Overview of Preply and Italki

What is Preply?

Preply is an online marketplace that connects language learners with professional tutors worldwide. Founded in 2012, Preply focuses on personalized one-on-one lessons tailored to the learner’s goals. The platform covers over 50 languages, including popular choices like English, Spanish, French, Russian, and less common languages such as Ukrainian and Filipino. Preply emphasizes flexibility, allowing students to book lessons on their schedule and select tutors based on detailed profiles, reviews, and pricing.

What is Italki?

Italki, launched in 2007, is one of the pioneers in online language learning communities. It offers a vast network of tutors and teachers who provide one-on-one lessons and language practice. Italki supports over 150 languages, making it ideal for learners seeking niche or rare languages. The platform also features community elements such as language challenges, forums, and free language exchange opportunities. Italki’s teaching options are divided into professional teachers and community tutors, giving learners a broader range of expertise and price points.

Comparison of Tutor Availability and Quality

Tutor Selection and Variety

– Preply: Offers over 40,000 tutors covering 50+ languages. Tutors range from professional teachers to native speakers offering conversational practice.
– Italki: Boasts more than 10,000 tutors teaching 150+ languages, including rare dialects and regional variations.

Quality and Qualifications

– Preply: Tutors must pass a vetting process, including video interviews and verification of credentials. Many tutors hold teaching certifications such as TEFL or CELTA.
– Italki: Tutors are categorized as “Professional Teachers” (with formal qualifications) and “Community Tutors” (native speakers without formal teaching certificates). This allows learners to choose between structured lessons or informal conversation practice.

User Reviews and Ratings

Both platforms allow students to leave detailed reviews and ratings, helping future learners make informed decisions. Preply tends to have more standardized tutor profiles with detailed lesson plans, while Italki’s community-driven feedback highlights personal teaching style and engagement.

Lesson Structure and Flexibility

Booking and Scheduling

– Preply: Lessons are booked on-demand with instant confirmation. The platform’s calendar sync and time zone features simplify scheduling.
– Italki: Scheduling depends on tutor availability but often requires advance booking. Italki also offers a trial lesson option for new students.

Lesson Formats

– Preply: Primarily one-on-one video lessons using an integrated virtual classroom with chat, file sharing, and screen sharing.
– Italki: One-on-one lessons via Skype, Zoom, or Italki’s own classroom. Italki also promotes informal language exchanges and group challenges through its community features.

Curriculum and Customization

Both platforms encourage personalized lesson plans tailored to the learner’s goals—whether it’s business language, exam preparation, or casual conversation. Preply often provides structured courses for standardized tests like TOEFL or DELE, while Italki’s flexibility allows tutors to focus on any niche areas.

Pricing and Payment Options

Cost Per Lesson

– Preply: Prices range from $5 to $40+ per hour depending on tutor experience and language difficulty. Average rates fall between $10 and $25.
– Italki: Tutor rates vary widely, from as low as $4 to $50+ per hour. Community tutors tend to be more affordable than professional teachers.

Payment Methods and Refunds

– Preply: Accepts credit/debit cards and PayPal. Prepay lesson packages are available. Refunds are offered under specific conditions if tutors cancel lessons.
– Italki: Supports multiple payment methods including PayPal, credit cards, and Alipay. Italki offers trial lessons at discounted rates, and students can receive credit for canceled lessons.

User Experience and Platform Features

Website and Mobile App

– Preply: User-friendly interface with a modern design. The mobile app supports lesson booking, tutor messaging, and video calls.
– Italki: Intuitive website and mobile app with community forums, language challenges, and a blog offering language learning tips.

Community and Additional Resources

– Preply: Focuses more on paid lessons but offers some free resources and blog articles.
– Italki: Strong community engagement with language partners, forums, and social features, providing learners with opportunities beyond paid lessons.

Pros and Cons Summary

Preply Pros

• Wide range of professional tutors
• Instant booking and flexible scheduling
• Integrated virtual classroom with useful teaching tools
• Structured courses for test preparation

Preply Cons

• Fewer language options compared to Italki
• Less community interaction
• Pricing can be higher for experienced tutors

Italki Pros

• Supports 150+ languages, including rare ones
• Choice between professional and community tutors
• Strong language learning community and free exchange options
• Flexible payment and trial lesson options

Italki Cons

• Scheduling can require advance planning
• Varied tutor quality, especially among community tutors
• Less structured curriculum for standardized exams

Which Platform Wins? Final Verdict

Both Preply and Italki offer excellent opportunities for language learners, but the best choice depends on your personal needs:

– Choose Preply if you prioritize structured lessons, professional tutors, and seamless booking for popular languages. It’s ideal for learners seeking formal instruction and preparation for language exams.

– Choose Italki if you want access to a broader range of languages, enjoy community engagement, and prefer a mix of professional and casual learning options. Italki is perfect for learners who value flexibility and cultural exchange alongside formal lessons.

Additionally, don’t overlook platforms like Talkpal, which complement these services by offering interactive language learning through gamification and peer communication.

Ultimately, your language learning journey is unique, and exploring trial lessons on both Preply and Italki is the best way to find your perfect fit. With the right platform, consistent practice, and motivated tutors, you can confidently achieve your language goals.