When it comes to learning a foreign language, video-based apps like Netflix and Lingopie have become increasingly popular among consumers. After all, who doesn’t like watching entertaining tv shows and movies. It’s just a fun, easy way to learn a new language. In this article, we evaluate the primary differences between Netflix and Lingopie so you can decide which one is the better fit for your needs.
To be crystal clear from that start here, this is not an apples-to-apples comparison.
Netflix is a video on-demand streaming service, not necessarily a language learning app. Lingopie, on the other hand, is a language learning platform. In other words, Lingopie’s primary goal is to help you learn a foreign language, while Netflix’s goal is to entertain you with premium tv shows and movies.
However, you can technically use Netflix to learn a foreign language. This can be done in two ways. You can watch tv shows and movies in your native language, but turn on the foreign subtitles (Spanish, French, Italian, etc) in order to start becoming familiar with that language. Alternatively, you can watch tv shows and movies in your target language and turn on English subtitles in order to improve your listening comprehension.
Now this is where the confusion starts to arise – Lingopie uses Netflix content to help users learn a new language. How it works is that Lingopie takes tv shows and movies from Netflix and adds on various interactive features and tools to augment the learning process. So really, you can think of Lingopie as Netflix on steroids for language learners.
Cost Comparison
Netflix offers three different subscription options: (1) Standard with ads for $7 per month; (2) Standard for around $15 per month; and (3) Premium for around $23 per month.
Lingopie offers three different plans as well: (1) 3 month plan for $36 ($12 per month); (2) a yearly plan for $72 ($6 per month); and (3) a lifetime subscription for $200.
However, the catch is that you need a Netflix subscription in order to access their content through Lingopie. Therefore, assuming you sign up for the standard Netflix plan, and the yearly Lingopie subscription, you’re looking at around $21 per month to use both.
What Lingopie Offers That Netflix Does Not
As we alluded to earlier, Lingopie layers on several features, tools, and resources on top of Netflix content to aid in the language learning process. Here’s what you can expect.
Dual Subtitles
Lingopie offers subtitles in your native language AND your target language.
Not only does this improve understanding, especially for complex or unfamiliar phrases, but it also helps learners connect words and phrases between languages, improving grammar and vocabulary acquisition.
Interactive Definitions
You can click on any word or phrase in the subtitles to instantly access translations, definitions, and grammar tips. This provides a convenient way for learners to access information without having to switch between different resources or interrupt their learning flow.
Playback Speed
Lingopie offers a playback speed option that lets you control your own pace, which is crucial for language learning. Slowing down the audio can help learners better understand fast or complex speech, allowing them to catch nuances and details they might miss at normal speed
Loop Setting
Lingopie offers users a loop setting that allows learners to repeat specific sections of a video. This repetition is crucial for language learning as it helps reinforce vocabulary, grammar, and pronunciation. By focusing on and repeating challenging parts, learners can improve their understanding and retention of the language.
Pronunciation Practice
At any point while watching a tv show or movie, you can click the microphone button below the video screen, and repeat what the character just said. And the best part is that Lingopie employs speech recognition technology (similar to Babbel and Duolingo) to provide feedback on your pronunciation.
That way, you can continue to refine your pronunciation over time in order to sound like a true local.
Interactive Flashcards
If you click on a word or phrase within the subtitles for further clarification, Lingopie automatically creates a flashcard for you to review later. And I’m not talking about your standard digital flashcards with one word on each side. These are video-based flashcards that actually include the clip from the video you were watching.
Not only do these video-based flashcards provide context for words and phrases, helping learners understand how they’re used in real-life situations, but they also engage visual learners, making vocabulary and phrases easier to remember.
Grammar Coach
If you click the lightbulb symbol below the video screen, Lingopie will provide users clear, detailed grammar explanations and insights, which helps learners improve their understanding of the target language’s structure and rules.
Do you need a Netflix subscription to use Lingopie?
Yes and no. If you want to watch Netflix content while using Lingopie’s various interactive features and tools, then yes, you need a Netflix subscription. However, Lingopie also offers other video content outside of Netflix.
What is the Lingopie Netflix extension?
Lingopie offers a browser extension that integrates seamlessly with Netflix, making it easy for users to learn a new language while enjoying premium, entertaining shows and movies.
How can I use Lingopie with Netflix?
With Lingopie’s Netflix extension, users can watch Netflix shows and movies with dual subtitles and a host of other features, allowing them to learn a new language while enjoying entertaining content. Users can also access interactive, video-based flashcards to reinforce new vocabulary, making language learning a seamless part of their entertainment experience.