You don't need to spend $100+ per year on spelling tools. These free websites give teachers custom tests, word lists, progress tracking, and more - without any subscription fees.
We reviewed every major spelling website to find the ones that are genuinely free and actually useful for classrooms. Here are the 8 best options for 2026.
SpellingJoy Team
Teachers spend enough of their own money on classroom supplies. Spelling practice tools shouldn't be another expense. The good news: several excellent spelling websites offer genuinely free features that rival paid platforms like Vocabulary A-Z ($108/yr) and IXL ($79-159/yr).
We compared each website on classroom readiness: Can you create custom word lists? Are there audio pronunciations? Can you track student progress? Can students access it without creating accounts? Here's what we found. You can also browse our full spelling app library for more options.
| Website | Price | Grades | Custom Lists | Progress Tracking | Works on Chromebook |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Starfall | Free tier / $35/yr | Pre-K-5 | No | Paid only | Yes |
| Teach Your Monster | Free (web) | Pre-K-1 | No | No | Yes |
| Khan Academy Kids | Free | Ages 2-8 | No | Yes | App only |
| SpellingJoy | 100% Free | K-6 | Yes | Yes | Yes |
| Vocabulary A-Z | Free tier / $108/yr | K-5 | Paid only | Paid only | Yes |
| Spelling Shed | Free trial / $30/yr | Ages 5-11 | Paid only | Paid only | Yes |
| Spelling Test Buddy | 14-day trial / $40/yr | K-5 | Yes (trial) | Yes (trial) | Yes |
| Education.com | Free tier / $120/yr | Pre-K-8 | No | Paid only | Yes |
Starfall teaches reading through systematic phonics with engaging activities for Pre-K through 5th grade.
Visit StarfallTeach Your Monster to Read uses a game-based approach to teach systematic phonics. Free on web; check the app store for current mobile app pricing. Covers first 2 years of learning to read.
Visit Teach Your Monster to ReadKhan Academy Kids offers free, comprehensive early learning content covering reading, math, and more for children ages 2-8.
Visit Khan Academy KidsSpellingJoy is completely free for teachers and families. SpellingJoy+ is optional ($2.99/month) and adds all printable packs. SpellingJoy is a K-6 spelling practice platform: unlimited spelling games, unlimited tests, 134+ word lists, custom list creation, and progress tracking, all free.
Try SpellingJoy FreeVocabulary A-Z (formerly VocabularySpellingCity) offers vocabulary and spelling games for K-5 students with classroom management features for teachers. $108/year covers up to 36 students.
Visit Vocabulary A-ZSpelling Shed is a UK-based spelling app with gamification features including competitive leagues and rewards. Home subscription $4.99/mo or $29.99/yr for up to 5 students.
Visit Spelling ShedSpelling Test Buddy automates spelling tests - teachers input words, system generates audio/sentences, auto-grades, and tracks progress. $49.99/year for up to 150 students.
Visit Spelling Test BuddyEducation.com offers thousands of worksheets, printables, and learning activities for Pre-K through 8th grade.
Visit Education.comTeachers in the US spend an average of $479 of their own money on classroom supplies each year. Spelling software shouldn't add to that burden. Platforms like SpellingJoy prove that high-quality spelling practice doesn't need to come with a subscription fee.
Free tools also mean every student gets access regardless of school budget. No more choosing between the "premium" class and the one that can't afford a license. When spelling practice is free, equity in literacy instruction becomes the default.
For early phonics (Pre-K to Grade 2), Starfall takes the top spot with free phonics-based spelling, and Teach Your Monster to Read follows with engaging phonics games that are free on the web. Khan Academy Kids covers ages 2-8 as a broader free early learning platform.
Once students need tests and word lists, SpellingJoy is the best free all-in-one option. It offers unlimited spelling tests, 134+ word lists, a placement test, and progress tracking - all without any cost. If budget allows, Vocabulary A-Z ($108/yr) adds 35+ activities but most teachers will find SpellingJoy covers their core needs.
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 prioritize official product information and provide honest assessments to help parents make informed decisions.
SpellingJoy+
$2.99/month. All printable packs, teaching resources, premium packs. Cancel any time.
