For expatriates living in China, online Mandarin learning resources have a distinctive context: learners have constant real-world exposure to the language, often more than enough motivation, but sometimes limited time to attend scheduled classes. Online platforms bridge the gap between formal instruction and the daily immersion that China provides.
Major online learning platforms with strong China communities: HelloChinese (available on iOS and Android) uses a gamified app format particularly effective for early-stage character recognition and pronunciation. Yoyo Chinese (primarily YouTube-based, accessible from within China via VPN or downloaded content) provides free grammar-explanation video series from beginner to intermediate level. ChinesePod is a podcast and app platform with a large archive of dialogues at all levels accompanied by grammar notes and vocabulary — a favourite for commute or exercise-time study.
For character learning specifically: Pleco is the standard Chinese-English dictionary app among serious learners and includes flashcard systems. Skritter focuses specifically on character stroke-order practice with spaced repetition. Both are available in app form and work without internet once content is downloaded.
Live online tutoring: platforms connecting Chinese tutors with foreign students for live video sessions have grown significantly. Verbling, iTalki, and China-based equivalents allow learners to find vetted Mandarin teachers for one-to-one conversation practice — typically much cheaper than in-person tuition.
A practical approach for China-based learners: combine a weekly or twice-weekly in-person class at a school like Mandarin House, That's Mandarin, or Hutong School with daily self-study via apps (HelloChinese for vocabulary, Pleco for dictionary use, ChinesePod for listening), and weekly conversation practice with a language exchange partner — Chinese people who want to practise English in exchange for Mandarin conversation time are easy to find via apps like Tandem or HelloTalk.