How I test and score
I sift through the plethora of language apps, delivering reviews based on deep expertise in language learning and teaching.
My review process starts with an initial walk-through, using the app for at least 15 minutes to capture first impressions and usability.
I then conduct a criteria-based evaluation focusing on key features like spaced repetition, user customization, and the balance between educational content and gamification.
My reviews are thorough, with a scoring system that emphasizes course quality (70%) over user experience (20%) and price (10%).
Importantly, I do not receive payment for these reviews.
Learn more on my review policy and process page.
Summary
Course quality
User experience
Pricing
Pros
- Comprehensive grammar explanations
- Interactive audio courses
- Effective speech recognition
- Progress tracking tools
Cons
- Text-heavy interface
- Requires significant time dedication
- Limited visual elements
- Some advanced exercises feel basic
Best suited for
Serious learners who can dedicate substantial time and prefer in-depth grammar and vocabulary practice will benefit the most.
At a glance
App name
Rocket Languages
Made by
Rocket Languages Ltd
User base
Sentiment
- Voice recognition issues: Many users experienced problems with the voice recognition software, finding it inaccurate or inconsistent.
- Audio playback problems: Several reviews mentioned that audio for phrases often fails to play.
- Progressive practice: Positive feedback was given for the method of reciting lessons multiple times with progressively fewer clues.
- Pronunciation concerns: There were specific complaints about the use of non-standard accents for teaching, which users found confusing or unhelpful.
- Structured learning path: Positive feedback was given for the app’s structured approach to learning, with a clear path through the course and a variety of reinforcement exercises.
Concept
Rocket Languages offers a serious approach to language learning, although some advanced content might feel basic.
Available on
Web, iOS, Android
Levels covered
(A0) Total beginner, (A1) Beginner, (A2) Elementary, (B1) Intermediate, (B2) Upper-intermediate, (C1) Advanced
13 languages taught
Arabic, Chinese, English, French, German, Hindi, Italian, Japanese, Korean, Portuguese, Russian, Spanish
Pricing, free trial, refunds
Pricing
Free trial
Refunds
First-hand review
Walk-through
Rocket Languages Italian offers a structured and well-organized course, with modules comprising audio lessons and a variety of review options. Although its long lessons can span around an hour.
Interactive Elements
Within each lesson, I was able to find various interactive components like flashcards, listening, writing, speaking exercises, and quizzes. I found this to be consistent across all levels, ensuring uniformity in learning pacing and structure.
Beginner Level
Starting with the beginner level, it’s divided into several topics and settings. One unique feature is the survival kit, which includes basic essential phrases needed when starting the learning process.
Intermediate and Advanced Levels
The intermediate and advanced levels delve into more complex topics. For instance, level three focuses on past and future tenses and more specific subjects.
Interactive Features
Rocket Languages also uses gamified elements akin to other language apps. This includes tracking your progress through a dashboard, leaderboards to see how you stack up against others, and various benchmarks to review your skills.
Tools and Resources
There are numerous tools available, including practice guides, vocabulary storage, and forums for user interaction. You can also create custom decks and view recommended practices.
Listening and Speaking
Rocket Languages places a significant emphasis on listening and speaking exercises. For instance, you can practice repeating words and sentences, using speech recognition software to gauge accuracy.
Vocabulary and Grammar
The courses heavily incorporate grammar lessons, ensuring that learners get a thorough understanding of language rules, which extends beyond basic phrase learning.
Role-Playing and Conversations
The advanced level includes interactive audio courses where users can role-play conversations. For example, you can step into characters and practice dialogues, enhancing real-world application skills.
Conclusion and Final Thoughts
Rocket Languages offers a more serious approach to language learning, going beyond the typical five-minute-a-day apps. It requires dedicated time, sometimes up to an hour or more, to fully engage with the lessons.
While the text-based nature might feel a bit formal, incorporating more visual elements could enhance the learning experience for visual learners. Besides this, the exercises, even at advanced levels, sometimes feel basic and could benefit from more challenging content.
Nevertheless, the structured approach and its audio content make Rocket Languages a valuable resource for those serious about learning Italian.
Features
Spaced repetition
Does the app offer plenty of repetition to acquire vocab and grammar naturally?
Customization
Can users customize settings, interface, content, etc.?
Focus on learning
Is the interface and content focused on the course content instead of fluff and gamification?
Personalization
Are the materials automatically tailored to the user’s profile?
Sentence accuracy
Are sentences free from typos, grammar errors? Do they sound natural?
Sentence relevance
Are sentences realistic and useful?
Variety and depth
Is there enough variety of materials in terms of topics, formats and levels?
Audio quality
Are audio materials easy to listen to in terms of recording quality and speech rate?
Speaker's quality
Do speakers speak correctly, clearly and naturally?
Speaking practice
Does the app offer plenty of speaking practice?
Ease of use
Is the app easy to set up, use and navigate?
Interface and design
Is the user interface neat and visually appealing?
Performance
Does the app load fast? Is it free from glitches and crashes?
Grammar notes
Do the courses come with grammar notes?
Learning path
Do the courses follow a well defined path?
Speech recognition
Does the app recognize user speech?
User-generated courses
Can users actively generate materials from their interests?
Offline access
Are the courses available offline?
Conclusions
Would I take these courses?
I would use this app for its thorough approach to grammar and audio practice, though it may not suit casual learners seeking quick lessons.
How to get the most out of the app
Dedicate focused time to each lesson, utilize the speech recognition and interactive audio courses, and regularly review vocabulary.
Alternatives
Think In Italian is better than Rocket Languages to master Italian
Think In Italian is the only app that gets your to speak Italian all the time. It comes with hundreds of grammar lessons and readings to listen and repeat, plus an AI tutor to review the courses and practice conversation. See the full review.
FAQs
What levels are available in Rocket Languages Italian?
Beginner, intermediate, and advanced.
Is Rocket Languages suitable for casual learners?
It’s better suited for serious learners.
Are the lessons in Rocket Languages interactive?
Yes, especially the audio courses.
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Rave Reviews
★★★★★
Rated 4.9/5 based on 170+ reviews
