Learning a new language is an enriching journey, and the right platform can make all the difference. Memrise and Duolingo are two formidable contenders in the world of language learning, each with its own unique approach. But, which one is for you? Well, in this Memrise vs Duolingo comparison, we will look into their language offerings, design, pricing and more to help you choose the one that suits your language-learning goals.
About Memrise
Memrise is a pioneering language learning platform available as an app and a website. Offering 23 real languages, it employs spaced repetition and engaging mnemonic techniques to help users master vocabulary effectively. Memrise stands out with its flashcard style, enhancing learning through videos of native speakers pronouncing words and phrases. Beyond languages, Memrise broadens its horizon, teaching subjects from trivia to geography, making learning diverse and engaging.
About Duolingo
Through its app and website, Duolingo, a well-known language learning program, provides 38 different languages. It features well-organized classes that include sentence structure, grammar, and vocabulary. Duolingo's gamified approach includes experience points, daily streaks, and leagues, creating an interactive learning journey. Moreover, the platform's mascot, Duo, is another interesting thing that adds a playful touch to the interface. Duolingo app not only teaches individual words but also fosters a deep understanding of language structure, making it a comprehensive and enjoyable language learning solution.
Memrise vs Duolingo: A complete comparison
For a deep clarification between the two platforms, the following sections will be taken into further analysis.
Language offerings
When it comes to the diversity, Duolingo languages take the lead with 43 languages, 38 languages of which are available for English learners. English speakers, in particular, have the advantage of choosing from a wide array of languages, including Spanish, French, Japanese, German, Korean, Italian, Hindi, Chinese, Russian, Arabic, and even fictional languages like Klingon and High Valyrian. Duolingo also displays a diverse language menu suitable for both beginners and intermediate learners.
On the other hand, 23 languages can be learnt at Memrise, which, though fewer in number, are all real-world languages. For English speakers, the popular choices include Spanish, French, German, Korean, Russian, and Japanese. Even if you switch the interface language to French, you will find that Memrise offers most of the same languages. Unlike Duolingo, Memrise focuses primarily on real languages and doesn't include fictional ones.
So, the choice between the two platforms can partially depend on the language you want to learn.
Learning approach and content
The learning approach and content structure are clearly different between Memrise and Duolingo.
Memrise utilizes a flashcard-style method that is particularly effective for vocabulary acquisition. It starts with individual words and gradually progresses to more complex phrases. The majority of terms come with native speaker videos that help with appropriate pronunciation and establish associations. By marking your level of vocabulary proficiency, Memrise's methodology lets you customize your learning process. The "Learn," "Review," "Immerse," and "Communicate" sections provide a well-rounded experience, emphasizing listening, speaking, and vocabulary building.
Duolingo, in contrast, adopts a comprehensive approach by presenting entire courses at once, blending vocabulary and grammar. The structure is more linear, with modules unlocking as you complete previous ones. Each unit contains multiple levels, offering ample practice and repetition. Additionally, Duolingo's courses include audio components to improve pronunciation, but not all languages have accompanying audio. For efficient language learning, Duolingo uses this auditory learning, requiring users to speak words and phrases out loud. The platform also offers Tips sections to introduce concepts and grammar in every module. Interestingly, Duolingo gamifies the learning process, encouraging users to maintain streaks, earn achievements, and participate in competitive leagues to boost motivation.
User interface and design
The interface of Duolingo
Memrise and Duolingo both provide users an enjoyable experience across devices because they are both accessible through websites and mobile apps.
Memrise is available as both a website and a mobile app, with both versions offering sleek and user-friendly interfaces. The Memrise app tends to be more focused on language learning, prompting users to upgrade more frequently.
The user-friendly interface of Duolingo is also accessible on both web and mobile platforms. Playful elements are incorporated into the design, such as cartoonish pictures and the well-known Duo - the green owl mascot, making the learning experience become more personal and interactive.
Effectiveness
Rather than one being definitely superior to the other, Memrise and Duolingo complement each other and cater to different aspects of language acquisition.
Memrise is primarily vocabulary-oriented. Its strength lies in helping learners remember individual words or phrases effectively. The "flashcard" technology and user-generated content make it an excellent tool for expanding your vocabulary and addressing language irregularities.
Duolingo, on the other hand, excels in teaching sentence structure and grammar. Its structured approach introduces comprehensive language learning, helping learners build a strong foundation in a new language. Due to the repetition and progressive difficulty of modules, users can grasp the essentials before advancing.
For complete beginners, a combination of both apps can be highly effective. Duolingo helps you understand sentence structure and grammar, while Memrise assists in building a robust vocabulary. The effectiveness of Memrise and Duolingo largely depends on your language learning goals and preferences. Non-English speakers looking to learn a language on Duolingo might find it more beneficial, as it offers a broader range of languages for initial learning.
Pricing plans
Despite its free plan, Memrise price does extend premium subscription options. Priced at $14.99 per month, its monthly option will surely offer flexibility for learners who want to dive into premium content for shorter durations. For access premium features and content for an entire year, its annual plan is also available at $89.99. But if users want to purchase Memrise for a lifetime, the platform still has that subscription plan for a price of $199.99.
Super Duolingo subscription plan
About Duolingo pricing, though users can have free access to the fundamental language courses, they still can upgrade their learning experience on Duolingo. In particular, Super Duolingo, Duolingo's premium subscription, will allow users to learn without the appearance of advertisements on the platform and access lessons offline. This 14-day-trial subscription is priced at $6.99 per month.
Customer reviews
Listening to the customers’ voice is probably one of the best ways customers use to evaluate whether this platform is the one they need. Well, both Memrise and Duolingo gained various reviews.
As Memrise's strengths lie in its vocabulary-focused approach and spaced repetition system, users have obviously appreciated the platform's interactive activities and mnemonics, which aid in their effective memorization. However, some users have expressed concerns about the quality of user-generated content, occasional audio inconsistencies, and repetitive exercises via Memrise review.
Duolingo review, on the other hand, is praised for its gamified approach to language learning. Users enjoy the daily streaks, achievements, and league competitions, which have enhanced their motivation a lot. Besides, Duolingo test and comprehensive courses receive positive feedback about their covering grammar and sentence structure. However, some users have noted occasional issues with the audio quality in specific languages. Duolingo has paid attention to this and applied users' suggested improvements in the variety of exercises gradually into their courses ever since.
Should I use Doulingo or Memrise?
Choosing between Memrise and Duolingo hinges on individual learning objectives. If vocabulary expansion is paramount, Memrise shines. For a holistic language learning experience with a focus on grammar, Duolingo excels.
|
Platform |
Ideal For |
|
Memrise |
Vocabulary building |
|
Word memorization |
|
|
Learning irregularities |
|
|
Duolingo |
Sentence construction |
|
Grammar mastery |
|
|
Comprehensive language overview |
Here's a breakdown to help you decide:
Memrise is an excellent choice if your primary focus is on expanding your vocabulary and enhancing your memory retention. It's ideal for individuals looking to bolster their word and phrase bank.
Meanwhile, Duolingo is the preferred platform if you seek a comprehensive language learning experience that encompasses grammar, sentence structure, and a holistic understanding of a language. Furthermore, Duolingo's gamification elements keep you more engaged and motivated, making it an excellent choice for those who value continuous progress and a deeper understanding of a language.
Memrise coupon
As a delightful incentive for eager learners, Memrise does provide various coupon options for your language learning journey. By utilizing these Memrise coupons, learners can access premium features at discounted rates. Every Memrise discount can be applied directly on the Memrise website, enhancing your language learning experience without burning a hole in your pocket.
Additionally, a Memrise coupon code can also be discovered on CouponATime, a reputable website providing discount codes for a wide range of services and products. Grab one for yourself right away to approach your learning career closer:
Duolingo promo code
Similar to Memrise, Duolingo recognizes the importance of accessible learning. To assist learners in their linguistic endeavors, Duolingo promo codes are also available and can be applied directly on the Duolingo website during the subscription process. Furthermore, learners can find Duolingo promo codes on CouponATime, a trusted platform for discount codes.
By utilizing these codes, language enthusiasts can truly enjoy the full benefits of Duolingo's premium offerings at reduced prices, so that language learning can remain affordable and engaging.
Conclusion
To summarize, if you're seeking to bolster your vocabulary with various subjects beyond languages, Memrise is an excellent choice. Conversely, if you prefer a structured curriculum with a focus on grammar and enjoy a gamified learning environment, Duolingo is your ideal companion.
In the end, both platforms offer valuable tools to language learners, ensuring that regardless of your choice, your linguistic journey is enriched, engaging, and tailored to your unique needs. So, let’s delve into both Memrise and Duolingo learning right now and take your language learning to a whole new level.
FAQs
In case you’re still wondering about Memrise and Duolingo, below are some frequently asked questions from users of both platforms:
Is Memrise free?
Yes, it is. The free content of Memrise courses allows users to access basic features and courses while the premium options are available for enhanced learning experiences.
Is Duolingo free?
Yes, definitely. Duolingo provides a free version with access to fundamental features. Meanwhile, the premium subscriptions offer additional benefits for dedicated learners.
How much is Duolingo?
The premium subscription to Duolingo costs $6.99 a month and includes an ad-free experience along with improved features.