Memrise vs. Duolingo: Exploring the Differences

In the past years, convenient apps have completely changed our approach to language learning. Now, we can practice anytime and anywhere, simply by using an application on our phones or tablets. But with so many options available, how to choose the one that works the best? Today, we'll explore two popular platforms, Duolingo vs Memrise. Let's see what they offer and how their features can benefit your language learning goals.

Overview of Duolingo and Memrise

For starters, you need to familiarize yourself with each platform to understand what to expect from them. Here are our summaries of both applications to help you get started.

What is Duolingo?

If you've looked for language learning apps online at least once, you've probably stumbled upon this green owl. Duolingo is a popular free application created to make your studying engaging and fun. It offers gamified lessons, streaks, leaderboards, and other features to keep learners motivated and help them stay consistent.

What is Memrise?

This application is great for practicing with natives. It uses video clips of native speakers and interactive exercises to teach practical vocabulary and phrases. It's a great option for learners who want to connect with the culture behind the language.

Duolingo and Memrise Similarities

Despite looking completely different at first glance, both platforms have many things in common. Here are the main features we've noticed by far:

• Multiple languages. You can learn several languages via both platforms. Extra points to adding unique options, like Navajo, IsiXhosa, and Igbo, to more widespread ones like English, German, or Spanish.
• Mobile-friendly. You can access the apps from any device, which is convenient for studying anywhere and anytime.
• Short lessons. Although the materials differ, the general structure of the lessons remains the same – quick, short, and engaging.
• Progress tracking. Both applications offer unique tools to track progress and celebrate milestones and achievements.
• Free options. Each app offers a free version, though premium plans unlock more features.

If there are so many similarities in the case of Memrise vs Duolingo, how can you choose which one's better? For that, you need to see what features make them differ.

Duolingo and Memrise Differences

In the table below, you can find the main distinctions between Memrise and Duolingo applications.

As you can see, these applications have different approaches and teaching methods. Duolingo's target audience is people just starting to learn a language and aiming to memorize new vocabulary. Memrise is for those who want to reach fluency and easily communicate with native speakers. Is Memrise better than Duolingo? Is it vice versa? It's up to you to decide!

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Key Features Comparison

To understand which app works best for you, you need to evaluate your goals and studying preferences. After that, you can explore what both platforms offer and see what aligns with your needs. Here are the main features of Duolingo and Memrise:

Duolingo Unique Features:

• Gamification. Lessons feel like a game with rewards and leaderboards.
• Daily goals. Set streaks and reminders to keep practicing.
• Interactive exercises. Focus on vocabulary and basic grammar.
• Completely free. Core features are free supported by ads.

Memrise Unique Features:

• Native speaker videos. Learn how locals speak.
• Cultural context. Lessons include slang and everyday phrases.
• Offline mode. Download lessons and learn without the internet.
• Focus on pronunciation. Mimic native speakers for better accents.

Learning Methodologies

As you can see, Memrise and Duolingo serve different purposes when it comes to language learning, and they do it in their unique ways. Duolingo uses games to make learning feel less like studying. Lessons focus on vocabulary and simple sentences, which are great for learning a new language. However, it might not be as useful for advanced learners.

Memrise, on the other hand, connects language learning with real-world use. Its videos of native speakers help you learn practical phrases and improve your listening skills. It's ideal for travelers and those wanting cultural immersion.

Apps Pros and Cons

The best way to wrap up all the information is by discussing the advantages and drawbacks of both platforms. Here they are:

Duolingo Pros:

• Completely free to start.
• Fun and engaging for beginners.
• Wide range of languages.

Duolingo Cons:

• Ads in the free version.
• Limited depth for advanced learners.

Memrise Pros:

• Real-life video clips of native speakers.
• Focus on practical phrases and culture.
• Affordable premium plans.

Memrise Cons:

• The free version has fewer features.
• Less gamified compared to Duolingo.

Why is Promova Better than Duolingo and Memrise?

Both Memrise and Duolingo offer quick and fun ways to learn a language. However, for some people, it might not be enough. But what if we say that there is a platform that combines the best of both apps and adds more? Meet Promova – your one-stop solution for learning foreign languages. Within the platform, you access:

• Online courses tailored to your needs. Tell us more about yourself, and we'll prepare a course to help you learn your target language according to your goals and preferences.
• Multilingual options. Learn Spanish, Korean, English, ASL, and plenty of other popular languages.
• Bite-sized lessons and practical exercises. Our balanced approach is a great mix of fun, immersion, and practical use.
• English lessons with certified tutors. Want to learn English but don't want to do so by yourself? Don't worry! Our professional tutors are waiting for you. Join personal or group lessons and reach your goals in a supportive environment.
• Free English Conversation Club. If your goal is to practice speaking skills, you're in luck! Join our free Conversation Club and discuss exciting topics with fellow learners.

There are plenty of other features you can get with Promova. For example, our blog is a great place to find useful materials on useful and engaging topics related to language learning. And Promova's convenient application is a great solution for those aiming to learn on the go. No matter what your goals or preferences are – with Promova, you will find what suits you best.

Conclusion: Which is Better, Duolingo or Memrise

All in all, choosing the right language-learning app might be a tricky task. But don't worry! We've prepared some tips to help you make an informed decision:

1. Set clear goals. You need to understand what you're looking for before making a choice. Ask yourself, why do I want to learn a language? What are my goals? Do I need to practice speaking or expand my vocabulary? 
2. Understand your learning style. Are you a listener or a visual learner? Is it easier for you to memorize words by writing them down or by using flash cards? 
3. Give it a try. After determining your goals and narrowing your search to several applications, don't be afraid to try each one. Most apps offer free trials, so you can see if they're a match without breaking the bank.

These simple tips are a great way to understand yourself, your intentions, and your requirements for the perfect language-learning app.