Side by side
Pleco Chinese Dictionary vs WordReference
Both stand on online dictionaries. Which one you can start free with, which one lets you read the code, and what each costs once you pay.
Free plan AndroidiPhone
Pick Pleco if you want Chinese dictionary search with handwriting lookup and optional study, audio, and reading tools. The free version covers core lookup, while OCR, expanded flashcards, document reading, audio, and additional dictionaries require paid bundles or add-ons.
Visit Pleco Chinese Dictionary Free plan AndroidiPhoneMac+1
WordReference is designed for dictionary lookup and language discussion rather than full-sentence translation. The free service covers core access, while Supporter adds faster loading and removes ads.
Visit WordReferenceThe facts
| Pleco Chinese Dictionary | WordReference | |
|---|---|---|
| Free plan | Yes | Yes |
| Open source | Not published | Not published |
| Runs on | Android, iPhone | Android, iPhone, Mac, Web |
| Lowest paid plan | Basic Bundle (Android): $29.99, paid once | See the plans |
| Plans published | 5 | 1 |
| Maker | Not published | Not published |
| Website | pleco.com | wordreference.com |
| On online dictionaries | #28 of 39 | #32 of 39 |
Pleco Chinese Dictionary: what it does well
- Searches Chinese characters, Pinyin, English, wildcards, and full text.
- Supports handwriting and camera lookup from Chinese text.
- Flashcards include spaced repetition and tone drills.
- Downloaded dictionaries and features can work offline.
- Paid add-ons are one-time purchases, with no ads or subscriptions.
What to know first
- The free version has limited reader, audio, and flashcard functions.
- The free app includes stroke-order animations for 500 characters; 28,000 are in a paid add-on.
- The iOS and Android document readers support different formats.
WordReference: what it does well
- Free plan available
- Clickable dictionary entries support follow-up lookups
- Forums discuss meanings and translations
- Conjugators included in the Android app
- Supporter removes ads and speeds page loads
What to know first
- Not an automatic sentence translator
- Android app requires internet access
- No offline access
- Heavy-user notice above 1,000 monthly searches
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