Memrise is a partly free language-learning app for beginner and intermediate learners (A1–B1). Native-speaker clips for beginners; a supplement, not a course.
Checked October 2026 on the official site ·
About Memrise
Memrise teaches useful French vocabulary and phrases with short videos of native speakers and speaking practice. The free plan has limited lessons and videos with ads; the paid plan unlocks everything without ads. It suits a beginner who wants to hear real people say everyday phrases. It is phrase-learning, not a full course, and it will not take you past the basics on its own.
How it compares
| App | Price | Levels | Real-speed audio | Best for |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Memrise | Free plan; Pro $61.99/yr or $329.99 lifetime; monthly plan $24.99checked 2026-10-09 (US App Store in-app purchases) | A1–B1 | Yes | Native-speaker clips for beginners; a supplement, not a course. |
| Duolingo | Free; Super from $9.99/mo or $79.99/yrchecked 2026-10-06 (US App Store) | A1–B1 | No | The easiest free habit for week one; plan what comes after it. |
| Drops | Free version; Premium $11/mo, $69.99/yr or $150 lifetimechecked 2026-10-09 (languagedrops.com/premium) | A1–A2 | No | Fast, pretty vocabulary games for beginners; no grammar, no sentences. |
| Busuu | Free tier; Premium €4.83/mo billed €57.99/yr (standard €116.28); Premium Plus €5.83/mo billed €69.90/yr (standard €142.80)checked 2026-10-09 (busuu.com/products, shown from Germany) | A1–B2 | No | A solid A1 to B2 path with a usable free tier. |
Prices as shown on the official site on the date given; they vary by country and change often.
