Learning German with Netflix: benefits and limitations

Learning German through Netflix, YouTube, Instagram or TikTok seems like the perfect solution - entertaining, convenient, and almost free. But is it really so?

Because I like his no-nonsense approach I again interviewed Michael Schmitz, a professional German tutor since 1999. He has seen the evolution of language learning through media from its very beginning and is more than qualified to provide some tips and tricks on the effective use of streaming services and social media for your German learning. But he can also help us identify which aspects of language learning we might be missing going down the social media and streaming route.

You can ask Michael additional questions here and also check out his latest project, a podcast about learning German with his friend Alessio Bona. 

*Disclosure: If you purchase through our link, we may earn a commission at no additional cost to you. This helps support us in creating great free content.

What can you actually learn from German Netflix shows vs. what you can’t?

German streaming shows offer one clear benefit: exposure to authentic spoken German. You can develop your listening skills from anywhere with just a smartphone and internet connection - no need to live in a German-speaking country anymore.

Could you improve your reading with subtitles? Yes, but that’s like eating spaghetti with a forklift - there are much better tools for reading practice, like books and articles.

As for vocabulary, you might catch new words occasionally but don’t expect major improvements. Grammar-wise, shows might make you curious about certain structures, but you’ll need proper resources to understand them.

When it comes to learning platforms like YouTube or TikTok, anyone can claim to teach German. These platforms can supplement your learning, but they shouldn’t be your primary resource. Think of them as side dishes rather than the main course of your German learning journey.

Which German YouTubers are worth following for language learning (and why)?

For cultural insights, I strongly recommend following content creators who present German culture in an entertaining way, such as  Liam Carpenter, Uyen Ninh or Jonny Balchin. They help you connect with German-speaking cultures, which is essential for language learning motivation.

However, be cautious about relying on YouTube for instructions about how to learn German properly. Here’s why:

• 1. Lack of qualification 

  Many German “teachers” on YouTube seem to lack proper professional training for the job. You should actually study the field of German as a foreign language at university or at least do a year-long training at the Goethe to get qualified to have an idea of what teaching a language is really about.

• 2. Questionable quality 

  While often entertaining and of good production quality, content-wise many videos are just horrible to watch for me from a professional point of view. Useless videos e.g. those showing you the 100 most frequently used verbs or sentences or stuff like “Greetings in German” get millions of views. These videos are as ineffective as listening to someone reading out a dictionary aloud with translations - they may seem helpful, but provide little real value for language learning.

  Many presenters simply recite grammar rules they’ve read elsewhere, without understanding how to effectively teach their application. While they can explain what a rule is, they fail to show students how to actually learn and use it.

• 3. Lack of interaction

  Like shouting at the screen in the cinema won’t change the course of the movie, repeating what you hear in a video online will not do much to your German if you don’t receive proper feedback. 

  These platforms are good for exposure to the language but they are not really useful as learning tools from my point of view.

Instead of depending solely on YouTube for German instruction, use it as a supplementary tool for cultural exposure and entertainment. For effective language learning, combine it with structured courses that provide comprehensive instruction and feedback.

When to watch German shows without subtitles (by level)?

Watching German shows with subtitles can be counterproductive for language learning. When you read subtitles, you’re not truly listening to German - you’re just reading. While occasional subtitle use can help with difficult dialogue, constant reliance defeats the purpose of improving your listening skills.

If you choose to use subtitles, opt for German ones rather than English. English subtitles are better suited for entertainment than learning. Remember that even if you understand only half of what’s being said without subtitles, you’re still training your ear to recognize German sounds and patterns.

Keep in mind that reading while listening is valuable for language learning, but there are more effective tools than video content for this purpose, such as texts designed for language learners. 

How to combine Netflix/YouTube with structured learning for better results?

Wait until you’ve completed the A2 level before diving into German movies or shows. Even then, comprehension will be limited. While watching German content can be motivating, it shouldn’t replace structured learning.

The best time to start watching German media is after completing B1. At this stage, focus on content that genuinely interests you rather than materials specifically created for language learners. Note that being in a B1 class means you’re still at A2 level - B1 proficiency comes after completing the course.

Structured learning should remain your primary focus, with media consumption as a supplementary tool. While you don’t need such input before B1, having it as additional material can boost motivation. Just remember that self-directed learning through media alone isn’t recommendable.

What crucial language skills are you missing by relying only on media?

That’s pretty easy to answer. By watching videos, you won’t actively produce language unless you talk back to the screen - and even then, you won’t get any real feedback. While subtitles can help, they’re mostly just dialogue that flashes by quickly. This is very different from reading proper texts, where you can see the context around each sentence and move back and forth to better understand the meaning. You can’t do that with subtitles.

Watching content, like eating fruit, can benefit your well-being. However, if it replaces more substantial nourishment, you may end up mentally “malnourished” and later struggle to repair the damage—if that’s even possible.

Media input is perfect for motivational purposes as well as for native language input from a certain level onwards (B1/B2). 

Which German media formats give you the most learning value per hour?

For maximum efficiency, combine a structured online course with private lessons. This approach provides the best value when time is limited. In-person classes offer additional benefits of social interaction and getting away from your screen, especially if you’re in a German-speaking country.

The most effective learning path typically follows this structure:

1. Start with a well-designed language course (online or offline)
2. At the intermediate level (B1/B2), supplement with German media like TV series (my personal favourites are Dark and Deutschland 83)
3. Choose content you genuinely enjoy rather than focusing solely on educational material

For those concerned about screen time, traditional in-person classes might be preferable to online learning but often come with a German-only approach which from my professional point of view and experience is less efficient than teaching German using English. Consider trying different formats through free trials or money-back guarantees (both available in my courses) to find what works best for your schedule and learning preferences.

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