Head-to-head · Mobile Learning Software
Duolingo vs ELSA Speak
Duolingo leads on 0 checks, ELSA Speak on 0, and 1 is even. Who comes out ahead on the 1 yes/no, price and count check where we have data for both products. The editor score weighs everything else too.
Our verdict
- Highest scoreDuolingo · 9.3/10
- Free planboth
- Free trialboth
Duolingo scores higher on our rubric for mobile learning software: 9.3 against 8.2 out of 10; our editors rank them #1 and #8.
Duolingo is the better fit for free, engaging language learning at scale. ELSA Speak is the better fit for pronunciation-focused English practice.
- Duolingo fits best
Free, engaging language learning at scale
- ELSA Speak fits best
Pronunciation-focused English practice
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Side by side
| Feature | Duolingo 9.3/10 Visit ↗ | ELSA Speak 8.2/10 Visit ↗ |
|---|---|---|
| At a glance | ||
| Editor score | 9.3 | 8.2 |
| Ranking | #1 in Mobile Learning Software | #8 in Mobile Learning Software |
| Best for | Free, engaging language learning at scale | Pronunciation-focused English practice |
| Pricing model | Free plan + paid | Free plan + paid |
| Starting price | Free plan · 14-day trial | $159.99/yr |
| Free plan | ✓ | ✓ |
| Free trial | 14 days | 7 days |
| Free trial length | 14 days | 7 days · no card needed |
| Deployment | Cloud, Mobile | Mobile |
| Platforms | Web, macOS, iOS, Android | iOS, Android |
| Support | Email, Docs | |
| Built for | Solo, Small business, Mid-market, Enterprise | Solo, Small business, Mid-market, Enterprise |
| Features Duolingo 0/4 · ELSA Speak 0/4 | ||
| Offline access | Not checked yet | Not checked yet |
| Course authoring | Not checked yet | Not checked yet |
| SCORM support | Not checked yet | Not checked yet |
| Push notifications | Not checked yet | Not checked yet |
| Specs | ||
| Mobile platforms | Not checked yet | Not checked yet |
| Learner limit | Not checked yet | Not checked yet |
| Content formats | Not checked yet | Not checked yet |
| Our review | ||
| Pros |
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| Cons |
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| Our verdict | Duolingo is a language-learning app and website for individuals and organizations seeking short, interactive practice across more than 40 languages. Lessons cover speaking, writing, reading, and listening, while a placement test helps… Read the review → |
ELSA Speak is a mobile app for learning English, with speaking and pronunciation at its center. It is aimed at individual learners, including students and professionals, who want structured practice rather than a broad language-learning… Read the review → |
Strengths and trade-offs
Duolingo — where it wins
- Free tier with short lessons across more than 40 languages
- Personalized review, placement testing, and speech practice
- Web and mobile access with gamification and limited offline lessons
Where it doesn't
- Free access is supported by advertising
- Offline access is limited to downloaded content
- AI conversation features require Duolingo Max
ELSA Speak — where it wins
- Detailed, real-time feedback on pronunciation and speech
- AI tutor conversations with customizable role-play scenarios
- Personalized study paths and progress tracking
Where it doesn't
- Focused on English rather than multiple languages
- Available on iOS and Android, with mobile-only deployment
- Lessons require an internet connection
- Duolingo9.3/10 · Free plan · 14-day trial
A free, engaging language-learning service with broad practice and strong game mechanics.
Visit DuolingoFull verdict → - ELSA Speak8.2/10 · Free plan · 7-day trial
A mobile English-learning app centered on detailed pronunciation feedback and AI conversation practice.
Visit ELSA SpeakFull verdict →
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Reviewed by iTechGuides Editors · Editorial team · Updated Oct 2026
Last updated · How we research and update







