Phoneme
Phoneme: A focused English phoneme trainer with free reference content and a $4.99 one-time unlock. Ranked #27 of 33 in Language Pronunciation Apps by our editors (6.0/10); pricing: Free plan; best for learners focused on IPA and American phonemes.
At a glance
- Editor score6.0 / 10
- PricingFree plan
- Best forLearners focused on IPA and American phonemes
- Free planYes
- Paid from$4.99 one-time
- Facts checked20 Sep 2026
Where it wins
- Covers 38 General American English phonemes with native-speaker audio
- Adds articulation cues, minimal pairs, and targeted listening drills
- Includes offline audio, printable materials, and progress history
Where it doesn't
- Focused on English rather than multiple languages
- Practice centers on phonemes, not conversation skills
- Train features require a separate one-time purchase
Our verdict on Phoneme
Phoneme is an interactive International Phonetic Alphabet reference and pronunciation practice tool for EFL and ESL learners, teachers, and anyone studying English sounds. Its focus is specific: 38 General American English phonemes, with native-speaker audio, keyword examples, articulation cues, minimal pairs, and symbol-based practice. The free Reference plan provides the IPA chart, audio, articulation guidance, and minimal-pair browsing through the web, iOS, and Android versions. Offline IPA reference and audio are available in the native mobile apps.
The paid option is straightforward. Train Unlock costs $4.99 as a one-time purchase rather than a monthly subscription. It adds minimal-pair drills, hear-and-choose exercises, identify-the-symbol exercises, printable IPA materials, and session progress tracking. Progress features also include streaks and accuracy history, giving learners a way to monitor repeated practice. Teachers can use the printable charts and classroom handouts alongside the reference and drill content.
Phoneme fits learners who want a structured way to connect IPA symbols, articulation, and English sound contrasts, especially those working with General American pronunciation. Its narrow phoneme-level scope is also useful for teachers building focused pronunciation activities. It is less suited to learners looking for conversation practice, broader language-learning content, or support across multiple languages. Choose it when understanding and practicing English sounds is the priority; consider a broader language app when pronunciation needs extend beyond phonemes.
Your product? Our editors can test Phoneme in depth and publish a review, labelled as paid · from $99/mo →
Phoneme pricing
All 2 Phoneme plans and prices →
Phoneme fact sheet
| Free plan | Yes |
|---|---|
| Paid from | $4.99 one-time |
| Languages supported | 1 languages |
| Feedback scope | Phoneme |
| Accent feedback | Not verified |
| AI conversation | Not verified |
| Offline practice | Yes |
| Platform access | Ios_android_web |
| Free practice limit | Not verified |
| Deployment | Cloud, Mobile |
| Platforms | Web, iOS, Android |
| Support | |
| Built for | Solo, Small business, Mid-market (editorial estimate) |
| Pricing | Free plan (source) |
| Website | phoneme.app |
| Facts checked | 20 Sep 2026 |
Alternatives to Phoneme
- ELSA SpeakA broad English coaching app with pronunciation feedback, role-play, and a free plan.8.9
- SpeakA structured speaking app with AI conversation and real-time pronunciation feedback.8.7
- EnglishCentralA video-led English learning service combining speech feedback, AI practice and live tutoring.8.5
See all Phoneme alternatives →
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Reviewed by iTechGuides Editors · Editorial team · Updated Oct 2026
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