If you’re ready to learn a new language online, you’ve probably come across Preply and Italki — two of the most popular language tutoring platforms in the world. But how do they really compare in terms of tutor quality, cost, features, and results?
In this guide, we break down the key differences between Preply and Italki to help you decide which one is right for you.
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Overview: What Are Preply and Italki?
Both Preply and Italki are platforms that connect students with language tutors for 1-on-1 lessons via video. You can choose your tutor, schedule lessons around your availability, and learn at your own pace.
However, their approach, pricing models, and user experiences are quite different.
1. Tutor Selection and Profiles
Preply:
- Over 32,000 tutors across 50+ languages
- Tutors include professionals, certified teachers, and native speakers
- Profiles include reviews, intro videos, availability calendar, and lesson specialties
Italki:
- Over 20,000 tutors
- Two tutor types: Professional Teachers (certified) and Community Tutors (informal conversation practice)
- More distinction between formal and informal learning styles
Verdict: Preply wins for a wider variety of tutors and a smoother browsing experience.
2. Trial Lessons & Flexibility
Preply:
- Trial lessons offered by most tutors at discounted rates
- Easy tutor switching
- Clear cancellation/rescheduling tools
Italki:
- Trial lessons typically available but not required
- More tutor-dependent refund and cancellation policies
Verdict: Preply offers more flexibility and consistency for trial lessons.
3. Pricing and Payment Structure
Preply:
- Lessons start around $10–$25/hour
- No subscription — pay per hour or in bundles
- Platform handles scheduling, payments, and replacements
👉 View Preply pricing and tutors here
Italki:
- Similar pricing tiers depending on tutor type
- Credit system used to pay for lessons
- Some features locked behind premium or “Italki Credits”
Verdict: Both are affordable, but Preply is more transparent and direct with pricing.
4. Lesson Experience & Technology
Preply:
- Built-in video platform and lesson space
- In-lesson messaging, materials, and homework options
- Preply Classroom is reliable and optimized for low-latency lessons
Italki:
- Tutors choose the platform (Zoom, Skype, etc.)
- Less consistency between lessons
Verdict: Preply provides a more seamless and integrated learning experience.
5. User Reviews and Community
Preply:
- Strong 4.5+ average star rating across most tutors
- Millions of successful lessons booked
- Tutors rated for responsiveness, preparedness, and personality
Italki:
- Active learner community and forums
- Good for casual conversation learners
Verdict: Italki has a strong learner community, but Preply is better rated for tutor quality.
Who Should Choose Preply?
- Learners who want structured lessons and a more professional setup
- Those who want flexibility in booking, switching, and rescheduling
- Beginners and intermediate learners looking for a variety of tutors
- Anyone wanting built-in lesson tools and platform consistency
👉 Start with a Preply trial lesson now
Who Should Choose Italki?
- Learners interested in community-style language exchange
- Advanced learners looking for casual conversation practice
- Users who prefer to use Skype or external platforms
Final Verdict
Both Preply and Italki are excellent options for online language learning, but they serve slightly different needs.
- Choose Preply if you want professional tutors, tech-friendly scheduling, and flexible lessons tailored to your goals.
- Choose Italki if you enjoy language exchanges, community learning, or already have a preferred app for video calls.
For most learners in 2025, especially beginners and goal-driven students, Preply offers the better all-around experience.
👉 Click here to browse tutors and start learning on Preply today