HandSpeak is a web resource for learning and practicing American Sign Language, with tutorials, self-study material, and information about Deaf culture. Its dictionary supports word searches and filters for handshape, movement, location, and handedness. A reverse dictionary lets users search for signs using related criteria, but it remains a developing pilot with incomplete coverage. Learners can practice receptive fingerspelling through an interactive activity and use self-study lessons. HandSpeak says these lessons may supplement practice but do not replace face-to-face instruction and live interaction. Patron Pro includes access to a searchable Sentence library with phrases and sentences from basic to advanced. The web app can be added to Android and iOS home screens or installed in Chrome or Edge on Windows 10/11, and requires an internet connection. A free plan is available. Patron Basic costs 5.95 USD per month, and Patron Pro costs 11.95 USD per month. A subscription is limited to one user on one device at a time, though the preferred device can be changed by logging in. Online subscriptions, downloads, and digital content are non-refundable.
Who it is for
HandSpeak suits ASL learners and people interested in Deaf culture, including interpreters, parents, homeschoolers, professionals, and Deaf bilinguals. Its materials can support self-study and practice, alongside face-to-face instruction.
What is good
- Dictionary offers multiple sign-search filters.
- Includes interactive receptive fingerspelling practice.
- Free plan is available.
- Patron Pro includes a searchable sentence library.
What to know first
- Reverse dictionary coverage is incomplete.
- An internet connection is required.
- A subscription is limited to one user on one device at a time.
- Digital subscriptions and content are non-refundable.
Verdict
HandSpeak provides ASL lookup and practice materials, with paid access adding a sentence library. Its lessons are supplementary, and the reverse dictionary is still incomplete.
HandSpeak plans and pricing
All plansCompared on sign language apps
- Free plan
- Yes
- Paid from
- $5.95/mo
- Signed languages
- ASL
- Lesson format
- mixed
- Offline access
- No
- Dictionary lookup
- Yes
- Supported platforms
- Web, Windows, iOS, Android
