Why InputDojo
Duolingo works for very early beginners and motivation. It stops working around month 3 because gamification trumps comprehension. InputDojo is for learners who want to move from "I clicked answers in an app" to "I read a Japanese news article" — a step Duolingo doesn't offer.
Feature comparison
| Feature | InputDojo | Duolingo |
|---|---|---|
| Approach | Real input + structured study | Gamified multiple choice |
| Read native content | Yes — any URL/YouTube/PDF | No |
| JLPT / HSK tracks | Yes, free | No |
| Grammar explanations | AI tutor + structured grammar | Minimal |
| Streak / gamification | Optional | Heavy |
| CJK quality | Full kanji/hanzi support | Romaji-heavy at start |
Based on publicly available Duolingo feature documentation as of 2026. Compare directly before choosing.
Best for
Learners who started on Duolingo, hit a plateau, and want to progress to reading and listening to real Japanese/Chinese content.
FAQ
Can I move from Duolingo to InputDojo mid-study?+
Yes, any time. Mark words you already know to skip them in SRS, and jump straight into reading at your current level.
Is InputDojo also free?+
JLPT, HSK, and CEFR study tracks are free forever. Pro and Ultimate (with SRS and AI tutor) come with a 14-day trial.