18 Most Recommended Chinese Learning Tools

December 02, 2023

In the era of digital technology, learning a new language has never been easier. Among the abundance of options, mobile apps, websites, and offline resources stand out as valuable companions in the language-learning journey. In this comprehensive guide, we will explore the top recommendations in each category, highlighting their features, advantages, and potential drawbacks.

RECOMMENDED MOBILE APPS FOR LEARNING CHINESE

In the dynamic landscape of language learning, mobile apps have emerged as indispensable companions, offering a pocket-sized gateway to mastering the Chinese language. These apps provide learners with flexibility, accessibility, and interactive features that seamlessly integrate into daily life.

I. Du Chinese

Du Chinese lives up to its name by offering a convenient platform for reading Chinese content. It is divided into six levels, from elementary to mastery. Its strength lies in its bite-sized content, making it ideal for short study sessions. Its cultural relevance, featuring anecdotes and lessons embedded in Chinese life, adds a layer of enjoyment to the learning process.
However, a notable drawback includes a potential shortage of advanced content, which might leave more proficient learners yearning for more. Additionally, the lessons, though enjoyable, are succinct, sometimes not extending beyond a few pages.

II. The Chairman’s Bao

The Chairman’s Bao stands out as a simplified Chinese news site tailored for Mandarin learners. Regular updates with news articles categorized by HSK level make it a valuable resource for learners at different proficiency levels. One of its standout features is the Interactive Live Dictionary, allowing users to highlight characters for immediate pinyin and definition. The vast archive of articles, exceeding 4,000, ensures a continuous stream of engaging content. However, occasional bugs in the dictionary function may disrupt the learning flow.

III. Hello Chinese

HelloChinese distinguishes itself by offering a diverse learning experience including speaking, listening, reading, and writing. With over 2,000 videos featuring native Chinese speakers and a robust speech recognition feature, the app serves to various learning styles. The diverse range of content makes it suitable for learners at all levels.
Yet, its drawback is the restricted availability of real-world content in the free version, and the app's complete capabilities are only accessible through a paid subscription.

    • Price: Free with optional subscription starting at USD 12.99
    • Available on: Google Play | Apple Store
    • Best for: Speaking, listening, reading, and writing
    • Level: Best for Beginner and Intermediate
    • Check out also: SuperChinese, Duolingo

IV. SuperTest HSK

Formerly known as HSK Online, SuperTest HSK is designed with a singular focus – HSK exam success. The app dedicates itself to improving listening, reading, writing, and vocabulary skills, aligning closely with the structure of the HSK exam. It provides access to past HSK papers and mock tests, offering users a simulated HSK exam experience. The inclusion of feedback allows learners to personalize their study plans.
However, some users may find certain lessons, grammar points, or vocabulary to be repeated, and the app places more emphasis on exam preparation than on providing extensive teaching resources.

V. Memrise

Memrise positions itself as a formidable competitor among apps specializing in vocabulary memorization. It employs a gamified approach to aid learners in memorizing, learning, and retaining vocabulary. The app is enhanced through recordings done by native speakers, ensuring clarity in listening exercises. However, some users may find the learning experience somewhat repetitive, and Memrise, while excelling in vocabulary, has a more limited focus on grammar drills.

VI. Skritter

Skritter takes a focused approach to learning Chinese characters through Spaced Repetition Software (SRS). Users can absorb characters, pinyin, tones, and definitions at their own pace. The app offers a clear and straightforward learning experience, allowing customization by using content from popular textbooks or creating custom lists.
However, the learning experience is somewhat limited in the free version.

    • Price: Free with optional subscription starting at USD 15.99
    • Available on: Google Play | Apple Store
    • Best for: Writing
    • Level: All levels
    • Check out also: Vividize, Scripts

RECOMMENDED WEBSITES FOR LEARNING CHINESE

Venturing into the realm of online resources, websites open doors to a vast repository of knowledge and interactive learning experiences. From platforms fostering extensive reading to those providing structured courses, websites offer versatility and accessibility.

chinese keyboard

I. Hack Chinese

Hack Chinese operates as a database of Chinese characters accessible via desktop or phone browsers. The approach is simple yet powerful – practice characters repeatedly until they become ingrained.
However, there’s limited 20-day free trial, after which users must commit to a paid platform (USD 18 per month). Some learners may find its repetitive nature a bit monotonous.

    • Price: Starting at USD 18
    • Available on: hackchinese.com
    • Best for: Writing
    • Level: All levels
    • Check out also: Anki

II. Chinese Zero to Hero Online Courses

Chinese Zero to Hero positions itself as an online course platform committed to guiding Chinese learners to fluency, ultimately preparing them to pass HSK levels. Each course is meticulously designed, complete with flashcards and custom recordings with explanations. The courses strive to strike a balance between being concise and engaging, and their prices range from USD 35 (HSK1) to USD 76 (HSK6).
However, its primary focus on HSK preparation may leave some learners seeking more emphasis on speaking skills. Additionally, it lacks an exclusive, private community for enhanced peer-to-peer learning.

III. Culture Yard Online Chinese Classes

Culture Yard offers online Mandarin courses for adults and children. Their structured curriculum covers reading, writing, speaking, and listening, providing a comprehensive learning experience. Additionally, you can explore Chinese culture, traditions, and learn new vocabulary and grammar points by visiting the Culture Yard blog.

    • Price: Starting at USD 12
    • Available on: cultureyard.net
    • Best for: Speaking, listening, reading and writing
    • Level: All levels

IV. LingQ

LingQ stands out as a language-learning platform with a unique emphasis on extensive reading. It supports over 30 languages and allows users to import their own content, creating a personalized learning experience. LingQ's distinguishing feature is its ability to highlight unknown words across lessons and transform them into reviewable flashcards. The platform is free with optional subscription starting at USD 12.99.
However, the platform's Achilles' heel lies in the limited availability of original content, and the process of reviewing words may sometimes feel chaotic.

    • Price: Starting at USD 12.99
    • Available on: lingq.com
    • Best for: Reading
    • Level: All levels
    • Check out also: Fluent U, Maayot

V. Cchaty.com

Cchaty.com positions itself as a hub for learning Chinese, offering a multifaceted approach. It provides a community exchange for sharing learning and teaching experiences, a free PDF book area contributed by the community, and various learning and teaching tools. The platform is free to register, and users can earn points for daily logins or contribute to the community, allowing access to materials.

VI. ChineseClass101.com

ChineseClass101 adopts a dynamic approach to language learning, incorporating video and audio instruction. The program covers a diverse range of topics relevant to contemporary culture, creating an engaging learning environment. The platform is free with optional subscription starting at USD 4.
However, the length of lessons and occasional disorganization of the platform may pose challenges for some learners.

    • Price: Starting at USD 4
    • Available on: chineseclass101.com
    • Best for: Listening, reading and writing
    • Level: All levels
    • Check out also: Fluent U

VII. Mandarinbean.com

Mandarinbean.com aims to provide Mandarin Chinese learners with high-quality, contextual study materials. Lessons are categorized from beginner to advanced, each labeled with HSK levels. Audio recordings immerse learners in the natural pronunciation and intonation of the Chinese language. The platform is free, with optional subscriptions starting at USD 2,99.
However, lessons are not added frequently.

    • Price: Starting at USD 2,99
    • Available on: mandarinbean.com
    • Best for: Reading
    • Level: All levels
    • Check out also: Maayot

OFFLINE RESOURCES

Offline resources, such as books and immersive experiences, provide learners with a grounded foundation and authentic cultural engagement.

Chinese characters and pinyin

I. Mandarin Retreat

Mandarin Retreat organizes immersive weekend trips and camps in scenic UK locations. Each retreat includes a mix of adult Chinese learners, professional tutors, and native Mandarin speakers. Activities like calligraphy, mahjong, and dumpling-making are conducted in Mandarin, providing a complete immersion experience. However, the immersion is limited to scheduled events.

    • Price: Starting at USD 500
    • Available on: mandarinretreat.com
    • Best for: Speaking, listening
    • Level: All levels

II. HSK Standard Course

Developed by Beijing Language and Culture University Press, the HSK Standard Course stands as a testament to effective HSK test preparation. Its humorous style, familiar topics, and scientific course design make it an ideal companion for those aiming to excel in the standardized HSK exams.
While its focus on exam preparation is undeniable, some learners may find it less suitable for real-world language application.

    • Price: Starting at USD 20
    • Available on: Amazon, Purple Culture
    • Best for: Speaking, listening, reading and writing
    • Level: All levels

III. "Developing Chinese" Books

The "Developing Chinese" series presents a meticulously planned set of textbooks with a well-designed structure. Spanning 28 volumes and 34 books, this series combines integrated language skills with specific language training. It categorizes into three levels—elementary, intermediate, and advanced—across five series.
However, learners seeking a more flexible or immersive approach might find the structured nature of these textbooks less accommodating.

    • Price: Starting at USD 25
    • Available on: Amazon, Purple Culture
    • Best for: Speaking, listening, reading and writing
    • Level: All levels

IV. Boya Chinese Course Book

Compiled by a group of experienced teachers from Peking University, the Boya Chinese Course Book divides its learning material into four proficiency levels—elementary, pre-intermediate, intermediate, and advanced. This series, totaling nine books, is equivalent to a four-year college study.
While offering a systematic approach, it may lack the real-world application desired by some learners.

    • Price: Starting at USD 27
    • Available on: Amazon, Purple Culture
    • Best for: Speaking, listening, reading and writing
    • Level: All levels

V. Graded Readers

Chinese graded novels, such as Mandarin Companion, Chinese Breeze, and Sinolingua Rainbow Bridge, provide an engaging way for learners to read extensively while incorporating HSK vocabulary into interesting stories. Purposefully written and meticulously developed, these graded readers cover a wide range of genres, including comedy, romance, mystery, and non-fiction. Their approach accelerates language learning, especially for beginners.
However, for those seeking a more diverse reading experience or more creative storytelling, the focus on HSK vocabulary may be a limiting factor.

CONCLUSION

In the vast landscape of Chinese language learning, each tool serves a unique purpose. Whether through the convenience of mobile apps, the depth of online resources, or the immersive nature of offline classes, learners can tailor their experiences. While no tool is without its limitations, a thoughtful combination of these resources promises an enriching and effective journey towards mastering the Chinese language. Happy learning!

About the Author

Sara Tao is a Chinese language and culture enthusiast who enjoys sharing her learning journey via Instagram (@saratao_chinese).

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