Duolingo vs Kotrin
Duolingo
duolingo.comKotrin
kotrin.jpSide by side
| Figure | Duolingo | Kotrin |
|---|---|---|
| Price from | Free | Free |
| Free plan | Yes | Yes |
| Free trial | Yes | — |
| Open source | — | — |
| Web | Yes | — |
| Windows | — | Yes |
| macOS | Yes | Yes |
| iOS | Yes | Yes |
| Android | Yes | Yes |
| Plans published | 2 | 4 |
| Spec score · AI Language Learning Apps | 8.8 (#6) | 8.5 (#9) |
| Founded | 2011 | 2022 |
| Headquarters | Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, United States | Tokyo, Japan |
Plans
In their own words
Duolingo
Duolingo offers learning in languages, chess and math through short lessons that adapt to a learner’s level and pace. Language practice covers reading, writing, listening and speaking, with speech exercises, personalized review, offline lessons and a placement test among the listed tools. Challenges, reminders and game-like features provide ways to structure practice. Duolingo says its teaching methods are research-backed and aimed at real-world communication skills. It lists 40 languages and is available on Android, iOS, macOS and the web. The pricing note includes a free plan and a 14-day trial. Other listed products include the Duolingo English Test, Duolingo for Business, Duolingo for Schools, Super Duolingo and Duolingo Max. The English Test is described as AI-enabled and intended to be taken wherever and whenever users perform best. FAQs and service status information are available. Duolingo was founded in 2011 and is headquartered in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania.
Kotrin
Kotrin is an AI-powered app for learning Japanese, with connected practice in speaking, listening, reading, and writing aligned to JLPT levels. Its lesson library advertises more than 5,000 lessons for beginner through advanced learners. Practice includes everyday exchanges set in places such as shops and cafés, as well as AI role plays with back-and-forth responses. Lessons cover hiragana through Jōyō kanji, including stroke-order and recognition practice. Kotrin builds a language profile across 1,536 dimensions and adapts difficulty, focus, and scenarios to progress. Its AI-powered content system can create personalized Japanese lessons from a word or idea. The app is listed for iOS, Android, macOS, and Windows, but is currently available only in English. The free plan includes selected lessons, personalized learning, quizzes, and vocabulary practice, subject to daily practice limits. Pro is listed at $10 a month or $90 a year, both tax excluded, and another Pro listing is ¥1,650 a month. Subscriptions renew automatically unless cancelled; monthly and yearly purchases are non-refundable under the stated terms.