Growth is strong, but the premium decision is personal
Duolingo’s August 2026 results kept attention on user growth even as its near-term revenue outlook disappointed investors. Reuters reported that daily active users grew 23% year over year to 58.7 million in the second quarter, while the company continued emphasizing engagement and long-term product use.
For subscribers, the more important change is how Duolingo is separating its paid tiers. Super Duolingo mainly removes friction from the standard learning loop. Duolingo Max sits above it and adds AI-powered conversation features such as Video Call and Roleplay.
Super is the convenience plan
Super is easier to justify for learners who already use Duolingo consistently and mainly want to remove ads, avoid energy or heart limits and get more practice options. Its value comes from making an existing habit smoother rather than changing the type of practice you do.
If you are still struggling to maintain a streak or rarely finish lessons, paying more does not fix the underlying habit. In that case, the free tier remains a useful test of whether Duolingo is actually part of your weekly routine.
Max is really a speaking-practice purchase
Duolingo positions Max around AI conversation. Video Call lets supported learners hold spontaneous conversations with characters such as Lily, with the system adapting to the learner’s level. That can fill a real gap for people who understand lessons but avoid speaking because they do not have a low-pressure practice partner.
The upgrade becomes less compelling if you already practice with a tutor, language-exchange partner, class or another conversational AI tool. Max should replace or reduce another speaking expense, not simply sit beside it.
ScoutSubs verdict
Choose Super when you want a smoother version of the Duolingo habit you already have. Choose Max only when AI conversation will be used several times a week and replaces another way you would have paid for speaking practice. The feature difference is meaningful, but only for learners who actually use it.
