You decided to learn a new language, did some research on the best platforms and now you’re asking: Preply vs. Lingoda… Which one to choose?
Picking an online language learning app or program isn’t easy. With so many options out there, narrowing it down to just a couple and making a final choice can feel overwhelming. That’s where we come in! Whether you’re starting this journey for personal or professional growth, we’re confident you’ll find the right fit for your budget, learning style, and goals.
Come along as we dig into the pros and cons of two top online language platforms: Lingoda vs. Preply.
Preply and Lingoda are two of the best online language-learning platforms in the market. And what is it that makes them stand out? Let’s look into it.
What makes these platforms unique?
On holiday and need to connect to your class? Hoping to study with native speakers without traveling abroad? You got it. Since both Lingoda and Preply are online platforms, they offer that key benefit all online learners want: accessibility. You can connect from anywhere and find a schedule that fits you like a glove.
But… What makes each of these options unique?
Lingoda: Lingoda offers high-quality live online language classes with certified (and highly experienced) native-level teachers from around the world. Its unique selling point? Flexibility! Students can choose between group lessons or one-on-one sessions – and with group classes capped at just five students, lessons stay easy to follow and truly enjoyable. Plus, with classes available 24/7, learners can study whenever it suits them best and be self-paced.
Preply: Preply connects language students with qualified teachers for individual tutoring. With over 44,000 tutors and more than 50 languages to choose from, there’s something for everyone. Lessons can be scheduled at times that work for both student and teacher and if you’re not satisfied, you can switch tutors for free. Want to speed up your progress? You can book multiple classes each week.
Who should use Preply vs. Lingoda?
Lingoda is ideal for those who want a structured yet flexible approach to language learning. Its course structure follows the Common European Framework of Reference for Languages (CEFR), allowing students to track progress from beginner to advanced or jump right into their proficiency level. This gives learners confidence they’ll reach their goals. A big bonus? After completing a level, you’ll earn a certificate from Lingoda, which is certified by the German Accreditation and Approval Regulation (AZAV).
Preply, on the other hand, is an especially budget-friendly option for language learners aiming to polish their skills. Students can work with their tutors to create a personalized plan that focuses on exactly what they need. This makes Preply a great choice for intermediate or advanced learners looking to improve targeted skills. Additionally, Preply’s availability of languages is particularly attractive, so if you’ve been searching for a less common language (like Czech or Urdu), there’s a good chance you’ll find it on Preply.
Key differences: Preply vs. Lingoda
Alright, so we’ve read about why these two platforms are some of the best. Now, let’s dive into their key differences:
Learning approach, tutor qualifications and teaching style
Learning approach: Lingoda offers both private and small group lessons capped at just five students, while Preply focuses on one-on-one sessions only. Private lessons are great for those wanting personalized attention, but group lessons allow students to learn from each other’s mistakes and questions.
Lingoda also structures its courses around the CEFR for clear progress tracking, while Preply allows students to select their tutor based on expertise and tailor their learning.
Tutor qualifications: Both Lingoda and Preply have formally qualified teachers. On Preply, students can choose their tutor based on individual needs and learning style – unlike Lingoda. Nevertheless, if you like a particular Lingoda teacher, you can book their classes.
Teaching style: Both Lingoda and Preply use live video for real-time feedback. Lingoda aims at getting students to speak from day one with immersive, interactive classes that cover reading, listening speaking, and – to some extent – writing practice too. At the end of each class, Lingoda teachers provide a quick recap to ensure students feel confident with the material, and learners can access quizzes, flashcards and other resources for extra practice.
Preply, on the other hand, offers a large selection of tutors with varied teaching styles, allowing students to browse profiles and pick the one that suits them best. Students can also book trial classes and switch tutors for free if the fit isn’t right.
Course structure and curriculum flexibility
Course structure: As mentioned, Lingoda’s lessons follow the CEFR, and once you complete a level, you’ll receive an official certificate to boost your CV. Lessons follow a set plan that blends grammar, vocabulary, and conversation practice. For faster learning, you can also try the Lingoda Sprint program.
With Preply, the structure is based on the plan you create with your tutor. After completing 10 hours of lessons, you can earn a certificate.
Curriculum flexibility: In the case of Lingoda, this will depend on whether you go for private or group lessons, with one-on-one classes offering higher flexibility. On Preply, students work with their tutors to build a personalized curriculum or can choose a teacher who specializes in a particular topic, like business language courses or IELTS preparation.
Let’s have a look now at some of the features and tools offered by each platform:
Interactive tools: AI support, progress tests and vocab practice
Lingoda: Lingoda goes the extra mile to offer immersive and interactive materials to support your learning. For example, Lingobites are a language learning tool created by AI and experts to help students test their understanding and review key vocabulary. Plus, all materials are created in-house, downloadable and easy to access. After class, students can also take quizzes to check their progress. Lastly, Lingoda uses Zoom for live lessons, allowing students and teachers to interact via video, chat, whiteboard and screen sharing.
Preply: Preply teachers provide supportive materials tailored to each student’s needs, and the platform also offers free self-study activities for extra practice. Like Lingoda, Preply lets you interact with your tutor through video chat, messaging, screen sharing and a whiteboard. After your lesson, you can test your learning with flashcards and AI-supported lesson reviews.
Mobile and desktop access
Preply is available on both browser and app, while Lingoda currently focuses on a browser-based platform.
Pros and cons: Preply vs. Lingoda
Now that we’ve got a good grasp of the main differences between Lingoda vs. Preply, let’s do a quick rundown of their pros and cons:
Strengths and weaknesses of Preply
Pros:
Flexible curriculum with a private tutor.
Affordable
Wide variety of languages (over 50).
Live, interactive one-on-one lessons with real-time feedback.
Trial classes available.
Flexible scheduling.
Mobile app for learning on the go.
Option to switch tutors at no extra cost.
Interactive “classroom” features.
Cons:
Certificate based on time spent on the platform, not actual proficiency.
Harder to track learning progress.
Does not align with CEFR standards.
No group lesson options.
Strengths and weaknesses of Lingoda
Pros:
Structured courses that align with CEFR standards.
CEFR certification based on language proficiency.
Flexible scheduling.
Offers both group and private lessons.
Fast-track programs like the Lingoda Sprint.
Live lessons with personalized feedback.
Progress tracking with certification and quizzes.
CEFR-aligned learning materials.
Interactive “classroom” features.
Emphasis on cultural immersion for faster learning.
Free 7-day trial.
Multiple subscription options.
Customizable curriculum with a private tutor.
Cons:
No mobile app available.
Less affordable.
Limited to five languages.
Can’t choose your own tutor.
Which platform is best for specific needs (e.g., resources, flexibility)?
After looking at the pros and cons of each platform, let’s break down which one might suit different student needs:
Learning resources: For high-quality, CEFR-aligned materials, go for Lingoda.
Certification: Need a CEFR certification? Lingoda’s your best bet.
Schedule flexibility: Lingoda wins here with 24/7 classes – you can take a lesson anytime. With Preply, your schedule will depend on the availability of your tutor.
Curriculum flexibility: Preply is ideal if you want to focus on specific skills or need customized prep for an exam or trip.
Language availability: Looking to learn a language that isn’t as common as French or Italian? Then Preply’s wide selection might have what you’re looking for.
From beginner to fluent: Lingoda’s structured, CEFR-based lessons are designed to guide you from beginner to fluency.
Key features: Let’s compare
Here’s a handy table to quickly compare the key features of both platforms and make your choice easier:
Features
Lingoda
Preply
24/7 lessons
✅
AI-powered materials
✅
✅
CEFR certification
✅
Choose your own tutor
✅
Group lessons
✅
Interactive features
✅
✅
Live lessons
✅
✅
Mobile app
✅
Personalized curriculum
✅ (with private lessons)
✅
Personalized feedback
✅
✅
Private lessons
✅
✅
Qualified native-speaking tutors
✅
✅
Trial lessons
✅
✅
FAQs
Got more questions? Check out these FAQs:
Can I switch tutors on these platforms? On Preply, you’ll be able to choose your own tutor and switch for free if you don’t feel a click. On Lingoda, you can explore classes with different tutors and rebook with your favorites.
How can I track my learning progress? On Preply, your tutor will help tailor your learning plan and track your progress with you. Lingoda follows CEFR standards, so you’ll advance through structured levels and can earn certifications based on your proficiency.
What happens if I miss a lesson? Preply tutors are entitled to receive payment even if their student misses a lesson, but you might be able to work it out under special circumstances. On Lingoda, you can reschedule, but you won’t get a credit refund for the missed class.
Final verdict: Which is the best choice for your language learning journey?
When it comes to choosing between Preply vs. Lingoda, it really depends on your needs, goals and budget. If you’re looking for a richer range of language options to choose from or don’t need a certification, Preply could be the right fit. But if your goal is to become fluent with native-level teachers, earn a certification and enjoy maximum flexibility, then Lingoda is the way to go. With Lingoda, you can be confident you’ll be speaking from day one.
Alison Maciejewski Cortez is Chilean-American, born and raised in California. She studied abroad in Spain, has lived in multiple countries, and now calls Mexico home. She believes that learning how to order a beer in a new language reveals a lot about local culture. Alison speaks English, Spanish, and Thai fluently and studies Czech and Turkish. Her tech copywriting business takes her around the world and she is excited to share language tips as part of the Lingoda team. Follow her culinary and cultural experiences on X.
