Best Apps to Learn Norwegian in 2026: Complete Guide

Want to learn Norwegian but not sure which app to use? With dozens of language learning apps available, choosing the right one can be overwhelming.

This comprehensive guide compares the best apps to learn Norwegian in 2026, helping you find the perfect match for your learning style, goals, and budget.

Quick Comparison: Best Norwegian Learning Apps

How to Choose the Right App

Before diving into each app, consider your learning goals:

1. Duolingo – Best for Beginners

Price: Free (with ads) / Super Duolingo $7.99/month

Duolingo is the world’s most popular language learning app, and its Norwegian (Bokmål) course is excellent for beginners.

Pros

• Completely free to use
• Gamified learning keeps you motivated
• Bite-sized lessons (5-10 minutes)
• Strong community and forums
• Good introduction to basic grammar

Cons

• Limited depth for intermediate/advanced learners
• Repetitive exercises
• Some unnatural sentences
• Hearts system can be frustrating (free version)

Best For

Complete beginners who want a free, fun introduction to Norwegian.

2. Babbel – Best for Structured Learning

Price: $14.95/month (discounts for longer subscriptions)

Babbel offers professionally designed courses with a focus on practical conversation skills.

Pros

• Well-structured curriculum
• Focus on real-world conversations
• Excellent grammar explanations
• Speech recognition technology
• Courses designed by linguists

Cons

• No free version (only trial)
• Less gamification than Duolingo
• Limited Norwegian content compared to major languages

Best For

Serious learners who want structured lessons and are willing to pay for quality.

3. NorskKryss – Best for Vocabulary Building

Price: Free (with optional ad removal)

NorskKryss takes a unique approach to learning Norwegian – through crossword puzzles. It’s specifically designed to build vocabulary in a fun, engaging way.

Pros

• Completely free to use
• 700+ carefully selected vocabulary words
• Three difficulty levels (Beginner, Intermediate, Advanced)
• Daily challenges to build learning streaks
• Progress tracking shows words mastered
• Works offline
• No subscription required

Cons

• Focused on vocabulary (not grammar or speaking)
• Currently Android only (iOS coming soon)

Best For

Anyone who wants to build Norwegian vocabulary through games. Perfect as a supplement to other apps.

4. Pimsleur – Best for Speaking & Listening

Price: $19.95/month or $150 per level

Pimsleur uses audio-based lessons that focus heavily on pronunciation and speaking.

Pros

• Excellent for pronunciation
• Learn while commuting or exercising
• Spaced repetition built into lessons
• Focus on practical phrases
• Native speaker audio

Cons

• Expensive compared to alternatives
• No written exercises
• Can feel slow-paced
• Limited vocabulary compared to other methods

Best For

Auditory learners and those who want to focus on speaking and listening skills.

5. Memrise – Best for Native Content

Price: Free (limited) / Pro $8.49/month

Memrise combines flashcard-style learning with videos of native speakers.

Pros

• Videos of native Norwegian speakers
• Good for learning natural pronunciation
• Spaced repetition system
• Community-created courses
• Fun, meme-style approach

Cons

• Quality varies in community courses
• Less structured than Babbel
• Free version is limited

Best For

Visual learners who want to hear real Norwegians speak.

6. italki – Best for Speaking Practice

Price: $10-30+ per hour (depends on tutor)

italki connects you with native Norwegian tutors for one-on-one lessons.

Pros

• Real conversation practice
• Personalized feedback
• Flexible scheduling
• Choose your own tutor
• Professional and community tutors available

Cons

• Most expensive option
• Requires scheduling
• Quality depends on tutor
• Not ideal for complete beginners

Best For

Intermediate learners who need speaking practice and personalized instruction.

Free Resources to Learn Norwegian

Beyond apps, these free resources can help you learn Norwegian:

Recommended Learning Combinations

Most successful Norwegian learners use multiple resources. Here are our recommended combinations:

For Beginners (Free)

1. Duolingo – Daily lessons for grammar basics (15-20 min)
2. NorskKryss – Daily crossword for vocabulary (10 min)
3. Norwegian on the Web – Weekly grammar review

For Beginners (Budget)

1. Babbel – Structured course (20-30 min daily)
2. NorskKryss – Vocabulary reinforcement (10 min)
3. Memrise – Native speaker videos (10 min)

For Intermediate Learners

1. italki – Weekly tutor sessions (1 hour)
2. NorskKryss – Daily vocabulary (Advanced mode)
3. NRK – Watch Norwegian TV with subtitles
4. Klar Tale – Read easy news articles

How Long Does It Take to Learn Norwegian?

According to the FSI (Foreign Service Institute), Norwegian is one of the easiest languages for English speakers to learn:

With 30 minutes of daily practice, you can reach A2 level in about 6-8 months!

Tips for Learning Norwegian Successfully

1. Be consistent – 15 minutes daily beats 2 hours once a week
2. Use multiple apps – Combine grammar apps with vocabulary apps
3. Practice actively – Games and speaking beat passive reading
4. Immerse yourself – Listen to Norwegian music, watch Norwegian shows
5. Don’t fear mistakes – Norwegians appreciate when you try!
6. Set realistic goals – Focus on what you need first
7. Track your progress – Apps like NorskKryss show your improvement

Why Learn Norwegian?

Still deciding whether to learn Norwegian? Here are compelling reasons:

• Easy for English speakers – Similar grammar and vocabulary
• Gateway to Scandinavian languages – Understand Swedish and Danish
• Career opportunities – Norway has high demand for skilled workers
• Rich culture – Access to Norwegian literature, music, and media
• Travel – Experience Norway like a local
• Quality of life – Norway consistently ranks among happiest countries

Conclusion

The best app to learn Norwegian depends on your goals, budget, and learning style:

• Complete beginners: Start with Duolingo (free) + NorskKryss (vocabulary)
• Serious learners: Invest in Babbel for structured lessons
• Vocabulary focus: Use NorskKryss daily
• Speaking practice: Try Pimsleur or italki

The most important thing is to start! Pick an app, commit to daily practice, and you’ll be speaking Norwegian before you know it.

Lykke til! (Good luck!)