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Best Typing Apps for 3rd Grade (2026)

Compare the top typing and keyboarding apps for 3rd graders ages 8-9.

STSpellingJoy Team
•Last Updated: March 30, 2026
Child practicing typing on a keyboard

Our top picks

Our pick
1

SpellingJoy

Best free

SpellingJoy is a 100% free spelling practice platform for K-6 students. Unlimited spelling games, unlimited tests, 134+ word lists, custom list creation, and progress tracking - all completely free with no subscriptions and no hidden costs.

Best for:Free spelling + typing practice combinedPrice:100% FreeGrades:K-6Platforms:Web

Pros

  • 100% free - unlimited games, tests, and lists
  • No subscription or hidden costs ever
  • K-6 curriculum with 134+ word lists

Cons

  • Web-only (no native mobile apps yet)
  • Classroom features coming soon
2

ABCya

Best game variety

ABCya offers educational games for Pre-K through 6th grade across all subjects. Free with ads, or pay for ad-free premium access.

Best for:Fun typing games for 3rd gradersPrice:$70/yr (ad-free)Grades:Pre-K-6Platforms:Web, iOS, Android

Pros

  • Large game library
  • Free tier with ads
  • Covers all subjects

Cons

  • Free version has ads
  • Games vary in educational value
  • Not a structured curriculum
3

IXL

Best adaptive

IXL is a comprehensive adaptive learning platform covering all subjects from Pre-K through 12th grade.

Best for:Personalized keyboarding skill buildingPrice:$79-159/yrGrades:Pre-K-12Platforms:Web, iOS, Android

Pros

  • Comprehensive K-12 coverage
  • Adaptive learning
  • Detailed analytics

Cons

  • Expensive
  • Spelling is small part of ELA
4

Prodigy

Best gamified

Prodigy uses game-based learning to teach math, with a newer English/ELA component.

Best for:Game-based typing motivationPrice:$59-180/yrGrades:Grades 1-8Platforms:Web, iOS, Android

Pros

  • Engaging game format
  • Free basic version
  • Curriculum aligned

Cons

  • In-game purchase prompts
  • Premium expensive
  • Primarily math-focused
5

Education.com

Best worksheets

Education.com offers thousands of worksheets, printables, and learning activities for Pre-K through 8th grade.

Best for:Printable typing exercises + digital practicePrice:$120/yrGrades:Pre-K-8Platforms:Web

Pros

  • Huge worksheet library
  • Printable resources
  • Good for homeschool

Cons

  • Web only
  • Expensive
6

Kahoot!

Best for classrooms

Kahoot! is a game-based learning platform where teachers create live quizzes that students answer on their devices. Over 9 billion cumulative participants. Free basic plan, paid plans from $48/year.

Best for:Live typing quizzes and classroom engagementPrice:Free / $48-72/yr (teacher)Grades:K-12Platforms:Web, iOS, Android

Pros

  • Free basic plan for teachers
  • Live multiplayer quizzes students love
  • Huge library of user-created kahoots

Cons

  • Free plan limited to 10 players
  • Premium features require paid plans
  • Can be more game than learning

Frequently asked questions

What typing speed should a 3rd grader have?

Most 3rd graders (ages 8-9) should aim for 10-15 words per minute with proper finger placement. By the end of 3rd grade, many students can reach 15-20 WPM with regular practice.

Are free typing apps good enough for 3rd graders?

Yes. SpellingJoy and ABCya both offer free typing practice that covers the fundamentals 3rd graders need. Paid apps like IXL add adaptive learning and detailed progress reports, but free options are a great starting point.

How long should a 3rd grader practice typing each day?

10-15 minutes of daily typing practice is ideal for 3rd graders. Short, consistent sessions build muscle memory better than longer, infrequent ones. Most apps on this list offer bite-sized lessons perfect for this age group.

Should 3rd graders learn home row typing?

Yes. 3rd grade is the perfect time to introduce proper home row technique (fingers on ASDF and JKL;). Starting with correct habits now prevents hunt-and-peck patterns that are harder to break later.

Our Verdict

SpellingJoy is the best free option for 3rd graders who want to build typing skills alongside spelling practice - no subscription required.

For a game-heavy approach, ABCya keeps students engaged with a variety of typing games, while IXL offers the strongest adaptive learning for kids who need personalized pacing.

In the classroom, Kahoot! turns typing practice into a live competition that 3rd graders love.

ST

About the Author

SpellingJoy Team

The SpellingJoy team is dedicated to creating free, high-quality spelling resources for K-6 students and their families. We test every app we review and provide honest assessments to help parents make informed decisions.

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