Best Apps to Reduce Filler Words (Um, Uh, Like) in 2026
Last updated April 15, 2026
Filler words kill your credibility. Every 'um,' 'uh,' and 'like' signals to your audience that you're unsure, unprepared, or nervous. These apps track your filler words in real-time so you can see exactly how often you use them and watch the count drop over weeks of practice.
RankedSpeak
Tracks Fillers + Makes It CompetitiveThe competitive speech training game · Free (launch pricing TBD)
RankedSpeak's AI scores your clarity, which directly penalizes filler words. But the real power is the competitive element: when filler words cost you a duel and drop your Elo, you develop an emotional reason to eliminate them. That emotional stake drives behavior change faster than any analytics dashboard.
Pros
- +AI-scored feedback on 4 dimensions
- +Elo ranking system for motivation
- +Async duels - practice anytime
Cons
- -iOS only at launch
- -Pre-launch (waitlist)
- -No live coaching
Yoodli
Most Detailed Filler AnalyticsAI speech coach · Free tier + $20/mo Pro
Yoodli gives you the most granular filler word data available. It counts every 'um,' 'uh,' 'like,' and 'you know' with timestamps so you can see exactly where in your speech they appear. The trend tracking shows your filler count over time. If you want data, Yoodli is unmatched.
Pros
- +Detailed analytics dashboard
- +Interview prep mode
- +Meeting integration
Cons
- -No competitive element
- -Can feel clinical
- -Premium is expensive
Orai
Lessons on Filler ReductionAI-powered public speaking coach · Free tier + $9.99/mo
Orai includes structured exercises specifically designed to reduce filler words. Instead of just tracking them, it gives you drills that train the pause reflex -- replacing fillers with intentional silence. Good for beginners who need guidance on how to fix the problem, not just see it.
Pros
- +Structured lessons
- +Progress tracking
- +Energy and confidence scores
Cons
- -Repetitive exercises
- -No social/competitive features
- -Limited free tier
Side-by-Side Comparison
| Feature | RankedSpeak | Yoodli | Orai |
|---|---|---|---|
| Filler Tracking | Tracked via clarity score; penalizes fillers in competitive context | Detailed counts with timestamps and trend graphs | Tracked during lesson exercises with tips |
| Behavior Change Method | Competition -- fillers cost you duels and Elo | Awareness -- see your filler patterns in data | Instruction -- guided exercises to build pause reflex |
| Price | Free (launch pricing TBD) | Free tier + $20/mo Pro | Free tier + $9.99/mo |
| Session Length | 30-60 seconds | Variable (any length) | 5-10 minutes |
| Best For | People who need stakes to change habits | People who respond to data and trends | People who need step-by-step guidance |
How to Choose
How you best eliminate filler words depends on what drives your behavior. If you respond to competition and stakes, RankedSpeak will make you care about every 'um' because it costs you Elo. If you respond to data and self-awareness, Yoodli's detailed analytics show you exactly where and how often you filler. If you need someone to teach you the techniques, Orai's structured lessons walk you through the process. All three work -- pick the motivation style that matches yours.
Frequently Asked Questions
How long does it take to reduce filler words?
Most people see a 30-40% reduction within 2 weeks of daily practice with any of these apps. The first improvement comes from awareness alone -- once you hear how often you say 'um,' you start catching yourself. Full habit change typically takes 4-8 weeks of consistent practice.
Why do I say 'um' so much?
Filler words happen when your brain is planning the next sentence while your mouth is still talking. Your brain fills the gap with noise ('um,' 'uh') to hold your speaking turn. The fix is training your brain to be comfortable with silence instead of filling it.
Is it possible to completely eliminate filler words?
No, and you shouldn't try. Even polished speakers use occasional fillers. The goal is reducing them to the point where they don't distract your audience or undermine your credibility. Going from 8 fillers per minute to 1-2 per minute makes a dramatic difference.
Do filler word apps work for 'like' and 'you know' too?
Yes. All three apps track common discourse markers including 'like,' 'you know,' 'so,' and 'basically' in addition to classic fillers like 'um' and 'uh.' The tracking and reduction techniques work the same way for all types of verbal crutches.
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