The 10 Best Apps to Learn German in 2025 (Short Reviews): Different Learning Styles and Language Courses

Learning a new language opens up a world of opportunities, and in 2025, German language learning is more prevalent than ever. Lucky for you, the best app to learn German is here in our list! Mastering the German language can be a fulfilling endeavor if you want to better your career prospects, explore the culture of the German-speaking world, or if you just want to simply challenge yourself!2

Language learners now have access to a myriad of tools that can aid them in their learning journey. One of them is a FREE supersmart tool called ChatGPT. Spring German (a project I’m a co-founder of) made a short video about it:

Here, on Effortless Conversations we already shared some of the greatest tips on how to learn Spanish for free and now it’s time to take a look at the best app to learn German!

Click HERE to jump immediately to the best app to study German.

1. Introduction: why learn German in 2025

German is the most widely spoken language in the European Union and one of the official languages of multiple countries, making it a valuable skill for communication and business. According to the Goethe Institut, the German language is spoken as a first language by 20% of EU citizens

Germany continues to be an economic powerhouse, so proficiency in German provides a competitive edge in the job market – wherever you are.

The German-speaking world is full of rich cultural contributions to art, music, and literature and all of this also makes it an attractive language for those with an interest in the humanities!

The best app to learn German will cater to both beginners as well as advanced learners.

In this blog post. we offer a wide range of resources to help you enhance your German vocabulary, improve your grammar, and develop your conversational skills.

With a wide selection of apps for learning German available, from dedicated language apps to language exchange apps connecting learners with native German speakers, there is no shortage of tools to assist you in your German learning journey in 2025.

App NameKey FeaturesBest ForPlatformsPricing
Rocket LanguagesComplete German course
Interactive tools
Games and flashcards
All levelsWeb, Android, iOS$149.95 for Level 1
$299.90 for Levels 1 & 2
$449.85 for Levels 1, 2, & 3
BusuuUser-friendly interface
Language exchange
Multiple courses
Interactive exercises
All levelsWeb, Android, iOSFree & Paid (starting at $9.99/month for Premium)
BabbelStructured courses
Practical vocabulary
Speech recognition
Beginners to AdvancedWeb, Android, iOSPaid (starting at $14.95/month)
DropsVisual learning
Engaging illustrations
Funny exercises
Visual learnersWeb, Android, iOSFree & Paid (starting at $9.99/month for Premium)
MemriseSpaced repetition
Mnemonic devices
Native speaker videos
All levelsWeb, Android, iOSFree & Paid (starting at $8.99/month for Pro)
DuocardsFlashcard-based learning
User-friendly interface
All levelsWeb, Android, iOSPaid (starting at $4.99/month)
TandemDirect communication with natives
Text, audio, video chat
Real-life meetups
Conversation practiceWeb, Android, iOSFree & Paid (starting at $6.99/month for Tandem Pro)
iTalkiAccess to qualified tutors
Personalized lessons
Tailored feedback
All levelsWeb, Android, iOSPaid (per lesson, starting at around $10/lesson)
Spring German (YouTube)Free educational content
Focus on chunking
Cultural insights
All levelsWeb, YouTubeFree
ChatGPTAI-powered conversations
Instant feedback
Adaptable difficulty
All levelsWebFree & Paid (ChatGPT Plus at $20/month)

These language learning apps offer various features such as flashcard app functionalities, language courses, reading and writing exercises and games designed to help you learn German in an engaging and interactive manner.

5 factors to consider when choosing a German language app

When selecting a language learning app, consider:

  1. the availability and price of the app
  2. the quality and variety of resources
  3. the app’s user interface and ease of navigation,
  4. the app’s compatibility with your device, and
  5. take into account the app’s teaching methods.

If the German language learning app can be combined with the effective method of Conversation Based Chunking, you’re miles ahead of the rest in this journey. You can already start by downloading our FREE German Chunking Guide and read on to learn more about the top 10 best app to learn German!

2. The best app to learn German: apps that have everything

#1: Rocket German – German courses in the app

Rocket German is a comprehensive language learning app that offers a complete German course, including lessons on German vocabulary, grammar, and conversational skills.

best app to learn german screenshot of rocketlanguages

The app caters to beginners and advanced learners and provides interactive learning tools such as games and flashcards, making it suitable for diverse learning styles.

Pros
  • Comprehensive lessons covering all aspects of language learning
  • Interactive exercises and quizzes to reinforce learning
  • Access to a supportive learner community
Cons
  • Relatively expensive compared to other appss
  • Limited speaking practice opportunities
  • Lack of cultural context in lessons

Web l Android l iOS

#2: Busuu – Best German grammar explanations

Busuu is a popular choice among language learners, offering a user-friendly interface and a wide range of resources for learning German

best app to learn german screenshot of busuu

The app provides opportunities for language exchange with native German speakers through various weekly activities and exercises and offers multiple complete German courses with interactive exercises and assessments for German travel phrases, German business phrases and German for complete beginners.

Pros
  • Varied content including grammar, vocabulary, and conversation practice
  • Language exchange feature for connecting with native speakers
  • Offline mode for learning without internet access
Cons
  • Limited free content, requires a subscription for full access
  • Pronunciation feedback could be more accurate
  • Some exercises feel repetitive over time

Web l Android l iOS

#3: Babbel – Structured language courses

Babbel is known for its structured language courses that focus on practical vocabulary and conversations.

best app to learn german screenshot of babbel

It offers learning paths for beginners and advanced learners, allowing users to learn the language at their own pace. The app also features great speech recognition technology to help learners improve their pronunciation!

Pros
  • Well-structured lessons with a focus on real-life scenarios
  • Speech recognition technology for pronunciation practice
  • Personalized review sessions to reinforce learning
Cons
  • Pronunciation feedback can be inconsistent
  • Limited free content, subscription required for full access
  • Exercises can feel repetitive after a while

Web l Android l iOS

3. Best apps for learning German vocabulary

#4: Drops – One app for vocabulary

Looking for an app that emphasizes visual learning? Drops might be the perfect fit!

best app to learn german screenshot of drops

This app presents vocabulary through engaging illustrations and funny exercises, making it ideal for visual learners. Drops offers a seamless vocabulary learning experience that allows users to absorb German words and phrases effectively.

Pros
  • Visually appealing and interactive learning experience
  • Focuses on vocabulary acquisition through fun games
  • Short, bite-sized lessons suitable for busy learners
Cons
  • Limited grammar instruction, primarily focuses on vocabulary
  • Subscription required for full access
  • Lack of speaking and listening exercises

Web l Android l iOS

#5: Memrise – Best audio and video in the app

Memrise stands out for its focus on memory optimization and retention.

best app to learn german screenshot of memrise

The app employs various techniques, including spaced repetition and mnemonic devices, to help learners remember German vocabulary and grammar rules. It’s full of short videos from native speakers who are there to help you learn the language and acquire the best German pronunciation.

Pros
  • Engaging and interactive lessons with multimedia content
  • User-generated content provides a wide range of learning materials
  • Gamified approach with points and levels for motivation
Cons
  • Limited explanation of grammar rules
  • Some user-generated content may be of lower quality
  • Pronunciation feedback could be more accurate

Web l Android l iOS

#6: Duocards – The flashcard app

Duocards is a unique language-learning app that leverages the power of flashcards to enhance German language acquisition.

best app to learn german screenshot of duocards

It has thousands of flashcards containing German words and phrases to simplify the learning process. Each flashcard is designed to reinforce memory retention. Its user-friendly interface and effective learning techniques make it a commendable addition to any language learner’s toolkit and it can also easily be combined with Conversation Based Chunking!

Pros
  • Simple and intuitive interface for easy navigation
  • Focuses on building vocabulary through flashcards
  • Spaced repetition and active recall
Cons
  • Limited grammar instruction, primarily focused on vocabulary
  • Lack of interactive exercises and speaking practice
  • Some users may find the app too basic for advanced learning

Web l Android l iOS

4. German language exchange apps and tutoring

#7: Tandem – Language learning app with direct communication

Language exchange apps like Tandem advocate for direct communication with native German speakers.

best app to learn german screenshot of tandem

This allows and student to practice their conversational skills in real-time through text chats, audio get-togethers, video conferences or even in real-life meetups! The interactive approach helps build fluency and cultural understanding not just with German speakers but with anyone from around the world! And the best thing about it?

It’s free! (Although it also offers a Pro version 😉 )

Pros
  • Language exchange feature for practicing German with native speakers
  • Cultural insights and exposure to authentic language use
  • Option to schedule video calls with language partners
Cons
  • Finding language partners with desired proficiency can be challenging
  • Inconsistent response rate from potential language partners
  • Limited structured lessons or curriculum

Web l Android l iOS

#8: iTalki – A good tutor is the best way to learn German

For personalized guidance and instruction, italki offer access to qualified German tutors.

best app to learn german screenshot of italki

This tutoring platform provides tailored lessons, feedback, and support. Professional tutoring from a native speaker can help you to speed up your German language learning journey: doesn’t matter if you need assistance with grammar, pronunciation or fluency.

Check out our italki review to learn more about the platform and click the button below to get a free lesson on italki!

Pros
  • Access to professional German language tutors for personalized learning
  • Flexible scheduling for one-on-one lessons
  • Wide range of supplementary resources for self-study
Cons
  • Private lessons can be expensive
  • Finding the right tutor may require trial and error
  • Not as interactive or gamified as other language learning apps

Web l Android l iOS

5. The best free alternatives to help you learn

#9: Youtube: Spring German – Our recommendation for language learners

If you’re seeking a cost-effective alternative to app-based German language learning, consider: YouTube!

best app to learn german screenshot of spring german

Channels like Spring German offer a huge amount of educational content focused around chunking and real-life examples. The huge plus side for Spring German is that it also teaches you a lot about German traditions and culture!

The Spring Languages platform offers Spanish learning courses, too, that are just as good (or even better) than the German ones. Check out the Spanish courses here!

Pros
  • Vast collection of free video lessons on different aspects of German
  • Clear explanations and demonstrations by an experienced teachers
  • Accessible to learners of all levels, from beginner to advanced
Cons
  • No personalized feedback or progress tracking (for now)

Web l Youtube l Try Spring Spanish

#10: AI Tools: ChatGPT – A revolutionary German language learning app

Artificial Intelligence (AI) tools have transformed the way we learn languages, and ChatGPT is at the forefront of this revolution.

ai language learning app - chatgpt is one of the best app to learn german

ChatGPT uses machine learning technology to simulate human-like text conversations, providing an excellent platform to practice German language skills. It offers instant feedback for learners, clarifying errors in grammar, syntax, and vocabulary. It caters to learners of all levels, from beginners to advanced, with its ability to adapt to the complexity of its responses based on the user’s proficiency. And with the latest ChatGPT voice feature, the whole world is yours!

Being available round-the-clock, it offers flexibility, allowing learners to practice at their convenience.

Pros
  • Instant and interactive German language practice
  • Can provide personalized responses and answers to specific questions
  • Available anytime and anywhere with an internet connection
Cons
  • May not provide structured lessons or a comprehensive learning experience
  • Requires self-discipline and motivation for consistent learning

And there’s another great tool that’s based on ChatGPT’s functions but it’s completely directed at language learning! TeacherAI is a revolutionary tool that will help you get from one level to another in only one week: check their testimonials, too!

ai language learning app - teacher ai

6. Use the best app to learn German with Conversation Based Chunking

By using language learning apps and engaging in Conversation Based Chunking exercises, you can easily learn the solid foundations of the German language.

Most of these tools offer comprehensive resources, interactive features, and opportunities to practice with native German speakers, contributing to a holistic learning experience.

You can make your German language journey faster with the best app to learn German and also with the Conversation Based Chunking Guide. Click the button below to request it!

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