What Is Duolingo? A 2026 Guide to Courses, Features, Apps and Plans
Duolingo is a learning platform best known for short, game-like language lessons. Alongside English, Japanese, Korean, French, Spanish and other languages, it now offers math, music and chess. This guide covers its courses, devices, free and paid plans, AI conversation tools and the separate Duolingo English Test.
Facts checked on October 22, 2026. Subscription features are changing in stages; check the benefits shown in your account.
If finding a long study session is difficult, short lessons and a daily streak can make regular practice easier. Duolingo works well for getting started and reviewing the basics. Fluency and exam preparation still require more sustained study, listening and conversation.
AI-generated illustration, not a screenshot of the app or current subscription benefits.
1. What is Duolingo?
Duolingo is an online learning platform developed by the US education company Duolingo, Inc. It began with language courses built around short, interactive exercises.
Its defining feature is gamification: you complete learning tasks and receive experience points, feedback and visible progress. In a Spanish lesson, for example, you might match a word to its meaning, identify what a recording says, arrange words into a sentence, read a sentence aloud or translate a phrase.
As you progress, you unlock lessons, join leaderboard competitions and build a streak of consecutive study days. Breaking a long learning process into manageable tasks can make it easier to return each day. It does not mean that learning a language takes no effort.
According to Duolingo's investor information, it had approximately 133.1 million monthly active users in the fourth quarter of 2025. (User statistics)
Visit the official Duolingo website.
2. What can Duolingo do?
Short lessons that fit into the day
Rather than requiring a fixed hour-long class, Duolingo breaks practice into small units. You might learn vocabulary on your commute, complete listening exercises at lunch and review in the evening. This lowers the barrier to starting, especially for beginners. A few minutes a day usually will not produce a rapid jump in proficiency, though; ambitious goals require more study and real-world use.
XP, streaks and leaderboards
Experience points, challenges and streaks provide immediate feedback. Studying for 30 consecutive days builds a 30-day streak; earning XP can improve your weekly leaderboard position. These incentives can help you keep going, but more XP does not necessarily mean more learning. Repeating the easiest exercises just to maintain a streak is different from improving comprehension and speaking.
Listening, speaking, reading and writing
Lessons combine recordings, pronunciation exercises, reading, sentence construction and short written answers. This gives beginners several ways to encounter new vocabulary and patterns. Course depth varies: major languages such as English, Spanish and French tend to have more extensive material than smaller courses.
Review and feedback
Regular review helps you remember words and structures. The Practice tab offers free vocabulary, mistake, listening and speaking exercises across all language courses on iOS and Android. Explain My Answer is also free; you do not need Super or Max for these basic review and feedback tools. (Free Practice tab and answer explanations)
Interactive scenarios
Adventures place language tasks in game-like situations: buying coffee, finding an object or asking a character for directions. They connect words with situations in which you might use them, rather than treating every task as an isolated multiple-choice question.
AI speaking practice
In supported courses, Video Call lets you talk with characters such as Lily. You can answer questions, give an opinion and discuss everyday topics. The conversation responds to what you say, offering more freedom than an exercise with a fixed answer. It is a low-pressure way to practice speaking, but it cannot fully replace conversation with people.
3. Which languages can you learn?
Duolingo's 2025 Language Report describes courses in more than 40 languages. The number of languages is different from the number of courses: learning Spanish through English and learning Spanish through Chinese are separate course combinations. Your teaching language therefore affects the courses you see. (2025 Language Report)
English
English courses introduce everyday vocabulary, basic grammar, listening and speaking. They can help beginners or people who want regular practice after a long break. IELTS, TOEFL and other exams still require dedicated preparation for their tasks, writing and speaking requirements.
Japanese
Japanese courses introduce vocabulary, sentence patterns and everyday expressions; some also include kana practice. Greetings lead into situations such as shopping, transport and eating out. It is an accessible starting point for travel or interests such as anime and games. For systematic grammar study or JLPT preparation, add a textbook and targeted exercises.
Korean
Learners can work on Hangul, vocabulary and simple sentences before moving into everyday conversation. Korean honorifics, verb endings and context-dependent expressions benefit from more systematic study alongside the app.
Spanish, French and German
These popular courses suit travel, work, study and personal interests. You can practice ordering food or asking directions before a trip to France, for example, or learn everyday vocabulary before moving to Germany.
| Language | Common uses | Typical learners |
|---|---|---|
| English | Study, work, international communication | Students and professionals |
| Japanese | Travel, culture, everyday conversation | Beginners |
| Korean | Travel, film and music interests | Beginners |
| Spanish | Travel, work, communication | Language learners |
| French | Travel, study, culture | Students and travelers |
| German | Study, work, travel | Students and professionals |
| Italian | Travel, culture and art | Language learners |
| Chinese | Communication in Chinese | Learners of Chinese |
| Portuguese | Travel, work, culture | Language learners |
Other offerings include Arabic, Russian, Turkish, Dutch and Greek, as well as constructed languages such as Esperanto and Klingon. Availability depends on the teaching language you select. Check the official course list.
4. Math, music and chess
Duolingo now applies its short, interactive lesson format beyond languages. (Math and Music)
Duolingo Math starts with arithmetic and mathematical concepts. Dragging shapes, selecting answers and working through visual problems can supplement schoolwork or help adults revisit the basics. Check the current course for its scope; it does not replace a full math curriculum.
Duolingo Music introduces notes, rhythm and simple melodies. Some activities use an on-screen keyboard, while supported features may work with an instrument. It is a starting point for music theory and basic playing, rather than a substitute for instruction in technique, posture and more complex music.
Duolingo Chess introduces pieces, legal moves, rules, tactics and strategy through interactive exercises. A task might ask you to find a move in a particular position and understand why it works. Supported versions also include game-related features; see the official course information for availability.
| Subject | Main content | Best suited to |
|---|---|---|
| Languages | Vocabulary, listening, speaking, reading and writing | Language learners |
| Math | Arithmetic and mathematical concepts | Students and beginners |
| Music | Notes, rhythm and basic playing | Music beginners |
| Chess | Rules, tactics and games | Chess beginners |
Availability varies by teaching language, region and device.
5. Which devices support Duolingo?
Duolingo is available on the web, iOS and Android. Its short daily lessons are particularly convenient on mobile devices.
The web version suits learners who prefer a larger screen or typing with a keyboard. Sign in through a compatible browser to access supported courses. Some newer subjects and interactive features appear on mobile first.
The iOS app works on supported iPhones and iPads and is available through the App Store. Microphone, speaker and touch controls make mobile practice convenient. New courses and AI features may roll out according to region, device and system version.
The Android app, available through Google Play where accessible, includes the main learning features. Timing for new subjects and AI activities can differ from iOS.
On Windows, macOS and Linux, you can use the website without installing a separate desktop application.
| Platform | How to use it |
|---|---|
| Web browser | Supported courses on the website |
| Windows | Web browser |
| macOS | Web browser |
| Linux | Web browser |
| iPhone | iOS app |
| iPad | iOS app |
| Android | Android app |
Music, chess and AI tools may differ between platforms. Check the official mobile app if you want to explore newly released features.
6. Free, Super, Max and Family: what is the difference?
Duolingo offers core learning content for free, supported by advertising and paid subscriptions. Free, Super Duolingo and Duolingo Max describe feature tiers; Family describes a shared subscription arrangement. Some markets may offer family options at different tiers.
2026 update: Duolingo's first-quarter 2026 shareholder letter confirms that Video Call is expanding to Super subscribers. It can no longer be treated as a Max-only feature. Availability varies by account, course and device. Check whether Super already includes what you need before comparing Max's additional benefits. (Q1 2026 shareholder letter: Video Call for Super)
| Plan | Main offering | Who it may suit |
|---|---|---|
| Free | Core courses, XP and progress tracking | Beginners and occasional learners |
| Super Duolingo | Ad-free learning and other benefits; Video Call on some accounts | Regular learners |
| Super Family | Super benefits for up to six accounts | Families or groups |
| Duolingo Max | Super benefits plus the extra AI activities listed in your account | Learners who need those additional features |
Free
You can choose a language, complete lessons and maintain a streak without subscribing. Ten minutes of Japanese a day or a few travel phrases in Spanish do not require an immediate upgrade.
Limitations include ads and mechanisms such as Energy or Hearts, depending on the version. Energy can be used even for correct answers; Hearts follow different rules. See the Duolingo Energy guide. Interruptions may matter little for occasional practice but become frustrating during longer sessions.
Super Duolingo
Super primarily improves the experience rather than unlocking an entirely different curriculum. Benefits typically include no ads and fewer restrictions on mistakes or energy. Basic Practice tab exercises are free, so access to those exercises is not a reason to upgrade. If you study for 30 minutes daily and want to complete several lessons without interruption, that may be useful. Paying does not automatically improve results: regular, appropriately challenging practice still matters.
Super Family
Family plans typically cover up to six separate accounts. One person can study English while others learn Japanese or French, keeping their own progress. Sharing may cost less than separate subscriptions, and studying together can provide encouragement. Check eligibility and terms at purchase, and make sure the other members will actually use it.
Duolingo Max
Max includes Super's main benefits and additional AI activities. Video Call and Roleplay were its signature features, but Video Call's move toward Super means you need to compare the current benefits in your account.
Conversations with Lily can help people who feel nervous about speaking. Roleplay offers scenarios such as ordering coffee or planning a trip. Explain My Answer is free. Availability of other AI activities still varies by language, device and account. Verify the particular feature you intend to use before paying.
For more detail, read the Super Duolingo guide.
7. How much does Duolingo cost?
Paid prices vary by country, platform, web or app-store checkout, monthly or annual billing, promotions and pricing experiments. There is no single live dollar price that accurately describes every account in every market.
As checked in October 2026, official information describes Free, Super and Max, but it does not provide one universally applicable price list. Sign in and check the price shown in your account or the official subscription page.
Before buying:
- Compare monthly and annual totals. Annual billing may suit committed learners but involves a larger upfront payment.
- Compare a family plan with separate subscriptions if several people will study regularly. An unused seat offers little value.
- Check whether Super already includes Video Call. Consider Max only for additional features you actually need.
- Read the trial end date, renewal price and cancellation procedure. A free trial may renew automatically; cancel within the required period if you do not want to continue.
8. Can AI Video Call improve speaking?
Video Call uses generative AI for responsive conversations with Duolingo characters. Originally a Max feature, it began expanding to Super in 2026. (Video Call)
With Video Call with Lily, you can discuss interests, travel plans or your day. The character asks follow-up questions and responds to your answers, giving you another opportunity to speak when you have few opportunities to speak the language.
Roleplay focuses on situations such as ordering at a restaurant, checking into a hotel or buying something in a shop. These tasks connect vocabulary and grammar with practical exchanges.
AI practice can make speaking feel less intimidating, but its feedback on pronunciation, grammar and expression is not always accurate. Real conversations also involve cultural context, several speakers and nonverbal cues. Use lessons for vocabulary and patterns, AI for extra practice, and conversations with people to apply what you learn. These tools supplement speaking practice; they do not replace a complete speaking course.
9. What is the Duolingo English Test?
The complete Duolingo English Test guide explains fees, question types, scoring, devices and registration.
DET is a separate online English proficiency exam, not a level within the learning app. It uses adaptive testing to assess English skills and takes about an hour. The official DET blog lists a reference fee of US$70 per test; check the registration page for the actual amount. Super and Max do not automatically include a formal test. (DET duration and reference fee)
Some universities accept DET as proof of English proficiency. That does not mean every university, department or visa category accepts it. Check the exact program and its minimum score before registering.
| Exam | Main characteristic | Main consideration |
|---|---|---|
| DET | Short, remotely taken English test | Your program must accept it |
| IELTS | Used for study, migration and other purposes | Check the required version and purpose |
| TOEFL | Widely used for academic English assessment | Check the program's requirements |
Choose based on the institution's requirements before comparing price.
10. How does it compare with traditional study?
Duolingo lowers the barrier to starting and makes regular practice convenient. Traditional courses and textbooks often provide more systematic grammar, deeper reading and extended writing. A teacher can respond to individual problems and correct complex pronunciation or usage.
| Area | Duolingo | Classes and textbooks |
|---|---|---|
| Getting started | Easy to begin | Depends on the course |
| Schedule | Short sessions | Often more fixed |
| Motivation | Streaks, XP and challenges | Goals, structure and self-discipline |
| Basic vocabulary | Useful practice | Useful practice |
| Grammar depth | Varies by course | Often more systematic |
| Spoken interaction | AI and simulated tasks | Human interaction in suitable classes |
| Cost | Free to start | May require books or course fees |
For advanced goals, combine the app with structured materials, authentic listening, reading and conversation.
11. Duolingo, ChatGPT or Claude for learning languages?
Duolingo provides a planned route and a reason to return each day. You can open it and continue without designing a curriculum.
ChatGPT and Claude are more flexible: ask for a Japanese grammar explanation, feedback on writing or a conversation about a topic you enjoy. That flexibility also means you need a plan; unstructured chats can become repetitive or jump between difficulty levels.
| Need | Duolingo | ChatGPT / Claude |
|---|---|---|
| Beginner lessons | A structured route | A suitable plan needs to be designed |
| Daily habit | Built-in incentives | Depends largely on your routine |
| Vocabulary practice | Available | Can be requested |
| Detailed grammar | Depends on course features | Follow-up questions are possible |
| Open conversation | Depends on plan and access | Usually more flexible |
| Study sequence | Prearranged | Plans need consistent follow-through |
| Progress motivation | XP, leagues and streaks | Depends on how you use it |
A practical combination is daily Duolingo lessons plus an AI assistant for explanations and freer practice. Check AI feedback rather than assuming it is always correct.
12. Which plan should you choose?
Start by identifying the problem: interrupted practice, lack of review or lack of speaking opportunities.
New learners: start free and see whether you keep going for several weeks. Regular learners: consider Super when ads or limits materially interrupt study. Groups: compare Family only if the other members intend to use it. Speaking practice: check whether your Super account has Video Call before paying for Max, and confirm course and device support.
| Situation | Starting point |
|---|---|
| Learning a language for the first time | Free |
| Occasional practice | Free |
| Daily practice interrupted by ads | Compare Super |
| Several regular learners | Compare Super Family |
| More AI conversation | Check Super, then compare Max |
| A formal English score | Register for DET separately |
There is no need to start with the highest-priced tier. Try Free, then compare paid features against an actual need.
13. How to get started
- Visit the official website or install the iOS or Android app. A phone is convenient for short daily sessions.
- Choose a language you understand for the instructions, then select a language to learn from the available courses. The course list changes with your teaching language.
- Start at the beginning or use the available placement options. If you already know some material, check whether you can skip it.
- Set a realistic goal. Ten to twenty minutes a day is easier to sustain than two hours on day one followed by a week away.
- Review old vocabulary as well as unlocking lessons. Use a textbook or an AI assistant to clarify grammar you still do not understand.
- Add simple videos, short articles, suitable podcasts and conversations with people as your foundation grows. Using the language for meaning and expression turns practice into usable skill.
14. Frequently asked questions (FAQ)
Is Duolingo free?
Core courses are free. Paid plans offer benefits such as no ads, convenience features and additional AI activities.
Who makes Duolingo?
Duolingo, Inc., a US education technology company. Its products include language, math, music and chess courses, as well as DET.
Can I learn English with it?
Yes. It offers beginner vocabulary, listening, reading and expression practice. Add dedicated resources for IELTS, TOEFL or another formal exam.
Can I change the language of instruction?
Yes. Select a teaching language you understand and check which courses are available in it. Changing it can change the courses you see.
Can I use it on Windows or Mac?
Yes, through a compatible web browser. Some mobile features may be unavailable on the web.
How are Super and Max different?
Super focuses on fewer interruptions and added learning conveniences. Max includes Super benefits and extra AI activities, but Video Call started expanding to Super in 2026. Compare the benefits shown in your own account.
How many people can use Family?
Typically up to six separate accounts, subject to the current plan and regional terms.
Can Duolingo make me fluent?
It can build foundations and a habit. Fluency also requires substantial listening, reading, writing and real conversation.
Is AI Video Call useful?
It may help nervous speakers or people without regular conversation opportunities. Results depend on your level, course and practice, and it does not replace human interaction.
Is the Duolingo English Test free?
No. The official blog lists a US$70 reference fee per test, subject to checkout. Learning subscriptions are separate.
Is Duolingo or ChatGPT better for English?
Duolingo is easier to follow when you want structured beginner lessons and a routine. ChatGPT is more flexible for explanations and open-ended practice. Many learners can use both.
Is a subscription worth it?
Free is often enough for occasional use. Consider Super if ads or limits regularly interrupt your lessons, then Max only if it adds features you need beyond what Super currently provides.
15. A practical starting point
Duolingo is a useful entry point or a way to revisit a language you have not used in years. Short lessons and streaks can support consistency, but a few minutes a day do not guarantee fluency.
Try it free for a month and check whether the level and routine suit you. Compare paid options when ads, limits or a missing feature create a real obstacle. As your basics improve, add authentic material and conversation. Being able to use what you learned is a better measure of progress than XP alone.
References
Sources used for this guide. Features, fees and recognition can change; check the current official conditions.