how to earn gems on duolingo
If you’re using Duolingo to learn a new language, you’ve probably noticed gems popping up across the app. Gems are Duolingo’s in-app currency, useful for unlocking bonus lessons, buying streak freezes, and other boosts. So, how to earn gems on Duolingo? Let’s get into the practical approaches, pros and cons, and a few tips to maximize your stash.
Daily Practice Pays Off
The simplest way to earn gems on Duolingo is by using the app every day. Every lesson you complete rewards you with a handful of gems. The amount varies, but steadily practicing language skills is the foundation for building up your gem balance.
You also earn a daily bonus for keeping a practice streak going. The longer your streak, the more gems you’ll accumulate. Watching your streak number climb can be motivating—and the gem reward is a nice extra.
Level Up and Complete Achievements
Duolingo encourages users to reach new milestones. Completing skills (the little circles on your lesson path) and finishing levels will both net you gem rewards. The app also has a set of achievements, such as hitting a streak target or mastering a number of new words. Each achievement you unlock puts a few more gems in your pocket.
Compete in Leagues
If you like a little friendly competition, check out Duolingo Leagues. Here, you compete against other users to see who practices the most in a week. Place high on the leaderboard and—if you get into the top 3—you’ll score a bonus batch of gems at the end of the week. The system is fair, but competition can get fierce, especially in the higher leagues.
Refilling Hearts
Duolingo uses the heart system—run out of hearts, and you have to wait, use gems for a refill, or practice to earn them back for free. Earning gems through regular use lets you save up for those moments when you just need a quick refill. Strategic use of gems here can keep your learning streak alive.
Watching Ads and Duolingo Plus
The free version of Duolingo often offers you gems in exchange for watching short ads. It’s a straightforward way to earn extra gems if you don’t mind the interruptions. On the other hand, upgrading to Duolingo Plus (the paid version) provides a regular gem allowance as part of the subscription, though it removes the need for some gem purchases in the first place.
Practical Tips and Final Thoughts
- Consistency is the best method. Short daily sessions keep gems flowing.
- Prioritize achievements. Keep an eye out for new challenges.
- Balance spending. Don’t spend gems as soon as you earn them. Save for helpful boosts when you’re stuck.
- Consider gem value. Not all shop items are worthwhile; save gems for streak freezes or extra hearts you actually need.
Earning gems on Duolingo isn’t hard, but it does reward regular, thoughtful learning. Stick with your routine, compete if you like, and enjoy the small wins along the way. Gems are a nice bonus—but the real reward is your progress in a new language.
