Melissa Are you looking to speak English like a pro without breaking the bank or getting overwhelmed? Don’t worry, we’ve done the work for you. In 2024, learning English online is easy, flexible, and often super fun (yes, even grammar can be a breeze). Here are the 10 best platforms to learn English online this year, tested and approved.
1. Cambly – The ace of personalized coaching
If you want to talk with natives without pressure, Cambly is your best buddy. No lectures here: you choose your teacher, your time slot, and it’s off to customized sessions.
Why it’s great:
- Qualified teachers available 24/7.
- Ideal for working on your accent and speaking skills.
- Free trial to test without commitment.
Minor drawback: the focus is mainly on conversation. If you want solid grammar foundations, look elsewhere.
2. Preply – Find the perfect teacher for you
With Preply, you choose your teacher from hundreds of profiles based on your budget and needs. It’s like a Tinder for English courses (but without the bad surprises).
What we like:
- Flexible prices starting at €10/hour.
- True personalization of lessons.
- Goal-oriented learning (business, travel, etc.).
Things to know: the quality of the courses greatly depends on the teacher you choose.
3. Duolingo – The king of fun apps
Ah, Duolingo! Who hasn’t been bombarded by that green owl with its lesson reminders? If you are looking for fun and daily learning, it’s definitely a must-have.
Highlights:
- Free (with a paid option without ads).
- Perfect for beginners or brushing up on your basics.
- Short and addictive format.
But… it doesn’t replace a real teacher if you want to go far.
4. Coursera – For serious and certified courses
If you’re aiming for something solid, with a diploma at the end, Coursera collaborates with prestigious universities like Cambridge or the British Council.
Why choose Coursera:
- Recognized certifications.
- Various courses for all levels.
- Access to university resources.
Downside: the courses can be a bit dense for beginners.
how to choose the best online English course?
Well, you’re probably wondering: how to decide among all these options? Don’t worry, here are some essential criteria to find the perfect course.
- Your main goal: learning to travel? working? chatting with your English-speaking in-laws?
- Your current level: some platforms like Duolingo are perfect for beginners, while Preply or Cambly target more intermediate/advanced levels.
- Your budget: prices vary greatly. Some platforms are free, while others require a real investment (but it can be worth it!).
- Your learning style: do you prefer dynamic videos, serious courses, or just games to progress gently?
comparison table of the best platforms
| Platform | Average Price | Ideal for | Highlights |
|---|---|---|---|
| Cambly | Starting at €10/hour | Conversations | Flexibility and natives |
| Preply | €10 to €30/hour | Personalized courses | Wide variety of teachers |
| Duolingo | Free/Premium (€6/month) | Beginners | Fun and accessible |
| Coursera | €50 to €100/course | Certifications | Academic quality |
frequently asked questions about online English courses
are online English courses effective?
Oh yes! But it all depends on your consistency and involvement. Basically, if you take it seriously, you’ll see results in a few weeks.
how long does it take to speak fluently?
It depends. With daily practice (30 mins/day), you can reach a B2 level (upper-intermediate) in 6 months to a year.
and what if I struggle with grammar?
Don’t panic! Many platforms like Babbel or Lingoda include targeted exercises to simplify your life.
take the plunge!
So, ready to take action? Learning English is the best investment you can make for yourself. Whether you want to impress your boss, travel more comfortably, or just binge-watch Netflix without subtitles, 2024 is the year you take action.
If this article helped you, share it with your friends or on social media. And if you want more tips, download our complete guide to successfully learning English online. It’s free and awesome!
