Whether you’re starting entirely from scratch or keen to strengthen your existing language skills, there are plenty of high-quality apps designed to help you learn French.
Learning French can feel intimidating at first, especially when it comes to using the language in everyday situations. With traditional language courses tending to be somewhat expensive and tricky to fit into most of our busy modern schedules, language-learning apps are a whole lot easier as they let you study at your own pace – dipping in and out at your leisure. We’ve looked into them all and hand-picked five of the best apps for learning French currently on the market.
Duolingo
For learners who want an accessible way to start learning French, Duolingo remains one of the most popular apps on the market. Since launching in 2011, it has helped make language learning feel more approachable through its playful, gamified format. French lessons are delivered through short, engaging exercises, with users earning gems and protecting hearts as they progress. Duolingo offers 39 languages in total, but its French course is particularly well suited to beginners looking to build basic vocabulary and familiarity with the language. The basic version is free to use, with an ad-free ‘super’ version available from around €8.30 per month.
Gymglish
Gymglish offers a slightly different approach for those who want to learn French in a way that’s more personalised and story-led. Its French course, Frantastique, is built around short, snappy daily lessons that blend humour and culture, making it ideal for learners who favour variety over repetitive drills. Lessons are tailored to your level and interests and typically take around 10 to 15 minutes to complete. Gymglish also places a strong emphasis on listening practice, with learners following quirky characters through themed episodes as they build their skills. The app includes a free trial, with subscription prices starting from €8 per month.
Babbel
Babbel is the go-to app for anyone who wants a more structured approach to learning French. Designed like a self-paced online classroom, the app focuses on helping users build a solid understanding of the language step by step. Its French course covers useful words, phrases and grammar in a clear and well-paced way. The simple interface adds to its appeal, and the 15-minute lessons are easy to slot into a busy day. Babbel also offers extras such as recorded stories and podcasts, which can help with listening skills and real-world comprehension. The app is subscription-based, with the best value available to those who sign up for 12 months, with plans from about €6.40 per month.
Pimsleur
Pimsleur has a focus on speaking and listening, so is perhaps best for learners planning to take their language skills out into the real world. Rather than relying on games or grammar drills, the app centres on audio-based lessons intended to help users start speaking French from the outset. Its method uses quick, guided sessions with repetition and conversational practice consolidating what you’ve learnt and also helping you with pronunciation and comprehension. Pimsleur offers a free lesson, with French available through its Premium subscription from €17.20 per month.
TV5MONDE
Best known as a French television network, TV5MONDE has in recent times enhanced their offerings with the creation of a dedicated language app, using its broadcast acumen to teach French through authentic video content rather than traditional sessions. The app uses clips from programmes, interviews and news reports to help build listening skills, vocabulary and grammar in context. Another bonus is that the nature of the videos also introduces learners to different accents and cultures from across the French-speaking world. It’s also completely free, with no enhanced paid-for subscription unlike the other apps in this article.