by Olly RichardsIf you're looking for a way to learn German faster, then a German language learning app could be an excellent resource for you.
Whether you want to squeeze in more study time, an extra lesson, learn basic vocabulary, practice speaking, or brush up on the basics, there's an app to learn German for you.
Ideally, you should try to use a variety of different study tools for a well-rounded learning process.
Some apps to learn German will help you get a grip on grammar basics, while other apps to learn German build vocabulary or conversational skills. I recommend choosing at least one app from each category.
So, in this article, you'll find the 20 best apps for German learning, covering grammar, immersion, conversation, and more!
By the way, if you want to learn German fast and have fun while doing it, my top recommendation is German Uncovered which teaches you through StoryLearning®.
With German Uncovered, you’ll use my unique StoryLearning® method to learn German naturally through stories. It’s as fun as it is effective.
If you’re ready to get started, click here for a 7-day FREE trial.
20 Best Apps For German Learning & Immersion
Some apps to learn German enable you to instantly immerse yourself in the German language through everyday conversations and scenarios.
These apps focus on reading, writing, speaking, and listening skills with essential German grammar and pronunciation exercises. While you may not have real-world conversations with the app, the immersive learning does wonders for your German language skills.
So if you're a German language learner who wants to brush up your skills and stick to consistent practice, check out the below apps.
1. Rosetta Stone
Features:
- Customized learning plan
- Learn offline
Rosetta Stone is an app that will instantly immerse you in the German language.
This learn German app uses text, pictures, and sound to sharpen your reading, writing, listening, and speaking skills. Instant feedback through speech recognition helps you improve and get the correct pronunciation to accelerate your language learning.
With the Rosetta Stone app, you'll learn basic German phrases, words and grammar for everyday chats that you can practice through audio lessons and stories.
A phrasebook enables you to keep track of essential German vocabulary whether you're a complete beginner or learning advanced German. Having the app is like having a complete German course in your pocket.
2. Wie Geht's German
Features:
- Beginning, intermediate, and courses for advanced German learners
- Connect with live tutors
- 3,000 words and German phrases
The Wie geht's German language app helps you quickly gain a hang of the language essentials and hone your German skills. For instance, you can start with a complete German course on the alphabet.
You'll find almost 100 lessons that deal with real-world scenarios. Some category examples include meeting people, days of the week, seasons, and holidays.
High-quality audio assists with pronunciation, while dynamic quizzes help you memorize new vocabulary. And you'll learn common German phrases as well as grammar concepts.
3. LingoDeer
Features:
- Offline lessons
- Synchronize across devices
- Flashcard based function
- Over 200 lessons
LingoDeer is a fantastic app to start learning German instantly.
Designed by language teachers, the app starts with the basics like the alphabet, simple sentence structure, greetings, and numbers. And the detailed explanations help you gain a deep understanding of the grammar in your target language.
In addition, the audio recordings are high-quality and feature the voices of native German speakers. Another feature you'll love is the engaging stories that teach you useful vocabulary and colloquial expressions. From the first lesson, you'll remember words thanks to the visual content.
4. GermanPod101
Features:
- Beginner learners to advanced learners
- Over 2,000 German words
- Learn offline
The GermanPod101 language app has short video and audio lessons developed by real German teachers and may be one of the best audio apps out there.
The recorded discussions teach you grammar, pronunciation, and vocabulary. In addition, the app comes with innovative learning tools like vocabulary lists, worksheets, audio transcripts, and PDF notes so you can deepen your understanding of the material.
You'll find the courses arranged in tiers, according to your skill level. Overall, this comprehensive set of learning tools will keep you engaged with lessons relevant to daily life. Each lesson builds on the previous one so you feel like you're making progress with the learning experience.
The Best Apps to Learn German Basics
Next, let's look at apps that help you understand the basics of the German language.
You'll focus on the fundamentals, such as the alphabet, numbers, and critical skills you'll need during the beginning of your language journey.
5. Duolingo
Features:
- Efficient and effective learning with the basic version
- Easy to stay motivated
- Personalised activities
- Gamified learning to make it fun
- Completely free
- Access to your learning statistics
Often listed as the best free app for language learning, Duolingo, is great if you're just getting started with your German journey and are short on time.
If your main goal is to learn simple German vocabulary and the very basics, the free version of the app is an easy way to get started. You can learn German vocabulary in just a few minutes a day with the app.
The downside of Duolingo? The free language learning app is well-known for teaching random sentences that you would never really use! If you are looking to learn conversational German so you can actually talk to native speakers, it may not be the best app for you. But for absolute beginners, it is worth a try.
If you don't want to see ads and want more exclusive content, you'll need to sign up for the premium plus version at an additional cost.
Check out this review of Babbel vs. Duolingo.
6. Babbel
Learn everything from vocab to German culture in 10 minutes a day. If you're looking to learn a minimum of a new German word every day, Babbel could be a great option for you.
The app offers:
- Short lessons
- Easy-to-use interface
- Audio lessons
- Free version
The app is great if you're a complete beginner for learning vocabulary and short sentences. The game like quizzes make learning fun and you don't realise you're absorbing your new language!
The German courses are organized into seven different German levels, and there are 1-5 courses with 7-12 lessons for each level. Lessons are usually organized around a theme, such as family. Every session has an optional review section, so you can check what you learned.
The app uses flashcard based lessons, listening, reading and writing exercises. Reinforced learning material keeps you on your toes to remember what you've learned so far.
When you sign up for the app, you need to do a short test so you start at the right level for your knowledge.
The Babbel platform also includes original podcasts, games, and videos with German music, so there's always something new to discover depending on your learning style.
Check out my full review of the Babbel app here.
7. Mondly
Features:
- Quickly learn vocabulary
- Audio from native German speakers
- Real-life situations
Mondly's 45-minute learning modules will help you master the fundamental principles of German.
Like most apps on this list, Mondly combines pronunciation, reading, writing, grammar and vocabulary into a single comprehensive course that enables you to dive straight into the German language.
What's more, natural speech recognition technology helps you to get your German pronunciation right so you sound like a native.
Instead of memorizing individual words, you'll learn from conversational examples and context. And throughout the course, you can tap on the screen to access translation and grammar learning tools.
8. iStart German
Features:
- Beginner level course
- 21 full lessons
- 4 hours of audio
The iStart German app is designed for beginners who want to reach a conversational level.
Three tutors guide you through the course, which includes grammar, vocabulary, and pronunciation exercises, along with interactive quizzes.
Follow along in the interactive dialogues with speech bubbles that move in synch with the lesson unit. The app focuses on words that are frequently used in everyday life. And how to use them in context.
If you're a beginner, you'll appreciate the straightforward grammar explanations given in English. The only downside is that this app is for apple devices only, as you can probably guess from the name! You won't find it on the Google Play Store!
9. Drops
Features:
- More than 2,000 German words
- Instant feedback
- Learn offline
Drops helps you build a foundation of essential vocabulary with the help of over 100 different word lists.
The lessons are short and concise, which helps you stay motivated long-term. Visual associations help you memorise new words.
One of the best features is instant feedback that lets you know right away if you've made a mistake. And the regular review sessions help keep the vocabulary fresh in your mind.
Not into word lists for vocab learning and would prefer to use a flashcard app? Check out my top best apps to learn with flashcards for mastering German vocabulary. You'll learn how to create your own flashcards and more.
10. Bussu
Features:
- Available for beginners right through to fluent
- Developed using the Common European Framework of Reference (CEFR)
- Community feedback on your written work
- Certificates to prove your level
- Offline lessons
From vocabulary training to writing, speaking, and grammar, this app has you covered. The easy-to-use interface switches between disciplines and gives you structured lessons.
When you sign up for the app, you'll need to take a placement test so the app knows what level you should start at.
This app is more than playing fun games with vocabulary. You need to speak into the app to practice your pronunciation and write sentences to prove you've remembered what you learned. The app uses the spaced repetition method to keep you on your toes.
While voice recognition technology can give you immediate feedback on your communication skills, community members who are native speakers can give you feedback too. They will mark your written and spoken work, so you know how well you did and how close you are to sound like a local. It's nice to receive feedback from real people and not a robot!
While it's not a free app to learn German, Bussu Premium offers really good value for the subscription price.
When you complete level A1, for example, you will need to sit a small test, if you pass, you will receive a certificate that proves your progress.
If you fail the test, you need to wait a few days before you can retake it. The app remembers what you got wrong and will provide German lessons that focus on your weaknesses over the next few lessons.
If you want to get the most from this app to learn German, you'll need to sign up for the Bussu premium version.
Grammar-Specific Apps to Learn German
Struggling with German grammar? Take a German lesson about grammar that went completely over your head? Well, start expanding your knowledge of German with these grammar-specific apps. They can help you master the nuances of grammar and practice your skills regularly.
11. 14,000 Deutsche Verben
Features:
- Verb conjugation for all tenses
- Create customizable lists
- Grammar instruction offline
You'll find the conjugation of every German verb in the 14,000 Deutsche Verben app. Audio pronunciations are available for most of the words. Plus, the navigation screen allows you to select which tenses you want to view.
In conclusion, this is the best app for conjugating verbs on the go and the free version is great.
12. German Complete Grammar
Features:
- Levels A1 – C1
- 10,000+ multiple-choice exercises
This app was designed to help language learners improve their grammar skills, whether they are absolute beginners or more advanced.
However, if you have a basic understanding of the language, then you'll benefit the most from the German Complete Grammar app.
Complete exercises teach you about fundamental grammar structures. In addition, as you progress, more exercises become available. Last but not least, you can also synchronise the app with Google translate.
13. Der Die Das
Features of the Der Die Das app:
- Library of 25,000 words
- Master the correct article once and for all!
- Interactive quizzes
- Learn offline
If you're totally confused about learning German articles, the Der Die Das app will help you master the correct article in German the fun way.
You'll find all the rules that tell you when to use which gender. And mnemonic devices to help you remember them. The Der Die Das app really is the best app for language learners to get a grip on the nuances of German grammar.
There are exercises for every level, from beginner to advanced learners. You can also choose from a variety of different categories. Most importantly, built-in quizzes help you review what you've learned.
14. DeutschAkademie
Features:
- Over 22,000 grammar exercises
- Lessons for levels A1 – C1
- 800+ hours of interactive courses
The comprehensive DeutschAkademie app contains tens of thousands of exercises to help you master German grammar. You can choose from beginner, intermediate, or advanced-level courses.
You can even use this professional interactive language app to study with over 70 different textbooks. But, unfortunately, this app is only for practice and doesn't contain any learning modules.
That's why I recommend these exercises as a supplement to your current learning plan.
Best Apps to Learn German Conversation
Overcome any fears you have of talking German with one of these conversational apps. They can help you progress a lot on your language learning journey.
15. Chatterbug
Features:
- Over 1,000 exercises
- One-on-one video lessons
- Personalized learning plans
Chatterbug connects you with native German speakers for individual tutoring sessions. You'll receive a customized curriculum consisting of grammar, vocabulary, flashcards, reading, and writing exercises.
The app tracks your strengths and weaknesses, using the spaced repetition system to help you remember what you've learned. Meanwhile, live video chats with German-speaking natives immerse you in real-life conversations.
16. Speechling
Features:
- Thousands of exercises
- Combines human coaching with technology
The best app for your speaking skills, Speechling teaches German through talking. Many of us tend to avoid the speaking aspect of a new language. Whatever your learning style, the app will help you overcome those barriers with thousands of sentences designed to help you improve conversational fluency.
First, you listen to phrases pronounced by native speakers. Then, you repeat the sentence in a voice recording. And within one day, you'll receive feedback from human tutors.
So that makes Speechling an excellent preparation tool for the next app, HelloTalk.
17. HelloTalk
Features:
- Individual and group chats
- Over 18 million members around the world
Once you've acquired some vocabulary and grammar skills, you'll probably want to put them to the test. That's where HelloTalk comes in. This app connects you with native German speakers to practice your conversational abilities.
So, you help your German buddy learn English while they help you learn German. The app supports text, voice, and video recordings that are enhanced with intuitive learning tools.
Some of these aids include translation, pronunciation, and automatic correction tools that assist in your conversation. If you want to find out more, check out my HelloTalk review.
18. Tandem
Features:
- Connect with a real German speaker
- Langauge exchange
- Work at your own pace
- Free version
If you're looking for a language exchange app, this could be a great option for you.
There's no better way to improve your German than to immerse yourself in a conversation with a native speaker. Speaking with a native is the best way to practice pronunciation and find out where you're making mistakes in your spoken language.
The Tandem app is a platform that gives you the chance to connect to hundreds of native speakers who want to have a conversation with you. The community members want to teach German in a free lesson in exchange for your knowledge.
You use the app to set an appointment with your language partner, then can figure out the structure of the conversation based on your different learning styles.
If you want to practice your German and teach a German-speaking person your native language in return, download the app and start speaking German!
19. Rocket German
Key features:
- Instant access to lessons
- Downloadable audio tracks
- Lifetime access to your course
If you want to put everything you've learnt with the other apps into practice, give Rocket German a try.
People who use the Rocket languages app love it because it's motivating and engaging and helps you understand the language and the culture like a local. Audio tracks and listening exercises help you engage with the language and learn how vocabulary actually sounds.
The online classes on the Rocket German app ensure you master the correct pronunciation. The app doesn't only teach you cookie cutter phrases, but helps you learn to build your own sentences so you're ready for a real world conversation.
Check out my full, comprehensive review of learning with Rocket Languages.
20. German Uncovered
So technically, this last one isn't an app.
But, the thing is, an app won't do the hard work for you of speaking the language. (Even if the App Villain tries to convince you otherwise!)
As great as apps for learning German can be, you can't get fluent in German just by using an app. Or even multiple apps.
For that, you'll need something more comprehensive. That's why I created German Uncovered, my comprehensive beginner German course that teaches you to speak German through interactive stories.
Click here to start your FREE 7-day trial now
Like I said, it's not an app, but you can still use it on ANY device – computer, laptop, smartphone or tablet.
This comprehensive beginner programme teaches you German through a fun and natural method that makes learning a pleasure, and grammar a breeze!
It goes far deeper than the German smartphone apps listed above and will give you a very thorough grounding in the language.
You see, language apps might appear flashy and modern…
But they lack the depth you need to truly master German.
The only way to achieve a high level of German is to immerse yourself in the language! And that's what you do in Uncovered by learning through story from Day 1.
With stories, you can:
- Learn German faster through immersion, instead of rote learning
- Memorise vocabulary words more easily by seeing them in context
- Learn grammar naturally, not through rules!
- Understand German more easily, thanks to lots of German reading and listening practice
Click here to start your FREE 7-day trial of German Uncovered now
How To Get The Most From German Language Learning Apps
So, as you've seen, learning German online with German-learning apps can be an ideal way to kick-start your language capabilities.
While these are some of the best apps for German learning, there's no single app that will teach you everything. Instead, I recommend working with multiple apps that can cover a broad range of topics, from grammar to pronunciation.
First, I recommend choosing an app that can instantly immerse you in the German language. These apps are motivational and can teach you essential phrases in no time.
You should also consider an app that helps you master the basics. You'll gain a more in-depth understanding of the language overall.
Grammar-specific apps help you conquer the more challenging aspects of the language you need to know, like how to learn German articles. For example, when do you use der, die, or das? And how do you conjugate certain German verbs?
Grammar apps will clarify these questions and give you the knowledge you need to build your own sentences.
Finally, choose a conversational app that gets you talking as soon as possible! We often hesitate to start speaking a language, even though saying words out loud can help with memorization.
Regardless of your level, you can find a conversation app that meets your needs.
Remember, the key to making progress is consistency, so if you practice every week, or even every day, you will achieve your language goals faster.
In your experience, what do you think is the best app to learn German? Share your thoughts in the comments.
Until next time, Viel Erfolg!
Olly Richards
Creator of the StoryLearning® Method
Olly Richards is a renowned polyglot and language learning expert with over 15 years of experience teaching millions through his innovative StoryLearning® method. He is the creator of StoryLearning, one of the world's largest language learning blogs with 500,000+ monthly readers.
Olly has authored 30+ language learning books and courses, including the bestselling "Short Stories" series published by Teach Yourself.
When not developing new teaching methods, Richards practices what he preaches—he speaks 8 languages fluently and continues learning new ones through his own methodology.
