LanguageTool
LanguageTool checks grammar, spelling, punctuation and style in more than thirty languages, with add-ons for browsers, Word, Google Docs and desktop apps, plus a paraphraser. Its open source core can also be self-hosted.
#10 in Writing & Translation ToolsGrammar CheckersParaphrasing ToolsFree plan
Who it's for
Best for
Second-language writers who want fixes, not rewrites
Researchers writing academic papers in Overleaf
People writing in several European languages
Not for
Anyone wanting a free browser grammar extension- Writers bothered by many false flags
Free plan$0
Premium$24.90/mo
Team$5.53/moBilled annually
Features
Grammar and spelling check
Underlines grammar, spelling and punctuation mistakes while typing and explains each suggested fix.
Picky Mode
Adds extra suggestions on style, wording and typography for more careful or formal writing.
Paraphrasing tool
Rephrase a sentence in tones such as fluent, formal or academic, with a few free rewrites.
Many languages
Checks English, German, Spanish, French, Dutch, Portuguese and many more languages.
Add-ons and apps
Works in browsers, Gmail, Google Docs, Word, LibreOffice and desktop apps for Windows and Mac.
What users say
Pros
- Self-hosting on a local machine or server keeps private text in house.
- Catches typos and grammar slips that would otherwise only surface on a re-read.
- Corrects second-language phrasing and grammar mistakes without over-rewriting the original voice.
- Works inside Overleaf's editor, so LaTeX papers avoid the copy-paste detour to another polishing tool.
Cons
- The browser extension stopped being free and now needs Premium after a short trial.
- Flags correct text too often, from quotation marks to words it does not know.
- Apps and add-ons can break, lag or go missing, like the Mac app slowing typing.
- Specialized terminology and final phrasing still require manual review.
A selection of the review sources we used:
Summarized from public user reviews and community discussions. View details
Global Traffic Rank
Top 50k
Alternatives
Rank#10 in category#9 in category#20 in category#5 in category
Free planYesYesYesYes
ProSelf-hostable checker that catches slips in many languagesEasy grammar fixes and flexible paraphrasing modesMultiple rewrite options, voice kept, clearer academic writingCatches small slips, safety net for English phrasing
Better forUsing a free browser extension or phone keyboard for quick rephrasing and summarizing long texts.Using a free browser extension for live grammar and spelling checks.
Weaker atSelf-hosting on a private server or checking grammar across more than thirty languages.Fixing grammar errors without rewriting sentences or flattening personal voice.