With so many different language learning apps available these days, it can be difficult to choose the right one. In this article, we compare and contrast two popular, yet unique language programs to see how they stack up (Lingopie and LingQ). That way, hopefully you can choose the best app for your particular situation, and you can begin making progress on your language learning journey right away.
Given that this is a lengthy, detailed comparison, we’ve included jump-to links above for your convenience.
To kick this comparison off, let’s start by discussing how Lingopie works, and the strengths of their language programs relative to LingQ.
Lingopie is a video-on-demand platform designed for language learning. In simpler terms, it’s an app that uses real TV shows and movies to help you learn a new language (somewhat similar to FluentU).
When you sign up and select your target language, you’re taken to a dashboard that closely resembles Netflix. Like Netflix, Lingopie offers a variety of shows and movies to choose from, categorized by genres such as latest releases, cartoons, mysteries, and suspense.
When you start watching a show or movie, there are subtitles and various features and tools to help you understand and learn the dialogue. I’ll delve into these features more deeply when I discuss the pros and cons later on, but for now, that’s the basic idea of how Lingopie works.
Next, let’s have a brief discussion about cost, as it’s a key consideration for many learners.
LingQ offers a free version of their app, but it comes with limitations. To access more features, they encourage users to sign up for one of their premium plans, which range from $8 to $15 per month, depending on the chosen subscription period.
On the other hand, Lingopie’s plans are priced at approximately $6 to $12 per month. While Lingopie is technically the cheaper option by a few dollars per month, both apps are similarly priced and quite affordable in the realm of language learning.
One standout feature of Lingopie is its unique and entertaining approach to language learning.
Unlike traditional language apps, Lingopie resembles platforms like Netflix or Hulu, but tailored for language learners. You watch TV shows and movies to learn French, German, or any other language you’re interested in.
These are real shows and movies that you’d probably watch in your free time anyway, such as Stranger Things and The Snow Girl. The concept is to make language learning more engaging by combining it with the enjoyment of binge-watching.
This approach aims to reduce the monotony and frustration often associated with learning a new language, potentially keeping learners engaged for longer periods. Lingopie succeeds in making the language learning process less intimidating and more casual.
Moving on, it’s worth noting that Lingopie is particularly well-suited for visual learners. If you find that you learn best through visual means, Lingopie’s video library will likely appeal to you.
While LingQ does offer some video content, it’s not as extensive as Lingopie’s collection. Therefore, if you identify as a visual learner, Lingopie is likely the better choice for you over LingQ.
Next, let’s discuss the various features and tools that enhance the learning experience within Lingopie. Initially, I anticipated simply watching TV shows with subtitles. However, the program offers much more than that.
When you hover over a word in the subtitles, Lingopie provides a detailed definition and analysis of the word or phrase. Additionally, the platform automatically generates interactive, video-based flashcards when you click on a word. These flashcards are beneficial for recall and overall retention of the material.
Moreover, Lingopie includes a loop setting that allows you to repeat the scene you just watched until you understand what is happening. You can also control the playback speed, which is particularly useful for beginners to slow down the pace if the characters in the show or movie speak too quickly.
One of the most impressive features of Lingopie is its approach to grammar instruction, which I believe is one of the program’s greatest strengths. There are three key reasons for this.
Firstly, Lingopie color-codes its subtitles to help users identify and learn different grammatical elements of the target language.
Secondly, clicking on any word within the subtitle provides a detailed explanation, including its definition, gender (masculine or feminine), number (singular or plural), and more.
Finally, Lingopie offers a grammar coach feature. If you need further clarification on a word or phrase, you can click the lightbulb icon below the video screen. This prompts the company to provide a detailed explanation of the grammar rules at play in the sentence or phrase along the right-hand side of the screen.
Overall, Lingopie offers comprehensive grammar insights through various methods, while LingQ (like Duolingo) does not prioritize grammar content.
➡️Want more detail? Read our full Lingopie review
Now that you have a clear picture of what Lingopie brings to the table, let’s flip the script and discuss the major advantages of using LingQ to learn a new language like Spanish, Russian, or Italian, for example.
LingQ effectively turns a variety of written and audio content into language learning lessons. Users have the option to import their own material or select from a community library that includes books, news articles, podcasts, YouTube videos, and more.
This content is presented in written form with accompanying audio, all in the target language without English translations. The aim is to immerse learners in the language by providing them with diverse and authentic materials, allowing them to naturally acquire new vocabulary within the context of the content.
Through this approach, learners can engage deeply with the target language through both reading and listening activities.
LingQ stands out for its vast content library, exceeding even Lingopie’s offerings. With such a wide selection, users can easily immerse themselves in numerous options.
The platform offers a diverse range of lessons, including current news articles, books, cartoons, podcasts, and more. Users can also narrow down their search by selecting topics of interest, such as sports, technology, culture, science, food, history, and many others.
This level of customization allows learners to concentrate on lessons that genuinely engage them, a highly beneficial feature. Learning with relevant content provides practical context for language use, aiding learners in understanding how the language is applied in real-life scenarios.
Furthermore, it can improve the retention of new vocabulary, as learners are more likely to pay attention and relate the new information to their existing knowledge.
Secondly, I admire LingQ’s feature that enables users to import their own content and convert it into personalized lessons. The process is simple: users can copy and paste the content or upload a file, and LingQ will automatically create a transcript, turning the uploaded material—whether it’s an article, book, podcast, or other content—into a tailored lesson.
This functionality reinforces my earlier point about the significance of relevant content. When learners select material that captures their interest, the learning process becomes more engaging and effective.
Using familiar content is particularly beneficial as it allows learners to concentrate on understanding the language itself, rather than struggling to grasp the content.
Moreover, familiar content provides a context for learning new words and phrases, making it easier to remember and apply them in various contexts.
Finally, I admire how LingQ integrates gamification into its learning approach. Users can earn points and coins for activities like reading, listening, and learning new words. These points allow progression through different levels, providing a sense of achievement.
LingQ also tracks streaks, offers challenges and contests to maintain focus on goals, and provides leaderboards for comparing progress with others. This competitive aspect fosters motivation and encourages improvement.
Overall, this gamified approach enhances the learning experience, making it more enjoyable and engaging, while boosting confidence and motivation to continue learning. LingQ deserves recognition for integrating these elements into their platform.
➡️Also Worth Reading: LingQ vs Pimsleur
After trying out both apps, I have to say that Lingopie takes the win.
While LingQ offers a vast content library and gamified learning, I find Lingopie’s content and language tools to be more engaging and effective. Personally, I prefer watching TV shows and movies over reading news articles, and I find Lingopie’s learning tools and digital platform to be more user-friendly.
Additionally, LingoPie excels in grammar instruction, which is a significant factor for me.
Overall, if you’re serious about learning a new language, I highly recommend choosing LingoPie over LingQ.
➡️Read Next: Lingopie vs Babbel
In comparing LingQ and Lingopie, Lingopie stands out for its more entertaining and effective content and language tools, as well as its strong focus on grammar instruction. While LingQ offers a vast content library and gamified learning experience, Lingopie’s approach may be more engaging and suitable for those preferring visual learning and entertainment-focused content.
Lingopie outshines LingQ for learning a new language due to its more engaging and effective content, user-friendly learning tools, and strong focus on grammar instruction. Lingopie’s approach, which includes using TV shows and movies as learning materials, may be more enjoyable and suitable for learners seeking an immersive and entertaining language learning experience.