Pimsleur
Our verdict · The audio-first choice if your priority is understanding and being understood out loud.
Choose it if
Exceptional for pronunciation and listening comprehension
Skip it if
One of the more expensive options
Where to get it
Pimsleur
From ~£15/month (all-access, indicative)
Indicative price at the time of review.
Pimsleur takes a deliberately different approach: roughly 30-minute audio lessons that prompt you to speak aloud and respond in real time, using a graduated spaced-recall method designed to move language into long-term memory. It is outstanding for listening comprehension and accent, and because it is audio-first you can learn hands-free while commuting, walking or driving. It covers 50+ languages, though depth varies, and newer app features add reading, flashcards and speech feedback around the core audio. The catch is that it is comparatively pricey and the on-screen exercises are less polished than app-native rivals, so it suits learners who specifically want to prioritise the spoken language over gamified drills. A free trial lets you gauge the method before paying.
The good & the bad
Pros
- Exceptional for pronunciation and listening comprehension
- Hands-free audio lessons ideal for commutes and driving
- Proven spaced-recall method that aids long-term memory
Cons
- One of the more expensive options
- Reading and writing practice is secondary to the audio
How it compares
| Pick | WATTB Score | Price | Best for |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1.Babbel | 94/100 | From ~£5.99/month (annual plan, indicative) | overall |
| 2.Duolingo | 92/100 | Free; Super from ~£6.99/month (annual, indicative) | free app |
| 3.PimsleurThis pick | 88/100 | From ~£15/month (all-access, indicative) | speaking and listening |
| 4.Busuu | 86/100 | Free; Premium from ~£5.83/month (annual, indicative) | structured progress |
| 5.Memrise | 80/100 | Free; Pro from ~£8/month (annual, indicative) | real-world listening |
Key facts
- Best for
- speaking and listening
- Typical cost
- From ~£15/month (all-access, indicative)
- Method
- Audio-led, speak-aloud recall
- Lesson length
- ~30 minutes
- Languages
- 50+ (depth varies)
- Best mode
- Hands-free listening
- Platforms
- iOS, Android, web
Researched by WATTB
- Published
- 31 August 2026
- Updated
- 31 August 2026
- Last verified
- 31 August 2026
We research and rank options from public data, official information and published reviews. How we research →
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