Learning Estonian can feel like a bit of a challenge, especially if you’re a native English speaker. This is because Estonian is part of the Finno-Ugric language family, which is different from the language families that English, French, or Spanish belong to. But don’t worry! While Estonian has some tricky grammar and words, it’s also got some helpful features, like straightforward pronunciation and easy spelling.
The difficulty really depends on you—how much time you can spend learning, what methods you use, and how much you’re willing to practice. In the end, Estonian is not impossible to learn, and with the right tools, you can make steady progress!
In this article, we’ll show you some of the best apps to help you learn Estonian in an easy and fun way.
1. Ling: Learn Estonian Language with Fun Games
Ling is a super fun way to start learning Estonian! It has tons of topics to choose from, and the lessons feel more like games. You’ll be able to practice vocabulary and conversations with quizzes and fun chatbot chats. Plus, the app has native speaker audio to help you with your pronunciation.
- Why you’ll love it: Fun and easy, perfect for beginners!
- Link: Ling App
2. HelloTalk: Chat with Native Estonian Speakers
HelloTalk lets you chat directly with native Estonian speakers! You can text, send voice messages, or even have video calls. This is a great way to practice real conversations and get feedback from people who speak Estonian every day.
- Why you’ll love it: Real conversations, instant feedback from natives.
- Link: HelloTalk
3. Simply Learn Estonian: Quick and Easy Phrases
Simply Learn Estonian is perfect if you want to learn basic phrases and words. It has over 300 useful phrases, and you can listen to them spoken by native speakers. Plus, it has flashcards and quizzes to help you remember what you’ve learned.
- Why you’ll love it: Simple, practical phrases, great for beginners!
- Link: Simply Learn Estonian
4. SayEst: Master Your Pronunciation
If you want to sound like a native Estonian speaker, SayEst is the app for you. It focuses on helping you improve your pronunciation by giving you feedback as you speak. The app uses speech recognition, so you’ll always know if you’re saying things right.
- Why you’ll love it: Focuses on helping you pronounce words correctly.
- Link: SayEst
5. Lingvist: Learn Estonian Your Way
Lingvist is all about making your learning experience unique to you. The app tracks how you’re doing and adjusts lessons based on your progress. It focuses on teaching you the most common words, so you’re learning what you’ll actually use in everyday conversations.
- Why you’ll love it: Personalized learning at your own pace.
- Link: Lingvist
6. Anki: Flashcards for Easy Learning
If you love flashcards, Anki is a great tool for learning Estonian vocabulary. You can create your own decks or use pre-made ones. The app uses spaced repetition, which helps you remember words over time.
- Why you’ll love it: Easy to use, great for memorizing vocabulary.
- Link: Anki
7. Clozemaster: Learn Estonian in Sentences
Clozemaster is perfect if you’re looking to practice Estonian in context. You’ll fill in missing words in sentences, which helps you learn vocabulary in a natural way. It’s great for learners who want to go beyond basics and start understanding how Estonian works in real-life conversations.
- Why you’ll love it: Learn Estonian through context, ideal for intermediate learners.
- Link: Clozemaster
8. 50 Languages: A Comprehensive Learning Tool
50 Languages is perfect if you’re looking for a wide variety of lessons. The app covers everything from simple greetings to more complex grammar, with audio from native speakers to help you with listening and pronunciation.
- Why you’ll love it: Lots of lessons to help you progress at your own pace.
- Link: 50 Languages
9. iTalki: Learn Estonian with a Personal Teacher
If you want a more personalized experience, iTalki is the app to check out. You can schedule one-on-one lessons with professional Estonian teachers who will guide you through speaking, grammar, or whatever else you need.
- Why you’ll love it: Custom lessons with real teachers.
- Link: iTalki
10. Drops: Learn Estonian in Fun, Bite-Sized Sessions
Drops is a great app if you’re looking to learn vocabulary in a fun and fast way. The app uses visuals and short sessions (only five minutes a day!) to teach you new words and phrases. It’s perfect for busy people who want to learn in small bursts.
- Why you’ll love it: Quick and easy lessons that fit into your busy schedule.
- Link: Drops
Final Thoughts
Learning Estonian might seem tricky at first, but with these amazing apps, you’ll have all the help you need to make it easier and more enjoyable. Whether you’re a beginner or looking to improve your skills, there’s an app for you. Just choose the ones that fit your learning style, and start practicing today!