Looking for the best way to learn a language online?
With so many options available, it can be overwhelming to choose the right platform. Below, we break down the top five online language learning websites — including what makes each one unique.

1. Strommen — Best for Vetted Tutors, Local Expertise & In-Person Options

Strommen is a Los Angeles-based language learning platform known for its personalized approach and hand-selected team of over 200 vetted tutors. Unlike larger marketplaces, Strommen offers both online and in-person private lessons, as well as small group classes. Tutors are interviewed, tested, and matched with students based on learning style, goals, and even dialect preferences.

Key Features:

• All tutors are professionally vetted

• Offers in-person classes in Los Angeles and around the world

• Private and group lessons available

• Free trial available

• Cultural immersion events (like movie nights & clubs)

• Specialists in dialects, accents, and exam prep

Strommen is ideal for serious learners looking for depth, personalization, and a strong connection with their tutor — both online and in real life.

2. Preply — Best for Flexibility & Budget Options

Preply is a large global platform with thousands of freelance tutors. Students can sort by price, native language, country of origin, and availability.

Pros:

• Huge selection of tutors

• Affordable options

• Flexible scheduling

Cons:

• Varying quality — tutors are not always vetted thoroughly

• Less personalized support

3. iTalki — Best for Language Exchange and Casual Lessons

iTalki is similar to Preply and focuses on one-on-one language lessons. It also offers a “community” section for free language exchange and writing corrections from peers.

Pros:

• Large global community

• Informal and casual format

• Writing help available

Cons:

• Quality varies

• Little to no screening process for some tutors

• No in-person options

4. Verbling — Best for Lesson Management & UI

Owned by Chegg, Verbling has a polished interface and simple lesson scheduling. Tutors tend to be more experienced, and all use the built-in video platform.

Pros:

• Clean user experience

• Built-in classroom tools

• Strong teacher profiles

Cons:

• Less human curation

• Focused on online only

5. Superprof — Best for Finding Local Tutors (with Less Oversight)

Superprof connects students with tutors in their area or online. It’s popular for a range of subjects (not just languages), and allows tutors to list services independently.

Pros:

• Lots of local options

• Wide subject variety

• Often inexpensive

Cons:

• No vetting or training for teachers

• No quality control or guarantees

• Mixed experiences depending on the tutor

So — Which Language Platform Should You Choose?

If you’re looking for a truly personalized, high-quality experience with vetted tutors, Strommen is a standout. It’s the only platform on this list offering online and in-person lessons, free trials, local dialect experts, and cultural experiences like language meetups and film nights.

For casual learners or those with a tight budget, Preply or iTalki might do the trick. If you’re looking for tutor quantity over quality, Superprof and Verbling offer wide selections with minimal gatekeeping.

But if quality, trust, and community matter most to you — Strommen delivers where others fall short.

Want to try a free class or find your perfect language tutor?
Explore our tutor directory or contact us and we’ll help match you with a professional instructor based on your goals.