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Did you know that in Sweden, the most popular language to learn on Duolingo is Swedish? Swedish is spoken only by around 10 million people, but there are thousands more who want to add their names to the list.
One of the ways you can do so is by downloading some apps to learn Swedish – and lucky for you, we’ve listed the best ones out there.
I’ll cut to the chase. There’s a pretty sizable variety of apps to learn Swedish out there, and not all of them are good.
The ones that we think are useful are included below. We’ve even categorized them so you can get what you need as efficiently as possible.
Top picks
First though, a run-down of my personal favorites.
- Babbel is the app I recommend to any level of learner. It covers all areas of language learning, tracks your progress, and teaches you what you actually need to know.
- To get you speaking Swedish, there can only be Italki, an app that gives you the opportunity to practice your Swedish with a Swedish speaker who can correct, motivate and teach you.
- Lastly, I’m a big fan of SprĂĄkkraft Reading Coach, an app that turns your Netflix lazy-time into Swedish lessons.
But those are just a few of my favorites. Now it’s time to get into the details. Here are 16 apps to learn Swedish for every type of learner. Let’s go!
The best apps to learn Swedish
If you want to get a solid grasp of the Swedish language, these are the best of the best! From game-like lessons to customized courses, we’ve got them all here.
1. Babbel
No doubt about it, Babbel is our number one choice. Customization is key, and Babbel lets you decide what you learn and at what level.
Everything from the topics to the type of lessons you’d like to receive can be tailored to suit you, so you can optimize your lessons according to your goals.
Swedish vocabulary, grammar, pronunciation, and pretty much any topic you like is what’s on offer. All learners of every level can benefit from Babbel’s wide selection of lessons and topics, making it one of the best apps to learn Swedish.
Why you should try Babbel:
- Offers courses for all level of learners
- Content is useful and applicable to real-life situations
- Great customization features
- Varied content to keep lessons interesting
- Cross-platform syncing
Pricing: Some lessons are free, so try it out. To upgrade, a monthly plan is $13.95, while a 3-month plan is $41.85, a half-year plan is $83.70, and a full-year subscription is $167.40.
Devices: iOS and Android
2. Mondly
Mondly’s short, fun, and frequent lessons shouldn’t fool you into thinking that it’s not effective enough. On the contrary, the gamified approach of Mondly, combined with solid neural science and cutting-edge technology, is what makes mastering a new language easier.
One of the most engaging apps to learn Swedish, Mondly draws you in with daily bite-sized lessons that aim to widen your vocabulary, strengthen your grammar knowledge, and improve your pronunciation.
With high-quality audio recordings, you can learn to speak Swedish words and phrases like a native. Plus, with a paid subscription, you can practice real conversations with a Chatbot and exclusive courses via augmented reality.
Why you should try Mondly:
- Gamified, competitive, and innovative lessons daily
- Quality audio featuring native speakers
- Effective intervals of repetition for easier recall
- Lessons focus on phrases and not individual words so you learn in context
- Learn from any language, not just English
Pricing: One free lesson daily. Full access is available for $9.99/month or $47.99/year. You may also check out the latest Mondly Premium promo.
3. Ling App
Whether you plan to visit Sweden soon for leisure or business, or you simply want bragging rights, Ling is one of the most accessible apps to learn Swedish. And with plenty of mini-games and quizzes, you won’t get bored at all.
Ling features a variety of Swedish courses fit for beginners onwards. The interactive learning materials make it fun but still substantial. The app touches on the essentials while developing your vocabulary, grammar, and speaking skills.
Visual learners will love exercises of matching pictures to words while those who learn more from text will enjoy sorting sentences in the right order. To improve oral skills, you can practice your conversation with a chatbot.
Why you should try Ling:
- Fun and interactive way to master Swedish
- Perfect for beginners but also useful for advanced learners who need reviewing
- Native Swedish speakers help perfect your pronunciation
Pricing: The free version covers several lessons. For complete access to content, sign up for the Pro version for only $14.99/month.
Devices: iOS and Android
4. Pimsleur
Auditory learners, this is the app for you. Pimsleur Swedish teaches its users “rikssvenska”. That means that your accent and word choice will be the most neutral in Sweden as it relies less on dialect.
You get access to essential words and phrases in context, taught seamlessly through 30-minute core audio lessons.
Then take your lessons up a notch with bonus learning materials such as quizzes, digital flashcards, and speed round games.
Here’s an offer for you: Try Pimsleur Swedish absolutely FREE today!
Why you should try Pimsleur:
- Vocabulary taught in context of conversation
- Start speaking Swedish from day one
- Improves listening and reading skills
- Bonus learning materials to supplement audio lessons
Pricing: Pimsleur subscription is $14.95/month for Audio-Only; $19.95/month for Premium (with Bonus Materials), or $20.95/month for All Access. Start your full access via the 7-day free trial.
Devices: iOS and Android
5. Italki
Why are you learning Swedish? To speak it, of course! There’s no better way to practice your speaking skills than having another person who can correct, encourage and teach you.
Italki is your pocket portal to a whole new world of language learning. Pick a tutor that suits you and you’re halfway there. Want to learn Swedish with a particular dialect or accent in mind? You can!
Alternatively, you can check out more tutors on Preply. Rates are also competitive here.
Why you should use Italki:
- App offers native and non-native tutors
- All tutors specialize in different areas
- You get to practice speaking informally and formally
- It’s customizable (tutor, times, methods, content, etc.)
- It’s convenient – any time that suits you suits them!
Pricing: The app is free, but tutors set their own pricing for lessons, which range from $4-80. Find a tutor on Italki now!
Devices: iOS and Android
6. Learning Swedish
Learning Swedish is based on the first module of the course of the same name. It’ll teach you all the basics, making it one of the best apps to learn Swedish if you’re new to the language.
The app includes materials for self-studying and focuses on basic spoken and written knowledge of the Swedish language. You will also gain insight into Swedish culture and society.
This app, and the course, are developed by the Swedish Institute, a public agency, together with a group of experienced Swedish teachers and partners. The app is awaiting updates upon the relaunch of the course but it still remains a relevant source for learners.
Why you should try Learning Swedish:
- Great for complete beginners
- Covers all the basics
- Gives insight into cultural norms and practices
- Well-structured lessons with steady progression
Pricing: Free!
Devices: iOS and Android
7. Drops
Filled with beautifully illustrated and playful lessons, Drops is one of the most immersive apps to learn Swedish. If you’re a visual learner and enjoy learning through games, this is the app for you.
Drops is a flashcard app that’s great for building Swedish vocabulary. The premise is simple: you drag and drop words to their matching images, or vice versa. This way, you build visual association and strengthen your recall.
You can start learning for five minutes a day and be introduced to over 2,000 Swedish words. These words are categorized into topics and focus on commonly used words so you’ll be gaining practical knowledge, too.
Why you should try Drops:
- Ideal for building vocabulary
- Learn practical Swedish words and phrases
- Interactive and aesthetically pleasing interface
- Learn through memory association
Pricing: Play for five minutes a day for free. You can get extended play time for as low as $8.49/month.
Devices: iOS and Android
Best apps to learn Swedish for immersive learners
Learn best by just throwing yourself in the deep end? Or have you tried learning by rote and given yourself a headache?
Not everyone has the option of moving to Sweden to learn the language. But you do have the option of checking out these apps to save you the airfare.
8. LingQ
Movie buffs and lovers of Swedish pop culture, LingQ was created for you. Learn Swedish by watching Netflix, reading books you’ll actually enjoy, or just by browsing YouTube. It’s not the media that’s important, it’s what you take away from it.
LingQ works by providing a whole host of Swedish media – so, YouTube, Netflix, ebooks and news articles, and turning them into lessons.
Fussy about what you like? You have the option of uploading your own stuff too. Highlight words you don’t know, set some goals and soak up Swedish in a way that engages you.
Why you should use LingQ:
- You’re already familiar with some Swedish vocabulary
- You learn best through immersion tactics
- You want to set your own goals and interests
- It’s easier than watching Netflix and pausing to grab a dictionary!
Pricing: Free with a daily cap on your unknown words. Premium costs $12.99 per month, but you can also buy bulk usage of the app: 6 months – $11.99 per month; one year – $8.99 per month; and two years will cost you $7.99 per month.
Devices: iOS and Android
9. SVT Play
SVT Play is similar to LingQ but it’s made with just Swedish TV in mind. If you don’t know what SVT is, it’s the name of Sweden’s national broadcaster (think ABC or BBC but the Swedish equivalent). This is also why you can only access this app in Sweden.
Here’s how it works: you select your proficiency level, pick a TV show you like, and watch. Every time someone speaks, you get a transcription in Swedish, a translation to your native language and additional language support.
It’s a great way to get to grips with cultural nuances and improve your listening skills.
Why you should use SVT Play:
- You’re already familiar with some Swedish
- You want to learn dialects or more about Swedish culture
- You prefer “doing” to “reading”
- Puts lessons you learn from books, other apps or courses into context
Pricing: Free!
Devices: iOS and Android
10. HelloTalk
Don’t fall into the trap of isolating yourself with media and/or books. If you want to learn the Swedish language, there’s no better way than to actually start speaking it.
HelloTalk is a digital pen-pal service that links users with individuals or groups to practice speaking languages. I recommend using this app in conjunction with one or a few of the other apps listed in this article to get the most out of it.
You might even make a new friend! One of the best apps to learn Swedish if you like having a study buddy, too.
Why you should use HelloTalk:
- You need to practice speaking/writing every day to achieve fluency
- It’s a fun and interactive way to learn Swedish
- You get corrections, advice and encouragement from native speakers
- There’s a huge chance you’ll learn something you won’t find in textbooks!
Pricing: It’s 100% free to use unless you’re irritated by advertising, in which case you can pay $6.99 a month for a decluttered screen.
Devices: iOS and Android
11. SprĂĄkkraft Reading Coach
SprĂĄkkraft Reading Coach is another great (free!) app to learn Swedish. You answer a few questions about the media you like (tweets, anime movies, YouTube vlogs for example) and SprĂĄkkraft does the rest.
Each word is translated for you and conjugations are included so you get a grammar lesson while you scroll Twitter!
There’s also a cool feature that allows you to link your Spotify account to Språkkraft so you can get translations of your favorite Swedish songs! Any word that is uttered, sung, or otherwise featured can be highlighted by you and saved to your own curated word bank.
Why you should use SprĂĄkkraft:
- It doesn’t matter what level you are, this app is for everyone!
- You want to learn Swedish interactively
- You need fresh and varied content to learn
- You’re someone who prefers your grammar lessons disguised as fun!
Devices: iOS and Android
Best apps to learn Swedish for free
When funds are low but determination is high, you can get the basics of Swedish for free from apps. Of course, when we say basics, we mean the basics. But as starters, these do a pretty good job.
Here are some apps to help you learn Swedish for free!
12. Duolingo
Many beginners to learning languages settle for Duolingo straightaway without comparing it to its competitors. However, there’s a lot to consider here.
While Duolingo does offer a lot of basic lessons free, they do become repetitive and the ads can become infuriating over time.
In my opinion, Duolingo occasionally sacrifices functionality for entertainment. The above pictures are genuine screenshots supposedly for expert-level Swedish.
Simply put, Duolingo is great for picking up vocabulary, but it isn’t the fastest or most efficient way to learn Swedish.
Why you should use Duolingo:
- You’re learning Swedish for fun
- You’re a complete novice
- There are forums you can discuss learning Swedish with fellow learners
- Each lesson has grammar, pronunciation, and/or cultural tips
- You learn best through repetition
Pricing: Free. You can pay to get access to special features such as going ad-free. If you want to upgrade, Plus is $12.99 on a monthly plan, $47.99 for 6 months, and $79.99 for the full year.
Devices: iOS and Android
13. Hej Bas
Hej Bas scales back learning Swedish to its simplest form: learning phrases, building up useful vocabulary and training your brain to recognize words and phrases.
This app uses a blend of techniques to ensure that you maximize listening, reading and writing skills. The interface would probably make Steve Jobs shudder, but the content is accurate and easy to follow.
Why you should use Hej Bas:
- You’re a complete novice who doesn’t know where to begin
- You want to practice multiple skills at the same time
- You’re prepared to sacrifice aesthetic for results
- You like uncomplicated interface
Devices: iOS only
14. Lingio
Lingio was developed by local governments in Sweden to help newcomers learn the Swedish they need to get by.
You can practice spelling, speech, and sentence building as you complete A1 and A2 levels of Swedish. The audio recordings help with practicing pronunciation.
Themes covered include, but aren’t limited to, introductions, at the grocery store, and time and numbers. Those who are planning on moving to Sweden can definitely get a head start by downloading this app.
Why you should use Lingio New in Sweden:
- You’re a beginner Swedish learner
- You need to learn the basics quickly
- Accurate and easy-to-follow content
Best Swedish dictionary apps
When you need to look up a word or phrase, relying on Google Translate can get you into dangerous territory.
It’s always better to go for the dictionary’s opinion before you start declaring a mask a worm or vice versa (unhelpfully, the Swedish word mask can mean either of these things. Context is key!)
Here are my favorites:
15. Lexin Pro
Lexin Pro is based on the Folkets Lexikon, which is a huge online anthology of Swedish words (colloquial and official).
This app is a must-have for Swedish learners because it provides more than just a simple translation. You get common uses, pronunciation, plurals or conjugations and it’s optimized for more than just translations to English.
Why you should use Lexin Pro:
- Easy to use
- Get access to more information than just a word’s English equivalent
- You can set your own language preferences (Swedish to ____)
- You’re always gifted context and common uses
Pricing: Free
16. SAOL (Svenska Akademiens Ord Lista)
If in doubt, use what the locals do. This is my favorite Swedish language app for getting in deep. If you’re in the intermediate to expert range of Swedish learner, this is for you.
This app includes a “historic dictionary” where you can find out when a word or phrase was first used and in what context. Also interesting to find out how words have changed meaning over time.
Why you should use SAOL:
- Best for learners who already have basic Swedish vocabulary
- Comprehensive digital Swedish dictionary
- You can look up unusual/uncommon words or phrases
- Can help you achieve fluency
Pricing: Free
Conclusion
And there you have it! You now have 14 apps to learn Swedish to choose from so that you can achieve fluency. However, for a more well-rounded learning experience, I would advise exploring other sources, too.
There are plenty of Swedish learning materials available. For a more structured learning path, you can find books to learn Swedish or enroll in an online course. Listening to Swedish podcasts and watching Swedish films help, too!
Before you hit the apps or courses, check out: 100+ Swedish words and phrases you need to master. Lycka till frĂĄn oss!
I’m looking for desktop applications to learn Swedish. (Not phone apps) Do you know of any?