Italki vs Cambly: Which is Better?
Both italki and Cambly are online platforms for learning languages, but they serve different types of learners. Here’s an in-depth comparison to help you decide.
1. Overview: What Are They?
italki
- A language tutoring platform where students book one-on-one lessons with tutors for various languages.
- Offers both Professional Teachers (certified) and Community Tutors (native speakers without credentials).
- Flexible pricing—each tutor sets their own rate.
- Suitable for learners looking for structured lessons or casual conversation practice.
Cambly
- A conversation-focused platform specializing in English learning with native speakers.
- No need to schedule—students can instantly connect with tutors 24/7.
- Focuses on speaking and listening skills rather than structured grammar lessons.
- Best for learners who want real-time English practice.
2. Learning Style: Structured vs. Conversational
italki (Structured Learning or Free Conversation)
✅ Choose your tutor based on experience, reviews, and price.
✅ Personalized lessons tailored to grammar, speaking, writing, or test prep.
✅ Great for learning over 150+ languages, not just English.
✅ Ideal for learners who want a balance of structure and flexibility.
Cambly (Casual English Conversations)
✅ Connect with native English tutors instantly—no need to book in advance.
✅ Best for improving fluency and confidence in speaking.
✅ No structured lessons—conversation-based learning only.
✅ Good for learners who struggle with speaking skills and need frequent practice.
📌 Verdict:
- Choose italki if you want a structured learning plan with various tutors.
- Choose Cambly if you want instant English conversation practice without booking lessons.
3. Pricing: Pay-Per-Lesson vs. Subscription
italki
- Pay per lesson—no subscription required.
- Tutor rates vary from $5 to $50 per hour, depending on experience.
- You can take lessons at your own pace without a long-term commitment.
Cambly
- Subscription-based pricing. Plans start from $49/month for 1 session per week.
- More expensive than italki in the long run.
- No free trial, but it offers a short trial lesson for $1.
📌 Verdict:
- italki is better if you want to pay per lesson without a recurring subscription.
- Cambly is better if you want unlimited access to tutors on a regular basis.
4. Lesson Flexibility
italki
- Schedule lessons at your convenience—not instant access.
- Choose different tutors based on teaching style, pricing, and experience.
- Lessons available in 150+ languages.
Cambly
- Instant access—no need to schedule in advance.
- All tutors are native English speakers.
- Best for quick, on-the-go English practice.
📌 Verdict:
- italki is better for structured learning with flexible scheduling.
- Cambly is better for instant English conversation practice anytime.
5. Best For…
| Feature | italki | Cambly |
|---|---|---|
| Best for | Structured or casual lessons in 150+ languages | Instant English conversation practice |
| Lesson type | One-on-one tutoring | Live conversation with native speakers |
| Cost | Pay per lesson ($5–$50/hour) | Subscription ($49+/month) |
| Languages | 150+ languages | English only |
| Grammar focus | Yes, if chosen | No, focus on speaking |
| Speaking practice | Yes, structured or casual | Yes, conversation-based |
| Flexibility | Schedule lessons | Instant access to tutors |
Final Verdict: Which One Should You Choose?
✅ Choose italki if:
- You want structured lessons for grammar, pronunciation, writing, or test prep.
- You want to learn a language other than English.
- You prefer a pay-as-you-go model without a subscription.
✅ Choose Cambly if:
- You want instant access to native English speakers anytime.
- You are only focused on improving spoken English.
- You don’t mind a monthly subscription for unlimited speaking practice.
Bottom Line
If you want structured learning in multiple languages, go for italki.
If you want instant English conversation practice, Cambly is the better choice.
Would you like recommendations based on your learning goals? 😊