5 excellent apps for learning a language on the cheap

If you're interested in picking up a new language, whether it's for a trip abroad or simply for the sake of learning something new, mobile has become an excellent platform for language learners. There are bunches of apps on the market promising to teach you foreign languages. We've picked out five of the best to help you on your path to fluency.

Duolingo
Duolingois the obvious choice, but it's also the best choice. This clever app with a cute little owl mascot gamifies language learning. You earn experience as you complete lessons, giving you a nice sense of progression. But you alsoactually learn the language. Duolingo tests you on reading, writing, speaking, and listening, and if you don't pass the lessons, it doesn't let you move forward. It's the perfect way to learn the basics of a language before moving on to more advanced levels.

Memrise
Many people preferAnkifor their flashcard needs, but it's certainly not the most user friendly system. Anki also isn't the budget option, coming in at nearly $25 on the App Store.If you don't feel like customizingAnki to suit your needs,Memrise is a great option. There are a large number of decks and courses already created, and you can add images to really cement vocabulary words in your mind.

Busuu
Much like Duolingo,Busuutests you in all facets of language learning. Where it stands out though is in its bustling community. You can learn a language alongside otherBusuu learners, keeping each other motivated and helping one another in your studies. You can also get advice on your target language from native speakers.

Mindsnacks
We all learn differently, so it can't hurt to try something new when you're first starting to speak a language.Mindsnacksseparates itself from the other apps listed here by delivering your language lessons to you in the form of fun mini-games. A pack of 50 lessons is a real bargain, especially becauseMindsnackstakes care to teach you both vocabularyandgrammar in creative ways.

HelloTalk
Of course, learning a new language is useless if you can't speak it.HelloTalk pairs you with language partners so you can practice chatting either via text or full audio and video. You can search for fellow members whose needs match yours. If you're lucky, you can find a language partner who's also interested in learning your native tongue. It's a great way to build cross-cultural friendships while studying.

Learning a language is tough, taking years to build up fluency. These apps take a lighthearted, unimposing approach to language study, but they're also highly effective in building the foundational skills you'll need. If you're looking for an app to supplement your language studies, look no further than the programs listed here.

Are you a mobile linguist? Share your own recommendations in the comments.