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KanaLearn or Duolingo for learning Japanese?

Duolingo is a general, very playful app covering dozens of languages. KanaLearn specialises in Japanese, organised around the JLPT levels and spaced repetition. They can complement each other.

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The main differences

—KanaLearnDuolingo
LanguagesJapanese onlyDozens of languages
StructureBy JLPT level (N5 → N1)The app's own path of units
Kanji2,193 kanji, with readings, components and stroke orderWoven into the lessons
ReviewsSpaced repetition (FSRS) on every kana, kanji and wordReview exercises within the path
Grammar166 points with examples (explanations in French)Learned by example, tips in some lessons
ExamJLPT-style mock exams—

When to choose KanaLearn

  • You're aiming for the JLPT or a specific level.
  • You want to master kanji and remember vocabulary for good.
  • You want to see exactly what's left to learn for each level.

When Duolingo makes sense

  • You want a very playful taste of the language, a few minutes a day.
  • You're learning several languages at once.

Using both

Many learners start with Duolingo for motivation, then move to a specialised tool to structure their progress and prepare for the JLPT. KanaLearn's placement test puts you straight at the right level.

Public information about other apps, checked on the date shown; their offers may change.

Practise

Remember them for good

Quizzes, writing, listening and spaced reviews: KanaLearn has you review each word at the right time. Free, no ads.

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