Duolingo is one of the most talked-about language learning apps in the world. With its colorful design and cute green owl mascot, it has helped millions start learning a new language. But a lot of people still ask: Is Duolingo really free? Let’s break that down, nice and easy.
TL;DR
Yes, Duolingo is free to use and you can learn a full language without paying a single cent. However, there are features like no ads, offline access, and extra tools that come with a paid version called Duolingo Super. If you’re just getting started or learning casually, the free version is more than enough. But if you’re super serious, you might want to pay up.
What You Get for Free
If you’re not paying anything, you’re still getting a lot. The basics of language learning are right there in the free version. That includes:
- Core lessons – Reading, writing, speaking and listening exercises.
- Daily practice reminders – The green owl is always watching!
- Gamified learning – Earn XP, streaks, and compete with friends.
- Hearts – These limit how many mistakes you can make, but they refill over time.
- Stories – Fun short stories in some languages to boost comprehension.
- Audio lessons – Available in certain languages like Spanish and French.
You can learn from A to Z without ever paying. But you’ll see some ads, and you won’t have access to everything.
Okay, So What’s in Duolingo Super?
The paid version is called Duolingo Super (formerly Duolingo Plus). It comes with some sweet extras to make learning smoother and less annoying.
- No ads – Say goodbye to those 5-second interruptions.
- Unlimited hearts – Make as many mistakes as you want. Learn freely!
- Practice mistakes feature – Focus on what you got wrong and get better fast.
- Offline lessons – Learn on a plane, a bus, or in a cave (if you have battery).
- Monthly streak repair – Miss a day? Your precious streak is safe.
It costs about $7 to $13 per month depending on the plan you pick. Family plans are also available for multiple users.
How Free Is “Free” Exactly?
You really don’t need to pay unless you want extras. The entire course of a language like Spanish or French can be completed with no payment. You will have ads and limited mistakes due to the heart system, but your access to the actual lessons is not blocked.
Compare that to other apps that lock lessons behind a paywall—you might find Duolingo’s approach refreshing. You can think of the free version as “Totally fine for most people.”
What About the Hearts System?
This is where some people hit a little bump. Duolingo gives you 5 hearts. You lose one every time you make a mistake in a lesson. When you’re out of hearts, you’re out of practice time. You either:
- Wait for them to refill (they do over time)
- Do practice to earn more back
- Watch an ad to get one heart instantly
- Buy Super to get unlimited tries
Some learners like this system because it encourages careful learning. Others find it a bit restricting. You decide!
Are There Any Hidden Costs?
Nope. No surprise charges. No sneaky subscriptions unless you choose to sign up for Super. The app is very clear when it comes to anything involving money.
When you first sign up, you might get offered a free 2-week trial of Duolingo Super. It’s totally optional. And if you don’t like it, you can go back to the free version anytime.
Duolingo App vs. Duolingo Website
Here’s a fun fact: some features work a little differently on the website version.
- No hearts on the website – That’s right. You can keep practicing forever on a computer with no hearts limit.
- Typing instead of tapping – Great for building spelling skills.
- Some bonus skills – The old web format still has older skill trees if you’re nostalgic.
If you don’t like being limited by hearts, just hop on your computer and practice there!
What’s the Deal with Ads?
In the free version, after about every 1–2 lessons, you’ll get a short ad. It’s usually 5–15 seconds long. Nothing too crazy, but if you’re doing several lessons back-to-back, it adds up.
These ads help keep the free version alive. They’re the reason you can learn a language without paying. So, love them or not, they’re part of the deal.
Who Is Duolingo Best For?
Duolingo is ideal for:
- Language newbies – Start from zero and build up basics.
- Casual learners – Practice daily without pressure.
- Kids and teens – It’s colorful, fun, and motivating.
- People who love streaks – That streak number is weirdly addicting.
If you’re trying to become fluent fast or need language for a job or academic purpose, Duolingo alone might not be enough. It’s a great base, but pairing it with live speaking practice or grammar books is a good idea.
Duolingo Extras (That Are Still Free!)
Aside from lessons, you also get:
- Leaderboards – Compete with other learners.
- Achievement badges – Earn cool titles like “Weekend Warrior.”
- Clubs and friends – Learn together and cheer each other on.
These extras are designed to keep your motivation up. And they do a pretty good job, especially if you’re the competitive type.
Final Verdict: Is It Worth It?
Short answer: Yes. Duolingo’s free version is great for beginners and casual learners. You’re not stuck behind paywalls and can genuinely learn a lot.
Duolingo Super is great if you want a smoother experience with no ads and more flexibility. But it’s totally optional.
The green owl isn’t here to force you to pay. It’s here to teach. And maybe remind you at 10 p.m. that you forgot to practice.
Bonus Tip!
Combine Duolingo with fun stuff in your new language:
- Watch shows or cartoons in that language.
- Listen to its music or podcasts.
- Label your stuff at home with sticky notes!
The more ways you practice, the better you’ll learn!
Happy Learning!
Whether you stay free or go Super, Duolingo is a powerful tool. It’s fun, it’s colorful, and it’s waiting for you every day. No pressure, just progress.
