
For many language learners, Duolingo serves as an engaging platform to master new skills. While the free version remains popular among users, those seeking additional perks often consider upgrading to Duolingo’s premium tier. In this guide, we explain the pricing details, benefits, and value of upgrading to a premium Duolingo plan. You will find clear details on monthly, annual, and family plans. We also share tips to get the best value for your money while improving your language skills.
Duolingo’s premium offerings are designed for learners who want to skip ads, get more practice, and take their studies seriously. Whether you are a casual user or a determined language student, understanding premium Duolingo pricing will help you decide if the upgrade fits your needs.
Duolingo Plus
Duolingo started as a free language-learning tool. Over time, it added a paid upgrade to help users learn faster without interruptions. In recent years, this paid service has been known as Duolingo Plus or Super Duolingo. Even with the name change, the idea remains the same. The premium version gives you extra features that make learning more efficient and enjoyable.
What the Premium Service Offers
Duolingo Plus gives you several benefits. Key features include:
- Ad-Free Experience: No annoying ads interrupt your learning sessions.
- Unlimited Hearts: You never run out of hearts, so you can keep practicing without delay.
- Personalized Practice: The app tailors lessons to your weak points for a focused review.
- Unlimited Legendary Challenges: Take on tough challenges without spending extra gems or points.
These extra perks are designed to speed up learning and make your study time more pleasant. With fewer interruptions, you can work through lessons smoothly and steadily improve your skills.
Who Should Consider Upgrading
If you are a casual learner, the free version might work just fine. However, for those who want faster progress and a smoother experience, the premium service is a great choice. Serious language learners find that unlimited hearts and personalized practice remove many of the limits found in the free version.
Duolingo Plus Pricing Overview
Duolingo offers several subscription options. This helps meet the needs of different users.
Individual Subscription Options
You can choose between:
- Monthly Plan: Priced at about $12.99 per month. This is a flexible option if you want to try the premium features without a long commitment.
- Annual Plan: Costs about $59.99 per year. When you divide this cost by 12, it comes to roughly $5 per month. This plan offers huge savings compared to paying monthly.
Family Plan Option
Duolingo also has a family plan. This plan is great if more than one person in your household wants to learn a language.
- The Family Plan costs about $119.99 per year.
- It can be shared by up to six users. This means each person effectively pays about $1.67 per month.
Regional Pricing Considerations
Pricing may change a bit depending on where you live. Due to exchange rates and local cost-of-living adjustments, costs can vary by country. The numbers given here are based on U.S. pricing. In other regions, the equivalent prices might differ slightly but are adjusted to suit local markets.
Pricing Comparison Table
Subscription Type | Monthly Cost | Annual Cost | Key Benefits |
---|---|---|---|
Individual | $12.99 | $59.99 (≈$5/mo) | Ad-free, unlimited hearts, personalized practice |
Family Plan | N/A | $119.99/yr | Up to 6 users, lower cost per user |
Duolingo Plus Features
Understanding what you get with Duolingo Plus is important. These features are designed to enhance your learning experience.
Ad-Free Learning Experience
One of the biggest complaints about free apps is the presence of ads. Duolingo Plus eliminates ads completely. With no ads, you can focus on your lessons without distractions. This creates a smoother study session where your concentration is not broken by pop-ups or interruptions.
Unlimited Hearts
In the free version, you have a set number of hearts. Each mistake costs you a heart. When you run out, you must wait or complete extra exercises to restore them. Duolingo Plus removes this limit. You can make mistakes, learn from them, and continue practicing without waiting for a refill.
Personalized Practice and Progress Tracking
Duolingo Plus adapts your study sessions to fit your weaknesses. The app tracks your progress and suggests tailored practice sessions. This means you spend more time working on the areas that need improvement. Personalized reviews help boost your confidence as you see steady progress in your language skills.
Unlimited Legendary Challenges
Some learners love to test their skills with tough challenges. In the free version, trying these challenges might cost you extra gems or limit your attempts. With a premium subscription, you can take on as many legendary challenges as you want. This encourages you to push your limits and learn more effectively.
Offline Access (Where Available)
Many users value the ability to download lessons for offline study. Duolingo Plus often provides this benefit. With offline access, you can learn on the go even when you do not have a stable internet connection. This makes it easier to study anywhere, from the bus to a quiet spot at home.
Bonus Features and Occasional Free Trials
Duolingo often offers promotional trials for its premium service. A common practice is to offer a 14-day free trial. This gives you a chance to explore all the premium features without any commitment. It is a great way for you to decide if the upgrade suits your needs before subscribing.
Value for Money: Is Duolingo Plus Worth It?
Let’s examine whether the upgrade makes financial sense and truly enhances your learning.
Comparing Monthly and Annual Costs
Paying monthly gives you flexibility. However, the annual plan saves you much money. For example, $12.99 per month adds up to nearly $156 a year. On the other hand, the annual plan is only $59.99. Choosing the annual plan can lead to over 60% savings. If you study regularly, the long-term commitment pays off.
Benefits That Matter to Learners
Duolingo Plus is not just about saving money. The benefits play a big role in improving your language skills. Here are some reasons learners choose to upgrade:
- Smoother Learning: No ads mean no interruptions. You get to focus entirely on your lessons.
- Steady Progress: With unlimited hearts, mistakes do not slow you down. You learn at your own pace.
- Tailored Practice: Personalized reviews help target your weak points, leading to faster improvement.
- Challenge Opportunities: Unlimited access to legendary challenges pushes you to master difficult concepts.
Many users have found that these benefits help them stay motivated. A premium subscription often means you study more consistently, and that consistency leads to better results.
Comparing to the Free Version
The free version of Duolingo is an excellent tool by itself. It gives you access to a wide range of languages and lessons. However, it comes with limitations such as ads and a cap on practice hearts. For learners who value an uninterrupted study session and extra practice, upgrading can remove these barriers. The decision to upgrade depends on your goals and how much you want to invest in your learning journey.
Real-Life Testimonials and Feedback
Learners often share positive feedback after upgrading. Many say that the ad-free experience and unlimited hearts allow them to focus better. They mention that personalized practice sessions help reinforce learning and that tackling challenging tasks without extra costs boosts their confidence. These personal touches show that an upgrade can have a real, positive impact on your study routine.
How to Subscribe to Duolingo Plus
Upgrading your Duolingo account is simple. Whether you use a mobile device or a desktop, the process is straightforward.
Upgrading on Mobile (iOS and Android)
- Open the App: Launch the Duolingo app on your smartphone.
- Access the Premium Section: Look for the “Try for Free” or “Upgrade” button. Tap it to view premium options.
- Start Your Free Trial: Duolingo often offers a 14-day free trial. Follow the prompts to begin your trial.
- Enter Payment Details: You will need to provide your credit or debit card details. Don’t worry—if you cancel during the trial, you won’t be charged.
- Enjoy the Benefits: Once upgraded, you can start enjoying an ad-free experience and all the extra features.
Upgrading on Desktop
- Go to the Duolingo Website: Visit Duolingo.com and log in to your account.
- Find the Upgrade Option: Click on your profile or the settings menu and look for the option to upgrade.
- Select Your Plan: Choose between the monthly or annual subscription.
- Confirm Your Details: Enter your payment information and confirm your choice.
- Begin the Premium Experience: Enjoy the same benefits on your computer as you would on your mobile device.
Using Promotional Offers
Duolingo sometimes offers special promo codes or seasonal discounts. To take advantage of these:
- Check the Duolingo website or social media channels regularly.
- Look for emails that offer discount codes.
- Use the promo code field during checkout if available.
These offers can lower your cost even more, making premium Duolingo a smart choice if you are planning long-term use.
Managing and Canceling Your Subscription
Once you subscribe, you might have questions about managing your plan. It is essential to know how to cancel or change your subscription if needed.
How to Cancel or Change Your Subscription
- For Mobile Users:
- If you subscribed via the App Store (iOS) or Google Play (Android), you need to cancel through your respective account settings.
- Open the settings on your device, find “Subscriptions,” and select Duolingo.
- Follow the prompts to cancel or change your subscription.
- For Desktop Users:
- Visit the Duolingo website.
- Log in and go to your account settings.
- Look for the subscription section and follow instructions to cancel.
It is important to note that you must cancel at least 24 hours before your trial or billing period ends. This ensures you are not automatically charged if you decide the upgrade is not for you.
Troubleshooting Common Issues
Sometimes, users face issues when managing their subscription. Common problems include:
- Difficulty accessing the subscription settings.
- Confusion about billing cycles.
- Technical glitches during cancellation.
If you encounter any issues, here are some steps to take:
- Restart the app or refresh the website.
- Consult the Duolingo Help Center. Duolingo provides a detailed support page with many common answers.
- Reach out to Duolingo’s customer support via email or social media for personalized assistance.
Refund and Renewal Policies
Before you subscribe, it helps to understand the refund and renewal policies:
- Renewal: Most plans automatically renew at the end of the billing cycle. If you do not want to continue the service, be sure to cancel before the renewal date.
- Refunds: Refund policies vary by region and payment method. Check the terms during subscription for details. Generally, if you cancel immediately after a billing error, you might be eligible for a partial refund.
Knowing these details can save you money and prevent unwanted charges.
Duolingo Plus Compared with Other Language Apps
When you invest in language learning, it is helpful to compare your options. Duolingo Plus stands out, but it is wise to see how it stacks up against other popular apps.
Other well-known language apps include Babbel, Memrise, and Busuu. Here is a quick look at how they compare:
- Babbel:
Focuses on conversational skills. Offers structured lessons and real-life scenarios. It is typically priced lower than Duolingo Plus but does not always have the same gamified experience. - Memrise:
Uses a mix of memorization techniques and interactive learning. It has a fun, game-like format similar to Duolingo. Pricing varies and can be similar to or slightly higher than Duolingo Plus. - Busuu:
Emphasizes social learning with feedback from native speakers. The cost is comparable to Duolingo, but its approach relies on community interaction rather than gamification.
Comparison Table of Language Learning Apps
Feature/Metric | Duolingo Plus | Babbel | Memrise | Busuu |
---|---|---|---|---|
Monthly Cost | $12.99 | $6.95 – $9.95 | $10 – $12 | $9.99 |
Annual Cost | $59.99 (≈$5/mo) | Varies (discounts) | Varies | Varies |
Free Version Available | Yes | Limited | Yes | Yes |
Special Features | Ad-free, unlimited hearts, personalized practice | Conversational focus | Gamified exercises | Social feedback, progress tracking |
This table helps you see at a glance how the premium service of Duolingo compares with alternative apps. Each platform has its strengths, so your choice may depend on your personal learning style and budget.
Real-Life Success Stories
Many learners have shared how Duolingo Plus has improved their study routine. Here are a few examples:
- Maria’s Journey with Spanish:
Maria started with the free version. She often got frustrated when she ran out of hearts during challenging lessons. After upgrading, she no longer worries about mistakes. She can practice as long as needed. Today, her Spanish has improved significantly. - Jason’s French Adventure:
Jason used Duolingo for casual practice. When he began his French course, ads and limited practice hearts slowed him down. With Duolingo Plus, he upgraded to an ad-free experience. Now, he spends more time learning and less time waiting. His confidence in speaking French has grown. - Family Learning Together:
A family from Colorado decided to try the Duolingo Family Plan. With six members sharing one account, they found that each person could learn at their own pace. The plan’s low cost per user made it a perfect solution. They now enjoy learning languages as a fun group activity.
These examples show that many learners find value in a premium subscription. It allows for uninterrupted study, personalized practice, and a more enjoyable learning experience.
Frequently Asked Questions
Here are answers to some common questions many learners ask about Duolingo’s premium service:
What Is Duolingo Plus?
Duolingo Plus, now often called Super Duolingo, is the premium version of the Duolingo app. It removes ads, gives you unlimited hearts, and offers personalized practice. This upgrade is for people who want an uninterrupted learning experience.
How Much Does It Cost in My Region?
The basic pricing in the U.S. is $12.99 per month for an individual subscription and $59.99 per year. There is also a family plan for $119.99 per year. Prices may vary slightly by country due to local economic factors.
Do I Need Duolingo Plus as a Beginner?
If you are just starting, the free version might be sufficient. However, if you plan to learn regularly and want a smoother experience, upgrading can help you avoid interruptions. Premium features like unlimited hearts make it easier to practice daily without stress.
Can I Cancel Anytime?
Yes, you can cancel your subscription at any time. For mobile subscriptions, you need to cancel through the App Store or Google Play settings. For desktop subscriptions, cancel directly on the Duolingo website. Make sure to do so before the trial period or billing cycle ends to avoid extra charges.
Are There Any Hidden Fees?
The pricing is straightforward. Duolingo does not have hidden fees, and all costs are displayed during the checkout process. Any additional in-app purchases, like gems, are separate from the premium subscription.
Is Duolingo Plus Worth the Investment?
Many learners find that the ad-free experience and unlimited hearts are worth the extra cost. The personalized practice sessions also help you focus on your weak points. If you use the app daily, the annual plan’s savings can be significant. Ultimately, the value depends on your learning style and commitment level.