Lots and lots of language learning apps and sites out there—which one is the best for learning German?
Today, we’re reviewing two popular programs: the Babbel German app and Deutsch Gym.
In this Deutsch Gym vs. Babbel review, we’ll compare the two in detail (prices, features, teachers, pros and cons, etc.) to help you decide!
Deutsch Gym vs Babbel: Side-by-Side Breakdown
Babbel is an app where people can self-study with their proprietary software. They also offer live classes through Babbel Live.
Deutsch Gym, on the other hand, is a platform where students can practice speaking with other students.
Here’s a thorough, side-by-side breakdown of the two:
Babbel vs Deutsch Gym Comparison
Babbel vs Deutsch Gym Comparison
| Features |
Babbel |
Deutsch Gym |
| Format |
Babbel: Language Learning App
Babbel Live: Live Online Language Classes |
Group Conversation Practice Calls |
| Class Description |
The Babbel app features various lessons, activities, and features for self-learning German. Lessons are divided into courses and levels, meant to be done in order.
Babbel Live: online language classes on a variety of topics over Zoom.
|
Learners engage in casual conversation based on the theme/topic given that day. Students participate with audio only.
|
| Member Count per Class |
Babbel Live: 1-on-1 private classes and up to 6 members for group classes. |
Group sessions of 3 members |
| Teachers |
Babbel Live: some native, some non-native (though C2-level speakers). |
Native Germans who moderate calls and can answer questions. |
| Class Duration |
Babbel Live:
Private classes: 45 minutes
Group classes: 55 minutes
|
60 minutes |
| Schedule |
Numerous classes held daily on various topics. Members can book any of them.
*Limit: up to 12 private classes and 100 group classes booked at once.
|
Classes are held 1–2 times every day at fixed schedules for each CEFR level. Members can join any of them without limit.
|
| Platform |
Babbel App/Website. Zoom for Babbel Live. |
Discord |
| CEFR Levels |
German A1 to C1 |
German A2 to C1 |
| Extra Features |
Babbel Live
Babbel Podcasts
Babbel Videos
Babbel Magazine |
Free German Ebooks with 100+ conversation topics. |
| Prices |
Babbel App: Subscription starts at $6.95/month. 3, 6, or 12-month plans. Lifetime: $299.50
Babbel Live (includes app):
Unlimited group classes: $99/month
Unlimited group + private classes: $149/month
|
Starts at €65/month (~$71/month)
*Currently on 70% sale for €32/month ($35/month)
3, 6, or 12-month memberships. Unlimited class access.
|
| Pros |
More in-depth than other apps like Duolingo.
Unlimited Babbel Live classes during membership.
Pre-set topics help conversations flow naturally.
|
Fewer members per class.
No session cap – you can even join lower CEFR level sessions for extra practice.
No video required during classes.
|
| Cons |
Classes can get booked up quickly – book days ahead.
Class quality depends on teacher.
Somewhat lacking in verbal practice activities.
|
Does not cover A1 and C2.
No free trial.
CET timezone only – may not suit learners in other regions.
|
| Community |
Loose sense of community with Babbel Live |
Intimate, close-knit community where learners often make friends. |
| Customer Support |
Standard customer support. |
Support is handled directly by the founder. |
Conclusion
Babbel offers a variety of services. The app is for self-studying beginner and intermediate learners, as well as Babbel Live is for those who want structured instruction from professional teachers.
It provides great value since you can join as many classes as you want during your membership.
Deutsch Gym offers great value as well, allowing you to book unlimited classes during your subscription. It’s a great avenue for people to push themselves and build confidence speaking German—errors and all—with other learners.
It’s a popular service for those moving to Germany but are still scared of speaking German in public.
Both are great. But since they serve very different purposes, who’s to say you can’t get both of them?
Let’s recap:
Babbel vs Deutsch Gym Highlights
Babbel vs Deutsch Gym Highlights
| Features |
Babbel |
Deutsch Gym |
| Native Instructors |
✓ |
✓ |
| Unlimited Classes |
✓ |
✓ |
| Extra Activities (with App) |
✓ |
X |
| Flexible Class Schedules |
✓ |
✓ |
| 1-on-1 Tutoring |
✓ |
X |
| Speaking Focus |
X |
✓ |
| Personalized Customer Support |
X |
✓ |
| Don't need to book in advance |
X |
✓ |
| Unlimited Classes |
X |
✓ |
This review is part of our deep-dive series on the most popular German learning platforms. Check out our full overview of the best apps to learn German, or read our individual reviews of italki, Preply, and Lingoda to find the right fit for you.
