italki vs Preply: The Final Comparison & Review

[Robin Osteen]

Choosing between italki vs Preply can feel overwhelming — both are public online language tutoring platforms with tons of features, tutors, and learning styles. But which one is truly better for your language goals? In this in-depth comparison, we break everything down simply, honestly, and in a way that’s easy to read.

Throughout the post, you’ll find key differences in pricing, tutors, features, flexibility, pros/cons, and real user feedback. By the end, you’ll know exactly which platform fits your learning plan.

italki vs Preply: Quick Overview

When we compare italki and Preply, both platforms help learners book 1-on-1 online language lessons with real tutors. But their approaches are different:

• italki is a global marketplace connecting learners with tutors, where you pay per lesson and enjoy flexibility. > Coupon Code On The First Lesson

• Preply pairs learners with tutors using smart recommendations and lesson packages (or subscriptions) that can reduce costs for committed learners.

What Is italki and How Does It Work?

italki is best known for its huge tutor marketplace and flexible lesson booking:

• Tutors set their own prices — often from about $4–$80/hour, depending on language and experience.

• You pay per lesson without mandatory subscription plans.

• Many tutors offer discounted trial lessons so you can test them without a big upfront investment.

• The platform supports community tools — like learner forums and language challenges — to keep you motivated.

Best for: Students who want complete control over tutor choice, schedule, and budget.

👉 Get a Coupon Code For Your First Lesson

What Is Preply and How Does It Work?

Preply takes a slightly different route. It combines human tutoring with smart matching:

• Tutors also pick their prices, but you buy lesson packages or subscriptions that can offer discounts on bulk lessons.

• A built-in AI matching system helps connect you with tutors based on your goals and schedule.

• You get structured learning tools like lesson insights, homework features, and lesson recordings.

• Preply often has refund or satisfaction guarantees if your first class isn’t what you expected.

Best for: Learners who want guided support, built-in classroom tools, and measurable progress.

italki vs Preply Pricing: Which Is More Affordable?

When comparing italki vs Preply pricing, here are the big differences:

italki Pricing

• Pay-per-lesson model — only pay for lessons you take. 

• Prices vary widely depending on tutors’ experience.

• No mandatory monthly subscription.

> Coupon Code On The First Lesson

Preply Pricing

• Offers lesson packages and occasional discounts.

• Some learners report needing to buy packages even if they want fewer lessons.

• Preply usually charges commissions, which can raise lesson costs slightly.

Verdict: italki can be cheaper per lesson if you only want occasional tutoring. Preply packages may save money for regular learners who commit weekly.

Tutor Quality & Language Options

Tutor Networks

• italki: Over 150 languages available with a huge global tutor base.

• Preply: Hundreds of tutors across many languages, but fewer total languages than italki.

Both platforms let you choose between professional tutors and community tutors, but italki usually has more niche and rare language tutors.

👉 Get a Coupon Code For Your First Lesson

Tutor Matching

• Preply: Uses AI-driven matching to suggest tutors based on your preferences.

• italki: You search manually using filters (experience, price, native language).

Learning Features (Tools & Technology)

Learning tools make a big difference in your day-to-day progress.

italki Features

• Uses external platforms like Zoom/Skype for lessons.

• Community resources like forums and study tools.

• Less structured platform-wide curriculum.

• Coupon Code On The First Lesson

Preply Features

• Integrated virtual classroom with lesson notes, recordings, and progress tools.

• Artificial intelligence tools help track your improvement.

• Progress dashboards help you measure fluency gains.

Bottom line: Preply’s built-in features make lessons feel more like a structured online course, while italki is more of a flexible tutor marketplace.

Scheduling & Flexibility

• italki: Lessons are booked one at a time (great for flexible learners).

• Preply: Packages often come with set weekly schedules, which can be motivating but less flexible for some learners.

Pros & Cons — italki vs Preply

italki Pros

✅ Pay-as-you-go lessons (no subscriptions)  > Coupon Code On The First Lesson
✅ Huge language tutor pool
✅ Community features for extra practice
❌ Less structure (depends on tutor)

Preply Pros

✅ Smart matching algorithm
✅ Integrated learning tools and progress tracking
✅ Discounts on bulk lessons
❌ Subscription or package requirements for most plans

What Real Users Say (Reddit & Forums)

Student feedback is mixed, highlighting real-world differences:

• Some prefer italki’s flexible pricing and tutor variety.

• Others mention Preply’s structured subscription model can feel limiting if lessons aren’t used.

• Tutor communities show debates over commissions, trial refunds, and usability on both platforms.

italki vs Preply for Specific Goals

Best for Beginners

italki — Easy entry, low cost, flexible options. > Coupon Code On The First Lesson

Best for Long-Term Progress

Preply — Built-in structure and progress tools.

Best for Rare Languages

italki — Wider language network.

Final Verdict: Which Is Better?

There’s no single “winner” — it depends on how you learn:

👉 Choose italki if you want flexible scheduling, low prices, and lots of tutor options. > Coupon Code On The First Lesson

👉 Choose Preply if you want guided lessons, progress tracking, and tech features included.

Both italki and Preply are excellent tools that help learners improve fluency, confidence, and real-world language skills — the right one for you depends on your learning style and goals.

FAQs — italki vs Preply

Is italki cheaper than Preply?
It depends. italki’s pay-per-lesson model can be cheaper if you study occasionally. Preply’s packages offer savings for committed learners.

Can you switch tutors easily?
Yes on both, but Preply transfers credits automatically if unused; italki ties credits to specific tutors.

Do both platforms offer trial lessons?
Yes — trial lessons are common on both italki and Preply, but policies and refund options differ by tutor and platform.