Head to head
Anki vs Drops
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.
Drops
Drops teaches vocabulary through short, visual, game-like sessions with minimal text. It is quick and pleasant for building word recognition.
Strengths
- Fast, visual, enjoyable vocabulary practice.
- Many languages.
- Very low friction.
Weaknesses
- Vocabulary only, no sentence building.
- No real speaking practice.
- Limited free time per day.
Best for: Quick daily vocabulary on the go.
Cost model: Free with daily limits; subscription removes them.
Which is better for what: Anki or Drops?
| 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 | Anki |
| travel | Neither is a main strength |
| commuting and hands-free | Drops |
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 Drops for what it does best and 4ToSpeak for daily speaking reps. 4ToSpeak vs Anki · 4ToSpeak vs Drops
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 Drops?
Neither is better for everyone. Anki is best for self-directed learners who want to retain vocabulary. Drops is best for quick daily vocabulary on the go. Choose by what you want to improve.
Which is better for speaking, Anki or Drops?
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 Drops better for beginners?
Drops is the more beginner-friendly of the two. The other is better once you have the basics.
Can I use Anki and Drops 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. Drops for vocabulary, 4ToSpeak to put the words in sentences you say.
Free · no card · 77 languages
Want more speaking in your day?
Whichever you choose, add a daily speaking habit. Free to start, no card.