Your Guide to the Best Spoken English Classes Online

by Emily CarterOctober 28, 20247 minutes read

In a world where communication is key, mastering spoken English can transform your personal and professional life. Whether you’re gearing up for travel, aiming for a promotion, or simply looking to connect with people from different cultures, enhancing your English speaking skills is essential. With the rise of online learning, a wealth of resources is now at your fingertips, offering flexibility and accessibility like never before. From engaging apps to interactive platforms, there’s something for everyone.Let’s embark on this language journey together!

1. Duolingo

If you’re just starting out, Duolingo is a fantastic way to ease into spoken English classes online. With its gamified approach, learning feels less like a chore and more like a fun challenge. The app's bite-sized lessons are perfect for busy schedules, allowing you to practice a few minutes each day. While it’s primarily text-based, the speaking exercises help you get comfortable with pronunciation. Ideal for absolute beginners or anyone looking to brush up on the basics.

●Cost: Free with ads, or about $6.99/month for an ad-free experience.

2. Cambly

For those who crave real conversation, Cambly is a game changer. This platform connects you with native English speakers for one-on-one lessons at any time of day. The instant feedback is invaluable, making it a great choice for intermediate learners aiming to refine their spoken skills. The flexibility to choose your tutor and lesson focus allows for a personalized experience, making Cambly perfect for busy professionals or students with unpredictable schedules.

●Cost: Plans start at $10.99 per hour, with flexible subscription options.

3. iTalki

With iTalki, the world is literally at your fingertips. This platform boasts a wide range of teachers from various backgrounds, allowing you to select someone who matches your learning style. The focus here is on conversation practice, which is crucial for fluency. If you’re looking for tailored lessons that meet your specific goals—be it business English, travel lingo, or casual chit-chat—iTalki has you covered. It’s ideal for motivated learners who want a bespoke approach.

●Cost: Prices vary by tutor, usually between $10 to $30 per hour.

4. Preply

Preply shines with its flexible learning options and a vast selection of tutors. You can book lessons that fit your schedule and choose teachers based on their ratings and teaching styles. The platform caters to all levels, but its extensive pool of experienced instructors makes it particularly suitable for advanced learners looking to polish their speaking skills. Whether you want to discuss literature, business strategies, or current events, Preply offers a tailored experience.

●Cost: Typically ranges from $10 to $40 per hour, depending on the tutor’s experience.

5. HelloTalk

If you want to dive into real-world conversations, HelloTalk is a unique blend of language learning and social networking. You connect with native speakers and practice English through text, voice messages, or video calls. This platform is perfect for those who prefer informal learning and want to make friends while practicing. Ideal for social butterflies and adventurous learners alike, HelloTalk makes language exchange a breeze.

●Cost: Free with optional in-app purchases; a VIP subscription is around $6.99/month.

6. FluentU

FluentU takes a refreshing approach by using real-world videos, like movie trailers and music videos, to teach spoken English. Each video comes with interactive subtitles, which allows you to learn new vocabulary in context. This immersive method is particularly engaging for visual learners or anyone looking to boost their listening and speaking skills simultaneously. If you love learning through media, FluentU is a great choice.

●Cost: Approximately $30/month.

7. Verbling

With Verbling, you can have live, one-on-one classes with qualified teachers. The platform is user-friendly and allows you to filter teachers by their availability and expertise. This is especially beneficial for learners who have specific goals, like preparing for an interview or improving their accent. Verbling is perfect for those who thrive in structured environments but still want the flexibility of online learning.

●Cost: Prices range from $15 to $50 per hour.

8. Skillshare

While Skillshare is known for a variety of courses, it also offers some excellent spoken English classes online. The platform features content created by industry experts, making it a great choice for those interested in niche topics. If you’re a creative type looking to improve your spoken English in a more specialized field—like marketing or design—Skillshare is a hidden gem.

●Cost: Subscription starts at about $19/month.

9. Engoo

Engoo provides a straightforward approach to learning English, focusing heavily on conversational skills. With over 2000 lessons available, you can easily find material that suits your level and interests. The flexibility in scheduling makes it perfect for learners who need to fit English practice into their busy lives. Engoo is best for those who want a no-nonsense approach to improving their speaking skills.

●Cost:Plans start around $5.50 per lesson.

10. Lingoda

If you’re looking for a more structured curriculum, Lingoda offers live classes in small groups or one-on-one settings. Their comprehensive programs are designed to improve your speaking, listening, and grammar skills simultaneously. It’s perfect for learners who prefer a classroom feel but want the convenience of online learning. Ideal for those preparing for exams or professional settings.

●Cost: Approximately $8.90 per lesson with a subscription.

11. EF English Live

With a strong emphasis on practical language use, EF English Livefocuses on improving speaking skills through real-life scenarios. This platform is ideal for learners who want to develop their conversational abilities in a structured format. The interactive lessons make learning engaging, making it a solid choice for busy professionals or students.

●Cost: Plans are generally around $29.95/month.

20. Udemy

Finally, Udemy offers a wide variety of courses, including many focused on spoken English. With a plethora of user-generated content, you can find something that suits your interests and learning style. It’s ideal for self-motivated learners who enjoy exploring diverse topics at their own pace.

●Cost: Courses typically range from $10 to $200.

13. Rosetta Stone

Rosetta Stone has been around for a long time, known for its immersive learning techniques. The focus on pronunciation and speaking makes it a solid choice for beginners. If you prefer a comprehensive, structured course that emphasizes speaking from the get-go, Rosetta Stone is worth considering, though it may require a bigger time commitment.

●Cost: Approximately $11.99/month for a 12-month plan.

14. Mango Languages

Mango Languages offers a diverse range of courses focusing on conversational skills and practical language use. It’s ideal for travelers or those looking to learn English for specific situations. If you want to quickly pick up everyday phrases and conversational skills, Mango is a great option.

●Cost: About $19.99/month.

15. EnglishClass101

With a wealth of resources, EnglishClass101 is fantastic for learners who enjoy a multimedia approach. The platform features podcasts, videos, and interactive lessons that cater to various learning styles. It’s a great choice for anyone looking to enhance their spoken English while also diving into cultural nuances.

●Cost: Plans start at around $8/month.

16. Rype

Rype is all about personalized learning through one-on-one sessions with experienced teachers. The platform focuses on conversation practice, making it suitable for learners who want to enhance their speaking fluency quickly. If you’re someone who thrives on direct interaction and tailored feedback, Rype is worth a look.

●Cost: Monthly subscription starts at around $24.99 for unlimited classes.

17. Tandem

Similar to HelloTalk, Tandem focuses on language exchange. You can practice spoken English with native speakers while helping them learn your language. It’s perfect for outgoing learners who enjoy social interactions and want to improve their conversational skills in a natural setting.

●Cost: Free with premium options available for about $6.99/month.

With so many options available, finding the right spoken English classes online can feel overwhelming. Consider your learning style, goals, and schedule to choose the platform that resonates with you. Remember, the journey to fluency is a marathon, not a sprint—so pick a platform that makes learning enjoyable and fits seamlessly into your life! Happy learning!