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Nagish Acquires Sign.mt to Drive Research in AI and Sign Language. Read the announcement
Deaf Culture
June 19, 2023
7 Min

7 Best Apps For Learning Sign Language

Check out our insightful list of the best apps for learning sign language, and pick the right one for yourself. Click here to read more!

Author:
Nicole Brener
7 Best Apps For Learning Sign Language
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I was just 8 years old when my parents sent me to sleepaway camp for the first time in Pennsylvania. Keep in mind we lived in Venezuela, so you can imagine my excitement 

(read: nervousness).

It turned out to be the absolute best. Not only did I improve my English skills, but I also made friendships that have stood the test of time. Especially one particular friendship.

Among my camp group was a girl named Rebecca. Rebecca was deaf and used ASL as her primary communication method. She was also a proficient lip reader, which helped her bridge the gap with her hearing peers. However, the camp wasn't equipped to meet her needs. 

We had these loud wake-up calls blaring through the speakers every morning. But for Rebecca, who snoozed on the top bunk, I had to gently shake our bunk bed to wake her up. 

And as for announcements about the day's plans? They were hollered out in the dining hall, light-years away from where Rebecca could even catch a glimpse of the speaker.

I can't help but imagine how much better Rebecca's experience would have been if we had known sign language. 

So, whether you've got a friend who's deaf or hard of hearing, want to foster cultural appreciation, create an inclusive vibe, or boost your career opportunities, here are the 7 best sign language apps to help you get there. 

With this technology at your fingertips, you'll unlock a new level of communication, build deeper connections, and create a world where everyone feels seen and heard. 

But before we jump into the 7 Best Apps For Learning Sign Language, here are your most common questions, answered:

How do apps for learning sign language work?

Most apps to learn sign language are comprised of bite-sized lessons, including visuals and video demonstrations. As you progress through the lessons, the complexity of the tutorial also increases. 

Some apps to learn sign language include interactive games and quizzes to engage the learning experience and aid retention.

What are the benefits of using apps to learn sign language?

Apps to learn sign language are a convenient and affordable way to start learning. Most include access to a library of content, including a dictionary and glossary, allowing you to learn at your own pace anytime and anywhere. 

Is it hard to learn sign language?

Like most languages, mastering sign language beyond the basic levels requires practice, which is why using an ASL learning app is helpful. The good news is that most signs resemble commonplace gestures that are easy to pick up.

What are the most popular sign languages used in English-speaking countries?

The most popular sign language used in English-speaking countries is American Sign Language (ASL). ASL is the primary sign language used in the United States and parts of Canada. It has its own grammar and vocabulary and is not directly based on English.

In addition to ASL, variations of sign languages are used in other English-speaking regions. For example:

  • British Sign Language (BSL): Used in the United Kingdom, BSL is distinct from ASL and has its own grammar and vocabulary.
  • Australian Sign Language (Auslan): Used in Australia, Auslan is influenced by BSL but is a separate and distinct sign language.

Which sign language should I learn?

Choosing which sign language to learn depends on why you want to learn sign language. Perhaps you want to communicate with a deaf or hard-of-hearing friend, family member or colleague, become an interpreter, or immerse yourself in deaf culture.  

You'd most commonly choose to learn the sign language native to your local area. For example, American Sign Language (ASL) is the sign language most commonly used by the deaf and hard of hearing people in the United States.

What is the fastest way to learn sign language?

If you want to improve your sign language skills faster, using the best sign language app, hiring a sign language tutor, and practicing daily will help you get there.  

One of the quickest ways to learn is throwing yourself into the lions' den (in a good way!). Immerse yourself in an enhanced learning experience by attending local (and often free!) in-person community and social events for the deaf and hard of hearing.

By engaging in these events, you'll have the opportunity to see, understand, and actively participate in the language and culture.

No more feeling left out. Nagish lets your voice be heard.
Sign me up now!

7 Best Apps For Learning Sign Language

From learning a few words to becoming fluent in ASL, this list of apps to learn ASL will highlight the best sign language apps available and help you choose the right one for your specific needs. 

Man using a smartphone at home.
Man using a smartphone at home.

1. Lingvano

Lingvano is one of the best sign language apps that allows you to set learning goals and stay consistent. For example, you can commit to using the app anywhere from 5 min/day to 20 min/day. As soon as you sign in to the platform, you start learning a new sign and get tested on it. It’s actually quite fun!

Pros Cons
Supports ASL (American Sign Language)
, BSL (British Sign Language)
, and OGS (Austrian Sign Language)		 The app is free for 7 days, then $199 ($9.99/month)
High-quality video Requires registration
Easy to use
With the paid account, you can access a vocabulary trainer using AI to adjust your skill level.
Available for iOS and Android
Access a library of frequently searched words and learn how to sign them.

2. ASL Bloom

ASL Bloom is an app to learn ASL, especially useful for beginners. The video and image quality is great, allowing you to learn at your own pace. All the instructors are passionate about teaching ASL and hold the certifications and experience to prove it. It’s also great at explaining the different types of signs and gives you context about ASL, which is an added bonus if you love learning!

Pros Cons
Supports ASL (American Sign Language) Requires registration.
Includes free learning modules and lessons. Subscription costs $98.99 per year ($8.25/month)
Includes an AI ASL learning assistant.
Includes interactive tools such as quizzes and flash cards.
Available for iOS and Android
Instructors are experts with credentials such as Certified Deaf Interpreter (CDI), American Sign Language Proficiency Interview Level 4+ (ASLPI), ASL Education Degrees and more!

3. The ASL App

The ASL App is an ASL learning app developed by Ink & Salt, a deaf-owned and run company. With over 2,500 signs and phrases, it allows you to control the speed of the videos. The content is divided into categories, and it’s good for daily practice.

Pros Cons
Supports ASL (American Sign Language) Requires registration.
Easy, intuitive, and paced. Subscription costs $9.99 annually, or monthly plans starting at $4.99 are also available.
Includes a search index.
Includes a feature to save your favorite signs.
Available for iOS and Android

4. SignSchool

SignSchool is an app to learn sign language for children and young adults with large and clear gesture images. The ASL learning app is playful and uses images and interactive multiple-choice games to keep learning fun. It’s equipped with a large word base and supports many languages. On the downside, it’s mostly useful as a complementary learning tool.

Pros Cons
Supports ASL (American Sign Language) The learning path is not divided by proficiency levels, so it can feel somewhat scattered.
The “Sign of the Day” feature makes it easy to learn a new sign daily. Best for users who already know basic ASL.
Easy to use
Includes educational content and ASL dictionary
Available for iOS and Android
It’s Free

5. InterSign ASL

With over 200 lessons and 10 learning levels created by American Sign Language (ASL) experts, InterSign is an ASL app that helps learn, practice and improve your ASL skills. The platform is made to take you on a learning path comprised of 10 sections which include exams to test your progress.

Pros Cons
Supports ASL (American Sign Language) Requires registration.
Includes a dictionary and glossary to reinforce learning. Subscription costs $49.99 annually, or monthly plans starting at $4.99 are also available.
Includes a game section to make learning and retention fun.
Includes a community forum to ask questions.
Available for iOS and Android
The free version includes valuable features, although it includes ads and cannot be used offline.

6. ASL Fingerspelling Practice

The best way to learn and retain information is with practice. That’s where ASL Fingerspelling Practice app comes in. A great way to refresh your memory using visuals and quiz-like exercises to help you memorize ASL the fun way!

Pros Cons
Supports ASL (American Sign Language) Requires registration.
Includes receptive and expressive modes for practice. No ads, registration or in-app purchases.
Visuals are easy to understand.
Available for iOS
Free

7. Marlee Signs

Learn the fundamentals of ASL – from the signed alphabet and basic vocabulary to common expressions in everyday life – using high-quality video demonstrations starring Marlee Matlin. 

Pros Cons
Supports ASL (American Sign Language) Requires registration.
Bite-sized video lessons allow you to learn at your own pace. Additional lesson packs are $1.99
The “Spell” section teaches you to spell any word.
The “Slow Motion” setting lets you watch any video in greater detail.
Available for iOS and Android.
The first lesson pack is free.

Learning Tips and Strategies

So, you’re ready to dive in? Here are some friendly tips to help make learning ASL more fun and natural:

  • Practice a Little Every Day: Even just a few minutes a day can help build fluency over time. Think of it as adding a new word to your toolkit daily!
  • Join ASL Events: Whether it’s a local workshop or a virtual meetup, connecting with the deaf and signing community brings what you’re learning to life. Plus, there’s nothing quite like real-world practice to give your skills a boost.
  • Grab a Practice Partner: Learning with a buddy can double the fun and help you pick up new signs faster. Got a friend learning ASL too? Make it a weekly practice date!

What’s Great About Learning ASL with Apps

The Upsides: ASL apps make it easy to learn anywhere, anytime, and they’re affordable, too. You get flexibility to practice on your own terms, whether you’re on the bus, in a waiting room, or cozy at home.

The Downsides: While apps are super handy, they might not offer the depth and feedback you’d get in a real class. ASL’s nuances are sometimes best learned face-to-face, where you can see and feel the language in action.

Conclusion

Now that you've discovered the best sign language apps, you're on your way to becoming fluent in this beautiful and inclusive language. Just remember, improving your skills requires practice, practice, and more practice. So dive in and explore the app that suits you best. 

Embrace this journey with excitement and know that every sign you learn brings us closer to a world where communication knows no boundaries. 

Whether you're 18 or 100, staying connected matters—and Nagish is here to help.
Sign me up now!
Nicole Brener

Copywriter based in Miami, FL. Leads copywriting workshops and mentors women entrepreneurs at the Idea Center of Miami Dade College.

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Nagish Acquires Sign.mt to Drive Research in AI and Sign Language. 
‍Read the announcement

7 Best Apps For Learning Sign Language

Key Findings

  • Workplace Impact: 62% of Deaf and 66% of Hard-of-Hearing individuals report that communication barriers hinder career mobility.
  • Healthcare Challenges: 62% of Deaf and 66% of Hard-of-Hearing individuals experience communication barriers in healthcare settings, contributing to delays in treatment.
  • Concerns About Emergency Communications: 20% of Deaf and 24.3% Hard-of-Hearing users also expressed serious concerns that communication barriers would prohibit them from contacting healthcare personnel in an emergency situation.
  • Independence Boost: Assistive technology nearly doubled rates of independence, with 60% of Deaf users and 63% of Hard-of-Hearing users reporting increased autonomy.
  • Emotional Strain: 55% of Deaf users and 83% of Hard-of-Hearing users reported emotional distress due to communication frustrations.
  • Social and Professional Opportunities: 46% of Deaf and 32.9% of Hard-of-Hearing users saw improved social and career prospects thanks to assistive technologies.

Empowering the Deaf and Hard-of-Hearing Through Technology: A New Era of Communication and Independence

At Nagish, we’ve seen firsthand just how much communication shapes daily life for Deaf and Hard-of-Hearing communities. Our recent survey highlights the significant barriers they face in the workplace, healthcare settings, and in their social lives. But it also sheds light on a powerful solution: assistive technology. The results of this survey reinforce our commitment to empowering these communities and remind us why our mission matters: with access to the right tools, independence grows, opportunities expand, and well-being improves.

We collected data through a comprehensive survey involving over 300 individuals who are Deaf or Hard-of-Hearing and currently use hearing assistive technology. The survey included 179 Deaf and 140 Hard-of-Hearing participants, with data collected in an inclusive and accessible manner to ensure that everyone could participate and share their experiences without barriers.Communication Barriers in the Workplace: Limiting Career Mobility

Communication challenges in the workplace remain one of the most significant hurdles for Deaf and Hard-of-Hearing individuals, preventing them from fully realizing their career potential. Assistive technology offers a solution by removing these barriers and expanding access to a broader range of job opportunities and career growth.

Download the PDF Report

A majority of Deaf and Hard-of-Hearing participants reported that communication barriers affected their career decisions, making it harder to pursue job opportunities or advance in their careers.

Deaf Participants

Hard-of-Hearing participants

65% of Deaf users rely on assistance from hearing individuals at least once a week to communicate effectively, which can limit their ability to fully engage in dynamic work environments.

Communication Barriers in Healthcare: A Matter of Public Safety
Communication challenges are not just a workplace issue — they extend into healthcare settings, where they can directly impact individuals’ health outcomes. Accessible communication tools are essential for ensuring that Deaf and Hard-of-Hearing individuals can receive timely and accurate medical care, especially in emergency situations

Many Deaf and Hard-of-Hearing users face communication barriers in healthcare settings, which can lead to missed appointments, misunderstandings about medical treatments, and delayed care.

Deaf users:

62%

Hard of Hearing users:

66%

Some Deaf and Hard-of-Hearing users have concerns about reaching healthcare professionals in emergencies, highlighting serious public safety risks.

Deaf users

Hard-of-Hearing users

Empowering Independence Through Assistive Technology
One of the most encouraging findings from our survey is just how much independence is boosted with assistive technology. This improvement in independence is not just about doing things on their own; it’s about having the confidence and ability to engage fully in both professional and personal settings.

Assistive technology has significantly increased the independence of Deaf and Hard-of-Hearing users in managing daily tasks, showing clear improvements after adoption.

Deaf users

Hard-of-Hearing users

Expanding Social and Professional Opportunities
Beyond independence, assistive technology creates connection.By removing communication barriers that keep people from joining in socially or professionallyassistive technology allows users to engage more deeply in social activities and pursue career opportunities that were previously out of reach.

Assistive technology has helped Deaf and Hard-of-Hearing users expand their social networks and professional opportunities, enabling new connections and career growth.

Emotional and Psychological Impact: The Hidden Toll of Communication Barriers
People often overlook the emotional and psychological toll of communication , but they can have a profound impact on the mental well-being of Deaf and Hard-of-Hearing individuals. Assistive technology can help alleviate this emotional strain, empowering users to communicate more effectively and reducing the anxiety associated with relying on others for basic communication.

A significant number of Deaf and Hard-of-Hearing users experience frustration and anxiety when communicating with family and friends, leading to isolation and stress.

Deaf users

Hard-of-Hearing users

Why This Matters: A Call for Widespread Adoption of Assistive Technologies
The findings from our survey are clear: communication barriers continue to limit the lives of Deaf and Hard-of-Hearing individuals in many areas, from the workplace to healthcare to their social lives. What’s also clear to us is that the question isn’t whether assistive technology helps—it’s how quickly we can make this powerful solution universally available.. By making these tools more accessible, we can open up new opportunities for individuals to thrive in their careers, maintain better health, and lead more independent lives.
At Nagish, we are committed to advocating for the integration of assistive technologies in all aspects of life. Whether it’s in healthcare, the workplace, or social settings, these technologies have the potential to create a more inclusive society where Deaf and Hard-of-Hearing individuals can live fully empowered lives. 
Our hope is that these findings inspire not just awareness, but action. We hope this survey creates awareness and action in promoting accessibility and inclusion for these communities. Together, we can create a world where everyone, regardless of their hearing abilities, has equal access to opportunities and services.