HelloTalk is a partly free language-learning app for beginner to advanced learners (A2–C2). Free text and voice exchange with native speakers; not a course.
Checked October 2026 on the official site ·
About HelloTalk
HelloTalk is a language-exchange app: you chat by text, voice or video with French speakers who want to learn your language, and help them in return. Basic use is free. It suits a learner from about A2 who is happy chatting with strangers and wants daily, informal practice. It is not a course, the quality depends entirely on who you meet, and you will spend part of every exchange helping with English.
How it compares
| App | Price | Levels | Real-speed audio | Best for |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| HelloTalk | Free to use; VIP $12.99/mo or $79.99/yrchecked 2026-10-09 (US App Store in-app purchases) | A2–C2 | Yes | Free text and voice exchange with native speakers; not a course. |
| Tandem | Free to join; Tandem Pro $14.99/mo or $69.99/yrchecked 2026-10-09 (US App Store in-app purchases) | A2–C2 | Yes | Free conversation partners, screened at sign-up; unstructured by nature. |
| italki | Set by each tutor; italki says $4 to $60 an hour for Frenchchecked 2026-10-09 (italki.com/en/teachers/french) | A1–C2 | Yes | The cheapest way to speak the language every week, if you choose the tutor well. |
| Preply | Set by each tutor; from $3, average $21 per lessonchecked 2026-10-09 (preply.com/en/online/french-tutors) | A1–C2 | Yes | A huge choice of tutors at every price; pick carefully. |
Prices as shown on the official site on the date given; they vary by country and change often.
