14 Best Online English Courses

by Emily JohnsonFebruary 6, 20257 minutes read

Improving your English skills while managing a busy lifestyle can be challenging, but with online English conversation platforms, you can enhance your skills by having conversations with native speakers in the comfort of your own home during your free time. With so many services available, it can be tough to choose the right one. However, by utilizing platforms and apps that cater to learners from beginners to advanced levels, you can effectively progress in your learning.

1. Duolingo

Duolingo is a globally renowned language learning app designed to improve users' language skills through interactive exercises. It offers not only English but also a variety of languages such as Spanish, French, and German. The platform advances learning through short units and offers a game-like experience, making it enjoyable to learn. Duolingo encourages daily check-ins and challenges to help users review what they have learned and track their progress.

Cost: Free version / Duolingo Plus (starting at ¥1,700 per month, varying depending on the subscription plan)

Suitable for: Learners at all English levels, especially those who want to utilize flexible study hours and learn in their spare time.

2. DMM Eikaiwa

DMM Eikaiwa is a highly popular online English conversation platform in Japan, known for offering lessons available 24/7. Whether it's morning or late at night, learners can practice speaking with foreign teachers at their convenience. The lessons cover a wide range, from daily conversations to business English, and are highly customizable to meet learners' needs. Regular speaking practice and flexible learning methods help learners steadily improve their English skills through real conversations.

Cost: ¥6,480 per month (varies depending on the plan)

Suitable for: Learners of all English levels, especially those who need flexible study hours due to irregular schedules.

3. NativeCamp

The standout feature of NativeCamp is its "unlimited lessons" service, which allows learners to take as many lessons as they want, without the need for prior reservation, at any time. Lessons range from daily conversations to specialized business English, providing an extensive variety of options. For learners who want to practice English conversation frequently, NativeCamp is an ideal choice, offering flexible scheduling according to one's pace.

Cost: ¥6,480 per month (unlimited lessons)

Suitable for: Learners with flexible study hours who wish to practice speaking frequently, particularly those who prefer a low-pressure learning environment.

4. RareJob

RareJob is an online English conversation service tailored specifically for Japanese learners, with a strong focus on business English. It offers customized lessons based on the learner's level, and individual lessons are available. Emphasizing pronunciation and listening skills, it simulates real-world business English conversations, effectively developing practical language skills for the workplace.

Cost: ¥7,980 per month (25 minutes per day)

Suitable for: Learners with intermediate or higher English levels, especially those looking to improve business English or workplace conversation skills.

5. Cambly

Cambly is a platform that allows learners to take one-on-one lessons via video calls with native English-speaking teachers. Learners can choose teachers from various countries like the U.S., U.K., and Australia, each offering different accents. The lessons cover everything from daily conversations to specialized English, and Cambly is suitable for learners with irregular schedules due to its flexible study times.

Cost: ¥13,900 per month (one lesson per day)

Suitable for: Learners who want to improve spoken fluency and listening skills, especially those who prefer actual dialogues in the lessons.

6. EnglishClass101

EnglishClass101 offers a unique approach to learning English by using vibrant videos and interactive exercises. This platform enables learners to improve listening, pronunciation, grammar, and more through a multifaceted approach. It provides a wide range of courses, from daily conversation to writing and pronunciation, with lessons tailored to individual learning progress.

Cost: From ¥3,380 per month

Suitable for: Learners who wish to strengthen overall English skills, particularly those focusing on grammar, pronunciation, and listening.

7. iTalki

iTalki is an online English conversation platform where learners can select teachers from around the world. The flexibility to choose the right teacher and customize lessons based on individual needs makes this platform highly versatile. Courses cover grammar, pronunciation, and industry-specific English, among others.

Cost: From ¥750 per lesson (varies depending on the teacher's fee)

Suitable for: Learners of all ages and levels, particularly those who want to customize lessons to their specific goals.

8. EF English Live

EF English Live, provided by the globally recognized EF Education, offers practical courses in business English and travel English. This platform is especially suitable for those who frequently use English in their workplace or travel. It combines interactive materials with support from native teachers to improve listening, speaking, and writing skills efficiently.

Cost: ¥9,800 per month (varies depending on course content and lesson frequency)

Suitable for: Those wanting to learn business English, daily conversations, or travel English, especially those in professions that require regular English communication.

9. Voxy

Voxy offers an immersive learning experience by using real-world news and articles as learning materials. By analyzing current news topics, learners can enhance their listening and reading skills. This platform also allows learners to gain exposure to global events, helping them stay informed while improving their English skills.

Cost: From ¥6,900 per month

Suitable for: Learners who wish to study English using real-world materials and deepen their understanding of listening, reading, and cultural awareness.

10. Verbling

Verbling is a global language learning platform with certified teachers, providing high-quality education. It offers one-on-one lessons and helps learners rapidly improve their English skills. Lessons cover everything from daily conversations to business and academic English. It is particularly ideal for learners looking to improve their speaking fluency through conversations with native speakers.

Cost: Free trial available; after trial, ¥3,000 per hour (depending on the teacher's fee).

Suitable for: Those seeking one-on-one lessons with native teachers, particularly learners aiming for advanced English skills.

11. GoFluent

GoFluent specializes in teaching workplace and professional English, offering customized courses in business and technical English. The platform's flexible learning hours and individualized lessons help learners improve their English efficiently.

Cost: From ¥14,500 per month (varies depending on course customization)

Suitable for: Learners who need business or technical English, particularly those in professional fields like finance or technology.

12. FluentU

FluentU is an innovative English learning platform that uses real-world videos, including movie scenes, music videos, and news clips, to enhance listening skills and vocabulary. The platform also features subtitle functions and flashcards to help learners memorize new words and phrases.

Cost: 4-day free plan available, monthly subscription starts at ¥1,800

Suitable for: Learners who wish to learn English through real-world content such as movies and news, and those who want to improve listening skills in a fun and engaging way.

13. Lingoda

Lingoda is a globally popular online language learning platform offering both group and one-on-one English conversation lessons. It features a "Language Challenge" function, where learners complete tasks to stay motivated. Lingoda emphasizes real-time interaction, helping learners improve their English skills in a natural language environment.

Cost: From ¥9,000 per month (varies depending on course number and type)

Suitable for: Learners who prefer group or one-on-one lessons and want to develop their English skills through long-term study plans.

14. Rosetta Stone

Rosetta Stone is one of the earliest language learning software platforms, specializing in basic and beginner-level English. It uses an immersive language learning approach to help learners naturally acquire English. Through interactive images and audio exercises, learners pick up new vocabulary and grammar used in everyday life.

Cost: From ¥5,480 per month (prices vary depending on the learning level)

Suitable for: Beginners or those looking to learn English from the basics.

Conclusion

Online English conversation platforms offer the best solution for those looking to learn English efficiently and flexibly in today's fast-paced world. By taking advantage of the unique features of different platforms and apps, learners can find the best study style for themselves. With the ability to learn from home without time or location constraints, learners can practice English conversation with native speakers and develop practical language skills. Start your English learning journey today and choose the online service that suits you. Improving your English skills will open up a wider world and bring more opportunities!