italki
An app that lets you book 1-on-1 video lessons with real tutors.
What italki does
italki is a marketplace for one-on-one language lessons. You browse tutors, watch their intro, book a time and meet them by video. It lists more than 150 languages, so it's often the easiest place to find a teacher for a less common language. You pay per lesson, with no subscription needed.
Each tutor sets their own price and schedule. You can choose by specialty, accent or interests, and book 30, 45, 60 or 90 minute lessons. New learners can try three trial lessons for under $5 each to find a good fit, and you can buy packages to save a bit.
A 2026 review describes two kinds of teachers: professional teachers and community tutors, who focus on conversation and usually cost less. There's no built-in curriculum or game-like drills. What you get depends on your tutor, which is both the strength and the risk.
If you want real conversation, honest corrections and someone who adapts to you, a good tutor gives you things an app can't. italki lets you pick one at a price that suits you. Pair it with a vocabulary app between lessons to get the most from each session.
Alternatives to italki
Who it's for
Skip it if: People who want a self-paced course.
Pricing
Free to join. You pay per lesson, and each tutor sets their own price. Three trial lessons cost under $5 each. italki Plus is optional at $5.99 a month or $59.99 a year.
Prices can vary by country. Checked 17 Oct 2026.
What people like
- Real human feedback
- Huge language choice
- No subscription required
- Cheap trial lessons to find a fit
Watch out for
- Tutor quality varies
- You have to schedule lessons
- No built-in curriculum
Want a study buddy for between lessons? 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 I keep notes from each tutor lesson, save the new words, and get quizzed on them before my next class”
Questions people ask
How much does italki cost?
Each tutor sets their own price, so costs vary. No subscription is required.
What's the difference between a professional teacher and a community tutor?
Professional teachers usually have teaching credentials and plan structured lessons. Community tutors focus on conversation practice and often cost less.
Can I try a tutor first?
Yes. New learners can book three trial lessons for under $5 each.