Memrise vs Busuu: Which is Better?
Both Memrise and Busuu are language-learning apps, but they serve different learning styles:
- Memrise focuses on real-world conversational practice with native speaker videos and vocabulary-building techniques.
- Busuu offers a structured, CEFR-aligned curriculum with grammar explanations and AI-powered feedback.
Let’s compare them in detail.
1. Overview: Memrise vs. Busuu
| Feature | Memrise | Busuu |
|---|---|---|
| Best For | Vocabulary & real-world conversation | Structured learning & speaking practice |
| Languages Offered | 23 | 14 |
| Lesson Style | Video-based learning with native speakers | CEFR-based courses with grammar focus |
| Speaking Practice | Yes, with native speaker videos | Yes, speech recognition & community feedback |
| Grammar Explanations | Minimal | Strong |
| Writing Practice | Minimal | Yes, with feedback from native speakers |
| Offline Learning | Yes (Premium) | Yes (Premium) |
| Pricing | Free & Premium | Free & Premium |
2. Key Differences Between Memrise & Busuu
A. Teaching Approach
| Aspect | Memrise | Busuu |
|---|---|---|
| Lesson Structure | Short video-based lessons | Full grammar + vocabulary lessons |
| Grammar Focus | Minimal | Strong |
| Speaking Practice | Strong (native speaker videos) | Strong (AI & community feedback) |
| Writing Practice | Limited | Strong (native speaker corrections) |
- Memrise teaches through real-life video clips and focuses on conversational skills.
- Busuu follows a structured curriculum (CEFR levels A1 to C1), including grammar, writing, and speaking exercises.
✅ Winner: Busuu (for structured learning), Memrise (for quick conversations).
B. Languages Offered
| Platform | Languages |
|---|---|
| Memrise | 23 (Spanish, French, Japanese, Korean, etc.) |
| Busuu | 14 (fewer but includes Arabic, Chinese, and Russian) |
✅ Winner: Memrise (more language options).
C. Speaking & Pronunciation Practice
| Feature | Memrise | Busuu |
|---|---|---|
| Speech Recognition | No | Yes |
| Native Speaker Videos | Yes | No |
| Community Feedback | No | Yes (native speakers correct your speaking & writing) |
- Memrise uses video clips from native speakers to improve pronunciation.
- Busuu allows you to submit recordings and receive corrections from native speakers.
✅ Winner: Busuu (better feedback & speaking tools).
D. Grammar & Writing Practice
| Feature | Memrise | Busuu |
|---|---|---|
| Grammar Lessons | No | Yes (detailed explanations) |
| Writing Practice | No | Yes (native speaker feedback) |
- Memrise lacks detailed grammar explanations and writing exercises.
- Busuu includes full grammar lessons and writing feedback.
✅ Winner: Busuu (better for structured grammar and writing).
E. Free vs. Paid Features
| Feature | Memrise Free | Busuu Free |
|---|---|---|
| Lessons | Limited | Limited |
| Speaking Practice | Yes | No |
| Writing Feedback | No | No |
| Offline Mode | No | No |
| Ads? | No | Yes |
Premium Versions:
- Memrise Pro: $8.49/month (unlimited lessons, offline access).
- Busuu Premium: $6.99/month (grammar, offline mode, writing & speaking feedback).
✅ Winner: Busuu (cheaper & better premium features).
3. Pricing & Subscription Plans
Memrise Pricing
- Monthly: $8.49/month
- Annual: $59.99/year (~$5/month)
- Lifetime: $119.99 (one-time payment)
Busuu Pricing
- Premium: $6.99/month (removes ads, unlocks grammar, offline mode)
- Premium Plus: $13.99/month (AI-powered feedback, certificates, personalized study plans)
✅ Winner: Busuu (cheaper for structured courses, Memrise better for lifetime access).
4. Final Verdict: Which One Should You Choose?
| If you want… | Best Choice |
|---|---|
| Real-world speaking & vocabulary | ✅ Memrise |
| Structured grammar lessons | ✅ Busuu |
| More language options | ✅ Memrise |
| Writing & feedback from native speakers | ✅ Busuu |
| Best free version | ✅ Memrise |
🏆 Overall Winner?
- For quick, real-world conversations → Memrise
- For structured, CEFR-based learning → Busuu
Would you like a recommendation based on your language-learning goals? 🚀