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Duolingo Max vs ELSA Speak

Duolingo Max: Duolingo's AI tier with video calls and answer explanations. ELSA Speak: English pronunciation coach that listens to you speak and gives instant feedback. Here is how they compare on features, pricing, platforms, pros and cons.

Quick verdict

Duolingo Max

Best for: Language learners who want speaking practice.

Stands out for: Fun, game-like learning; AI practice for speaking.

ELSA Speak

Best for: English learners who want clearer pronunciation and speaking confidence.

Stands out for: Detailed, instant feedback; Short daily lessons.

Side-by-side comparison

Comparison of Duolingo Max, ELSA Speak
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What it isDuolingo's AI tier with video calls and answer explanations.English pronunciation coach that listens to you speak and gives instant feedback.
Pricing
Paid
Free + Paid
Free to useNoYes
CategoryAI for LearningAI for Learning
Editor rank#8 in category#17 in category
Made byDuolingoELSA
Best forLanguage learners who want speaking practice.English learners who want clearer pronunciation and speaking confidence.
Key features
  • AI video call practice
  • Explain My Answer
  • Role-play conversations
  • Pronunciation scoring by sound
  • AI role-play conversations
  • Lessons for work, travel and exams
  • Progress tracking
Pros
  • Fun, game-like learning
  • AI practice for speaking
  • Builds on the popular Duolingo app
  • Detailed, instant feedback
  • Short daily lessons
Cons
  • Only available on the highest paid tier
  • Not offered for every course
  • Most lessons need a paid plan
Use it to
  • Practise conversations through video calls
  • Get explanations of your mistakes
  • Role-play real-life scenarios
  • Practise a job interview in English
  • Fix sounds you often mispronounce
  • Prepare for a speaking exam
Web app
iPhone & iPad
Android

Duolingo Max vs ELSA Speak: questions

Is Duolingo Max better than ELSA Speak?

Neither wins for everyone. Our editors rank Duolingo Max slightly higher overall in AI for Learning, but ELSA Speak can be the better fit: English learners who want clearer pronunciation and speaking confidence.

Which is free, Duolingo Max or ELSA Speak?

ELSA Speak can be used for free (free + paid), while Duolingo Max is paid.

Can I use Duolingo Max and ELSA Speak together?

Yes. Many people keep both and pick per task, for example practise conversations through video calls with Duolingo Max, and practise a job interview in English with ELSA Speak.

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