What each tool does
Speak is an AI language learning app built around speaking. Lessons teach phrases native speakers use, you practise them until they feel natural, and then you apply them in AI-powered conversations. The curriculum is designed by experts and personalised by AI, with languages including English, Korean, Japanese, French, Spanish, Italian and Chinese.
Duolingo is a widely used language learning app based on short, game-like lessons that make daily practice easy. Duolingo Max is its premium tier, which adds AI-powered features to help learners practise and understand their mistakes. The core app is free, with Max as a paid upgrade.
Key differences
- Focus: Speak centres on speaking and conversation; Duolingo centres on bite-sized, gamified lessons.
- AI role: AI conversation is the core of Speak; in Duolingo, AI features are part of the Max tier.
- Audience: Speak suits learners wanting speaking confidence; Duolingo Max suits beginners and casual learners.
- Curriculum: Speak highlights an expert-designed, AI-personalised curriculum.
- Pricing: Speak is paid, with a free start; Duolingo's core app is free and Max is paid. Check the pricing page for current plans.
Which should you choose?
Choose Speak if you need to speak a language, such as English for interviews, client calls or study abroad, and want lots of conversation practice. Try the free start first, as the subscription is likely billed in USD by card.
Choose Duolingo Max if you are a beginner who wants a light daily habit and would rather start for free, upgrading to Max only if you want the AI features.
Can you use both?
Yes. Some learners use Duolingo to build vocabulary and a daily routine, and Speak to turn that knowledge into confident speaking. Paying for both may be more than most people need, so start free on each and decide.
