Head to head
Anki vs Clozemaster
Two popular ways to learn a language, side by side: how each teaches, where each is strong or weak, and who should pick which.
- Free forever plan
- No card needed
- 77 languages
Updated · by the 4ToSpeak team
Lesson preview
Step 4Estoy cansado.
I am tired.
- Order
- Translate
- Listen
- Speak
Say it out loud. Green landed, yellow was close.
Start freeAnki
Anki is an open-source flashcard program that schedules reviews using spaced repetition. You build or download decks, so it is as strong as the cards you put in. It has no built-in speaking practice.
Strengths
- Powerful spaced repetition.
- Fully customisable and free on most platforms.
- Great for long-term vocabulary.
Weaknesses
- You build or find the decks yourself.
- No built-in speaking or lessons.
- A plain interface with a learning curve.
Best for: Self-directed learners who want to retain vocabulary.
Cost model: Free and open source on most platforms; some mobile versions are paid.
Clozemaster
Clozemaster has you fill in missing words in real sentences, ordered by word frequency. It suits learners who already have the basics and want to grow vocabulary in context.
Strengths
- Vocabulary in real sentence context.
- Frequency-based ordering.
- Free and paid options.
Weaknesses
- Not beginner-friendly on its own.
- No speaking practice.
- Little explanation.
Best for: Intermediate learners growing vocabulary.
Cost model: Free with a paid pro tier.
Which is better for what: Anki or Clozemaster?
| If you want | Pick |
|---|---|
| speaking practice | Neither is a main strength |
| beginners | Neither is a main strength |
| free learning | Both are good fits |
| grammar | Neither is a main strength |
| vocabulary | Both are good fits |
| Japanese, Korean and Chinese | Neither is a main strength |
| conversation | Neither is a main strength |
| intermediate learners | Both are good fits |
| travel | Neither is a main strength |
| commuting and hands-free | Neither is a main strength |
Where 4ToSpeak fits
If speaking is the skill you want to build, 4ToSpeak adds what neither of these leads with: every sentence ends with you saying it out loud, with word-by-word feedback, on a free plan with no card. Many learners use Anki or Clozemaster for what it does best and 4ToSpeak for daily speaking reps. 4ToSpeak vs Anki · 4ToSpeak vs Clozemaster
Product names are trademarks of their owners and are not affiliated with 4ToSpeak. This page describes general, publicly known traits, and features and pricing can change, so check each product’s own site for the latest.
Is Anki better than Clozemaster?
Neither is better for everyone. Anki is best for self-directed learners who want to retain vocabulary. Clozemaster is best for intermediate learners growing vocabulary. Choose by what you want to improve.
Which is better for speaking, Anki or Clozemaster?
Neither is mainly built around speaking. If speaking is your goal, a speaking-first app such as 4ToSpeak, or a tutor, will give you more practice than either.
Is Anki or Clozemaster better for beginners?
Clozemaster is the more beginner-friendly of the two. The other is better once you have the basics.
Can I use Anki and Clozemaster together?
Yes. Many learners combine apps that cover different skills. A common pairing: Anki to retain vocabulary, 4ToSpeak to use that vocabulary in spoken sentences. Clozemaster to expand vocabulary, 4ToSpeak to say what you have learned.
Related guides
Keep comparing
Free · no card · 77 languages
Want more speaking in your day?
Whichever you choose, add a daily speaking habit. Free to start, no card.