When searching for the best way to learn English online, many learners compare platforms like Berlitz and Preply.
At first glance, both offer online English lessons — but in reality, they represent two very different learning models, and that difference has a direct impact on results.
This article explains why Berlitz offers clear advantages over Preply for learners who want real progress, speaking confidence, and a structured learning journey.
A Proven Language School vs a Tutor Marketplace
One of the most important distinctions is structural.
Berlitz is a global language school, founded in 1878, with a proprietary teaching methodology used consistently worldwide. Every program is built around a clear pedagogical framework, learning objectives, and measurable progress.
Preply is a tutor marketplace. It connects students with independent tutors, each teaching in their own way. There is no single methodology, no standardized curriculum, and no centralized academic oversight.
Why this matters:
Learners who want consistency, accountability, and predictable progress benefit far more from a structured language school than from a marketplace model.
The Berlitz Method: Designed for Speaking Confidence
Berlitz uses the Berlitz Method, a proven immersion-based approach where:
- Lessons are conducted entirely in the target language
- Speaking starts from the very first lesson
- Language is taught in real-life contexts
- Grammar is learned naturally, not memorized in isolation
The method is designed to help learners think and communicate in English, not translate from their native language.
On Preply, lesson structure depends entirely on the tutor. Some focus on conversation, others on grammar, and others follow no clear progression at all.
Result:
Berlitz delivers systematic speaking confidence, while Preply often delivers isolated practice sessions.
Structured Spoken English Courses vs Casual Conversation
Many learners search specifically for a spoken English course because their goal is fluency and confidence.
At Berlitz:
- Each lesson follows a structured progression
- Speaking skills are built step by step
- Learners receive guided correction and feedback
- Progress is continuously assessed
On Preply:
- Lessons are often based on free conversation
- Speaking improvement depends on tutor skill
- There is usually no defined learning pathway
Key advantage:
Berlitz focuses on outcomes, not just conversation time.
English Courses for Beginners, Adults, and Children
Berlitz offers clearly defined programs for:
- English beginners
- Intermediate and advanced learners
- Adults, teens, and children
- Individual and group learning
Each learner starts with a professional level assessment and follows a program adapted to their needs.
Preply does not offer standardized beginner programs or age-based curricula. Continuity depends on tutor availability and personal teaching style.
For families, beginners, and long-term learners, Berlitz provides far greater stability.
Business English and Corporate Training
Another major advantage of Berlitz is its focus on Business English and corporate language training.
Berlitz provides:
- Role-based Business English programs
- Industry-specific vocabulary and scenarios
- Progress tracking and reporting
- Measurable outcomes and ROI for organizations
Preply is not designed as a corporate training solution and does not offer structured reporting or organizational oversight.
Learning Beyond the Lesson: Technology and Support
Berlitz combines human expertise with learning technology, including:
- A dedicated learning portal
- Structured practice between lessons
- Digital tools that support retention and speaking development
This ensures continuous learning, not just weekly sessions.
Preply focuses primarily on live tutoring sessions, with limited built-in learning infrastructure outside the lesson itself.
