Pimsleur Review: A Reliable Audio Method, Though Not a Universal Fit

While apps such as Duolingo continually introduce new approaches to language learning, Pimsleur offers a sense of familiarity. It might not be the most thrilling option, but this established program remains effective.

Given its audio-centric design, it was clear that Pimsleur would work well for my learning style. However, I must note that the content isn't the most captivating and falls short in developing other essential language skills, as you'll see in the review below.

For an additional viewpoint, you can also read my colleague Teddy's assessment of the program.

What Pimsleur Is

Pimsleur language programs, which are founded on a learning method created by scholar Paul Pimsleur, have existed for decades. They have undergone few changes and continue to be purchased by learners.

You could assume this is because the Pimsleur name became established during a time with less competition in the language learning market and simply persisted. However, while brand recognition likely plays a role in attracting users, I believe Pimsleur's ongoing popularity is more related to the fact that people often favor a very direct learning approach.

They have historically been one of the more expensive language learning choices, but their website occasionally features sales with significant discounts, and they now provide monthly subscription plans that make their lessons more budget-friendly.

How Pimsleur Works

You can buy lessons by the level, in multi-level sets, or in smaller bundles on CD or MP3 (CD level sets include a reading booklet), so prices vary widely based on how much you wish to invest in the Pimsleur program.

Another option is to access all audio lessons for a specific language through a monthly subscription, with Pimsleur Premium, which includes extra materials like flashcards, available for a higher fee. These choices, which come with a seven-day free trial, make Pimsleur more available to individuals who cannot spend hundreds of dollars on language learning immediately, and they also mean you don't have to purchase the products outright.

The specific options differ somewhat by language, as does the number of levels offered.

No matter how you access Pimsleur lessons, here is the process:

30-minute audio lessons

Pimsleur programs are divided into audio lessons of about 30 minutes that concentrate on fundamental conversational situations. While you can theoretically progress through these lessons at your own speed, Pimsleur suggests learners follow some "Golden Rules": primarily, you should complete one lesson per day, and you should have a command of at least 80% of the material from the previous lesson before advancing.

Active practice with speaking prompts

The lessons include speaking prompts that direct you to repeat after a native speaker to learn word or phrase pronunciation, to recall a phrase learned earlier, or to attempt to form a new phrase using vocabulary you've acquired. This incorporates Pimsleur's "principle of anticipation," the concept that systematically prompting and reinforcing specific knowledge helps cement that knowledge in your mind.

Focus on mastering core vocabulary by repetition

Pimsleur prioritizes basic vocabulary first, based on the idea that overloading on vocabulary slows the learning process. This means the lessons include considerable repetition and are designed more to teach you how to use a limited set of language effectively than to teach you a large number of words.

Graduated interval recall—Pimsleur’s take on spaced repetition

Spaced repetition is a common concept involving learning information at increasingly longer intervals over time to help memorization. Pimsleur's version of this is called "graduated interval recall" and is integrated into their lessons. Essentially, the vocabulary learned in each lesson is carefully considered, and its recurrence in subsequent lessons is planned.

Now, let's examine some benefits of using the programs. Before we begin, I should mention that the following observations are based on my personal experience using Pimsleur to various extents for different languages over several years.

I have generally found Pimsleur helpful, though I haven't typically used it as my main study resource. Others, particularly those who have used it exclusively over a longer duration, may have had different experiences, but I've tried to consider multiple perspectives.

The Advantages of Pimsleur

Hands-free and convenient

This could be significant if you lack the time to sit down and use a program that requires your hands and full focus. This isn't to suggest that Pimsleur programs are not mentally challenging—they demand a certain level of concentration, and you can't simply zone out.

However, I have used Pimsleur while doing simple chores, walking, driving, or resting on the sofa with my eyes closed. I find it very practical this way, making productive use of downtime during other undemanding tasks.

I should note that not all these scenarios may be feasible for everyone, and you should probably consider your tendency to become distracted before using Pimsleur while driving, for instance. But that applies to any audio program or entertainment, and the convenience of the program could be a major advantage for some individuals.

Of course, due to Pimsleur's strong focus on speaking, you should probably be considerate of not disturbing those nearby with your constant practice!

Learn practical language

Pimsleur lessons typically focus on common travel scenarios and employ basic phrases that can be applied in multiple contexts.

In fact, my favorite aspect of Pimsleur is that it is entirely conversation-based. A lesson starts with an actual dialogue featuring native speakers, which is then broken down to teach the vocabulary within it so you can comprehend the exchange by the lesson's end. This ensures you won't waste time learning isolated vocabulary or language that wouldn't be usable in a real conversation.

Helps confidence with speaking

Perhaps the greatest advantage of Pimsleur's specific audio lesson format is that it places you in a situation where you must speak without actually interacting with another person. The prompts help make your physical responses to the language more automatic, making you feel better prepared to visit places where you might need to use the language.

For me, using Pimsleur was also exciting because I realized that with some relatively gentle guidance, I was actually assembling the language pieces myself as I spoke aloud.

Essentially, the program teaches you, but you are doing the actual work of integrating the language into your speech patterns, and recognizing this can significantly boost your confidence.

While Pimsleur is probably most effective when used consistently over a longer period, I believe that even irregular or short-term use can be beneficial in this respect.

Aids long-term memorization

After using Pimsleur regularly, I've observed that it aids in retaining words and phrases over the long term. Unlike other methods, I could remember vocabulary and useful phrases weeks after learning them, and those I couldn't recall required little effort to bring back to mind.

Best of all, with Pimsleur, I don't have to plan or strategize how to learn my target language effectively on my own!

By dedicating a specific amount of time to the lessons each day, you'll see progress that is likely to stay with you.

According to a study conducted at Columbia University, Pimsleur programs demonstrate "major strengths in promoting noticing, awareness and longer memory retention" (italics mine).

The Downsides of Pimsleur

Like any program, Pimsleur has its drawbacks, though many of these are not outright reasons to avoid it but rather factors to be mindful of. Overall, Pimsleur is limited in its scope, but it can still be a very valuable component of your language learning regimen.

Little variety of speech and somewhat dull material

A common criticism of Pimsleur is that it is monotonous. I find that many scenarios, while practical, are quite dry and can lean towards being overly formal.

What somewhat offsets this is the thrill of speaking and observing your speech and understanding come together as you learn to handle the language. Given the intensity of Pimsleur's speaking demands, I'm not sure you'd necessarily want the subject matter to be too captivating, as that might prove distracting and daunting.

At the same time, I suspect there might be opportunities for future improvements to the product.

May be anxiety-provoking

Foreign language anxiety is a real phenomenon, and Pimsleur can trigger some learners' perfectionist tendencies. Personally, the expectation of being quizzed on the material and the mental effort to remember what I've learned with Pimsleur sometimes makes me tense up and worry about getting everything correct.

The program makes some effort to discourage a perfectionist mindset—for example, by stating you only need to master 80% of the material before moving forward—but it's still easy to feel disheartened if you haven't achieved that 80%.

One technique that has helped me immensely with audio-prompt programs in general is learning shadowing. The core idea behind shadowing, which I view more as a language learning skill than a comprehensive method, is that instead of listening to a speaker and then repeating, you begin repeating immediately. Rather than over-enunciating, you simply mimic the speaker's voice and allow your own voice to be guided by theirs. This can make your speaking more relaxed and automatic.

Another solution to audio-prompt anxiety might be to keep your hands occupied while listening to a Pimsleur lesson. As mentioned before, washing dishes, knitting, playing a simple, visual game on my phone… These activities prevent me from focusing too intensely on my own speaking and help me respond to the prompts as if they are a predictable and low-stakes game, which is not entirely inaccurate.

Doesn’t teach grammar explicitly

I've noticed that Pimsleur provides a good foundation in practical grammar usage, but it usually doesn't explain the actual grammar rules to you.

Of course, compensating for this is straightforward: many excellent foreign language textbooks are available to supplement a resource like Pimsleur.

However, before writing this review, I used Pimsleur to learn Russian, a language largely unrelated to others I had studied previously. While I felt it helped me build a foundation and grasp some basic phrases—and perhaps start learning the language in a less intimidating way—I definitely felt the need to purchase some books and delve into the mechanics of Russian afterward.

Grammatical concepts were often introduced within the lessons that raised questions for me, and although I researched them independently, the Pimsleur program itself contained no explanations of these grammatical points.

Ultimately, there's no simple answer regarding whether a program should include direct grammar instruction, and it's fine to try a no-grammar approach first and then consider adjustments to your learning method based on your reaction.

Vocabulary is limited

Along with the limited variety in speech types, the actual number of vocabulary words in Pimsleur's programs is restricted, which, as we've discussed, is an intentional design choice. I don't consider this inherently problematic, especially for absolute beginners, as there's only so much language one can absorb at once. However, not having a wider vocabulary range will ultimately restrict how much you can advance in a language.

The limited input in Pimsleur programs, combined with a lack of genuine interaction, is one of the drawbacks highlighted in the previously mentioned Columbia University study. You can always use language exchange apps for quick conversation practice, but even if Pimsleur introduced more vocabulary, there's no way to practice it outside of repetition within the audio sessions.

Virtually non-existent reading and writing

One of the "Golden Rules" Pimsleur shares with learners at the outset is that they should not write anything down. Pimsleur believes learners should instead concentrate on developing "instincts"—meaning they should listen attentively, repeat after the native speaker, and during recall exercises, they will be able to speak the language within the lesson's context.

In practice, the Pimsleur program mainly consists of two screens: one listing the lessons, and another where the lesson audio plays like a podcast. There are no dictionaries, grammar explanations, or written exercises.

The problem with this is that language learning is generally considered to involve four skills: listening, speaking, reading, and writing.

By being advised not to write anything down, the learner misses out on developing this crucial skill. For instance, I tried learning Egyptian Arabic with Pimsleur. While it successfully taught me some useful phrases, it included no writing instruction, which is especially disadvantageous given that Arabic uses a completely different alphabet from English.

Essentially, if I traveled to Egypt, I would not even be able to recognize basic letters using Pimsleur alone.

Furthermore, the Pimsleur program itself provides no written samples of the language or study notes to assist the learner. This means reading the language is also a skill that remains underdeveloped.

This is not only an issue for learners who might need to read or write in their target language but also for visual and linear learners who are presented with only a podcast screen during a lesson.

Who Would Benefit the Most from Pimsleur?

So, considering the above, who is Pimsleur ideally suited for?

Busy people with little time

Pimsleur is certainly a time-efficient solution if you can use it while driving, doing chores, or performing any work that doesn't require significant mental effort. For this reason, it's an excellent choice for busy individuals who lack dedicated time for learning—those seeking a serious language learning app or program that doesn't require them to halt all other activities to use it.

Those after a structured, regular language routine

While creative and self-directed language learning can be enjoyable, it can also consume considerable energy in planning. Not everyone wants to spend time organizing or experimenting with different learning methods. This isn't to say Pimsleur is necessarily a complete solution, but it's a way to begin learning a language that requires little thought beyond the actual 30 minutes spent on each lesson.

Learners who are visually impaired or want to limit visual learning

Obviously, audio programs in general are a better option for people for whom visual learning isn't feasible. However, many audio programs are paired with text or other visuals. With Pimsleur, visual learning is optional, and the audio is truly self-contained and comprehensive, making it a genuinely good option for those who need to do all or most of their learning through audio.

Beyond those unable to learn visually, people who experience migraines or other conditions that temporarily limit sight or are worsened by excessive visual strain might find Pimsleur beneficial.

Reducing visual learning can be advantageous for several reasons, even if it's not strictly necessary. If you're a dedicated language learner or have a job requiring extensive reading or screen time, incorporating audio into your daily routine, even for just half an hour, can provide a much-needed break that may prevent headaches and stress, and even improve mental clarity.

People who need the basics quickly for travel

Again, every language learning program has its limitations, and Pimsleur most benefits those who wish to quickly acquire the basics of speaking a language. Phrasebooks, textbooks, classroom learning, and comprehensive programs designed for long-term use all have their merits but may not offer the concentrated focus on mastering practical speaking in a relatively short time that Pimsleur does.

Frequently Asked Questions About Pimsleur

Does the Pimsleur method really work?

Pimsleur is highly effective at helping you learn to speak and understand a new language. Its methods are research-based and have been refined over many years since its inception, so it's unsurprising the program remains popular.

However, as with most things, the program's effectiveness for you will depend on your individual learning style and the effort you invest!

Can you become fluent with Pimsleur?

In my view, Pimsleur will not lead to fluency, although some may claim otherwise.

There's no doubt it's an effective program, but achieving fluency with it is very ambitious—it lacks development in too many areas to take you all the way.

Is Pimsleur worth the money?

This is another question without a one-size-fits-all answer.

If you thrive with the type of learning Pimsleur facilitates, then it is probably worth the cost. But if you don't, then there are excellent alternatives available that don't carry a high price tag.

Alternatives to Pimsleur

If the cost and disadvantages don't outweigh the benefits for you, here are some other options worth considering.

Rocket Languages

Rocket Languages provides comprehensive, classroom-style courses that also educate you about the culture associated with the language you're learning. It includes numerous audio lessons and interactive exercises, and it's easy to monitor your progress and maintain motivation.

Read our full review of Rocket Languages here .

Lingflix

The language learning program Lingflix is a strong option for those wanting to learn a language as it's genuinely used. Lingflix uses authentic videos—such as music videos, movie trailers, news, and inspiring talks—and transforms them into personalized language lessons. With Lingflix, you experience languages in authentic contexts—the way native speakers actually use them. A quick glance reveals the variety of Lingflix videos available: Lingflix removes much of the tedious work from language learning, leaving you with only engaging, effective, and efficient instruction. It has already selected the best videos for you and categorized them by level and topic. All you need to do is pick any video that interests you to begin! Every word in the interactive captions includes a definition, audio, image, example sentences, and more. Access a full interactive transcript for each video under the Dialogue tab, and easily review words and phrases from the video under Vocab. You can use Lingflix's unique adaptive quizzes to learn the vocabulary and phrases from the video through enjoyable questions and exercises. Simply swipe left or right to see more examples of the word you're studying. The program even tracks what you're learning and informs you when it's time for review, providing a fully personalized experience. Start using the Lingflix website on your computer or tablet or, even better, download the Lingflix app from the iTunes or Google Play store. Click here to take advantage of our current sale! (Expires at the end of this month.)

Babbel

Babbel is excellent for beginners. It's a well-organized course that focuses on helping you learn the most important aspects of the language first. It features many short, everyday scenarios, making the course a practical choice for learning any language.

Read our full review of Babbel here .

Busuu

Busuu is a great app that, similar to Pimsleur, emphasizes speaking more than other programs. You also have the option to interact with a community of native speakers and learn cultural nuances, enhancing the program's effectiveness. While a free version exists, upgrading to premium is definitely worthwhile if you're serious about language learning!

Read our full review of Busuu here .

Final Verdict

It's difficult to state definitively whether Pimsleur is right for you, as it depends on your goals for the program.

If cost is not a primary concern (admittedly, the program is relatively expensive), then it's a fairly solid option for those wanting to learn the basics and who prefer structured learning. It's also an excellent method for auditory learners.

However, if your aim is to achieve fluency in a language, more comprehensive resources are available.

Overall, Pimsleur is a reliable classic for a reason—and for many, it may be the simplest, most straightforward, and most comfortable choice.

And sometimes, it's perfectly acceptable to go with what feels right.