flexibility. Look for programs that fit into your schedule. Mobile apps are good for learning on the go, while desktop versions might offer more detailed resources. Some platforms offer a combination of both. Whatever you choose, you want to make sure the program's format works with your lifestyle, or you won't use it.
  • Difficulty. Some language learning programs are so much fun that you don't find it difficult to get some practice in every day. However, that doesn't necessarily mean you're actually learning to speak the language. Look for a program that challenges you to step outside of your comfort zone and provides you with opportunities to test how much you really know.
  • User experience. A user-friendly interface can make learning a new language much easier and more enjoyable. Read reviews and, if possible, try a demo.

The language-loving experts at Top Consumer Reviews have evaluated and ranked the best language learning programs available. We hope this information helps you find the right service for you, making your journey to fluency in a second (or third, or fourth) language enjoyable and successful.

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