Without a doubt, Rocket Languages is one of the best language learning programs on the market.
It’s effective and well-structured, and it will undeniably help you improve your language skills.
But considering your learning style and goals, is this kind of program a good option for you?
You can figure that out by checking out our honest Rocket Languages review.
We will tell you all about the platform’s features, highlights, and content.
And then you’ll be able to make the right decision.
But regardless of your goals and preferences, Rocket Languages is a reliable platform that offers one of the best ways to learn a new language online.
What is Rocket Languages?
Launched in 2004, Rocket Languages has been around for a while now. And it keeps growing and evolving with every new edition.
The program now offers classes in 14 languages, and it developed modern online study tools and implemented effective methods.
One thing is for sure: this popular language program will get you on the right track.
Whether you just want to learn some basic travel vocabulary or learn how to have a fluid conversation with a near-native accent, Rocket Languages will help you get there.
Rocket lessons are focused on the development of all main language skills: writing, listening, speaking, and reading. And that’s one of the best things about Rocket Languages.
It’s incredibly comprehensive and thorough but it also won’t overwhelm you with too much information at once.
You’ll get well-designed grammar and culture lessons.
And you’ll also be able to work on your pronunciation.
Every Rocket Languages package includes hundreds of hours of lesson time, audio interactive audio lessons, language & culture lessons, and bonus Survival Kit lessons.
But how does Rocket Languages actually work?
How Does Rocket Languages Work?
Essentially, Rocket Languages is a mix of audio tracks and interactive exercises. But it’s also so much more than that.
Rocket’s core lessons are based on interactive audio and natural conversations between native speakers. You’ll be listening to their conversation (with moderator’s explanations) and you’ll be asked questions. That way, you’ll actually be a part of the conversation.
So, the main part of Rocket Languages could actually be called guided conversation if you will.
It will take you 20 to 30 minutes to complete each lesson.
And you’ll be able to test your knowledge with a variety of drills and exercises.
Rocket Reinforcement activities include listening, speaking and writing drills as well as short quizzes. They are designed to recall skills in a fun and engaging way.
So, is Rocket Languages gamified?
Well, it depends on what you compare it to.
Rocket Languages does have gamification elements. You’ll be earning points and there’s a Leaderboard to check your position.
Their gamified system definitely keeps you coming back for more. But it’s not the same as Duolingo, for example. Rocket looks more serious and sophisticated.
And it’s not just about the looks. Rocket Languages is generally more complete and effective than other language apps and courses. It will allow you to delve deeper into language and culture.
Rocket’s culture lessons and grammar explanations are perfectly intertwined.
If your target language has a different writing system, Rocket will teach you the alphabet. The program’s video clips are very effective when it comes to mastering Chinese or Korean characters.
And Rocket’s podcast-style audio courses are perfect for people who want to learn on the go. You can take lessons while you’re driving, cooking, jogging…
All things considered, Rocket Languages is very practical and efficient.
But more importantly, it’s based on natural language and practical vocabulary. It will prepare you for real life situations and conversations with the locals.
You won’t have to memorize long vocabulary lists or learn phrases you’re never going to use in your life. You will learn through context instead, and that’s arguably one of the best ways to learn a new language.
After you complete a course, you’ll be able to talk about a variety of common topics.
Let’s look at Rocket Italian Level 3. It covers the following topics:
- Socializing
- Food
- Relationships
- Italian culture
- Travel destinations
- When things go wrong
At Level 1, you’ll learn what to say in different kinds of situations. As you progress, you’re going to learn how to express yourself and talk about different topics in a more complex way.
Generally, Rocket has three levels: beginner, intermediate, and advanced. But the number of levels depends on the language you’re learning – some languages don’t get past the intermediate level.
Nevertheless, Rocket’s dialogue simulations will introduce you to a new language in a very natural way. And you’ll get all the explanations so you won’t have to guess anything.
And that’s why you’ll increase your comprehension and build a solid foundation with Rocket Languages.
On the other hand, the results also depend on your self-discipline and persistence. Rocket will provide you with structure and learning tools, but you’ll also have to do the extra work.
For instance, you should surround yourself with the language as much as you can. Watch movies in your target languages, listen to music, talk to native speakers…
And finally, be patient and positive, especially if you want to become a fluent speaker.
But let’s get back to Rocket Languages and what the program has to offer.
Features
Languages
As we mentioned earlier, Rocket Languages currently offers 14 languages including English and sign language.
You can choose from: Arabic (Egyptian), French, Chinese, German, English, Italian, Spanish (Latin American), Japanese, Korean, Portuguese (Brazilian), Hindi, and Russian.
And that’s a nice selection of languages. However, we hope the list will keep growing.
Interactive audio lessons
Rocket’s lessons are based on active participation. That means you’ll be a part of the conversation.
You won’t only listen to native speakers but you’ll also have to answer questions and participate. That will keep you active and focused, but it will also help you improve your communication skills.
You can access them directly in the app or download them to practice offline.
Language & culture lessons
Rocket’s language and culture lessons will provide you with valuable cultural knowledge and help you understand how the language works.
Getting to know another culture should be an essential part of learning a new language. Unfortunately, many language learning apps and courses neglect this. But Rocket managed to blend culture and language in a way that feels natural and interesting.
Speech recognition technology
Among other things, Rocket Languages will teach you how to pronounce words.
The app’s state-of-the-art voice recognition will provide you with instant feedback on your pronunciation. If you’re using an app to learn a new language, that’s arguably the best way to master the pronunciation.
Travelogues
Some languages have a Travelogues section. This section will take you on a virtual trip to a country of the language you’re learning.
Essentially, Travelogues are situational dialogues and courses that will provide you with useful extra material.
This feature is only available for select languages, and hopefully, that will change in the future.
Extra features
Rocket also has some additional features that will enrich your learning experience.
Benchmarks are tests that will help you determine your current level. You can take them whenever you want.
Saved Vocab is another useful feature. It will allow you to highlight words and phrases in the audio lesson and find them afterward.
Furthermore, after each module of a Rocket Languages course, you can take a certification test. This test will allow you to determine and prove your level of proficiency.
Rocket’s certification is based on the popular Common European Framework of Reference (CEFR.) You can learn more about each level here.
Key Decision Making Criteria
- User-friendliness & learning interface – The Rocket Languages app (and a desktop version) is very easy to navigate. It has a clean interface, well-structured modules, and a decent design (9/10).
- Convenience – You can download Rocket’s lessons for offline use. Plus, the audio lessons are ideal for learning on the go. Therefore, the program is very convenient and practical (9.5/10).
- Languages offered – With Rocket Languages, you can learn 14 different languages. That’s not a huge number, but the selection includes all the popular languages (8.9/10).
- Quality of content – A mix of audio lessons, grammar notes, and cultural insights is perfect for every learner. Rocket’s curriculum is thoughtfully crafted, and lessons build on each other nicely (9.8/10).
- Available platforms – You can use Rocket Languages as an Android or iOS app or as an online app. Both applications track your progress through the lesson plan (9.5/10).
- Payment methods – Rocket Languages accepts different payment methods (credit card, Paypal…) and it also provides a 60-day money-back guarantee which is a huge plus (9.8/10).
- Customer support – You can easily contact Rocket Languages and get technical help or course content information (9.3/10).
Rocket Languages Pros & Cons
Pros
- Well-structured
- High-quality audio tracks
- Speech recognition technology
- Culture + grammar lessons
Cons
- Some languages don’t have advanced content
Who is Rocket Languages For?
Rocket Languages is the best choice for beginners looking for a well-rounded online language course.
It’s also great for anyone who wants to brush up on their language skills.
Since it combines different formats, Rocket Languages is suitable for all types of learners, even for people who like gamified learning.
How Much Does Rocket Languages Cost?
Rocket Languages doesn’t offer monthly subscriptions like many other platforms. It offers only lifetime plans. That means you can have a one-time purchase, and the price depends on the levels you choose.
Let’s take Rocket Spanish as an example. You can usually purchase these packages:
- Rocket Spanish (Levels 1,2 & 3) for $449.85
- Rocket Spanish (Levels 1 & 2) for $299.90
- Rocket Spanish (Level 1) for $149.95
However, Rocket has sales and discounts very often. So, keep an eye out for promotions and purchase a package you want for a cheaper price.
If you’re not satisfied with your product, there’s a 60-day money-back guarantee.
And you can always do a free trial and test the waters first. The free trial gives you 24/7 access to selected sample lessons from the full course.
Similar Platforms to Consider
If you want to explore similar platforms, we recommend checking out Pimsleur.
The program is also based on audio lessons and exercises. It features reading drills, speed games, flashcards, quizzes, and so on.
And it offers around 50 languages to choose from.
Babbel is another good option. Each Babbel lesson is about 10 to 15 minutes long, so you can easily incorporate language learning into your daily routine.
Babbel also offers top notch live classes, podcasts, and useful study tools.
Both Babbel and Pimsleur are popular and well-designed, but Rocket’s simulated dialogues are simply more effective.
Is Rocket Languages Worth it? Final Thoughts
If you want to build a solid foundation and develop conversational skills, you can’t go wrong with Rocket Languages.
It’s by far the most effective language program out there.
You’ll acquire practical vocabulary and thanks to the program’s guided conversation practice, learn how to actually use it.
Unlike many other online programs, Rocket Languages will prepare you for real life situations.
And it will do so by providing you with an enjoyable yet productive learning experience.
The new Rocket Languages 2022 edition is even more intuitive, streamlined, and neat. Each new version has small changes and updates for a better user experience.
Whatever you decide, we hope this article motivated you to start learning today!
