Learn Chinese with AI in 2025: Comparing the Best AI Chinese Learning Apps

By Alex Redfern | Fact checked by Tom Oliver Jakobsson Last updated: 20 Feb 2025

Ever wanted to have real conversations in Chinese, but felt held back by the pressure of speaking with natives? Recent advances in artificial intelligence have made it possible to engage in authentic conversations with AI that adjusts to your proficiency and delivers real-time feedback.

I've evaluated countless apps in this space, and while many disappoint, a select few stand out for learning Chinese effectively with AI. In this guide, I'll reveal the platforms that actually work, helping you choose the perfect AI Chinese tutor for your journey to fluency.

The Best AI Chinese Learning Apps

#1: Langua

Ideal for: Motivated learners seeking authentic conversation practice

Langua stands out as the clear leader, offering something truly unique in the AI language learning space. Unlike other apps where you're clearly talking to a robot, Langua's AI partners sound remarkably human - because they're voice-cloned from real native speakers.

Strengths:

Incredibly versatile conversation options - from checking into hotels and ordering food to engaging in debates about topics that interest you
Uses the most realistic voice technology, so you feel like you're talking to a human.
Multiple ways to get feedback: written corrections, verbal coaching, and detailed post-chat feedback reports
There's the option to automatically display Pinyin if you need it.
Innovative vocabulary building tools - as well as flashcards, there are dedicated chats where the AI integrates your saved words, as well as AI-generated stories that also feature these words.
Practical features like alternative phrase suggestions and the ability to play back your recordings to hear your pronunciation.
Works smoothly on both web browsers and dedicated mobile apps: iOS (Apple) | Android (Google Play)

Weaknesses:

Voice recognition technology occasionally misunderstands speech, though it's still the most accurate I've tested
Minimal gamification elements - while you can track your daily streak and compete on leaderboards, it lacks the addictive game-like features found in apps like Duolingo. This means you need some self-motivation to maintain consistent practice.

Pricing: Plans range from $13 to $29/month, with the premium tier offering unlimited access, so you can learn Chinese with AI intensively.

You can create a free account on Langua and explore it here.

#2: Langotalk

Ideal for: folks who want something a bit like Duolingo but with more talking

Among the numerous AI Chinese learning apps I tested, Langotalk distinguishes itself enough to earn our second-place recommendation. Despite several shortcomings, it offers features that elevate it above most other options.

Strengths:

Impressive user interface with appealing visuals and images
Reliable speech recognition technology that captures what you say relatively accurately
Extensive feature set and conversation scenarios (though this can be overwhelming)

Weaknesses:

Interface feels cluttered with too many features competing for attention
AI voices sound noticeably artificial compared to Langua's voice-cloned partners
Animated character designs and robotic voices diminish the authenticity of conversations
Feedback is limited to text only (rather than the AI giving you corrections verbally).
No monthly subscription option available (minimum is 3 months)
Mixed user reviews on Google Play (4.3 rating), with frequent mentions of technical issues and subscription cancellation difficulties

Pricing: Varies by region, for me it started around $50 USD for a 3-month commitment (no monthly subscription option was available when I tried it).

#3: TalkPal

Ideal for: Budget-conscious learners willing to accept basic features

TalkPal offers basic AI Chinese conversation practice at an accessible price point, though this comes with notable compromises in AI quality and feature depth.

Strengths:

Diverse conversation formats including roleplays, topic-based discussions, and picture description exercises (only available in the paid version)
Free plan available with limited features and 10-minute time restriction, letting you test the platform before subscribing
Budget-friendly pricing

Weaknesses:

The AI voices lack natural flow and intonation, with limited voice options
Pronunciation feedback system often provides inaccurate assessments
Poor level adaptation - beginners might encounter complex philosophical discussions instead of essential everyday phrases
Missing key features like comprehensive vocabulary tracking
Inconsistent performance according to Google Play reviews, with users reporting confusing corrections, technical issues, and inability to review past conversations

Pricing: $11.99 monthly for full access (discounted with annual commitment). No free trial, but includes a basic plan with feature restrictions and 10-minute time limit.

Managing your expectations when learning Chinese with AI

While AI technology is advancing rapidly, it's essential to understand its current limitations. Even the best AI Chinese learning apps can't (and shouldn't) replace human interaction.

AI tools sometimes struggle with the subtleties of tones, cultural nuances, and context-specific language use. And you may occasionally notice AI responses feeling somewhat formulaic due to their pattern-based nature.

Additionally, AI can't provide the personalized support, accountability, or deep understanding of your individual goals and challenges that a human tutor might offer.

For optimal results, consider using AI Chinese conversation practice as part of a comprehensive learning approach. Combine it with other resources like language exchanges or tutoring sessions to develop well-rounded Mandarin skills.

If you're serious about learning Chinese and interested in personalized instruction, explore our Chinese tutors here. If self-study better suits your style, try and learn Chinese with AI on Langua to see if it matches your learning preferences.

Curious about learning other languages with AI? See more:

About the author:

Alex Redfern is the CEO of the language learning startup, LanguaTalk. Holding a BSc in Business Administration from the University of Bath, he is passionate about entrepreneurship and language learning. Whilst travelling across the globe has has learnt four languages to varying levels. His research on language learning has enabled him to help thousands of people build fluency via LanguaTalk. He has published articles in popular magazines; his article on rapid language acquisition went viral on Medium.