There are currently an astonishing number of options that help us learn online via our smartphone, tablet, or computer, and Babbel is one of them.
Created to help you learn languages, the Babbel platform focuses its teaching on individual lessons and exercises without group classes, depending on the language you selected when you signed up on its website or app.
Papora is the best way to learn English with live classes
With Papora’s proven method, learning English becomes simple, engaging, and completely tailored to your pace and style
Start now
Many users question whether Babbel’s method truly delivers results when it comes to learning a new language—especially English.
Today, there are countless platforms offering similar promises, but Papora stands out by letting you learn at your own pace while also giving you live access to native-level teachers for a more immersive experience.
Keep reading to discover why Papora could be the smarter choice.
How does Babbel work?
First, you will need to visit the website or download the Babbel app, which works on all types of mobile devices and can be found in stores for iOS and Android.
When you click on “Start,” the first thing you'll have to do is choose the new language you want to learn. Choose from 14 languages, including German, French, Italian, Spanish, Russian, Turkish, and, of course, English.
Next, you will complete a short questionnaire asking you about your motivation for learning English: studies, work, or to join better companies.
They will also ask you how much time per day you want to dedicate to learning, how you like to learn, your age, and a couple of other questions that help them tailor the app to your needs.
In addition to the typical information you have to provide to create your account on the platform or for any other type of course.
After choosing your language and following the process to create your account, you must choose how you want to learn. You can also take a test to find out your level and start viewing the lessons.
Babbel's method is very similar to other courses in that it seeks to teach its students through activities that stimulate them cognitively while learning all areas of the language.
They have a team of more than 150 experts who create content for 14 languages, allowing you to learn English.
Once you have created your profile, you can access the first lesson, where you will mainly review vocabulary, pronunciation, and exercises where you will have to choose the correct option.
What level of English can you achieve with Babbel?
Now that you understand how Babbel works, you might be wondering just how far their English course can take you.
When learning any new language, the first key to success is motivation—being inspired, guided, and eager to follow the right advice. That’s step one.
But to truly progress, reduce mistakes, and reach fluency, you need a well-structured course that maximizes your learning potential.
With Babbel, the level you achieve largely depends on the plan you choose. While their website claims you can reach an advanced level by completing five courses, the reality is that the basic subscription only covers beginner to, at best, intermediate-level needs.
The same limitation applies to other apps, like ABA English—making it clear that if your goal is fluency, you may need something more comprehensive.
How much does it cost to learn with Babbel?
Babbel offers two main plans: the Single Language plan, which grants access to self-study lessons in a chosen language, and the All Languages plan, which allows learners to explore every language available on the platform.
Both plans include access to the Babbel app, where you’ll find lessons, exercises, games, and other interactive activities designed to support your learning journey.
For those seeking long-term access, Babbel also offers a lifetime subscription, giving you unlimited access to all lessons.
As with many online English courses, pricing varies depending on your location, subscription duration, and where you make your purchase. Currently, Babbel provides three main subscription options: six-month, annual, and lifetime.
Discover the best alternative to Babbel
At Papora, you learn from native teachers with personalized live classes.
Try a class
Advantages and disadvantages of using Babbel
| Comparison table | |
|---|---|
| Advantages of Babbel | Disadvantages of Babbel |
| ✅ Full accessibility: You can learn wherever you want, either on the website or app | ❌ There are no live classes.: It does not offer direct interaction with teachers in real time |
| ✅ Well-structured lessons: Each course combines vocabulary, grammar, reading, and pronunciation | ❌ It becomes repetitive: The repetitive style of the lessons can decrease motivation |
| ✅ Practical and progressive approach: The units are designed to advance step by step with logic | ❌ Few free lessons: You can only try one before you have to pay for full access |
| ✅ Designed for adults: The content is designed for practical needs (travel, work, etc.) | ❌ Lack of advanced customization: It does not adapt to individual learning styles or specific needs |
| ✅ Intuitive and modern app: Clean, easy-to-use interface for all skill levels | ❌ No custom correction: Without a teacher, you don't receive real-time feedback |
What do users think?
The most important opinion will always be that of the students themselves, who have already used Babbel and have their own opinion.
“The subscription is very expensive. For a mass-market app, it should be much more affordable. They force you to subscribe in order to try it out fully.”
When you decide to start learning English, finding a course that suits your needs and is within your budget is essential.
“The only thing missing is the ability to access grammar lessons without having to redo the lesson. It would be nice to have a place with all the theory you go through and night mode.”
Having to meet conditions in order to review and, as you progress, doing the same thing over and over again can actually be counterproductive to learning.
“Honestly, if you learn it, the problem is that as you progress, the app becomes monotonous because everything is text. There comes a point where it becomes boring or frustrating to see nothing but a similar format.”
Which is the best platform for learning English?
It's important to choose one that allows you to learn anywhere, in different ways, and covering all areas of the language.
With an option like Papora, you can do everything at your own pace and from anywhere in the world, learning vocabulary, pronunciation, listening, reading, grammar, and Zoom classes at the same time.
The Papora method consists of learning with real situations, almost without realizing it, guided by native-level teachers in classes that you can take unlimited times per month.
In addition, you can enjoy their self-guided course with over 300 lessons, which allows you to learn through interactive activities that will help you quickly understand the language.
However, remember that the best platform for learning English will always be the one that suits your needs and goals and that you feel comfortable with.
Learn English by speaking from day one with Papora
Content created by native-level teachers so you can study while having fun and at your own pace.
Speak English today
Frequently asked questions about Babbel
Babbel has seven levels, starting with “first steps” and ending with “advanced.” To reach the advanced level, you must complete 23 courses with different lessons. The best English courses include similar systems that are much more convenient, such as Papora, where you can learn from day one with everyday situations in personalized Zoom classes.
Babbel offers a choice of up to 14 different languages, including English, French, Italian, Spanish, German, Portuguese, Swedish, Turkish, Dutch, Russian, and four other options.
