# Pleco Chinese Dictionary

> Chinese dictionary with handwriting, OCR, flashcards, audio, Cantonese, and more

Canonical page: [https://chrome-stats.com/d/com.pleco.chinesesystem](https://chrome-stats.com/d/com.pleco.chinesesystem)

## Overview

- **ID:** `com.pleco.chinesesystem`
- **Platform:** Android
- **Type:** Android app
- **Status:** Available
- **Publisher:** Pleco
- **Category:** BOOKS\_AND\_REFERENCE
- **Downloads:** 7,347,711
- **Rating:** 4.57 / 5 (44,239 ratings)
- **Version:** 3.2.100
- **Last updated:** 2026-05-21
- **First published:** 2012-01-25
- **Publisher country:** US
- **Size:** 144 MB
- **Data as of:** 2026-09-12
- **Store listing:** [Google Play Store](https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.pleco.chinesesystem)
- **Website:** [http://www.pleco.com](http://www.pleco.com/)
- **Privacy policy:** [http://www.pleco.com/privacy.html](http://www.pleco.com/privacy.html)

## Description

Pleco Chinese Dictionary is a powerful all-in-one learning tool designed for mastering the Chinese language. It features an extensive dictionary combining CC-CEDICT and Pleco's in-house database covering 130,000 words and 20,000 examples with pinyin, plus multiple optional dictionaries including Cantonese-English.

Key features include live handwriting input with an advanced recognition engine, live camera-based OCR for instant lookup, a sophisticated flashcard system utilizing spaced repetition and tone drills, and multi-syllable native-speaker audio pronunciation. The app supports both traditional and simplified characters, voice recognition, stroke order animations, and a document reader for seamless vocabulary lookup in Chinese texts and PDFs. Pleco offers a clean ad-free interface and robust customer support, making it an essential companion for learners of all levels.

## Rankings

- #18,062 — Overall
- #9 — reference
- #17 — dictionary

## Permissions and access

### Permissions

- `android.permission.ACCESS_NETWORK_STATE`
- `android.permission.CAMERA`
- `android.permission.FOREGROUND_SERVICE`
- `android.permission.FOREGROUND_SERVICE_SPECIAL_USE`
- `android.permission.INTERNET`
- `android.permission.READ_EXTERNAL_STORAGE`
- `android.permission.READ_MEDIA_IMAGES`
- `android.permission.READ_PHONE_STATE`
- `android.permission.RECEIVE_BOOT_COMPLETED`
- `android.permission.SYSTEM_ALERT_WINDOW`
- `android.permission.VIBRATE`
- `android.permission.WAKE_LOCK`
- `android.permission.WRITE_EXTERNAL_STORAGE`
- `com.android.vending.BILLING`
- `com.android.vending.CHECK_LICENSE`
- `com.ichi2.anki.permission.READ_WRITE_DATABASE`
- `com.pleco.chinesesystem.DYNAMIC_RECEIVER_NOT_EXPORTED_PERMISSION`
- `com.pleco.chinesesystem.permission.ATTACH_SCREEN_CONTENT_CAPTURE_SERVICE`
- `com.samsung.android.providers.context.permission.WRITE_USE_APP_FEATURE_SURVEY`

## Review summary

A highly praised Mandarin-focused dictionary with stroke order, radical breakdown, and example phrases. People appreciate fast English/pinyin search, stroke-order details, audio in examples, and the flashcard add-on. The app is free with optional Pro and generally ad-free, making it a long-time favorite. Reported downsides include incomplete stroke orders for some characters, occasional update issues, missing words, removal of speech input, and UI readability concerns. Overall, it's a comprehensive tool for learners, especially for writing and structure.

### Pros

- Comprehensive Mandarin dictionary with stroke order, radical breakdown, and useful example phrases.
- Clear explanations and helpful guidance for practicing tones and writing.
- Easy search by English or pinyin, with character stroke order and audio in examples.
- Flashcards add-on is a must and boosts long-term retention.
- Free to use with an optional Pro upgrade and generally no forced ads; highly valued for its breadth and reliability.

### Cons

- Cantonese features can confuse users who want a Mandarin-only experience.
- Occasional update issues or quality problems after updates.
- Stroke order is not available for all characters.
- Speech input (microphone) feature was removed or is missing and users want it back.
- Some words are missing from the dictionary, indicating incomplete coverage.

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Source: [Chrome-Stats](https://chrome-stats.com/d/com.pleco.chinesesystem)