how to get gems in duolingo
If you use Duolingo, you’ve likely noticed gems—the app’s virtual currency. Whether you’re new or aiming to level up more efficiently, understanding how to get gems in Duolingo can help maximize your language-learning experience.
What Are Gems in Duolingo?
Gems are a form of in-app currency on Duolingo’s mobile platform. On the web, a similar concept is called “lingots.” Gems let you buy things in Duolingo’s store, like streak freezes, extra lessons, or costumes for the Duo owl. They’re especially handy for maintaining progress or unlocking extra features.
Earning Free Gems
Most users want to earn gems for free. Here’s how to do it:
1. Daily Practice and Streaks
Duolingo rewards you with gems each time you complete lessons. The longer your daily streak, the more consistent your rewards. Try to practice daily—logging in and finishing just one lesson can keep your streak (and the gems) going.
2. Leveling Up
Each time you “level up” a skill or complete a crown level, Duolingo gives you a handful of gems. It isn’t a huge amount, but these bonuses add up if you’re steadily progressing through lessons.
3. Completing Achievements
Duolingo offers achievements, such as maintaining a streak for a week or mastering a number of words. Achievements each come with a gem bonus. Check your profile under “Achievements” and see which ones you can earn soon.
4. Opening Daily Chests
There’s a “Daily Chest” in the app’s home tab. Simply tap the chest to collect free gems. Some users overlook this, but it’s the easiest, most reliable way to get free gems.
5. Watching Ads
If you don’t mind ads, you can opt to watch short video ads after certain lessons. Duolingo incentivizes this by offering extra gems per ad watched. It’s not required, but if you want to build up your balance faster, it’s an option.
Buying Gems
Another way to get gems in Duolingo is to purchase them with real money via in-app purchases. This isn’t necessary for most learners. Unless you’re in urgent need of a streak freeze or want to speed up access to bonus features, the free methods above should be enough.
Using Gems Wisely
You’ll want to use gems smartly. The most practical purchases are streak freezes and extra hearts (for those on Duolingo’s “heart” system). Avoid spending gems on cosmetic items unless you have plenty to spare. Always keep a reserve in case you miss a day and need a streak freeze to maintain your progress.
Are Duolingo Plus Subscribers Different?
If you subscribe to Duolingo Plus (the app’s premium version), you earn double or even triple the gems from lessons, depending on the latest updates. Plus users don’t need to worry about hearts, but gems still have some value for in-app extras.
Bottom Line
Learning how to get gems in Duolingo is mostly about consistency. Practice daily, take advantage of achievements, and open rewards chests. Free methods are reliable for steady progress—purchasing gems is there if you want to support the app or speed things up, but it isn’t necessary to succeed.
