Duolingo Pricing: What You Actually Pay for Language Learning

When you think of Duolingo, a popular language-learning app that uses gamified lessons to teach vocabulary and grammar. Also known as language learning app, it's one of the most downloaded tools for picking up a new language—whether you're trying to survive in Spain, impress at work, or just keep your brain sharp. But here’s the real question: Is Duolingo free, or is there a catch?

The short answer? You can use Duolingo for free, and lots of people do. But if you want to remove ads, download lessons for offline use, and get unlimited hearts (so you don’t get kicked out after three mistakes), you’ll need Duolingo Plus, the paid subscription tier that removes distractions and adds practical features for serious learners. Plus costs about $12.99 a month if you pay monthly, or as low as $6.99 a month if you commit to a yearly plan. That’s less than your daily coffee. But is it worth it?

Most people start with the free version and stay there—because you can learn a lot without paying. You get daily streaks, bite-sized lessons, speaking and listening practice, and even mini-games. But if you’re studying for a test, planning to travel, or trying to reach fluency, the free version gets frustrating fast. Ads interrupt your flow. You lose hearts and have to wait hours to retry. No offline access means you can’t study on the bus or plane. That’s where Duolingo Plus, the paid subscription tier that removes distractions and adds practical features for serious learners. makes a real difference. It’s not magic, but it removes the friction that stops most people from sticking with it.

And here’s something most don’t tell you: Duolingo alone won’t make you fluent. It’s a tool, not a teacher. Think of it like a gym membership—you can show up every day, but if you don’t push yourself, you won’t get results. The best learners pair Duolingo with real conversation, flashcards, or YouTube videos. That’s why the posts below cover everything from comparing Duolingo to other apps, to figuring out which language-learning tools actually deliver results.

What you’ll find here are real breakdowns of Duolingo’s pricing tiers, honest comparisons with other apps like Babbel and Memrise, and tips on how to get the most out of your time—whether you’re spending $0 or $80 a year. No fluff. No hype. Just what works.