The best apps to learn Chinese in 2026
Honest by-use-case comparison: which app for which learner, and the winning combo.
Duolingo, HelloChinese, LingoDeer, Pleco, HanziMemo, ChinesePod… it's hard to keep up. An honest 2026 comparison of Chinese-learning apps, by use case.
The summary table
| App | Strength | Weakness |
|---|---|---|
| Duolingo | Free, gamified, addictive | Little HSK context, thin content |
| HelloChinese | Great beginner, strong speaking | Runs out after HSK 3 |
| LingoDeer | Structured grammar | Paywall arrives fast |
| Pleco | Best dictionary | Not a structured course |
| Anki | Powerful SRS, free | Heavy setup |
| ChinesePod | Intermediate podcasts | Pricey, less active |
| HanziMemo | Full HSK 3.0, FSRS, mock exams | Memorization-focused (no video course) |
Want to try it yourself?
HanziMemo uses spaced repetition to help you memorize HSK vocabulary effortlessly. Free, 20 cards per day, HSK 1 to 6.
Start for freeOur pick by profile
- Absolute beginner, curious: HelloChinese for the first 30 days, then switch to HanziMemo to tackle HSK.
- Prepping HSK: HanziMemo + Pleco for reading.
- Advanced self-learner: Anki + Pleco + ChinesePod for listening.
- 2-week trip to China: Duolingo is enough for 100 useful phrases.
The combo that works for 80% of learners
1 memorization app (SRS) + 1 dictionary + 1 real listening source. E.g., HanziMemo for HSK vocabulary, Pleco for street lookups, YouTube or ChinesePod for your ear. Nothing more.
See also Flashcards, Anki, HanziMemo: which one for a focused SRS view.
Frequently asked questions
Is Duolingo enough to learn Chinese?
For 100 travel phrases, yes. To reach HSK 3+ or become fluent, no, it lacks a proper SRS and context.
Do I need to pay to learn well?
No. Free Anki + free Pleco + free HanziMemo covers 90% of your needs through HSK 4.
HelloChinese or HanziMemo to start?
HelloChinese is great for gamified discovery. HanziMemo is better to build a solid HSK vocabulary long-term.