Head-to-head · Sign Language Apps
HandSpeak vs SpreadTheSign
HandSpeak leads on 0 checks, SpreadTheSign on 0, and 3 are even. Who comes out ahead on the 3 yes/no, price and count checks where we have data for both products. The editor score weighs everything else too.
Our verdict
- Highest scoreHandSpeak · 8.8/10
- Free planboth
HandSpeak scores higher on our rubric for sign language apps: 8.8 against 8.6 out of 10; our editors rank them #2 and #3.
On lesson format, HandSpeak gives you Mixed where SpreadTheSign offers Video.
HandSpeak is the better fit for ASL reference users wanting mature coverage. SpreadTheSign is the better fit for people comparing multiple sign languages.
- HandSpeak fits best
ASL reference users wanting mature coverage
- SpreadTheSign fits best
People comparing multiple sign languages
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Side by side
| Feature | HandSpeak 8.8/10 Visit ↗ | SpreadTheSign 8.6/10 Visit ↗ |
|---|---|---|
| At a glance | ||
| Editor score | 8.8 | 8.6 |
| Ranking | #2 in Sign Language Apps | #3 in Sign Language Apps |
| Best for | ASL reference users wanting mature coverage | People comparing multiple sign languages |
| Pricing model | Free plan + paid | Free plan + paid |
| Starting price | $5.95/mo | — |
| Free plan | ✓ | ✓ |
| Free trial | — | — |
| Deployment | Cloud, Mobile | Cloud, Mobile |
| Platforms | Web, Windows, iOS, Android | Web, iOS, Android |
| Support | Docs | Email, Docs |
| Built for | Solo, Small business | Solo, Small business |
| Features HandSpeak 1/3 · SpreadTheSign 1/3 | ||
| Offline access | — | Not checked yet |
| Dictionary lookup | ✓ | ✓ |
| Progress tracking | Not checked yet | Not checked yet |
| Specs | ||
| Signed languages | ASL | ASL, BSL, and 21 more sign languages |
| Lesson format | Mixed | Video |
| Supported platforms | web, Windows, iOS, Android | web, ios, android |
| Our review | ||
| Pros |
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| Cons |
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| Our verdict | HandSpeak is a web-based American Sign Language resource for looking up signs, practicing fingerspelling, studying lessons, and exploring Deaf culture. Its audience includes beginners, advanced learners, interpreters, students, parents,… Read the review → |
SpreadTheSign is a multilingual sign-language dictionary for learners, families, educators, interpreters, and anyone who needs a sign reference. Available on the web, iOS, and Android, it supports ASL, BSL, and 21 more sign languages. Its… Read the review → |
Strengths and trade-offs
HandSpeak — where it wins
- Searchable and reverse ASL dictionaries with video demonstrations
- Free access across web, Windows, iOS, and Android
- Includes fingerspelling, phrases, tutorials, and Deaf culture resources
Where it doesn't
- Covers American Sign Language rather than multiple signed languages
- Requires an internet connection and does not offer offline access
- Does not provide verified progress tracking
SpreadTheSign — where it wins
- Covers ASL, BSL, and 21 additional sign languages
- Searches words, sentence examples, and multilingual sign videos
- Includes comparisons, slow playback, favorites, and fingerspelling
Where it doesn't
- Learning and progress features are limited
- The broad language coverage may not replace a structured course
- Premium app features require the Pro Version
- HandSpeak8.8/10 · Free plan
A broad ASL reference library with free access and optional Patron features.
Visit HandSpeakFull verdict → - SpreadTheSign8.6/10 · Free plan
A free-to-start video dictionary for comparing 23 sign languages.
Visit SpreadTheSignFull verdict →
HandSpeak vs SpreadTheSign: questions
Which is better for sign language apps, HandSpeak or SpreadTheSign?
HandSpeak scores higher on our rubric for sign language apps: 8.8 against 8.6 out of 10; our editors rank them #2 and #3.
How do HandSpeak and SpreadTheSign compare?
All 3 checks we put side by side come out level: neither leads on any.
Do HandSpeak and SpreadTheSign have a free plan?
HandSpeak: Yes. SpreadTheSign: Yes.
More comparisons
- BSL SignBank vs HandSpeak
- BSL SignBank vs SpreadTheSign
- HandSpeak vs SignSchool
- HandSpeak vs Play With ASL
- HandSpeak vs British Sign
- HandSpeak vs Sign BSL
- HandSpeak vs Sign ASL
- SpreadTheSign vs SignSchool
All sign language apps comparisons → · Full ranking →
Reviewed by iTechGuides Editors · Editorial team · Updated Nov 2026
Last updated · How we research and update





