SpellingJoy
For Teachers

Best Typing Apps for 3rd Grade (2026)

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

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

Our Top Picks:

1

SpellingJoy

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.

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Best for - Free spelling + typing practice combined
Price - 100% Free
Grades - K-6
Platforms - 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

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

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Best for - Fun typing games for 3rd graders
Price - $70/yr (ad-free)
Grades - Pre-K-6
Platforms - 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

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

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Best for - Personalized keyboarding skill building
Price - $79-159/yr
Grades - Pre-K-12
Platforms - Web, iOS, Android

Pros

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

Cons

  • ✗ Expensive
  • ✗ Spelling is small part of ELA
4

Prodigy

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

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Best for - Game-based typing motivation
Price - $59-180/yr
Grades - Grades 1-8
Platforms - 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

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

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Best for - Printable typing exercises + digital practice
Price - $120/yr
Grades - Pre-K-8
Platforms - Web

Pros

  • ✓ Huge worksheet library
  • ✓ Printable resources
  • ✓ Good for homeschool

Cons

  • ✗ Web only
  • ✗ Expensive
6

Kahoot!

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.

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Best for - Live typing quizzes and classroom engagement
Price - Free / $48-72/yr (teacher)
Grades - K-12
Platforms - 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

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.

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.

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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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