Tandem review
A broad language-partner network for practicing real conversations across 300 languages.
Reviewed by iTechGuides Editors · Editorial team · Updated Oct 2026
Tandem is a language-exchange app for learners who want to practice with native speakers and other language learners. Members can select languages, describe learning goals, and search for partners by language, location, interests, and other criteria. The service covers 300 languages and supports text messaging, voice notes, audio calls, video calls, in-chat corrections, translation tools, and Group Language Parties. It is available on the web, iOS, and Android, with free access and optional Tandem Pro subscriptions.
Tandem’s strongest fit is communication practice rather than a conventional course sequence. Learners can move from text to voice or video conversations, request corrections in chat, and use translation tools while communicating. The AI Toolkit adds grammar checking, word lookup, rewriting, conversation prompts, and correction explanations. These features give learners several ways to support a live language exchange, while partner search helps narrow the network by practical preferences such as location and interests. Learners who want direct interaction should find this breadth more relevant than a lesson-only format.
The pricing model is freemium: Tandem has a free plan, while Tandem Pro provides extra learning features. The published starting price is 11.99, and pricing may vary by country, platform, subscription period, and other factors. Tandem is a good choice for learners who are comfortable initiating conversations and want flexible practice across text, audio, and video. It is less suited to learners seeking a tightly sequenced course, extensive review features, or a learning experience centered primarily on structured lessons rather than partner interaction.
Tandem pros and cons
- Where it wins
- Language-partner search uses language, location, interests, and other criteria
- Supports messaging, voice notes, audio calls, and video calls
- Includes corrections, translation tools, group events, and an AI toolkit
- Where it doesn't
- Conversation quality depends on finding suitable language partners
- Offers less emphasis on structured courses and review features
- Tandem Pro adds extra learning features but requires a subscription
Tandem fact sheet, pricing and score →
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