Provider Comparison
Choosing the Right Business English Provider
The Business English market is crowded: dozens of apps, enterprise platforms, and language schools compete for your attention. We created this comparison so you can make the right decision for your company. Honest, transparent, and with respect for all providers.
From €60 / hour · VAT-exempt
Provider Categories Overview
Language Learning Apps
Babbel, Duolingo, Busuu
Ideal for self-learners who want to build fundamentals flexibly. Gamified lessons and broad language offerings. Limited for business contexts and without live interaction.
Enterprise Platforms
Speexx, goFLUENT, Rosetta Stone
Scalable solutions for large enterprises with hundreds of learners. Extensive content libraries and HR reporting. Often less personal and with long contract terms.
Traditional Language Schools
Berlitz, EF, Wall Street English
Established brands with global networks and professional trainers. Proven methods and recognized certificates. Usually higher prices and less scheduling flexibility.
Detailed Comparison
Feature Comparison: All Provider Types at a Glance
Green = fully available, Yellow = limited, Red = not available
Our Approach
What Makes Simmonds Different
Simmonds is neither a traditional language school nor a pure technology platform. We combine the best of both worlds: experienced native-speaking trainers who know your industry, with AI avatar technology that offers you additional practice opportunities 24/7.
With over 20 years of experience in Business English training and locations in Hannover and Berlin, we understand the specific challenges German companies face. Our clients like DHL, Toyota, and Media Markt value the personal service and measurable improvement in their employees' language skills.
Our Unique Selling Points
AI + Native Speakers
Unique combination
20+ Years Experience
In Germany since 2004
Local & Online
Hannover, Berlin & worldwide
Transparent Pricing
From 40 EUR/hour, VAT-exempt
Price Comparison
What Business English Really Costs
Apps
10-30 EUR/month
Per user, without live instruction. Good for basics and self-learners.
Enterprise
On request
Annual licenses with minimum terms. Often 500+ EUR per user/year.
Schools
60-120 EUR/h
Per lesson hour, plus registration fees and material costs.
Simmonds
40-60 EUR/h
Incl. AI avatar training, materials, and personal support. VAT-exempt.
Honest Recommendations
When Each Provider is the Right Choice
Babbel & Co. are ideal when...
You want to build basic skills as an individual
You have a small budget and don't need live instruction
You're learning general English, not industry-specific Business English
Speexx/goFLUENT are ideal when...
Your company needs to train 100+ employees simultaneously
Detailed HR reporting for global rollouts is needed
Standardized content is more important than individual customization
Berlitz & Co. are ideal when...
A globally recognized brand name is important for your company
You need in-person instruction at many locations worldwide
Budget is a secondary consideration
Simmonds is ideal when...
You want to combine personal attention with modern AI technology
Industry-specific Business English with a dedicated trainer is needed
Transparent pricing, flexible formats, and measurable results matter
Your employees should also practice between live sessions with an AI avatar
Learn More About Our Services
Discover our specialized courses and training formats.
Frequently Asked Questions About Provider Comparison
Apps like Babbel and Duolingo are excellent for building basic vocabulary and grammar skills. However, they don't offer live interaction with native-speaking trainers or vocabulary tailored to your industry. Simmonds combines personal training with AI avatar technology so you can practice anytime with a virtual trainer and receive regular live sessions with an experienced native speaker.
Berlitz and Wall Street English are established providers with a global network. Simmonds differentiates itself through AI avatar technology available 24/7, smaller group sizes, more transparent pricing, and personal service as an owner-managed language school with over 20 years of experience.
Our prices range from 40-60 EUR per hour, depending on group size and format. In comparison, large language schools often charge 60-120 EUR per hour, while enterprise platforms frequently offer opaque annual licenses with minimum terms. Apps are cheaper (10-30 EUR/month) but don't offer live instruction.
Our AI avatar is a virtual English trainer available around the clock. It uses advanced language models to conduct natural conversations, corrects your pronunciation, and adapts to your language level. Between live sessions with your native-speaking trainer, you can practice anytime. AI training complements personal instruction but doesn't replace it.
Enterprise platforms like Speexx and goFLUENT offer extensive content libraries and reporting features for large companies. Their strength lies in scalability for hundreds of employees. However, they often lack the personal attention and flexibility of a smaller language school. At Simmonds, your trainer personally knows your specific goals and industry.
Yes, we offer free online placement tests based on the CEFR standard (A1-C2). Upon completing a course, you receive a participation certificate with your current level. Our placement test is available online immediately and helps you choose the optimal course.
Simmonds serves both SMEs with 2-3 participants and larger companies like DHL, Toyota, and Media Markt. Our flexibility allows tailored solutions for any company size. For very large rollouts with hundreds of employees, we honestly recommend a combination of an enterprise platform and our live training.
Get Personal Consultation
Not sure which provider is right? In a free consultation, we analyze your needs and recommend the best solution. Even if that means another provider is a better fit.
Next Steps
How much does it cost?
| Format | Duration | Price (approx.) | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Online — Standard | 60 minutes | €60–70 | Zoom, Teams, Meet |
| Online — Extended | 90 minutes | €90–110 | Recommended for deeper focus |
| In-person | 90 min. (min.) | €115–140 | Berlin or Hanover |
| Group training | By arrangement | On request | 4–8 participants |
Prices depend on format, frequency, and requirements. Language instruction is VAT-exempt (§4 Nr.21 UStG).
Who we work with
“Die Online-Sessions sind genauso effektiv wie Präsenzunterricht. Sehr flexibel und professionell.”
Thomas R., IT-Projektmanager“Nach einem dreimonatigen Intensivtraining konnte ich meine erste internationale Präsentation souverän auf Englisch halten.”
Stefan K., Projektleiter, Continental AG“Die kostenlosen Online-Lektionen haben mich überzeugt. Die Qualität des Einzelunterrichts hat meine Erwartungen übertroffen.”
Anna H., Marketing ManagerinImprove your English for free
Free online lessons twice a week, vocabulary trainer with 600 words, and a placement test – all without signing up.
Get in touch
Tell us briefly what you need English or German for — we'll suggest the best format for your goals and schedule.
We typically respond within one working day.
What to expect
- ✓Confident in meetings
- ✓Persuasive presentations
- ✓Professional negotiations
- ✓Texts that work