Learning a new language can be overwhelming, but Cambly aims to simplify the process by connecting you with native English tutors—anytime, anywhere. Whether you’re preparing for an exam, improving business English, or practicing conversation, Cambly offers flexible, personalized learning.
Learning a new language can be overwhelming, but Cambly aims to simplify the process by connecting you with native English tutors—anytime, anywhere. Whether you’re preparing for an exam, improving business English, or practicing conversation, Cambly offers flexible, personalized learning.
But is it the right fit for you? In this review, we break down Cambly’s key features, pricing, pros and cons, and how it compares to Preply and italki.
- On-demand sessions with native English speakers
- Flexible learning—no set schedules or commitments
- Archived video lessons for review
- Ideal for conversational fluency, test prep, and business English
- Beginner-friendly and accessible globally
- Higher pricing compared to italki or Preply
- Limited structured curriculum for advanced learners
- No free lessons or practice tier
- Not ideal for learners wanting formal grammar or writing instruction
What Is Cambly?
Cambly is an on-demand English tutoring platform that connects learners with native English-speaking tutors for one-on-one sessions. The platform is available 24/7 and uses a pay-as-you-go subscription model, meaning there are no long-term commitments.
Tutors come from English-speaking countries such as the US, UK, Canada, and Australia, offering exposure to different accents and cultural contexts. Lessons are conducted via Cambly’s web or mobile app and include features like recorded sessions for review and topic-based learning modules (e.g., business English, IELTS prep).
Key Features of Cambly
| Feature | Description |
|---|---|
| 24/7 Tutor Access | Book a session or start one instantly at any time |
| One-on-One Lessons | Personalized instruction tailored to your needs |
| Native English Tutors | Learn accents, slang, and real-world language use |
| Recorded Lessons | Review past sessions for progress tracking and reinforcement |
| Topic-Based Modules | Focused paths for exams, business, conversation, or travel English |
| User-Friendly Interface | Easy navigation on desktop and mobile with built-in scheduling tools |
Pricing Breakdown
Cambly offers subscription plans based on lesson duration and frequency per week:
| Plan Type | 15 mins/day | 30 mins/day | 60 mins/day |
|---|---|---|---|
| 2 days/week | $49/month | $85/month | $149/month |
| 5 days/week | $149/month | $255/month | $399/month |
| 7 days/week | Custom quote | — | $319/month |
Discounts available for quarterly or annual payments. All plans are billed monthly unless stated otherwise.
Ideal For
- Beginners building confidence with native speakers
- Exam preppers (IELTS, TOEFL) needing speaking practice
- Professionals refining business English and communication
- Busy learners who need flexible or late-night sessions
- Travelers practicing practical English before trips
Hands-On Experience
Using Cambly is seamless. After signing in, you can:
- Start an instant session or schedule with a tutor
- Browse tutor profiles with filters for accent, experience, or availability
- Join a lesson using Cambly’s built-in video tool
- Replay past sessions directly from your dashboard
Tutors are generally friendly, adaptable, and responsive to your learning goals. While Cambly lacks a formal curriculum, many tutors use prepared materials or adjust based on your preferences.
Cambly vs. Competitors
| Feature | Cambly | Preply | italki |
|---|---|---|---|
| Access | On-demand, 24/7 | Scheduled | Scheduled |
| Trial Lessons | No free trials | Discounted trials | Paid trials |
| Curriculum | Lightly structured | Tutor-defined | Tutor-defined |
| Pricing | Higher | Moderate | Budget-friendly |
| Lesson Recordings | ✅ | ❌ | ❌ |
| Best For | Speaking practice | Structured learning | Casual + flexible |
Cambly shines in spontaneous conversation and speaking confidence, while Preply and italki are better for structured grammar-focused learners on a budget.
Final Verdict:
Cambly is an excellent platform for learners who value flexibility, native speaker access, and personalized speaking practice. It’s especially well-suited to beginners, test-takers, and professionals looking for real-time support. However, those needing formal instruction or budget-conscious options may prefer alternatives like italki or Preply.
