Top 5 Best Apps To Learn Polish As A Beginner [2025]

Learning Polish can feel overwhelming at first.

The language has seven grammatical cases, unique sounds that don’t exist in English, and pronunciation that trips up most beginners.

Many people want to learn Polish but don’t know where to start.

Traditional classes are expensive and require fixed schedules. Books can be boring and don’t help with speaking practice.

The good news? Language learning apps make Polish accessible to everyone.

You can practice on your phone during lunch breaks, learn vocabulary while commuting, or improve pronunciation before bed.

We’ve also shared the best apps to learn Japanese, which you must try to enhance your list of languages you can speak and understand.

Best Apps To Learn Polish As A Beginner

In this article, you’ll discover the 5 best apps for learning Polish as a complete beginner.

I’ll show you what each app does well, where it falls short, and which one matches your learning style.

You’ll also get a comparison table, step-by-step guides, and answers to common questions.

By the end, you’ll know exactly which app to download today to start your Polish learning journey.

Best Apps To Learn Polish As A Beginner

Top 5 Best Apps To Learn Polish As A Beginner

1. Lingopie

Lingopie turns Polish TV shows and movies into learning tools. Instead of boring textbook exercises, you watch real Polish entertainment with interactive subtitles.

When you see a word you don’t know, just click it. The app shows you the meaning, pronunciation, and grammar explanation instantly. This method helps you learn how Polish people actually talk in real life.

Download: Available on iOS, Android, and Web browsers

Features:

• Dual subtitles (Polish and English) on every video
• Click any word for instant translation and definition
• Learn from Polish TV shows, movies, and YouTube content
• Pronunciation guides from native speakers
• Save words to review later with flashcards
• Hear natural speech patterns and slang

Pros:

• Makes learning fun through entertainment
• Exposure to real Polish accents and dialects
• Learn cultural context naturally (formal vs informal speech)
• Interactive subtitles make vocabulary easy to remember
• See how grammar works in real conversations

Cons:

• Requires paid subscription for full access
• Works better if you know basic Polish already
• Limited structured grammar lessons for absolute beginners
• Content library could have more shows
• Might feel overwhelming at first

Who Should Download It?

Lingopie works best for learners who get bored with traditional lessons. If you love watching shows and want to learn Polish through real conversations, this app makes learning feel effortless. It’s perfect for intermediate beginners who know basic words and want to improve naturally.

2. Babbel

Babbel teaches Polish through structured lessons that explain the “why” behind grammar rules. Each lesson prepares you for real situations in Poland, like ordering food or asking directions.

The app doesn’t just throw random words at you. It explains how Polish cases work, when to use formal language, and why sentence structures differ from English.

Download: Available on iOS, Android, and Web browsers

Features:

• Step-by-step grammar explanations
• Practical conversation lessons for everyday situations
• Both formal and informal Polish teaching
• Voice recognition for pronunciation practice
• Lessons build on previous knowledge logically
• Cultural tips about Polish customs

Pros:

• Clear explanations of difficult grammar concepts
• Focus on useful, everyday vocabulary
• Good balance of reading, writing, and speaking
• Teaches you when to be formal or casual
• Lessons feel complete and substantial

Cons:

• Requires paid subscription (no free version)
• Limited content compared to some apps
• Can feel dry if you prefer games
• Audio quality varies between lessons
• No community features to practice with others

Who Should Download It?

Babbel suits serious learners who want to understand Polish grammar properly. If you’re planning a trip to Poland or need Polish for work, this app teaches practical skills quickly. It’s ideal for adults who prefer structured learning over games.

3. Duolingo

Duolingo is the most popular free language app worldwide. Its Polish course uses games, points, and streaks to make learning addictive.

The app teaches grammar through patterns instead of long explanations. You learn by doing exercises, and the repetition helps words stick in your memory.

Download: Available on iOS, Android, and Web browsers

Features:

• Completely free with substantial Polish content
• Gamified lessons with points and achievements
• Stories feature for reading practice
• Audio lessons for listening skills
• Speech recognition checks your pronunciation
• Works offline after downloading lessons

Pros:

• Free access to quality Polish lessons
• Fun gamification keeps you motivated daily
• Good pronunciation practice with instant feedback
• Stories provide useful context for vocabulary
• Perfect for building a basic foundation

Cons:

• Grammar explanations are very minimal
• Limited cultural context about Poland
• Focuses mostly on formal Polish
• Can become repetitive and boring
• Some translations feel unnatural

Who Should Download It?

Duolingo works great for complete beginners who want to try Polish without spending money. If you have 5-10 minutes daily and want to build basic vocabulary, this app delivers. It’s perfect for students, casual learners, or anyone testing if Polish is right for them.

4. Preply

Preply connects you with real Polish tutors for one-on-one video lessons. Instead of following a fixed curriculum, your tutor creates lessons based on your goals.

This isn’t an app with automated lessons. It’s a platform where you book sessions with native speakers who can answer your specific questions and correct your mistakes instantly.

Download: Available on iOS, Android, and Web browsers

Features:

• Choose from hundreds of Polish tutors
• Prices range from $5 to $30 per hour
• Trial lessons are available before committing
• Completely customized learning plan
• Schedule lessons at your convenience
• Practice real conversation with natives

Pros:

• One-on-one attention from native speakers
• Immediate feedback and error correction
• Learn cultural nuances and slang
• Personalized lessons match your goals
• Practice speaking in real conversations

Cons:

• More expensive than app subscriptions
• Requires scheduling and time commitment
• Quality varies between different tutors
• No structured curriculum to follow
• Needs a good internet connection

Who Should Download It?

Preply suits learners who want personalized attention. If apps feel too generic or you have specific learning goals (like business Polish), a tutor can focus exactly where you struggle. It’s ideal for serious learners willing to invest in faster progress.

5. Memrise

Memrise specializes in vocabulary memorization through spaced repetition. The app shows you a word, then asks you to recall it at specific intervals proven to boost memory.

What makes Memrise unique is the video clips. You’ll see real Polish people saying words in different contexts, accents, and ages. This helps you recognize Polish in the real world.

Download: Available on iOS, Android, and Web browsers

Features:

• Video clips of native Polish speakers
• Spaced repetition system for long-term memory
• Visual learning with images and videos
• Memory techniques to remember words
• Track your vocabulary growth
• Learn pronunciation from different Polish accents

Pros:

• Excellent system for memorizing vocabulary
• Real native speaker videos show natural speech
• An effective spaced repetition algorithm
• Great for visual learners
• Helps with word recognition quickly

Cons:

• Weak grammar instruction
• Limited conversation practice
• Course content feels incomplete
• Premium features require a subscription
• Can become repetitive over time

Who Should Download It?

Memrise works best for vocabulary-focused learners. If you struggle to remember Polish words or want to expand your vocabulary quickly, this app delivers results. It’s perfect for visual learners who need to see and hear words multiple times.

How to Choose the Best App for Learning Polish?

Picking the right app depends on your personal situation. Here’s what to consider:

Your Budget:

• Free options: Duolingo offers substantial content without payment
• Budget-friendly: Memrise has a free version with core features
• Premium investment: Babbel and Lingopie require subscriptions ($10-15/month)
• Professional tutoring: Preply costs $5-30 per lesson but gives personalized help

Your Learning Style:

• Visual learners: Choose Memrise for videos and images
• Grammar-focused: Pick Babbel for clear explanations
• Entertainment lovers: Go with Lingopie for TV shows
• Conversational practice: Select Preply for speaking skills
• Game enjoyers: Start with Duolingo for fun lessons

Your Current Level:

• Complete beginner: Duolingo or Babbel start from zero
• Basic knowledge: Lingopie builds on a foundation naturally
• Intermediate: Preply and Memrise help you advance faster

Time Commitment:

• 5-10 minutes daily: Duolingo fits micro-learning
• 15-30 minutes daily: Babbel, Memrise, or Lingopie work well
• 1 hour weekly: Preply lessons require a scheduled time

Specific Goals:

• Travel to Poland: Babbel teaches practical phrases
• Understanding media: Lingopie uses real content
• Work/business: Preply offers customized lessons
• Vocabulary building: Memrise focuses on words
• Daily practice habit: Duolingo keeps you consistent

Device Compatibility:

• All apps work on iOS and Android
• Most offer web versions for desktop learning
• Check offline features if you have limited internet

Privacy & Security:

• All listed apps are from reputable companies
• Read privacy policies before sharing personal data
• Preply involves video calls with tutors (requires camera/mic)

Main App vs Alternatives: When to Choose What?

Here’s how these apps compare for different situations:

Combining Apps for Better Results:

Many successful learners use multiple apps together:

Beginner Strategy:

1. Start with Duolingo to build basic vocabulary (free)
2. Add Memrise for vocabulary reinforcement (free version)
3. After 2-3 months, switch to Babbel for grammar depth

Intermediate Strategy:

1. Use Lingopie for listening and cultural learning
2. Practice speaking with Preply tutors once weekly
3. Review vocabulary with Memrise during breaks

Budget Strategy:

1. Max out Duolingo free content first
2. Add the Memrise free version for videos
3. Invest in Preply trial lessons for speaking (only $5-10)

Fast-Track Strategy:

1. Subscribe to Babbel for structured grammar
2. Watch Lingopie shows for immersion (30 min daily)
3. Book Preply lessons twice weekly for practice

The key is consistency. Even 10 minutes daily with one app beats occasional 2-hour sessions.

Frequently Asked Questions:

• Which is the best free app to learn Polish?

Duolingo offers the most comprehensive free Polish course. You get grammar basics, vocabulary building, stories, and pronunciation practice without paying. Memrise also has a solid free version focused on vocabulary with native speaker videos. For complete beginners on a budget, start with Duolingo.

• Which app is safest for privacy?

All five apps are reputable companies with standard privacy policies. Duolingo, Babbel, Memrise, and Lingopie collect usage data but don’t sell personal information. Preply involves video calls with tutors, so you’ll share your face and voice. Always review privacy settings and use strong passwords.

• Do these apps work on both Android and iOS?

Yes, all five apps work on both Android and iOS devices. They also offer web browser versions for desktop learning. This means you can start a lesson on your phone during your commute and continue on your computer at home. Progress syncs across devices automatically.

• Are these apps available worldwide?

Yes, these apps work globally wherever you have an internet connection. Duolingo, Babbel, Memrise, and Lingopie are cloud-based services available in most countries. Preply connects learners worldwide with Polish tutors. Some apps offer offline modes if you download lessons first.

• Which app is best for beginners with zero Polish knowledge?

Duolingo and Babbel are perfect for absolute beginners. Duolingo starts with the basic alphabet and simple words, making it less intimidating. Babbel also begins from zero but adds more grammar context. Both apps assume no prior knowledge and guide you step-by-step through the foundations.

• Can I become fluent in Polish using just apps?

Apps alone won’t make you fluent, but they build a strong foundation. For fluency, you need apps plus real conversation practice. Combine Babbel or Lingopie for learning with Preply for speaking. Also watch Polish content, read Polish books, and ideally visit Poland to practice with natives.

Conclusion:

Learning Polish doesn’t require expensive classes or textbooks anymore. These five apps give you everything needed to start speaking, reading, and understanding Polish from your phone.

• For complete beginners: Start with Duolingo (free) to build vocabulary and basic grammar. It’s fun, accessible, and won’t overwhelm you.
• For serious learners: Choose Babbel for structured lessons that explain grammar clearly. It’s worth the subscription if you want to understand how Polish actually works.
• For entertainment lovers: Pick Lingopie to learn through Polish TV shows and movies. You’ll absorb the language naturally while having fun.
• For speaking practice: Invest in Preply tutors for personalized lessons and real conversation. Nothing beats feedback from native speakers.
• For vocabulary building: Use Memrise to memorize words quickly with spaced repetition and native speaker videos.

The best app depends on your goals, budget, and learning style. Most successful learners use 2-3 apps together for complete coverage.

My recommendation? Start with one free app (Duolingo) for 2-4 weeks. Once you know basic words, add a paid app (Babbel or Lingopie) for deeper learning. After 2-3 months, consider Preply tutors for conversation practice.

Remember, consistency matters more than the perfect app. Even 10 minutes daily will show progress. Download one app today, commit to daily practice, and you’ll be reading Polish menus and having basic conversations within months.

The best time to start learning Polish was yesterday. The second-best time is right now. Choose your app and take the first step today!