HelloTalk
An app that matches you with native speakers to chat and swap languages.
What HelloTalk does
HelloTalk is a language exchange app. You chat with native speakers of the language you're learning, and they practice your language with you. Text, voice notes, calls, group voice rooms and a social feed are all built in, plus tools to translate and correct messages. Chatting is free.
Set your native and target languages and you'll see people who match. Built-in translation, transliteration for scripts like Japanese or Korean, and captions help when you get stuck, and partners can correct your messages right in the chat.
Beyond one-on-one chat there are voice rooms where groups talk around a topic, livestreamed lessons and Moments, a feed where people share short posts about language and daily life. It's a lively place to practice the way people really write and talk.
The free plan covers one target language, and VIP adds more languages and features. Reviewers note that matching can be hit or miss and some people treat it as a dating app, so keep chats about learning and move on from anyone who makes you uncomfortable. For free practice with real people, it's hard to beat.
Alternatives to HelloTalk
Who it's for
Skip it if: Beginners who need a structured course.
Pricing
Free planChatting is free for one target language. VIP is $12.99 a month or $79.99 a year on the US App Store and adds more languages and features. You can also buy coins for extras.
Prices can vary by country. Checked 17 Oct 2026.
What people like
- Free conversations with native speakers
- Helpful built-in correction and translation tools
- Large, active community
- Practice by text if speaking feels scary
Watch out for
- Partner quality varies
- Some people use it for dating
- Free plan is limited to one language
Want a practice community for your own group? Build your own.
Describe your app idea and Bilt builds it. Free to start, on your phone in minutes.
Try this idea: “an app where people from my language class can post one sentence a day in the language we're learning and correct each other”
Questions people ask
Is HelloTalk free?
Yes, for one target language. VIP adds more languages and features.
Is HelloTalk safe?
It's a social app, so treat it like one: keep chats about learning, don't share personal details early, and stop talking to anyone who makes you uncomfortable.
How is HelloTalk different from a tutor?
Partners are people practicing with you, not teachers. It's free and casual, but there's no lesson plan.