Babbel vs Lingoda: Which Language Course Is Better for You?

By Milagros de la Horra

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October 31, 2025

Contents

Introduction

Overview of Each Option

Babbel vs Lingoda Comparison

Which Is Better? Babbel or Lingoda for Learning Spanish?

Final Recommendation

Introduction

Learning Spanish can be fun and helpful, and two popular choices are Babbel and Lingoda. Both teach Spanish well, but they’re very different. This Babbel vs Lingoda guide (or Lingoda vs Babbel!) will show you which one fits your learning style. If you're wondering how to choose the right Spanish program for your learning style and goals, this comparison will be invaluable.

Do you like self-paced learning or classes? Maybe you want a live tutor, group lessons, or a flexible schedule. This comparison will help you decide: Babbel or Lingoda for learning Spanish? For a broader perspective, you can also compare the top online Spanish courses for 2025.

Overview of Each Option

Babbel is a self-paced language app. You can study anytime and in any way you prefer. Lessons follow a specific order, teaching grammar and vocabulary step by step.

It also has a speech-recognition feature to improve your pronunciation. You can access Babbel on your phone, tablet, or computer whenever you want.

Lingoda, on the other hand, offers live online classes. You attend lessons scheduled in advance and interact with a live tutor and classmates. These group lessons make learning more social. You choose a class schedule that fits your routine, and you get the chance to ask questions and get real-time feedback.

1. Learning Flexibility: Self-Paced vs Classes

Babbel (Self-Paced):

Learn when you want; morning, afternoon, or night.
Great if your schedule changes a lot or if you can only study in short bursts.
But this freedom means you have to stay motivated, no one’s checking if you finished your lesson.

Lingoda (Classes):

You sign up for live tutor classes and group lessons at set times.
The schedule makes sure you actually study, because someone’s expecting you.
This structure is great if you need accountability, but it can be hard to juggle when life gets busy.

2. Interaction and Engagement

Babbel:

Lessons include quizzes, games, and fun exercises.
You get instant feedback and see your progress.
But it doesn’t have real people to talk to you practice on your own.

Lingoda:

With live tutor sessions, you get to speak Spanish in real-time.
Group lessons let you learn with other students and talk together.
You get instant support and help when you make mistakes.

3. Pricing and Value

Babbel vs Lingoda Price

Babbel uses a subscription model (monthly or yearly). You get full access to all courses for one price.
Lingoda sells packages of classes. You buy a set (like 10 or 20 classes) and use them within a time frame.
Babbel can be cheaper if you learn by yourself for a long time.
Lingoda may cost more, but it gives you personal help and even certificates.

4. Learning Outcomes

Babbel:

You complete lessons and reviews at your pace.
Quizzes help you remember what you’ve learned.
You can track how far you’re progressing in the app.

Lingoda:

You earn certificates when you finish levels great for resumes or school.
Live tutors give you advice and correct mistakes right away.
group lessons push you to speak and listen in real time.

Babbel vs Lingoda Comparison

When comparing Babbel and Lingoda, it’s important to understand that these two platforms offer very different learning formats. Babbel is an app designed for self-paced learning. You complete lessons on your own schedule, making it perfect for learners who prefer flexibility and working independently.

In contrast, Lingoda focuses on live, scheduled classes with real tutors. These classes are often in small groups and follow a set timetable that you choose in advance. If you like having structure and the support of live instructors, Lingoda may be a better fit.

In terms of scheduling, Babbel allows you to log in and learn anytime, it’s totally up to you. This freedom is ideal for busy people or those who want to learn casually.

Lingoda, however, requires commitment. You must choose your class times in advance and stick to them. This can help build a routine and promote steady progress. However, it might not be ideal for those who like more flexibility.

Speaking practice is handled very differently on each platform. Babbel uses speech recognition technology

On the other hand, Lingoda gives you the chance to speak live with tutors and classmates. This real conversation practice can quickly boost confidence and fluency. It’s especially helpful for learners who want to improve their speaking skills fast.

Babbel focuses on self-study for social feedback. You won't find classmates, and any corrections come from the app.

On the other hand, Lingoda offers quick feedback from real people. Teachers and fellow learners help you improve right away and feel more connected to your learning.

Pricing models also differ. Babbel works on a subscription basis, you pay monthly or yearly to access the content. Lingoda sells class packages, such as 10 or 20 lessons, or offers monthly plans depending on how often you want to take classes. Lingoda’s live instruction usually comes at a higher cost, but some learners may find the value worth the price.
Another major difference is certification. Babbel does not offer certificates upon completion of its courses.

With Lingoda, you earn official language certificates after finishing a level. These certificates can help with school, work, or visa applications.

Finally, motivation can be a key factor in choosing between the two. With Babbel, you’re responsible for staying on track. If you’re self-motivated and disciplined, this could be perfect.

But if you need more accountability, Lingoda’s class structure helps keep you motivated. Being part of a class with real teachers and students can give you a sense of progress and community.

In short, Babbel offers convenience and flexibility, while Lingoda provides structure, interaction, and a classroom-like feel. The best choice depends on your learning style, goals, and lifestyle.

Which Is Better? Babbel or Lingoda for Learning Spanish?

It depends on what works for you:

Choose Babbel if:

You like setting your own pace.
You want to study anytime and anywhere.
You’re comfortable learning on your own and staying motivated.

Choose Lingoda if:

You prefer real-time help and talking to others.
You do better in a structured setting.
You want certificates to show what you’ve accomplished.

If you want both options, you could start with Babbel and then join some Lingoda classes later or vice versa!

Why Interaction Matters

Speaking a language is more than memorizing words. You need to practice talking, hearing, and responding. Here’s how each platform helps:

Babbel helps you pronounce words properly with its speech tool. You read dialogues and repeat out loud.
Lingoda gives you live conversation practice

Both are useful but Lingoda offers more real conversations because of the live tutor and group lessons.

Final Recommendation

To pick between Babbel vs Lingoda Spanish, think about your goals:

Want flexibility? Go with Babbel.
Want live interaction and official certificates? Choose Lingoda.
Want both? Why not try both? Babbel for everyday practice and Lingoda for occasional live classes.

Getting Started

Try a free trial of Babbel to see if you like learning at your own pace.
Check out a sample Lingoda class, join a live session to feel how it works.
Decide what matters more: your freedom or having a set schedule with a tutor.
Choose one or use them both to learn smarter and faster!

Milagros de la Horra

Academic Team

Milagros De La Horra is a Spanish teacher from Rosario, Argentina, with experience teaching learners of all ages. She brings her background in creative writing, editing, and literature into the classroom. Passionate about culture and language, Milagros uses games, videos, and poetry to create engaging, meaningful learning experiences.