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About Duolingo

Cloud-based learning management system that helps educators provide language training and track student's progress.

Learn more about Duolingo

Pros:

Those things are incorporated in to the lessons, yet the user almost doesn't notice because it's so well integrated.

Cons:

Sometimes the theme or words become repetitive, and even the fact that you stop accessing the application makes you go back to the beginning, this demotivates you a bit.

Duolingo ratings

Average score

Ease of Use
4.8
Customer Service
4.2
Features
4.5
Value for Money
4.5

Likelihood to recommend

8.9/10

Duolingo has an overall rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars based on 876 user reviews on Capterra.

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Whitney
Whitney
Asst. Vice President in US
Verified LinkedIn User
Education Management, 1,001–5,000 Employees
Used the Software for: 1+ year
Reviewer Source

Alternatives Considered:

Excellent language learning app

5.0 2 years ago

Comments: Duolingo has definitely impacted communications with others who speak different languages. Comprehension of written communication has seen the most positive change, followed by the ability to speak and then listening/understanding verbal communication. I believe this is due to the nuance of individual speakers' accents and phrasing. Overall, the learning attributable to Duolingo is significant.

Pros:

I highly recommend Duolingo. There's a free option available, which includes adds and some limited features, yet the Pro option is excellent. This is definitely a "get out of it what you put in to it" tool, and if utilized regularly, users will learn a language. Lessons focus on "useful" learning i.e. key words and phrases vs. conjugation of verbs and other grammatical elements. Those things are incorporated in to the lessons, yet the user almost doesn't notice because it's so well integrated.

Cons:

The sequencing of some of the lessons seems a bit strange sometimes, as why one topic comes after another and not before can be odd. However, it's minor and perhaps even more of a preference.

Ayda
Content Creator in Dominican Republic
Health, Wellness & Fitness, 2–10 Employees
Used the Software for: 2+ years
Reviewer Source

Just get it!

5.0 last month New

Comments: I've been working on learning Japanese which has pretty much 3 alphabets and duolingo has made this fun and in a way I retain the information

Pros:

The amount of repetition, the quick matching, the different voices and speeds.

Cons:

Honestly can't think of anything at the moment.

Fran
Technology Administrator in UK
Retail, 10,000+ Employees
Used the Software for: 1-5 months
Reviewer Source

User Friendly but Limited Variety

3.0 last month New

Pros:

Easy to use app, very familiar to most users

Cons:

The range of languages seems limited compared to other apps, with resources being dedicated to fictional languages over real, existing ones!

Mariella
Writer in Qatar
Writing & Editing, Self Employed
Used the Software for: 2+ years
Reviewer Source

Best Language Learning App

5.0 3 months ago

Comments: I can't forget this one time when I couldn't believe I understood full sentences in Spanish, and Duolingo stated that I was only 23% fluent in Spanish. I thought it wasn't much until I shocked myself by fully understanding what those full sentences were saying. Duolingo seems so easy in terms of making it a kind of game in learning and the next thing you know, you can easily understand the language. I appreciate the reminders as well, they can be persistent but do mean nothing but well.

Pros:

I've been using Duoling for 9 years now and appreciate how I can easily retain the lessons about foreign languages I thought would be hard to learn. I love the fact that I can not only track my progress but the app itself is encouraging, it shows you how far you've come and how much you've learned. You won’t even feel that you've been learning for quite some time now because the tests and assessments appear to be easy but then the next thing you know, you'll be able to read and comprehend sentences in a foreign language you are learning.

Cons:

As a user of Duolingo for 9 years, I can't say anything against it because it helps me learn a new language. I can easily change the language I want to learn whenever I want to.

Kitti
ESL tutor in Hungary
Education Management, Self Employed
Used the Software for: 2+ years
Reviewer Source

Fun language learning, alone or with a classroom

5.0 2 weeks ago New

Pros:

Daily motivation, Duolingo for Classroom option with unlimited hearts

Cons:

Needs more speaking practice and more focus on grammar

Jose M
Marketing Manager in Spain
Marketing & Advertising, Self Employed
Used the Software for: 6-12 months
Reviewer Source

Learn English without having to make any effort.

5.0 6 days ago New

Comments: It has helped me a lot to make progress with my english. The learning process is really engaging, and it not only helps with writing and reading in other languages but also with correct pronunciation. I find it incredibly comprehensive.

Pros:

It is very easy to use. User friendly. Moreover you can use it in your phone. You don't need a computer

Cons:

If you have an advanced level on the language, maybe it is not the best for you

Verified Reviewer
Verified LinkedIn User
Marketing & Advertising, 2–10 Employees
Used the Software for: 2+ years
Reviewer Source

Great for the Whole Family

5.0 last month New

Comments: We have the Su[er Duolingo subscription and everyone in my family (5 users included in the plan) are on track to feeling somewhat competent in a 3rd language

Pros:

I love how it gamifies learning new languages

Cons:

Sometimes the language suggestions/corrections are not accurate, but overall, I believe my family and I are learning with this app

Krishna
Nil in India
Writing & Editing, Self Employed
Used the Software for: Free Trial
Reviewer Source

Duolingo review

4.0 last month New

Comments: Overall experience been great.Its really user friendly.Easy to develop a new habit.

Pros:

It's really easy to handle and really good for people who are looking to learn new languages.

Cons:

When you are an intermediate in any language it's hard to improve as the question is easier.

Thomas
Project Manager in UK
Utilities, 10,000+ Employees
Used the Software for: 2+ years
Reviewer Source

Basic communication possible via usage and in a not so difficult format

5.0 4 weeks ago New

Pros:

Basic communication possible via usage and in a not so difficult format

Cons:

No real cons. Time commitment and pace only

Devin
AP Manager in US
Oil & Energy, 51–200 Employees
Used the Software for: 2+ years
Reviewer Source

Duolingo makes learning fun.

4.0 last month New

Pros:

Duolingo makes learning fun by turning it into a game.

Cons:

The annoying chime gets on my nerves for some reason.

Rendel Anne
Teacher in Thailand
Education Management, 51–200 Employees
Used the Software for: 2+ years
Reviewer Source

An Interactive place to Learn New Languages in a Fun Way

4.0 2 years ago

Comments: Duolingo has a knack for inspiring students. All of the app's features, including the daily tasks, leaderboards, progress reports, and peaceful atmosphere, are ideal for my passive learning style. Since the lessons are brief, I typically begin one without devoting a lengthy session to it. So far, the experience has been fantastic.

Pros:

You can enroll in a variety of language classes. The way the entire learning process is organized on Duolingo — gamified, soothing, bite-sized courses to dip into whenever, even on the road — is among its most appealing features. Everything is well-organized and simple to use, including progress monitoring, looking back at previously taught materials, leaderboards, and communities for discussion with other learners and professionals. One fantastic aspect is that anyone may start learning any language right away without spending any money and avoiding receiving any advertising.

Cons:

The program, in my opinion, is excellent for novices because it provides a solid starting point for language study. However, as you develop into an intermediate or expert level, you start to understand that the software can't really help you much more. The courses start to seem a little too robotic and calculated, which is bad if you want to advance. You will need to forego the app and experiment with different language learning strategies that provide more impromptu learning possibilities. The free version's restrictions are another drawback, but those are to be expected with any application, so we can't strictly blame Duolingo for them. In conclusion, I heartily endorse Duolingo for anyone learning a new language.

Verified Reviewer
Verified LinkedIn User
Mining & Metals, 10,000+ Employees
Used the Software for: 2+ years
Reviewer Source

Learn so many languages for free!

5.0 3 years ago

Comments: It changed the way I learn. It is so effective and flexible that I can devote few minutes to few hours every day and learn something every day.

Pros:

1. You can learn almost any language in the world for free in a user-friendly manner. 2. Rewards, points, stars, bonuses keep motivating you to learn more. There is no limit on how much you can practice. 3. There are stories, daily practice lessons, grammar tips to help you learn from the very beginning. 4. You can create streaks, double your points, wear attire for the Duo mascot. 5. You can practice, earn points, and clear checkpoints to motivate you. 6. There are listening and speaking exercises too. 7. You have leaderboards to compete. 8. You can follow friends and give them high five to encourage. 9. You can feel proud of the achievement badges that you earn with a lot of hard work. 10. You can clear your doubts by posting to people in the community groups while practicing lessons. 11. You can study multiple languages by adding as many courses as you want.

Cons:

1. There is no video interface to learn the nuances of a language. 2. If you give feedback for wrong sentences in rare cases, you may not hear back soon. 3. You cannot chat with friends you follow. 4. Sometimes you get the same sentences for practice which may defeat the very purpose of learning.

Verified Reviewer
Verified LinkedIn User
Outsourcing/Offshoring, 10,000+ Employees
Used the Software for: 6-12 months
Reviewer Source

Great Beginner Language Learning App

4.0 2 years ago

Comments: My overall experience was really good. Everything was easy to follow and the app itself is quite fun!

Pros:

I like how user friendly and interactive the Duolingo Software is. It’s very easy to track your language learning progress and the layout of the app is very fun. It kinda mimics a game, which is great to hold interest especially for young language learners. I like that you can start to learn a language from scratch using Duolingo. I started learning Italian using the app about 2 years ago and I learned quite a bit of vocabulary and also how to form simple sentences to express myself clearly as a beginner. It’s also impressive how the app provides you with a built in feature that guides you as it relates to the correct pronunciation of verbs. The activities also include listening comprehension which is great when you’re new to a language and don’t exactly have anyone to talk/ listen to. I know there are thousands of free videos on the internet but at times it can be a bit hard and overwhelming to keep up with what the speakers are saying when you’re very new to the language. With Duolingo, everything is perfectly paced for a beginner to understand with ease and I like that a lot. Another advantage worth mentioning is the numerous languages that the app offers. I like the flexibility a lot; and honestly, whenever I start to learn another language, back to Duolingo I’ll go!

Cons:

I think the app is great for beginners, it gives you a strong foundation for your language learning journey. However, as you begin to progress into an intermediate or advanced level, you begin to realize that there’s not much more that the app can do for you. The lessons become a bit too calculated and robotic which isn’t good if you’re wanting to advance. You will need to bypass the app and try other language learning methods which will offer more spontaneous learning opportunities. Another con is the limitations that come with the free version, but like any other application, that is to be expected and we can’t necessarily blame Duolingo for that. All in all, I would highly recommend Duolingo to any beginner language learner.

Verified Reviewer
Verified LinkedIn User
Information Technology & Services, 10,000+ Employees
Used the Software for: 2+ years
Reviewer Source

How to Master new language? Try Duolingo

5.0 3 years ago

Comments: After using it for a couple years so far, I can say that I am more than satisfied with Duo, especially after I started learning German daily with the use of it ( currently I am at my 358 day with 234 crowns and I want more knowledge, more skills and of course more Duo ). I would like to see more improvments in Duolinguo and if possible, that they return as officially recognized by LinkedIn as well, as I would like to boost more my German, share it with my connections and eventually land a new and better job thanks to it.

Pros:

I love that feeling of accomplishment after new skill was acquired or new level gained ( and crown for it too ). It teaches me the basics of some language and it is free too, but I would like to see even more chapters in future, as you can't get enough of it.

Cons:

I don't like the new system with five hearts ( for five negative answers, after which you fail a lesson ), but I understand it is there in order for this platform to keep being free for everyone and because of that I don't mind it too much. In the other hand, I would like to get more things which can be bought in the Duolingo shop, maybe some new outfits for Duo and especially more advanced skills for languages.

Andrew
Director, Digital and Video in Canada
Media Production, 11–50 Employees
Used the Software for: 2+ years
Reviewer Source

Duolingo is changing how people learn language

5.0 2 years ago

Comments: I have nothing but good things to say about Duolingo. It's the first app I open every day, and one of the last apps I use every night. The way they have gamified learning and paired it with AI to customize learning paths, for language learners of all skill levels, is utterly remarkable. I spent 12+ years learning French in school and Duolingo was able to break grammar and conjugation issues that had plagued me for more than 20 years. Merci Duo!

Pros:

The way that Duolingo has built a community of language lovers through a gamified learning system is truly worth noting. The customized learning paths created for each user offers language learners of all skill levels to start confidently. Having tried all of the major language learning platforms before landing on Duo, I really can't think of a better place to get your family learning language.

Cons:

The only con that I could list is that the profiles could be expanded to allow people to include their social media handles. It would be great to connect with other Duo users on, and off, the platform!

Alain
Author in US
Writing & Editing, Self Employed
Used the Software for: 2+ years
Reviewer Source

Homework, homework, homework

4.0 2 years ago

Comments: My overall experience is good, but not excellent (some of the sentences are kind of weird and not very useful). But it’s a good way to gain confidence on your grammar when it comes to write in a different language.

Pros:

I think there are not such a thing of too many tools to help us learn (or improve) languages, so it’s good news that we have apps like Duolingo, one of the best known by the way. And that’s for something. I feel like I’m carrying my English teacher in my pocket, I can do the homework literally everywhere and at my own pace. I think it’s especially useful for beginners or for the lowest level skills.

Cons:

This app is convenient and easy to use, but I’m not sure if it’s the best way to gain fluency in a language. I’ve been trying to be proficient in English for a while now, and I find it helpful to learn grammar, writing and reading, but not as much to improve my listening or speaking. Nothing like practicing dialogues and conversation with native speakers to do so, these language apps won’t do miracles.

Noelia
Human Resources in Spain
Computer Software, 51–200 Employees
Used the Software for: 2+ years
Reviewer Source

Learning languages ​​with Duolingo

5.0 last year

Comments: I have been using Duolingo for many years for different languages. I started with English, then French and now also Italian. I use it mainly as another learning method since I can use it from anywhere at any time. I find it practical and quick to learn.

Pros:

Duolingo is great! I learn English in a fun way. Interactive exercises and short lessons make everyday learning easy. It's engaging, accessible, and a great complement to other learning methods. I recommend it to everyone who wants to learn a new language in an entertaining way.

Cons:

Duolingo is a useful tool for language learners and especially for beginners. Also for those of us looking for an introduction to a new language. But to achieve higher levels it is necessary to complement it with more complete resources, with real life practices.

Edward
business in Slovakia
Verified LinkedIn User
Business Supplies & Equipment, Self Employed
Used the Software for: 2+ years
Reviewer Source

Easy Language Learner

5.0 3 years ago

Comments: Was using the free version for a while and it's been great. Those ads have been realy obnoxious and feel my Spanish reading and vocab has improved a enough to order the 12 month plan. Definetely recommend full version.

Pros:

I really like the app. It is great to learn the basics. To be clear just using Duolingo to learn a language is not enough. You need other methods as well and most importantly you need to practice with native speakers. Btw, not only is their platform pleasing, fast, and fun, it works as promised! the only downside is of course the ads (and hence the 4 stars -- program and content is 5 stars for sure), but hey, IT IS FREE! IGNORING THE ADS IS A SMALL PRICE TO PAY!

Cons:

Quantity of material varies among languages. And I was really enjoying the program and the motivation it provided to keep my daily usage streak going., but reporting the bug is not easy, I did my best and after 3 days they have responded. That nippers little bit.

Regina
Fundador in Brazil
Arts & Crafts, Self Employed
Used the Software for: 2+ years
Reviewer Source

Duolingo is the best and most intuitive app for learning languages ​​the fun way.

5.0 2 years ago

Comments: Overall I consider it to be the best way to learn a language, both on the website and in the app. Learning is light and often you don't realize you're learning. The visual is quite beautiful and attractive, the colors, the images, audios. Learning becomes easy and the best: free of charge.

Pros:

I've been using the app for over 9 years and it was with it that I was able to learn two languages ​​and now I'm taking on an even bigger challenge, which is learning Korean. The practices are always a lot of fun, the audios and images help us to better assimilate the vocabulary and this makes learning practical and efficient.

Cons:

A negative point is the difficulty of reporting errors so that they are resolved on time. Mistakes often happen that take away a life and the answer was correct. I know the idea is to have repetitions, but I could change it for more vocabularies and even add basic expressions to improve learning even more.

Mohamed
Lecturer in Algeria
Education Management, 501–1,000 Employees
Used the Software for: 2+ years
Reviewer Source

A Pleasant Language App

4.0 last year

Comments: A balanced language application that certainly help language learn develop the first strokes of any language. It really builds the first pillars and thus develop your speaking, listening and writing. Though it doesn't look at your pronunciation abilities, it enriches your vocabulary in few days.

Pros:

Duolingo has an interactive way to teach you any language of your choice thanks to its dedicated line of topics that range from basic and elementary to intermediate and advanced.

Cons:

Actually, Duolingo is a vocabulary builder app, which pays less attention to grammar, spelling and mainly reading. More than that, it is somehow less formative compared to the paid version.

Melisa
Assistant Manager in US
Food & Beverages, 11–50 Employees
Used the Software for: 2+ years
Reviewer Source

Love Duo!

5.0 2 years ago

Comments: I love duo! It helps me to keep learning and is fun and easy to use! I find the stories are really nice for 'real-world' applications of using the vocabulary. Honestly, highly recommend!

Pros:

Duo is so easy to use and fun! It keeps me accountable and helps me to remember words that I may otherwise forget if it wasn't for the good timing! I like that it's a quick daily lesson and that Duo sends reminders if I fall off from Daily use. User friendly, cute graphics, and most importantly useful for language learning!

Cons:

There's very little that I would list as a con with Duolingo. I use the free version so not all features are unlocked, which works for me, but you do have the option to pay to unlock more features.They give you the option to flag answers that you believe may have an error, but it does that a while for those to be reviewed.

Rafaele
Financial Analyst in Brazil
Financial Services, 11–50 Employees
Used the Software for: 2+ years
Reviewer Source

Duolingo evaluation

4.0 3 years ago

Pros:

Duolingo is an excellent app for language learning aid, easy to use, has several lessons and stages. It has a very beautiful layout, which helps us spend more time using it. Your trophy program is interesting to do more lessons and the app is always sending a message with your rating to encourage access and learnin

Cons:

I believe that when taking the test to check the user's level, it would be interesting for him to show the eliminated units as completed, the duolingo even jumps, but it does not show the circle as fully filled. The activities also have to be redone in a short time for the circle to keep all filled, which ends up making us go back several times in the same lesson, hindering a little the evolution to other levels. A more specific unit focused on alphabets and numbers would also be nice.

Osarumwense
Osarumwense
Assistant Director in Nigeria
Verified LinkedIn User
Entertainment, 51–200 Employees
Used the Software for: 1+ year
Reviewer Source

It has made learning foreign languages easy peasy!

5.0 3 years ago

Comments: Now, i can speak and write in Italian language. I just love Duolingo!

Pros:

I so much like this app...I can now communicate with a foreign language! I like the fun ways it provides for learning. It is very easy to use, and familiarise with. I love that it is free! I like the progress tracker and the notifications to remind one that it is time to learn...

Cons:

The only thing I don't like is that, if you skip a day without learning, your progress level will drop. Above all, i love the app.

Andile
student in Zimbabwe
Computer Software, 1,001–5,000 Employees
Used the Software for: 6-12 months
Reviewer Source

Duolingo Changed My Life!

5.0 3 years ago

Comments: In overall, I love Duolingo. I find myself watching French movies now and understanding something that I never did but of course I still refer to subtitles to confirm that I am on the right track. My reason for learning a new language is for exercising my brain and keeping it sharp.

Pros:

For starters, Duolingo is free despite the fact that it teaches you a whole new language, a language that can change your life in terms of improving your cv, giving your brain a sharp memory etc. I like that Duolingo sends me emails or notifications everyday when he realizes I may have forgotten about the lessons because most times I would have. Duolingo has very interesting French lessons that are also part of the lessons. They are really interesting and make you want to continue reading and studying.

Cons:

When I am recording my voice in response to what Duo wants me to say, I realize that the speech recognition is not that precise. At times I hear myself pronounce badly and be ready to say it again but Duo does not hear it properly and marks as pronounced properly. The speech recognition is lacking a bit and I believe can be improved.

Angela
other in Canada
Newspapers, Self Employed
Used the Software for: 1-5 months
Reviewer Source
Source: SoftwareAdvice

potential bots use in leaderboards

1.0 last year

Comments: I have been taking courses on duolingo since July 2023. Until recently I was very happy with duolingo overall. I am genuinely interested in learning a new language and truly happy that duolingo is helping me learn. I have dedicated time daily to my learning. I make a very conscious effort to set time aside in my day and in my life to use duolingo to learn a language. I paid for a subscription and as such I expect not only to use this services but to learn and understand how my learning journey is progessing. I encouraged my friends to use duolingo. This week I came across a supposed user in my league who not only came out of nowhere – I have not seen them in previous leagues, but who is surpassing fast in every lesson and accumulating points with a speed that is incredible. I am pretty good but I do not thing it possible to achieve the equivalent of five units in one hour. So I looked into bots and there are a few discussions out there about Duolingo supposedly using bots to increase the time users spend on the app. This made me lose confidence in this appIt is frankly insulting if this is what Duolingo chooses to do. Increasing competition between real users is a great idea. Using false users to do so is paramount to laughing in our faces and taking the efforts we make learning a language for granted. In the future, I will not recommend this to anyone.

Pros:

easy to understand and follow. tips are good although there could be more

Cons:

Potential use of bots that came up recently.