Anyone who has tried to learn German knows that apps and textbooks only take you so far. The real breakthrough usually comes from reading, watching and listening to German every day: children’s books, novels, films, music and even video games. The problem is that building a German-language library can get expensive, especially if you live outside Germany.
medimops, one of Germany’s largest online shops for second-hand media, offers a practical solution. This guide explains how English speakers can use it to build an affordable German learning library, and what to know before ordering. You can browse German books and media at medimops here.
1. Why Real German Media Works
Language teachers often talk about comprehensible input: material that is just slightly above your current level. Reading a book or watching a film in German exposes you to natural vocabulary, grammar in context and the way people really speak. It is also far more enjoyable than repeating flashcards, which makes it easier to stay consistent.
The key is to choose material that matches your level. A beginner will get more from a picture book or a familiar film than from a literary classic, and that is where a huge second-hand catalogue becomes useful.
2. What medimops Offers
medimops describes itself as the online shop with the largest selection of used books, films, DVDs, Blu-rays, CDs, vinyl and games. It lists more than four million second-hand books and media items, from current bestsellers to classics, at up to 70 percent below the new price. Up to 100,000 used items can be added to the range every day.
For a German learner, that means a constant supply of affordable material, from novels and comics to audiobooks and films with German audio. You can also filter by price, for example to find bargains under 2 euros or under 10 euros, which makes it easy to experiment with new genres without much risk. Find bargains at medimops.
3. Choosing Books by Level
- Beginners (A1 to A2): picture books, early readers and children’s classics, where the pictures help you follow the story.
- Lower intermediate (B1): young adult novels, comics and graphic novels with everyday language.
- Upper intermediate (B2): popular crime novels and contemporary fiction by German authors.
- Advanced (C1 and above): literary fiction, non-fiction and newspapers’ book editions on topics you enjoy.
A useful trick is to buy the German edition of a book you have already read in English. Because you know the plot, you can focus on the language instead of guessing what is happening.
4. Films, Series and Audiobooks
Listening practice is just as important as reading. Second-hand DVDs and Blu-rays bought in Germany usually include German audio, and many also offer German subtitles, which let you read along while you listen. Start with films you already know well, then move on to German productions.
Audiobooks and music CDs are ideal for commutes and workouts. Pairing an audiobook with the printed book is one of the most effective methods for improving pronunciation and listening speed. Browse films and audiobooks at medimops.
5. Learn While You Play
Video games are an underrated learning tool. Many console and PC games sold in Germany let you switch the language to German, and story-driven games are full of dialogue, menus and instructions you need to understand to progress. medimops sells second-hand games alongside books and films, so you can add a few to your study routine for a fraction of the new price.
6. Understanding Condition Grades
Every second-hand item at medimops is checked by hand in the warehouse for its visual condition and whether it works properly. Items are sold in grades from like new (neuwertig) through very good (sehr gut) and good (gut) to acceptable (akzeptabel), and the price varies with the condition. You can filter categories to see only like-new items if you prefer pristine copies.
For learners, a slightly worn book is often the best value. If you like writing notes in the margins, there is no reason to pay extra for a perfect copy.
7. Ordering and Shipping
Within Germany, shipping is free on orders from 19 euros, and a small fee of 1.99 euros applies to smaller orders. Payment options include PayPal, direct debit, credit card, instant bank transfer, invoice and Amazon Pay. The shop is certified by Trusted Shops. If you live outside Germany, check delivery options and costs at checkout before you order.
If a title you want is sold out, you can save it to your wishlist and ask for an email alert when it becomes available again. Start your German wishlist.
8. Sell Your Finished Books
Once you have outgrown your beginner books, you do not have to keep them. medimops’ sister service momox buys used books, CDs, DVDs and games at a fixed price. You enter the barcode or ISBN or scan it with the app, receive a price, pack your items and send them free of charge. After checking, the money is paid to your account. It is a neat way to recycle your study library and fund your next level of reading.
Conclusion
Learning German is far easier when you surround yourself with real books, films, audiobooks and games, and buying second-hand keeps the cost low. With more than four million quality-checked items at up to 70 percent below new prices, clear condition grades and an easy way to sell finished books through momox, medimops is a useful resource for any German learner. Build your German library at medimops and make your next step in the language more enjoyable.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is medimops in English?
The shop is in German, but product listings are simple to navigate, and many items such as DVDs and games show the available languages.
How much cheaper is medimops than buying new?
medimops says second-hand items can be up to 70 percent cheaper than the new price.
Is shipping free?
Shipping within Germany is free on orders from 19 euros; smaller orders cost 1.99 euros.
What condition are the books in?
Each item is checked by hand and graded from like new to acceptable, with prices that vary by condition.
Can I sell my old German books?
Yes, through momox, which buys used books, CDs, DVDs and games at a fixed price.
