Uncovering the Best Pleco Alternative for Chinese Language Learners
Pleco has long been lauded as the go-to Chinese learning companion, offering an integrated dictionary, document reader, and flashcard system with advanced features like handwriting input and live camera lookups. However, for various reasons – be it platform compatibility, specific feature requirements, or budget constraints – many learners are on the hunt for a robust Pleco alternative. This article explores some of the top contenders that can help you continue your Chinese language journey effectively.
Top Pleco Alternatives
Whether you're seeking a free solution, a feature-rich premium app, or something in between, there's a Pleco alternative out there for you. Let's dive into some of the best options available.
Syng
Syng stands out as a free, open-source, and cross-platform Chinese to English dictionary app and study toolset, making it an excellent Pleco alternative for those on Mac, Windows, and Linux. It also includes flashcards to aid in your learning.
wenlin
Wenlin is a comprehensive software designed to make learning Chinese easier and more engaging. Available as a freemium option for Mac and Windows, it offers robust educational features that can serve as a strong Pleco alternative for serious learners.
MDBG English to Chinese dictionary
MDBG English to Chinese dictionary is a free web-based Pleco alternative that offers more than just dictionary lookups. It provides various tools like flashcards, quizzes, text annotation, and Chinese text input, accessible via web and Facebook.
ChineseSkill
ChineseSkill is a free app available on Android, iPhone, Android Tablet, and iPad, designed to tackle the notoriously difficult Chinese language. It serves as a good entry-level Pleco alternative for beginners.
Youdao Dictionary
Youdao Dictionary, from Chinese internet giant NetEase, is a free and widely available Pleco alternative across Mac, Windows, Web, Android, iPhone, Android Tablet, Windows Phone, and iPad. While feature specifics are not listed, its broad platform support makes it highly accessible.
Hanping Chinese Dictionary
Hanping Chinese Dictionary is a user-friendly offline dictionary for Android, available as a freemium app. It includes handwriting recognition, native speaker audio, stroke animations, and AnkiDroid integration, making it a strong Pleco alternative for Android users.
Chinese Tutor Dictionary
Chinese Tutor Dictionary is a fast and simple free web-based dictionary for looking up pinyin of Chinese characters and words. For those needing a straightforward and quick online lookup, it's a handy Pleco alternative.
DimSum
DimSum is a free program designed to aid in learning and using Chinese. Available for Mac, Windows, and Linux, it includes flashcards, making it a viable desktop-based Pleco alternative for focused study.
Nciku
Nciku is a free web-based English Chinese dictionary that helps with learning the Chinese language, characters, and pinyin. It even features Chinese handwriting recognition and pinyin translation, positioning it as a capable online Pleco alternative.
YiXue Chinese Dictionary
YiXue Chinese Dictionary is a comprehensive Chinese dictionary and learning assistant for Windows Phone. Available as a freemium app, it includes features like flashcards, offline functionality, quizzes, and a quiz system, making it a strong Pleco alternative for Windows Phone users.
Ultimately, the best Pleco alternative depends on your individual learning style, platform preference, and specific feature requirements. We encourage you to explore these options and find the perfect fit to continue mastering the Chinese language.