Best App to Learn French — Tested Over 40

Ouino

For French learners, Ouino shines with its detailed and thoughtfully structured lessons, making it an ideal tool for those who appreciate a well-organized content. Ouino offers a comprehensive language learning experience through its software program and mobile app, boasting over 500 lessons and 1,000 exercises across five languages: Spanish, French, Italian, German, and Portuguese. Unlike apps that lean on gamification, Ouino adopts a curriculum-based, academic approach. While it won’t teach you to ask for a croissant at a Parisian café or discuss the Eiffel Tower with locals, you’ll build a strong foundation for authentic French conversations. This resource is ideal for learners looking to refresh a forgotten language, those who thrive on structured lessons.

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See our Super-Detailed Ouino Review

Pimsleur French

Pimsleur, a highly regarded language learning platform, offers courses designed to emphasize listening and speaking skills, making it an excellent choice for French learners eager to start conversing right away. The lessons are well-organized and feature both male and female native French speakers. Moreover, the platform is intuitive and visually engaging, providing an easy-to-navigate environment as you advance in your French learning journey.

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See our Super-Detailed Pimsleur French Review

FrenchPod101

Podcasts are an increasingly popular method for learning a language. They’re accessible and have serious potential for providing ample listening and reading practice with the use of transcripts.

FrenchPod101 uses podcast-style lessons to deliver comprehensive lessons in French through material that’s engaging and relevant. A strength of this resource is that it also teaches a good deal of cultural information, useful for any learner of French.

The resource is updated continually, which means there is always fresh material available. The mobile app might not be quite as good as the desktop version, but you can still use this one on the go.

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See our Super-Detailed FrenchPod101 Review

Yabla

Yabla is a language-learning platform that supports French learners with videos featuring interactive subtitles and fun language games. Available on the web and iOS (with an Android app coming soon), Yabla’s videos cover various difficulty levels and topics. You’ll find both original content and clips from the web, all with native French speakers. Yabla is perfect for learners that are at least just beyond the absolute beginner level and want some exposure and practice with native material.

See our Super-Detailed Yabla Review

Babbel French

Babbel French is designed to help learners reach a conversational level efficiently, utilizing diverse exercises and spaced repetition to reinforce what you learn. The courses are well-structured, engaging, and offered at an affordable price, making it a great option for anyone looking to build their French skills. Babbel will help you get a feel for real French conversations, such as shopping in Paris or asking for directions in Nice. Through Babbel French, learners are able to practice vocabulary, spelling, pronunciation and grammar.

See our Super-Detailed Babbel French Review

Newsdle French

Newsdle French aims to teach language through news events narrated at carefully graded difficulty levels to suit your needs. 

This resource is quite a bit more than a simplified news source, though. It’s a comprehensive study program that is fun to use and will give you lots of practice opportunities.

What makes this app great is that the content is actually interesting — nothing kills the motivation to study a language like dry and boring material. Newsdle uploads brand new news-based lessons every day so you will never run out of new content! There are courses for beginner learners through Advanced Higher learners, and the app is synchronized across app and website. 

Français Authentique

The fact that this is the only resource on this list with a French name isn’t a coincidence; this one’s all about immersion and authenticity, which means keeping things in the target language. Given that there is no English in this material, it isn’t suitable for beginners. Instead, this is a good option for learners that are interested in upping their French fluency through a high level of exposure.

Sounding natural in a foreign language is a serious feat — one that eludes many. The theory behind using Francais authentique is that you’ll pick up a natural cadence and vocabulary through repeated exposure to native speakers. The practice method is very repetitive, which could turn off some French learners, but it’s all in the name of learning to speak authentically.

LingQ

Finding learning material that interests you is often half the battle when it comes to learning French. This is one of the reasons that learning through reading can be so great — you’ll likely be able to find content that interests you.

LingQ is an app designed to make reading in French easier, allowing you to quickly look up unknown words. It also tracks the vocabulary you’ve learned, helping you focus on words you still need to master. You can upload your own French material to LingQ, and much of the content comes from a variety of external sources.

Although the vocabulary review system can be a bit disorganized, there’s still a lot of value in what LingQ offers for French learners.

See our Super-Detailed LingQ Review

French Today

Is there a more complete way to get reading and listening practice than from an audiobook? Maybe not. French Today is a resource that actually offers much more than audiobooks (Skype lessons and an immersion experience), but the audiobooks are worth mentioning.

The amount of material in these books is immense, and the recordings are entirely in French. There’s a slow version of the audio, a “street” version, and a helpful study guide. Although material that’s entirely in French might be intimidating for some, the translations in the study guide are a big help.

There are also comprehension questions at the end of each lesson to round out the learning experience. 

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See our Super-Detailed French Today Review

Pimsleur French

Pimsleur is one of the most established and popular resources for learning foreign languages. Pimsleur French courses take an immersive approach that prioritizes fluency, focusing on building strong aural and verbal communication skills through audio lessons. With an emphasis on conversation practice, the program encourages learners to engage in listening and speaking. While grammar explanations and writing skills are given less focus, the audio-based lessons are ideal for those looking to practice on the go, offering a convenient way to build conversational skills and gain a deeper understanding of spoken French.

Fall Savings Sale! Save up to 40% off Lifetime Subscriptions! See details on the website

See our Super-Detailed Pimsleur French Review

Speechling

Pronunciation is arguably one of the most important elements of French proficiency; knowing what words to say isn’t worth much if no one can understand you. A lot of French learning resources try to offer pronunciation practice through the use of speech-recognition technology, but this method just isn’t very reliable.

Speechling’s solution to this problem is to get humans involved, and it works really well. The idea is that language learners can submit recordings of themselves speaking French and a native French speaker will listen and provide constructive feedback. A lot of its features are even free to use, including the submission of a limited number of recordings. Paying for a subscription allows you to submit an unlimited number of recordings each month.  

Use the coupon code ‘ALR123’ to save 10% on a subscription to Speechling. 

See our Super-Detailed Speechling Review

italki

While italki is primarily a place to go for one-on-one lessons with teachers, it’s also got some really cool community features that are available for free in the app. In the Exercise section of the app, users can submit pieces of writing on any subject they want or respond to prompts. The writing will be visible to other users on the platform that can offer corrections and feedback. The people offering feedback are usually native French speakers, or at least highly proficient. This is one of the best ways to get writing feedback because it involves humans. It’s free to use, and you can repay the favor by correcting someone else’s writing. Right now, get a $10 credit with your first purchase.

See our Super-Detailed italki Review

HiNative

It’s inevitable, you’ll have plenty of questions while studying a French, and sometimes the answers won’t be readily available in a dictionary or Google search. HiNative is an online platform that finds answers to your questions by taking advantage of one of the most authoritative French resources out there: native speakers.

Posting a question on the website exposes it to a massive audience of native speakers that are ready to help you understand how the language is really used. You’ll need more than just HiNative to communicate with locals at a French market, but you’ll be able to address specific language problems with the help of a native speaker. Questions are usually answered very quickly and accurately, but you’ll have to remain wary of the odd piece of bad advice. 

See our Super-Detailed HiNative Review

WordReference

Checking word definitions is a key part of learning any new language, and digital tools have largely replaced traditional paper dictionaries. WordReference is one such digital option, offering free access to word meanings and verb conjugations. It’s user-friendly and includes a lively community of language enthusiasts who answer questions, adding a collaborative element.

WordReference also offers added features, like a Word of the Day that introduces new vocabulary across various difficulty levels, and a verb conjugation tool. Additionally, English usage and collocation dictionaries are available, making WordReference a versatile resource.

Linguee

Sometimes, looking up individual words won’t capture the full meaning—much like the essence of Paris goes beyond just the Eiffel Tower and a buttery croissant. Phrases often convey ideas beyond the literal definitions of each word. In these moments, Linguee is an excellent tool.

Drawing from a vast library of bilingual texts, it delivers reliable phrase translations. Rather than relying on machine-generated results, Linguee uses authentic content from language articles and academic papers, ensuring both accuracy and nuance. It also works offline and includes native speaker pronunciation.

Clozemaster

Clozemaster takes a similar approach to Lingvist in teaching vocabulary. Users are presented with fill-in-the-gap exercises designed to teach how language functions in context. While both tools help build vocabulary, Clozemaster stands out for being largely free and for its retro arcade design, which includes points, levels, and leaderboards.

Where Lingvist is professional and sleek, Clozemaster’s playful style adds a gamified twist, though it’s not as in-depth as Lingvist in terms of content. It’s a fun, affordable way to get more exposure to French vocabulary. You won’t be discussing the intricacies of French haute cuisine with local foodies, but you will recognize and understand French vocabulary.

See our Super-Detailed Clozemaster Review

Lingvist

Picking up new vocabulary is one of the most basic building blocks of learning French. One way to go about this is memorizing direct word-to-word translations. Anyone who’s spent time studying other languages, though, can tell you this isn’t really how languages work.

Lingvist teaches French vocabulary by presenting words in context and requiring users to complete the translation. While it may not be flashy, each flashcard provides valuable extra information about the language. Additionally, it uses spaced repetition to ensure you focus on the French words and phrases you find most challenging.

See our Super-Detailed Lingvist Review

Memrise

Flashcards have long been a tried-and-true method for studying languages, and they remain popular for learning French. They are as effective as they are simple, and the technique doesn’t seem to be going anywhere. Memrise is an online resource that brings the flashcard experience into the digital realm, making it more engaging and powerful.

It uses spaced repetition to make study time more efficient and includes pictures, audio, and some video content. There’s also a bunch of user-created French learning content that’s available for free, making the amount of available material pretty much limitless. Quality will vary by course, though, and this isn’t the best option for advanced learners.

See our Super-Detailed Memrise Review

italki

There are several options for learners interested in finding an online French tutor for one-on-one classes, but it’s hard to beat italki. The platform grants users access to an incredible number of tutors, which means finding lessons that fit your schedule and budget isn’t a problem. There is a range of experience levels and prices on italki, but plenty of filters make it easy to search for a tutor that works for you.

In addition to functioning as a tutor directory, italki offers some super useful community features that are totally free to use. It’s fairly easy to find, follow, and message other language learners that are interested in language exchange. Plus, if you’re new to italki, there’s a current offer for a $10 credit on your first purchase.

See our Super-Detailed italki Review

Preply

Preply is an online educational platform that connects learners with French tutors. French learners on Preply can find tutors suited to their needs by watching demo videos and filtering by price, rating, and teaching style. Each tutor on Preply brings their unique approach, with many offering tailored lessons focused on conversation, grammar, or exam prep. Tutors also have access to resources and training to enhance their teaching, making it easier to find high-quality instruction in French.

Exclusive 50% discount for ALR readers! Make sure to use our link to receive it.

See our Super-Detailed Preply Review

Word Dive

Word Dive uses deep-sea styling, artificial intelligence and short exercises to help language learners commit study items to long-term memory. The app provides instruction in ten languages and is available for desktop, iOS, and Android. However, while it’s convenient, some users may find the exercises repetitive and the content lacking depth as the app doesn’t offer detailed grammar instruction.

See our Super-Detailed Word Dive Review

Chatterbug

Chatterbug is a language learning platform that integrates one-on-one live sessions with native speakers, self-study resources, and spaced repetition to support vocabulary retention. It currently offers courses in German, Spanish, and French. Some of its features are available on iOS and Android; the full version is available for desktop.

See our Super-Detailed Chatterbug Review

Busuu

With millions of registered users, Busuu is a widely-used language-learning resource, particularly useful for those studying French. It offers vocabulary and grammar practice through brief, self-guided exercises, and includes a social component where users can get corrections on their writing and pronunciation from native French speakers. Busuu is available on web, iOS, and Android.

See our Super-Detailed Busuu Review

Fluenz

Fluenz is a comprehensive language-learning software compatible with most devices, offering the added benefit of offline functionality. It aims to replicate a one-on-one tutoring experience through detailed video tutorials that carefully explain each language concept. With extensive explanations provided in English, the program is highly thorough. Designed for learners with a larger budget, Fluenz is ideal for those seeking a serious and immersive learning experience.

See our Super-Detailed Fluenz Review

Frantastique

One of the most simply designed resources on the web, Frantastique is more than meets the eye. It follows an ideology which believes in immersing the students in the language and culture while making use of AI. I would recommend it to people who know at least bits and pieces of the language and don’t care about spending the insane prices they’re asking for.

See our Super-Detailed Frantastique Review

Rocket French

Rocket French offers a solid course, though it may not be extraordinary. The structure is clear and provides plenty of opportunities to practice what you’ve learned. While it’s not bad, some might find the lessons a bit dull, focusing heavily on repetition and memorization exercises. It’s a good option if you’re looking for a straightforward, no-frills way to build your French skills, but it lacks the excitement of more engaging methods.

See our Super-Detailed Rocket French Review

edX

edX is an online learning platform that features a variety of free courses, employing a paywall structure for certain content. Upon completion, learners often have the option to obtain a certificate for a fee. The course topics are diverse, allowing students to choose from several French language courses or explore other subjects taught in French. This flexibility enables learners to deepen their understanding of the French language while also engaging with a wide range of academic disciplines. While it won’t teach you how to order bouillabaisse at a local French restaurant, it’ll provide you with a comprehensive foundation on French.

See our Super-Detailed edX Review

Coursera

Coursera is an online learning platform featuring a wide range of courses for French learners, many of which are free. With classes offered by top universities and institutions, learners can find resources on grammar, vocabulary, conversation, and French culture. Courses are flexible, allowing users to learn at their own pace, and several options also offer certificates upon completion for those interested in formal recognition. You’ll need more than just Coursera to fully enjoy yourself at Disneyland Paris, but you will develop basic French language skills.

Radio France

Developing a personal relationship with the language you’re learning is the name of the game when it comes to motivation and a deeper understanding of the language. A popular method for accomplishing this is through music. Radio stations in the language you’re interested in have the added bonus of offering more than just music. Talk shows, news, and sports shows are just a few of the examples.

Radio France is a radio app for your phone that gives you access to over 1000 French radio stations, for free! While this app won’t provide you with explicit language instruction, it will give you the chance to get a ton of exposure to the language in a context you find interesting.

Anki

This is another resource that uses flashcards and spaced repetition but takes a more customizable approach. You’ll have to pay to use Anki on iOS, but it’s free to use everywhere else and gives users complete control to create their own study materials. The flexibility to study exactly what you want, how you want, combined with the reliability of spaced repetition has made this resource popular not just among language learners but with anyone that has material that requires memorization. Users can design their own flashcard decks or download from a vast library of shared content created by other users.

While Anki won’t help you have in depth conversations with French speakers about the works of Claude Monet, it will help you apply French vocabulary in everyday conversations. This resource is perfect for French beginners, intermediate and advanced learners who want to incorporate an effective memorization tool into their study routine.

Lingvist

Building a strong vocabulary is crucial for learning French. Although memorizing direct translations is one approach, experienced language learners know that’s only part of the picture. Lingvist teaches French through context-based exercises, where you complete sentences rather than memorize translations, building a more intuitive feel for the language.

While it may be simple in design, each flashcard provides extra context to enrich your understanding. The app also uses spaced repetition to help you retain challenging words.

See our Super-Detailed Lingvist Review