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Add to SafariWhen comparing Busuu vs Lang-8, the Slant community recommends Lang-8 for most people. In the question“What are the best sites for learning foreign languages?” Lang-8 is ranked 7th while Busuu is ranked 9th. The most important reason people chose Lang-8 is:
Where many programs will have you writing single sentences at most, Lang-8 encourages you to write short stories or diary entries. Having to actually write in the language rather than simply remember vocabulary is a really beneficial feature for improving real-world use of the language.
Specs
Question Ranking
Pros
Pro Teaches realistic conversation behavior
Since Busuu puts learners in direct contact with natives, the learning is done in a realistic way - not an idealistic textbook way.
Pro Fast response time
For popular languages, translations can be received very quickly from real people.
Pro Teaches by theme
Instead of teaching words by most used, they are taught by case. This way, users can prepare for specific situations.
Pro Gain experience writing in your target language
Where many programs will have you writing single sentences at most, Lang-8 encourages you to write short stories or diary entries.
Having to actually write in the language rather than simply remember vocabulary is a really beneficial feature for improving real-world use of the language.
Pro Get feedback from native speakers
Native speakers of the language you are learning will give you pointers on your writing, such as grammar corrections and advice on word choice/sentence structure.
Pro Self-directed learning
Write as much or little as you like, about the subject of your choice, at the level of difficulty of your choice, taking as much time as you wish. Intermediate and advanced learners can benefit the most from this, but beginners can still use the site to practice what they've learned elsewhere.
Cons
Con Ineffective "review" section
When a section is over, there is a multiple review session. Many of the questions are totally irrelevant and are not useful for learners.
Con Chat system doesn't support letters with accents
Busuu only accepts regular characters in the text fields, so non-native languages may be limited.
Con New sign ups are currently put on hold
They are not accepting new registrations now, and it is not clear when will they accept them again.
Con Not a good starting place for beginners
The site doesn't teach you your language, instead it allows you to get advice on your writing in your target language. It's better if you have a basic understanding of the language at first.
