English learning platforms: ELLA, Duolingo, Babbel

English is the most widely learned foreign language in the world. Both children and adults study it for work, travel, and everyday communication. Because of this, there are many platforms, apps, and websites that allow people to learn English on their own.

Below is a short overview of three popular platforms for learning English: ELLA, Duolingo, and Babbel, including their main advantages and disadvantages.

ELLA

ELLA is a professional e-learning platform designed specifically for learning English. Because the platform focuses on a single language, the entire program is built around the needs of English learners. The lessons are created by specialists in teaching English as a foreign language.

Learners can start from the very beginning and progress all the way to an advanced level. In addition to general English courses, the platform also offers specialized courses for professionals. These currently include Medical English, Hotel English, English for Pharmacists, and Business English. There is also a Travel English course for people who enjoy travelling.

Courses are divided into thematic units, and each unit contains several short lessons. The lessons develop all four key language skills: reading, listening, writing, and pronunciation.

Learning on ELLA is based on language immersion, which means learners are surrounded by English during the lessons. Instead of spending time translating individual words, students learn to think and communicate directly in English. For beginners, vocabulary is explained using pictures, and grammar is presented with simple visual explanations.

Lessons can be paused at any time without losing progress, and learners can return to the exact same place during their next session. ELLA uses elements of gamification to make learning more engaging, but the main focus remains on learning rather than playing. For example, learners earn points for correct answers but never lose points for mistakes.

CONS

there is no mobile app (the platform works on phones through a web browser)

ELLA is a structured learning platform designed for people who want to seriously improve their English. If your goal is to finally learn English in a systematic and effective way, ELLA is the right choice for you.

Duolingo

Duolingo is a popular platform for learning foreign languages, including English. It is available both as a website and as a mobile app. The platform is free to use, although some features require a paid subscription.

Duolingo relies heavily on game elements to encourage learners to keep studying. For example, users lose hearts for incorrect answers and earn points for correct ones. The app also includes motivational messages, badges, and competitive leagues where learners can compare their progress with others.

Learning in Duolingo is organized into thematic units, each consisting of short lessons. These lessons include exercises focused on listening, reading, and speaking. The platform provides a large number of repetition exercises, and the learning experience often feels similar to playing a game.

CONS

the platform is technically “free”, but users must watch ads while using it

If you already know some English and simply want a casual way to review vocabulary and grammar from time to time, Duolingo may be a good option.

Babbel

Babbel is another platform for learning foreign languages, including English. It is available through both a website and a mobile app. In addition to self-study lessons, Babbel also offers live classes with teachers, which require a separate subscription.

With Babbel, a subscription gives learners access to all courses within a particular language. The program is divided into thematic courses, each containing several lessons (usually around 5–15). The lessons are generally short and easy to follow.

They focus on listening, speaking, writing, and grammar. Babbel also uses AI technology to support speaking practice, while many of the dialogues are recorded by native speakers. The platform encourages learners to review vocabulary in different ways, including speaking exercises, writing tasks, and flashcards.

CONS

it is a paid platform (around $17.95 per month)

Babbel sits somewhere between the other two platforms. If your main goal is to practice speaking and review vocabulary through short lessons, Babbel may be a good choice.