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Immersive learning through video content is one of the most effective ways to absorb a new language, especially when paired with tools that turn watching into active learning. Two popular options in this space are Lingopie and Sabi. Both help learners watch shows and videos in their target language, but they differ in many key ways. In this comparison, we'll walk through the major differences between Lingopie and Sabi so you can decide which tool fits your language goals best.
Short on time? Here's a quick look at how they compare.
Feature | Sabi | Lingopie |
|---|---|---|
Netflix | β | β |
YouTube | β | β |
Disney+ | β | β |
Prime Video | β | β |
Rakuten Viki | β | β |
Dual Subtitles | β | β |
Word Translations | β | β |
In-Video Exercises | β | β |
Monthly Price | Free Trial / β¬1,84 | β¬5,96 |
Lingopie is a subscription-based platform that combines streaming content with built-in language learning tools. It offers a library of TV shows and series in multiple languages, complete with dual subtitles and interactive features designed for learners.
Sabi is a Chrome extension that enhances your streaming content from services like Netflix, Disney+, Prime Video, YouTube, and Rakuten Viki by combining interactive subtitles with built-in exercises (multiple choice, complete the translation) to gamify and reinforce your learning.
β Native content library curated specifically for language learners
β Works across web and mobile (via app), with content provided directly from Lingopie
β Built-in streaming experience with subtitles and learning features
π― Key Point:
β Lingopie is a standalone platform, and you watch content inside Lingopie's interface
β Works as a Chrome extension that enhances videos you already watch on existing streaming services
β Supports Netflix, Disney+, Prime Video, YouTube, and Rakuten Viki
β Uses your existing subscriptions rather than a proprietary content library
π― Key Point:
β Sabi unlocks learning potential inside platforms you already use, giving broader content flexibility
Lingopie turns every show or episode into a lesson with features such as:
β Dual subtitles
β Click-to-translate subtitles
β Built-in flashcards directly tied to vocabulary from episodes
β Playback controls to repeat lines
β Phrase lists
β Quizzes based on what you watched
π§ Learning Style:
β Lingopie's library is curated for language learning, so much of its content comes with subtitles and learning tools pre-enabled
Sabi focuses on enhancing your content with interactive, dynamic learning tools:
β Dual subtitles to show the target and native language
β Hover over any word for its translation, grammar information, and usage
β AI-generated (Whisper) subtitles for better transcript accuracy
β Auto-pause for repetition and active listening
β Interactive exercises that pop up during watching (e.g. fill-in-the-blank, multiple choice), also available after sessions for review
β AI Explain to break down grammar and usage
π§ Learning Style:
β Sabi not only helps you follow along to anything you might want to watch, but also builds retention and production skills through built-in study tools
β Content-centric platform with built-in media player
β Designed to feel like a language learning app + streaming service
β Clear and accessible navigation for lessons and episodes
β Pros:
β Seamless viewing + practice within one app
β Easy to switch between episodes and learning tools
β Cons:
β You're limited to Lingopie's curated library
β Watching outside the platform (like Netflix) isn't directly supported
β Overlays interface on top of existing services via Chrome
β Learning tools appear over the video you're already watching
β Engaging UI elements like auto-pause, hover pop-ups, and interactive exercises
β Pros:
β Keeps you in the streaming UI you already use
β Learning tools are embedded alongside content
β Cons:
β Chrome extension only
β Not yet a mobile app (learning occurs via desktop browser)
β Subscription-based model with monthly and annual plans
β Tiered pricing depending on features
β Cheapest monthly price at β¬5,96
π‘ Important:
β Because you're renting content and features, access ends if your subscription lapses
β Offers a free trial with complete access to all features, no payment information required
β Paid subscription to continue access
β Requires your own existing streaming subscriptions (Netflix, Disney+, etc.) for content
β Cheapest monthly price at β¬1,84
π‘ Important:
β You keep full ownership of your content (via your services), as Sabi adds learning enhancements on top
β Pros:
β Curated library optimized for language learners
β Built-in flashcards and quizzes
β Comes with subtitles and learning tools already embedded
β Native mobile app support
β Cons:
β Limited to Lingopie's own content, as you can't use your own Netflix/Prime/YouTube shows
β Learning is tied to what's on Lingopie
β Less focus on grammar explanation and production practice
β Pros:
β Works with your existing streaming services
β Broader access to unlimited content you already watch
β Interactive tools for active learning (hover lookup, practice exercises, AI Explain)
β Uses AI-generated subtitles when possible
β Cons:
β Only available via Chrome desktop
β Depends on your own streaming subscriptions
β UI learning features can feel complex at first for new users
β You want a ready-made library designed for language learning
β You prefer a self-contained platform with built-in media
β You want mobile app support and a traditional learning environment
β You want to learn with the shows and anime you already love
β You're looking for a broader, more flexible content base
β You want interactive exercises, AI grammar help, and active reinforcement
β You prefer immersive learning embedded into your usual streaming habits
β Lingopie is great when you want structured, streamlined learning with curated content
β Sabi is better when you want active immersion using your own favorite media
For learners who want true immersion, meaning real content they watch anyway, plus interactive tools that help them retain and produce language, Sabi stands out as the better overall immersion tool.
For learners who want a self-contained ecosystem with a curated media library and built-in learning modules, Lingopie is still a strong choice, especially if you're comfortable learning within its own platform.