Confused which platform would be your best choice to learn a new language? You will run into plenty of options and it is bound to confuse you. Based on your level, learning style, budget and more, the choice of your platform varies. Today, I am here with the comparative guide of two of the top language learning platforms. Check out this Busuu vs FluentU to figure out which one is worth your time and money.
Available languages
Busuu offers 12 different languages which are Russian, Chinese, Arabic, Turkish, Portuguese, English, Spanish, French, German, Japanese, Italian, and Polish.
FluentU offers a total of 10 languages. They are Spanish, French, Italian, German, English, Russian, Japanese, Mandarin Chinese and Korean.
Learning Method
Busuu constructed the lessons with focusing on learning vocabulary. Through translating words and focusing on speaking skills, the learners can learn a language closely. You can record your answers and get it reviewed by native speakers and then receive feedback. The platform focuses on training on vocabulary words, not fluency. Besides the translating and vocabulary training, the app also offers speed repetition exercises, native language speakers support and more to reach your goal in your target language.
FluentU is a fantastic platform for those who want to improve their language skills. Although it is not accurately designed for beginners, there are abundant videos for learners to speak and comprehend like a native speaker by watching the videos. For the subscription plans, you can download transcripts and the learning materials are also available. Besides the informative videos and audios, there are also flashcards, playlist and educational blogs offered by FluentU.
User Experience
Busuu is a basic app with not many features that would distract you from learning. The app is not gamified so you can simply go through the lessons without any pressure or flashy interface. The app’s exercises are easy to find and for the beginners, the platform is easy to navigate. Despite the simple interface, it is a user friendly app.
You can use FluentU in both iOS and Android devices. Both the mobile app version and web version are updated and user friendly. The premium version has more features. The quality of the videos on the platform are satisfactory and engaging. The platform also offers interactive quizzes with corresponding points in a gamified form to keep the learners enjoy the learning process.
Pricing
Busuu offers a free version which is a great medium to test the app before purchasing the premium version. The Premium Plus plan costs $6.59 per month and you can access the lessons even when you are offline. For the lifetime subscription, it costs $159.99.
FluentU offers two premium subscription plans. One is the monthly subscription that costs $29.99 per month. If you resort to the annual subscription, it will cost you $239.99 annually. The app also offers a 14 day free trial. But, you can only use the trial version one minute each day.
Pros
Busuu:
- For beginners, Busuu offers well structured lessons
- You can set your expectations and they will suggest you a study plan
- Clutter free layout so easy to focus
- Interface is engaging and easy to use
FluentU:
- Abundant audios and video lessons
- Transcripts are available for downloading
- Convenient tracking bar to set and reach language goals
- Interactive quizzes and SRS for learners
Cons
Busuu:
- Some of the exercise are easy and not effective
- Feedback on answers is not standardized
FluentU:
- Not suitable for beginners
- Lack of grammar lessons
- It is comparatively expensive than other alternative learning apps
Conclusion
After reading this guide of FluentU Vs Busuu, now you have to decide which language learning platform you will use. Well, the answer is simple. If you are familiar with the language, then FluentU is a fantastic choice to learn through watching high quality videos. However, if you want a more structured learning system and as a beginner, your choice would be Busuu as it is a more holistic learning platform.
