Best Thai Language Apps for Expats, Nomads & Retirees
π Best Apps to Learn Thai for Expats, Nomads & Retirees
Learning Thai doesnβt have to be hard. Whether you want to order food, chat with locals, or navigate daily life β these tools will help you speak with confidence.
Hereβs how the top Thai learning apps compare:
π§ Ling App β Best All-in-One Structured Thai Course
π Explore Ling App
β Thai script, grammar, and culture
β Chatbot, quizzes, and spaced repetition
β Designed specifically for Southeast Asia learners
π° Around $6β9/month
Excellent choice for expats or long-term visitors.
π Mondly β Best for Quick, Fun Thai Basics
π Try Mondly Here
β Great for total beginners
β Learn Thai phrases with speech recognition
β Limited grammar and Thai script
π° $10β15/month
Perfect for new arrivals or casual learners who want to speak some Thai quickly.
π§ Pimsleur Thai β Best for Audio Learners
π Try Pimsleur Thai
β Focused on speaking and listening
β Practice conversations hands-free
β No reading or writing
π° One-time or monthly plans ($20β$150)
Great if you're always on the move or driving.
π ThaiPod101 β Best for Mixed-Skill Learners
π Check ThaiPod101
β Hundreds of video and audio lessons
β Covers script, grammar, and culture
β New content regularly
π° Free with optional paid plans
Solid all-around option for structured learners and self-starters.
π₯ Learn Thai with Mod β Best Free YouTube Resource
π Watch Learn Thai with Mod
β Real-world Thai phrases, etiquette, and tone
β Great cultural insight
β Free and beginner-friendly
β No progress tracking or interactivity
Perfect for visual learners and cultural immersion.
π Final Thoughts
If you're just starting out, Mondly is a great entry point. But if you're planning to stay in Thailand longer, we recommend combining Mondly with something deeper like Ling App or ThaiPod101.
π‘ Pro tip: Choose one app to build your routine, and supplement with YouTube or Pimsleur to strengthen specific skills.