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Free vs Paid Spelling Apps (2025)

Is paying $100+/year for a spelling app worth it? We break down what you actually get.

SpellingJoy TeamSpellingJoy Team
•Last Updated: January 15, 2025
Comparing spelling app options

Should you spend $100+ per year on a spelling app? Or can free options do the job? Let's compare what you actually get.

Our Top Picks:

1

VocabularySpellingCity

VocabularySpellingCity offers vocabulary and spelling games for K-5 students with classroom management features for teachers.

Read VocabularySpellingCity Review
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Best for - 35+ games, teacher tools, $117-125/yr
Price - $117-125/yr
Grades - K-5
Platforms - Web, iOS, Android

Pros

  • ✓ 35+ learning games
  • ✓ Strong classroom integration
  • ✓ Teacher dashboard

Cons

  • ✗ Price increased significantly (was $35/yr)
  • ✗ Requires annual subscription
2

Spelling Shed

Spelling Shed is a UK-based spelling app with gamification features including competitive leagues and rewards.

Read Spelling Shed Review
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Best for - Gamification at $38/yr
Price - $38/yr
Grades - Ages 5-11
Platforms - Web, iOS, Android

Pros

  • ✓ Strong gamification features
  • ✓ Competitive leagues
  • ✓ Affordable pricing

Cons

  • ✗ UK curriculum focus
  • ✗ Less suitable for US standards
3

SpellingJoy

SpellingJoy is a free spelling practice platform for K-6 students. It offers word lists aligned with US curriculum standards, including Dolch and Fry sight words.

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Best for - Free unlimited practice
Price - Free
Grades - K-6
Platforms - Web

Pros

  • ✓ Completely free - no hidden costs
  • ✓ K-6 curriculum coverage
  • ✓ 134+ pre-made spelling lists

Cons

  • ✗ Web-only (no native mobile apps)
  • ✗ Classroom features coming soon
4

Khan Academy Kids

Khan Academy Kids offers free, comprehensive early learning content covering reading, math, and more for children ages 2-8.

Read Khan Academy Kids Review
Best for - Free comprehensive early learning
Price - Free
Grades - Ages 2-8
Platforms - iOS, Android, Amazon

Pros

  • ✓ Completely free
  • ✓ Comprehensive curriculum
  • ✓ No ads

Cons

  • ✗ Only goes to age 8
  • ✗ Not specialized for spelling
  • ✗ No web version

Frequently Asked Questions

Depends on your needs. Paid apps offer more games and teacher features. For basic spelling practice, free apps like SpellingJoy are effective.

Our Verdict

For teachers and classrooms, paid apps like VocabularySpellingCity offer valuable tools.

For home practice, SpellingJoy provides effective free spelling practice.

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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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