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#3 in Best Language Learning Apps in 2026
Best for speaking and listeningWATTB88/100

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

WATTB Score

88/ 100

Our research-based editorial assessment.

How we score →

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

PickWATTB ScorePriceBest for
1.Babbel94/100From ~£5.99/month (annual plan, indicative)overall
2.Duolingo92/100Free; Super from ~£6.99/month (annual, indicative)free app
3.PimsleurThis pick88/100From ~£15/month (all-access, indicative)speaking and listening
4.Busuu86/100Free; Premium from ~£5.83/month (annual, indicative)structured progress
5.Memrise80/100Free; Pro from ~£8/month (annual, indicative)real-world listening
Swipe to compare

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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