Our verdict on Duolingo
Duolingo is the best free way to build a daily language habit, and its AI features now add real speaking practice through Video Call and Roleplay. It won't make you fluent on its own, but for beginners and casual learners it is hard to beat.
What is Duolingo?
Duolingo is the world's most popular language-learning app, with short gamified lessons in more than 40 languages plus math, music and chess courses.
Lessons take a few minutes and mix reading, listening, speaking and writing. Streaks, leagues and rewards keep motivation high, which is why so many people stick with it far longer than with traditional courses.
AI now runs through the app. It adapts lesson difficulty to each learner and generates new content, while Video Call lets you hold a real-time spoken conversation with the character Lily, and Roleplay simulates everyday situations such as ordering food or checking into a hotel. These launched in the Max tier, and Duolingo is moving Video Call into Super for many new subscribers.
Every course is free with ads and a daily energy limit. Super removes ads and limits for about $12.99 a month in the US, Family covers up to six people, and Max availability now varies by account.
Duolingo at a glance
| Made by | Duolingo, Inc. |
|---|---|
| Launched | 2011 |
| Category | AI Language Learning |
| Platforms | iOS, Android, Web |
| Free plan | Yes |
| Pricing | Free, Super ~$12.99/mo |
| Website | duolingo.com |
Duolingo key features
40+ languages
Plus math, music and chess courses.
Video Call
Spoken AI conversations with Lily.
Roleplay
Practise real-world scenarios with AI.
Adaptive lessons
Difficulty tuned to each learner.
Gamification
Streaks, leagues and rewards.
Duolingo English Test
Online English certification accepted by universities.
Who Duolingo is best for
Beginners
Building a daily language habit.
Travellers
Useful phrases before a trip.
Hospitality staff
Guest-facing phrases in new languages.
Families
Learning together on one plan.
Duolingo pros and cons
What we like
- Excellent free plan
- Fun, motivating format
- AI speaking practice
- Huge language choice
What could be better
- AI features need a paid plan
- Limited depth for advanced learners
- Plan names and features change often
- Ads and energy limits on free
Duolingo pricing
Free
All courses with ads and energy limits.
Super
No ads or limits; Video Call for many users.
Family
Super for up to 6 people.
Max
AI Roleplay and Video Call; availability varies.
Prices vary by country, platform and promotions. Prices checked November 2026. AI pricing changes often, so confirm on the official Duolingo site.
How to get started with Duolingo
- Download Duolingo and pick a language.
- Do a short lesson every day to build a streak.
- Upgrade to try Video Call and Roleplay.
Duolingo alternatives
| Tool | Best for | Starting price |
|---|---|---|
| Duolingo | Building a daily language habit, with AI speaking practice | Free, Super ~$12.99/mo |
| ChatGPT | Free-form conversation practice | Free, Plus $20/mo |
| Knowji | Vocabulary for exams | Free Lite |
| Khanmigo | AI tutoring in school subjects | From $4/mo |
| Speechify | Listening to text in other languages | Free, paid plans |
Duolingo FAQ
Is Duolingo free?
Yes. Every course is free, with ads and a daily energy limit. Super removes them.
Does Duolingo use AI?
Yes. AI personalises lessons and powers Video Call and Roleplay conversation practice.
What is Duolingo Max?
Max was Duolingo's AI tier with Video Call and Roleplay. Its availability varies, and Video Call is moving into Super for many users.
Can Duolingo make you fluent?
It builds a strong foundation, but fluency also needs real conversation and wider practice.
Sources: Duolingo pricing 2026 (Mindomax). Reviewed by the Digicrusader editorial team. Compare more options in our directory of 1,000+ AI tools.
