Best Spaced Repetition Apps for Chinese: 2025 Comparison

Spaced repetition is the most scientifically proven method for learning vocabulary, and choosing the right app can make a huge difference in your Chinese learning efficiency. This comprehensive comparison reviews the best spaced repetition apps specifically for learning Chinese, helping you find the perfect tool for your needs. Learn more about how spaced repetition works and compare HSK Lord vs Anki.

What is Spaced Repetition?

The Science

Spaced repetition (SRS - Spaced Repetition System) is a learning technique that schedules reviews at optimal intervals based on the forgetting curve. It reviews information just before you're likely to forget it, maximizing retention while minimizing study time.

Key Principles:

• Forgetting Curve: We forget information over time
• Optimal Intervals: Reviewing just before forgetting strengthens memory
• Increasing Intervals: As memory strengthens, intervals increase
• Active Recall: Testing yourself is more effective than passive review

Why It Works for Chinese

Character Learning:

• Characters are complex and easy to forget
• Regular review prevents forgetting
• Stroke order and recognition improve with repetition

Vocabulary Volume:

• HSK requires thousands of words
• SRS manages large vocabulary loads efficiently
• Prioritizes what needs review

Tone Mastery:

• Tones require consistent practice
• SRS ensures regular tone review
• Audio practice reinforces correct pronunciation

Top Spaced Repetition Apps for Chinese

HSK Lord

Best For: HSK-focused vocabulary learning

SRS Quality: ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ Optimized for Chinese

Key Features:

• Intelligent spaced repetition algorithm
• Pre-loaded HSK 1-6 vocabulary (5,000+ words)
• Pinyin, tones, characters, examples
• Progress tracking by HSK level
• Mobile apps with offline support
• Audio pronunciation

Pricing: Free (10 cards/day) + $8 CAD/month (unlimited)

Strengths:

• Specifically designed for HSK
• Zero setup required
• Excellent SRS implementation
• Chinese-specific optimizations
• Comprehensive tracking

Weaknesses:

• Focused on vocabulary (less grammar)
• Newer app (less established)

Verdict: Best for HSK vocabulary learning. Excellent SRS optimized specifically for Chinese.

Anki

Best For: Customizable SRS learning

SRS Quality: ⭐⭐⭐⭐ Proven SM-2 algorithm

Key Features:

• Highly customizable spaced repetition
• SM-2 algorithm (proven and effective)
• Large community deck library
• Works for any language or subject
• Free on desktop
• Extensive add-on ecosystem

Pricing: Free (desktop), $25 (iOS one-time), Free (Android)

Strengths:

• Complete customization
• Free on desktop
• Proven algorithm
• Large community
• Works for multiple languages

Weaknesses:

• Requires setup and deck research
• Quality varies by deck
• Steeper learning curve
• Less Chinese-specific features

Verdict: Best for learners who want maximum control and customization. Requires more setup but offers flexibility.

Memrise

Best For: Gamified vocabulary learning

SRS Quality: ⭐⭐⭐ Good implementation

Key Features:

• Spaced repetition with gamification
• Pre-made Chinese courses
• Audio and video content
• Progress tracking
• Mobile apps

Pricing: Free tier + $8.99/month (premium)

Strengths:

• Engaging and fun
• Pre-made courses available
• Good for beginners
• Audio and video content

Weaknesses:

• Less customizable than Anki
• Courses vary in quality
• Less focused on HSK
• Gamification can be distracting

Verdict: Good for beginners who want engaging learning, but less efficient than dedicated SRS apps.

Quizlet

Best For: Simple flashcard learning

SRS Quality: ⭐⭐ Basic implementation

Key Features:

• Simple flashcard system
• Basic spaced repetition
• Large study set library
• Multiple study modes
• Free tier available

Pricing: Free (basic), $7.99/month (premium)

Strengths:

• Very easy to use
• Large library of study sets
• Multiple study modes
• Free tier available

Weaknesses:

• Basic SRS (not as sophisticated)
• Less optimized for Chinese
• Quality varies by study sets
• Not specifically for language learning

Verdict: Good for simple flashcard learning, but not the most efficient for serious Chinese study.

SuperMemo

Best For: Advanced SRS algorithms

SRS Quality: ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ Advanced algorithms

Key Features:

• Advanced spaced repetition algorithms
• Highly customizable
• Research-backed intervals
• Desktop and mobile versions

Pricing: Free (limited), Paid versions available

Strengths:

• Most advanced algorithms
• Research-backed
• Highly effective
• Customizable

Weaknesses:

• Complex interface
• Steeper learning curve
• Less user-friendly
• Requires more setup

Verdict: Best for advanced users who want the most sophisticated algorithms, but complex for beginners.

Detailed SRS Algorithm Comparison

Algorithm Quality

HSK Lord:

• Optimized algorithm for Chinese vocabulary
• Adapts to individual learning pace
• Tuned for character and pinyin learning
• Research-backed intervals

Anki:

• SM-2 algorithm (proven and effective)
• Highly customizable intervals
• Can fine-tune all parameters
• Works well with proper configuration

Memrise:

• Good SRS implementation
• Less customizable
• Works well for vocabulary
• Simpler than Anki

Quizlet:

• Basic spaced repetition
• Less sophisticated
• Simpler intervals
• Good for casual learning

SuperMemo:

• Most advanced algorithms
• Research-backed
• Highly effective
• Complex to configure

Chinese-Specific Features

HSK Lord:

• ✅ Pinyin display
• ✅ Tone visualization
• ✅ Character recognition
• ✅ Example sentences
• ✅ Audio pronunciation
• ✅ HSK organization

Anki:

• ⚠️ Depends on deck quality
• Can include pinyin/tones if deck has them
• Requires add-ons for advanced features
• No built-in HSK organization

Memrise:

• ✅ Pinyin and tones
• ✅ Audio content
• ⚠️ Less character focus
• ⚠️ Courses vary in quality

Quizlet:

• ⚠️ Basic features
• Depends on study set creator
• Less Chinese-specific
• Generic flashcard format

SuperMemo:

• ⚠️ Depends on content
• Less Chinese-specific
• Requires customization
• Generic SRS system

Pricing Comparison

Free Options

HSK Lord: Free tier (10 cards/day) Anki: Free on desktop and Android Memrise: Free tier with limitations Quizlet: Free tier with ads SuperMemo: Free limited version

Premium Options

HSK Lord: $8 CAD/month (best value for HSK) Anki: $25 one-time (iOS), free elsewhere Memrise: $8.99/month Quizlet: $7.99/month SuperMemo: Various paid versions

Best Value: HSK Lord at $8 CAD/month for HSK-focused learning

Use Case Recommendations

Use Case 1: HSK Test Preparation

Best Choice: HSK Lord

• Complete HSK vocabulary
• Optimized for Chinese
• HSK-specific features
• Excellent value

Use Case 2: Maximum Customization

Best Choice: Anki

• Complete control
• Customize everything
• Free on desktop
• Requires setup

Use Case 3: Beginner-Friendly Learning

Best Choice: Memrise or HSK Lord

• Memrise for gamified learning
• HSK Lord for focused HSK prep
• Both are beginner-friendly

Use Case 4: Simple Flashcard Learning

Best Choice: Quizlet

• Very easy to use
• Simple interface
• Good for casual learning
• Free tier available

Use Case 5: Advanced SRS Algorithms

Best Choice: SuperMemo

• Most advanced algorithms
• Research-backed
• Best for serious learners
• Complex but effective

Mobile App Quality

iOS Apps

HSK Lord: ✅ Native app, well-designed, offline Anki: ✅ Full-featured, $25 one-time Memrise: ✅ Polished, user-friendly Quizlet: ✅ Well-designed SuperMemo: ✅ Functional but complex

Android Apps

HSK Lord: ✅ Native app, full features Anki: ✅ Free, full-featured Memrise: ✅ Good experience Quizlet: ✅ Well-optimized SuperMemo: ✅ Works well

SRS Effectiveness for Chinese

Why SRS Works for Chinese

Large Vocabulary:

• HSK requires thousands of words
• SRS manages large loads efficiently
• Prioritizes review effectively

Character Complexity:

• Characters are easy to forget
• Regular review prevents forgetting
• SRS optimizes character review

Tone Practice:

• Tones need consistent practice
• SRS ensures regular review
• Audio practice reinforces learning

Efficiency Gains

Compared to Traditional Methods:

• 30-50% more efficient
• Better long-term retention
• Less study time required
• Focuses on what you need

Time Savings:

• Reduces wasted review time
• Focuses on struggling words
• Optimizes study schedule
• Maximizes retention

Conclusion

For Chinese learning, HSK Lord is the best choice for HSK-focused vocabulary learning due to its:

• Optimized SRS algorithm for Chinese
• Complete HSK vocabulary coverage
• Chinese-specific features
• Excellent value ($8 CAD/month)
• Simple, effective interface

However, the best app depends on your needs:

• HSK vocabulary: HSK Lord
• Maximum customization: Anki
• Gamified learning: Memrise
• Simple flashcards: Quizlet
• Advanced algorithms: SuperMemo

Many learners use multiple apps:

• HSK Lord for HSK vocabulary
• Anki for custom content
• Memrise for additional practice

The key is finding the right tool that matches your learning style and goals.

Ready to start using spaced repetition for Chinese? Try HSK Lord for free and experience optimized SRS for HSK vocabulary learning.

FAQ

Which spaced repetition app is best for Chinese?

HSK Lord is specifically designed for Chinese with optimized SRS, complete HSK vocabulary, and Chinese-specific features. It's the best choice for HSK learners.

Is spaced repetition really more effective?

Yes, research shows spaced repetition is 30-50% more efficient than traditional methods. It maximizes retention while minimizing study time.

Can I use multiple SRS apps?

Yes, many learners use multiple apps. Common: HSK Lord for HSK vocabulary + Anki for custom content. Just don't duplicate the same content.

Is Anki better than HSK Lord?

Depends on needs. Anki offers more customization, HSK Lord is optimized for HSK. For HSK preparation, HSK Lord is better. For maximum control, Anki is better.

Do I need to pay for SRS apps?

Many apps offer free tiers. For serious learning, premium features (unlimited study, advanced analytics) are worth it. HSK Lord at $8 CAD/month offers excellent value.

How does spaced repetition work?

SRS schedules reviews at optimal intervals based on the forgetting curve. It reviews information just before you're likely to forget, maximizing retention.

Can I use SRS for grammar?

Yes, but SRS is most effective for vocabulary. For grammar, combine SRS vocabulary learning with grammar study and practice.

Which app has the best algorithm?

SuperMemo has the most advanced algorithms, but HSK Lord and Anki both have excellent, proven algorithms that work very well for Chinese learning.

Should I use SRS for characters?

Yes, SRS is excellent for character learning. It helps with recognition, writing, and long-term retention of characters.

How long does it take to see results with SRS?

You'll see results within weeks. SRS is most effective over months and years, building long-term retention. Consistency is key.

Related Articles:

• Spaced Repetition Hub - Complete SRS resources
• Spaced Repetition for Chinese
• HSK Lord vs Anki
• Chinese Vocabulary Learning Guide
• Chinese Vocabulary Apps Comparison
• Chinese Learning Apps for HSK
• Start Learning with HSK Lord