Do you want to learn a new language in 2024? If so, you are not alone, so have a read of our online language course comparison. Learning a new language is one of the most rewarding and beneficial skills that you can acquire in this globalized and interconnected world. Whether you want to travel the world, advance your career, or simply enjoy the beauty and diversity of different cultures, languages can open up new horizons and opportunities for you.
But learning a language can also be challenging and time-consuming, especially if you don’t have access to a classroom or a tutor. That’s why online language courses are becoming more and more popular and useful for language learners of all levels and backgrounds. Online language courses offer flexibility, convenience, affordability, and variety for anyone who wants to learn a language at their own pace and style.
But with so many online language courses available, how do you pick the best one for your needs and goals? How do you know which one will suit your learning preferences, budget, and schedule? How do you compare the quality, effectiveness, and user experience of different online language courses?
In this article, we will help you answer these questions and more. We will compare four of the most popular and effective online language courses in 2024: Duolingo, Busuu, Rosetta Stone and Mondly. We will use the following criteria to evaluate and rank each course: price, content, methodology, effectiveness, and user experience.
By the end of this article, you will have a clear idea of which online language course is right for you and how to get started with it. You will also learn some tips and tricks to make the most of your online language learning journey. So, let’s begin with our online language course comparison.
Table of Contents
Price
One of the most important factors to consider when reviewing an online language course comparison is the price. How much are you willing to invest in your language learning? What are the payment options and plans that each course offers? Are there any discounts, trials, or refunds available for each course?
The price of online language courses can vary widely depending on the features, quality, and duration of each course. Some courses are free, while others require a monthly or yearly subscription. Some courses offer a one-time payment for lifetime access, while others charge per lesson or per hour. Some courses have flexible and customizable plans, while others have fixed and standard plans.
To help you compare the price of each online language course, we have created a table that shows the current pricing information for Duolingo, Busuu, Rosetta Stone and Mondly. Please note that these prices are subject to change and may vary depending on your location, currency, and device. We recommend that you check the official websites of each course for the most accurate and updated information.
| Online Language Course | Price | Payment Options and Plans | Discounts, Trials, and Refunds |
| Duolingo | Free | Free plan with ads and limited features. Plus plan for $6.99/month or $47.88/year with no ads and unlimited features. | 14-day free trial for Plus plan. No refunds. |
| Busuu | $9.99/month or $69.99/year | Premium plan with full access to all languages and features. Premium Plus plan for $13.99/month or $89.99/year with additional features such as personalized study plan, official certificates, and adaptive tests. | 7-day free trial for both plans. 30-day money-back guarantee. |
| Rosetta Stone | $11.99/month, $95.88/year, or $199 for lifetime access | Unlimited Languages plan with full access to all languages and features. | 3-day free trial for Unlimited Languages plan. 30-day money-back guarantee. |
| Mondly | $9.99/month, $47.99/year, or $89.99 for lifetime access | Basic plan with access to one language and limited features. Premium plan with full access to all languages and features. | No free trial. 30-day money-back guarantee. |
As you can see, the price of online language courses can range from free to $199, depending on the course and the plan that you choose. You should consider your budget, your goals, and your preferences when deciding which online language course is worth your money. You should also take advantage of any discounts, trials, or refunds that each course offers to test them out and see if they suit your needs.
Content
Another factor to consider when choosing an online language course is the content. What languages and levels does each course cover? How is the content structured and delivered? What are the main features and benefits of each course?
The content of online language courses can vary widely depending on the scope, quality, and format of each course. Some courses offer a comprehensive and in-depth curriculum that covers all aspects of a language, while others focus on specific skills or topics. Some courses use interactive and multimedia elements to deliver the content, while others rely on text and audio. Some courses have unique and innovative features that enhance the learning experience, while others have standard and basic features.
To help you compare the content of each online language course, we have created a table that shows the current content information for Duolingo, Busuu, Rosetta Stone and Mondly. Please note that these information are subject to change and may vary depending on your location, device, and preferences. We recommend that you check the official websites of each course for the most accurate and updated information.
Table
| Online Language Course | Languages | Levels | Format | Features |
| Duolingo | 38 | Beginner to intermediate | App and web-based | Gamified lessons, stories, podcasts, events, leaderboards, certificates |
| Busuu | 12 | Beginner to advanced | App and web-based | Interactive courses, feedback from native speakers, offline access, certificates |
| Rosetta Stone | 25 | Beginner to intermediate | App and web-based | Speech-recognition technology, immersive learning, stories, games, live tutoring |
| Mondly | 41 | Beginner to intermediate | App and web-based | Conversational lessons, voice chatbot, augmented reality, statistics, daily challenges |
As you can see, the content of online language courses can range from 12 to 41 languages, from beginner to advanced levels, and from app to web-based formats. You should consider your goals, your preferences, and your interests when deciding which online language course has the best content for you. You should also take advantage of any features that each course offers to make your learning more fun and effective.
Methodology
Another factor to consider when choosing an online language course is the methodology. What is the pedagogical approach and philosophy of each course? How do they teach the four skills of listening, speaking, reading, and writing? How do they incorporate grammar, vocabulary, and culture into their lessons?
The methodology of online language courses can vary widely depending on the research, evidence, and principles that each course follows. Some courses use a natural and intuitive method that mimics how children learn their first language, while others use a structured and systematic method that follows a predefined curriculum. Some courses use a communicative and interactive method that focuses on real-life situations and conversations, while others use a cognitive and analytical method that focuses on rules and patterns. Some courses use a blended and adaptive method that combines different approaches and adjusts to the learner’s needs, while others use a fixed and uniform method that applies the same approach to all learners.
To help you compare the methodology of each online language course, we have created a table that shows the current methodology information for Duolingo, Busuu, Rosetta Stone and Mondly. Please note that these information are subject to change and may vary depending on your location, device, and preferences. We recommend that you check the official websites of each course for the most accurate and updated information.
| Online Language Course | Methodology | Approach | Focus |
| Duolingo | Natural and intuitive | Gamified and immersive | Listening and speaking |
| Busuu | Communicative and interactive | Social and collaborative | Speaking and writing |
| Rosetta Stone | Natural and intuitive | Immersive and contextual | Listening and speaking |
| Mondly | Blended and adaptive | Conversational and realistic | Speaking and listening |
As you can see, the methodology of online language courses can range from natural and intuitive to blended and adaptive, from gamified and immersive to conversational and realistic, and from listening and speaking to speaking and writing. You should consider your learning style, your preferences, and your goals when deciding which online language course has the best methodology for you. You should also take advantage of any features that each course offers to enhance your learning experience.
Effectiveness
Another factor to consider when choosing an online language course is the effectiveness. How well does each course help learners achieve their language goals? What are the learning outcomes and expectations of each course? How do they measure and track learners’ progress and performance?
The effectiveness of online language courses can vary widely depending on the quality, quantity, and feedback of the learning activities and assessments that each course provides. Some courses offer frequent and varied exercises and tests that challenge and reinforce the learners’ skills and knowledge, while others offer few and simple tasks that offer little practice and feedback. Some courses provide clear and realistic goals and objectives that guide and motivate the learners, while others provide vague and unrealistic expectations that confuse and frustrate the learners. Some courses use data and analytics to monitor and evaluate the learners’ achievements and difficulties, while others use subjective and anecdotal methods to judge and support the learners.
To help you compare the effectiveness of each online language course, we have created a table that shows the current effectiveness information for Duolingo, Busuu, Rosetta Stone and Mondly. Please note that these information are based on our own research and analysis, as well as the reviews and ratings of other users, and may not reflect the actual results and experiences of each learner. We recommend that you try each course for yourself and see how effective they are for you.
| Online Language Course | Effectiveness | Activities | Assessments | Goals | Feedback |
| Duolingo | Moderate | Frequent and varied, but mostly focused on translation and multiple choice | Frequent and varied, but mostly focused on vocabulary and grammar | Clear and realistic, but mostly focused on fluency and proficiency | Data-driven and immediate, but mostly focused on accuracy and streaks |
| Busuu | High | Frequent and varied, covering all four skills and topics | Frequent and varied, covering all four skills and topics | Clear and realistic, aligned with the CEFR levels and certificates | Data-driven and immediate, as well as human and personalized |
| Rosetta Stone | Moderate | Frequent and varied, but mostly focused on listening and speaking | Frequent and varied, but mostly focused on listening and speaking | Vague and unrealistic, not aligned with any external standards or certificates | Data-driven and immediate, but mostly focused on pronunciation and repetition |
| Mondly | High | Frequent and varied, covering all four skills and topics | Frequent and varied, covering all four skills and topics | Clear and realistic, aligned with the CEFR levels and certificates | Data-driven and immediate, as well as human and personalized |
As you can see, the effectiveness of online language courses can range from moderate to high, depending on the activities, assessments, goals, and feedback that each course offers. You should consider your learning outcomes, your preferences, and your needs when deciding which online language course is the most effective for you. You should also take advantage of any features that each course offers to enhance your learning results.
User Experience
Another factor to consider when choosing an online language course is the user experience. How easy and enjoyable is it to use each course? What are the technical requirements and compatibility of each course? How is the user interface and design of each course? How is the customer support and feedback system of each course?
The user experience of online language courses can vary widely depending on the usability, functionality, and aesthetics of each course. Some courses have a user-friendly and attractive interface and design, while others have a clunky and outdated one. Some courses have a reliable and responsive customer support and feedback system, while others have a slow and unhelpful one. Some courses have a high technical quality and compatibility, while others have a low one.
To help you compare the user experience of each online language course, we have created a table that shows the current user experience information for Duolingo, Busuu, Rosetta Stone and Mondly. Please note that these information are based on our own testing and evaluation, as well as the reviews and ratings of other users, and may not reflect the actual experience and satisfaction of each user. We recommend that you try each course for yourself and see how you like them.
| Online Language Course | User Experience | Usability | Functionality | Aesthetics | Support |
| Duolingo | High | Easy and intuitive to use | Fast and smooth performance | Colorful and playful design | Quick and helpful support |
| Busuu | High | Easy and intuitive to use | Fast and smooth performance | Modern and elegant design | Quick and helpful support |
| Rosetta Stone | Moderate | Easy and intuitive to use | Slow and buggy performance | Simple and minimalist design | Slow and unhelpful support |
| Mondly | High | Easy and intuitive to use | Fast and smooth performance | Modern and elegant design | Quick and helpful support |
As you can see, the user experience of online language courses can range from moderate to high, depending on the usability, functionality, aesthetics, and support that each course offers. You should consider your preferences, your expectations, and your satisfaction when deciding which online language course has the best user experience for you. You should also take advantage of any features that each course offers to enhance your learning enjoyment.
Comparison Summary
In this article, we have compared four of the best online language courses in 2024: Duolingo, Busuu, Rosetta Stone and Mondly. We have used the following criteria to evaluate and compare each course: price, content, methodology, effectiveness, and user experience. We have also provided tables, charts, and images to help you visualize and understand the differences and similarities between each course.
Here is a summary of our comparison followed by a comparison table, based on the information that we have gathered and analyzed:
- Duolingo is a free online language course that offers 38 languages, from beginner to intermediate levels, in an app and web-based format. Duolingo uses a gamified and immersive method that focuses on listening and speaking skills, and provides data-driven and immediate feedback. Duolingo has a colorful and playful design and a quick and helpful support. Duolingo is suitable for learners who want to learn a language for free, in a fun and easy way, and who are mostly interested in fluency and proficiency.
- Busuu is a paid online language course that offers 12 languages, from beginner to advanced levels, in an app and web-based format. Busuu uses a social and collaborative method that focuses on speaking and writing skills, and provides data-driven and immediate, as well as human and personalized feedback. Busuu has a modern and elegant design and a quick and helpful support. Busuu is suitable for learners who want to learn a language in a comprehensive and interactive way, and who are interested in getting feedback from native speakers and earning certificates.
- Rosetta Stone is a paid online language course that offers 25 languages, from beginner to intermediate levels, in an app and web-based format. Rosetta Stone uses an immersive and contextual method that focuses on listening and speaking skills, and provides data-driven and immediate feedback. Rosetta Stone has a simple and minimalist design and a slow and unhelpful support. Rosetta Stone is suitable for learners who want to learn a language in a natural and intuitive way, and who are interested in pronunciation and repetition.
- Mondly is a paid online language course that offers 41 languages, from beginner to intermediate levels, in an app and web-based format. Mondly uses a blended and adaptive method that covers all four skills and topics, and provides data-driven and immediate, as well as human and personalized feedback. Mondly has a modern and elegant design and a quick and helpful support. Mondly is suitable for learners who want to learn a language in a realistic and immersive way, and who are interested in conversational lessons, voice chatbot, and augmented reality.
| Online Language Course | Price | Content | Methodology | Effectiveness | User Experience |
| Duolingo | Free or $6.99/month or $47.88/year | 38 languages, beginner to intermediate levels, app and web-based format | Gamified and immersive method, focused on listening and speaking skills, data-driven and immediate feedback | Moderate effectiveness, mostly focused on fluency and proficiency, frequent and varied activities and assessments | High user experience, colorful and playful design, quick and helpful support, easy and intuitive to use, fast and smooth performance |
| Busuu | $9.99/month or $69.99/year | 12 languages, beginner to advanced levels, app and web-based format | Social and collaborative method, focused on speaking and writing skills, data-driven and immediate, as well as human and personalized feedback | High effectiveness, aligned with the CEFR levels and certificates, frequent and varied activities and assessments | High user experience, modern and elegant design, quick and helpful support, easy and intuitive to use, fast and smooth performance |
| Rosetta Stone | $11.99/month, $95.88/year, or $199 for lifetime access | 25 languages, beginner to intermediate levels, app and web-based format | Immersive and contextual method, focused on listening and speaking skills, data-driven and immediate feedback | Moderate effectiveness, not aligned with any external standards or certificates, frequent and varied activities and assessments | Moderate user experience, simple and minimalist design, slow and unhelpful support, easy and intuitive to use, slow and buggy performance |
| Mondly | $9.99/month, $47.99/year, or $89.99 for lifetime access | 41 languages, beginner to intermediate levels, app and web-based format | Blended and adaptive method, covering all four skills and topics, data-driven and immediate, as well as human and personalized feedback | High effectiveness, aligned with the CEFR levels and certificates, frequent and varied activities and assessments | High user experience, modern and elegant design, quick and helpful support, easy and intuitive to use, fast and smooth performance |
These are the main features and benefits of each online language course, based on our comparison. However, we also acknowledge that each online language course has its own strengths and weaknesses, and that each learner has their own preferences and goals. Therefore, we encourage you to try each online language course for yourself and see which one suits you best. You can use the links and information that we have provided in this article to visit the official websites of each course and get started with them.
Our Recommendation
Based on our comparison, we have recommended Mondly as our top pick for 2024, as it offers the most languages, the most affordable lifetime access, the most realistic and immersive learning experience, and the most innovative and fun features. We have also recommended Mondly Kids as the best online language course for children, as it offers a colorful and playful interface, interactive and gamified lessons, and a variety of topics and themes. You can see more of the reasons why we recommend Mondly by reading our Mondly review here.
We hope that this article has helped you compare the best online language courses for 2024. We also hope that you enjoy learning a new language and that you achieve your language goals. Learning a new language is a rewarding and beneficial skill that can enrich your life and open up new opportunities for you. So, don’t hesitate and start learning today!
