Honest comparison · 2026
Language Reactor vs LingQ
Language Reactor and LingQ both serve immersion learners but attack it from opposite ends. Language Reactor is a free Chrome extension that adds dual subtitles and popup dictionaries to Netflix and YouTube. LingQ is a paid all-in-one app built around importing and reading text, with saved words and built-in SRS. The right pick depends on whether your immersion hours are mostly video or mostly reading.
Bottom line
Language Reactor for video, LingQ for reading
Pick Language Reactor if most of your input is Netflix and YouTube on a desktop — the core features are free and nothing matches its in-player experience. Pick LingQ if you read articles and books, want your vocabulary tracked with SRS, or need to study on your phone.
Feature-by-feature comparison
| Feature | Language Reactor | LingQ |
|---|---|---|
| Primary medium | Video (Netflix/YouTube) | Text (articles, books, imports) |
| Platform | Desktop Chrome extension | Web + iOS + Android apps |
| Dual subtitles on Netflix | Yes, best-in-class | No |
| Import any article | Text mode (limited) | Yes, core feature |
| Built-in SRS review | No — save & export only | Yes |
| Known-word tracking | Word colouring | Full known-word counter |
| Price | Free core, Pro ~$5/mo | ~$13.99/mo Premium |
| Free tier | Most features free | 20 LingQs/day limit |
Based on publicly available feature documentation as of 2026. Confirm pricing on each tool's site before purchasing.
Best for: Language Reactor
Desktop learners who get most of their input from Netflix and YouTube and want it free.
Best for: LingQ
Readers who want one app for importing text, tracking known words, and reviewing with SRS on any device.
Worth knowing
Where InputDojo fits
InputDojo covers LingQ's territory — import articles, YouTube transcripts, and subtitle files into a modern reader with built-in SRS — with free JLPT/HSK/CEFR tracks on top. It doesn't overlay Netflix like Language Reactor does, so many learners keep Language Reactor for watching and use InputDojo to actually study and retain the vocabulary afterwards.
FAQ
Can I use Language Reactor and LingQ together?+
Yes, and many learners do — Language Reactor for video sessions, LingQ (or InputDojo) for reading and vocabulary review. They don't share data, though, so your saved words live in two places.
Does Language Reactor work on mobile?+
No — it's a desktop Chrome extension. If you study mainly on your phone, LingQ or InputDojo are the practical choices.
Which is better for Japanese?+
Language Reactor handles Japanese subtitles well for watching. For studying Japanese seriously — kanji, JLPT vocab, grammar — you'll want a dedicated tool like LingQ, InputDojo, or WaniKani alongside it.