Duolingo uses two different virtual currencies – red lingots on desktop and blue gems on mobile devices. While lingots were the original currency, gems took over in the mobile app during 2017. Today, these currencies operate separately, with different earning methods and spending options on each platform.
Let’s explore every aspect of these virtual currencies to help you get the most value from your Duolingo learning experience.
The Evolution of Duolingo’s Currency System
From Red Lingots to Blue Gems
Back when Duolingo first launched, lingots served as the only virtual currency. These red tokens rewarded users across all platforms. Everyone had the same lingot balance whether they logged in from their computer or phone.
The 2017 Mobile App Transition
A major shift happened in 2017. Duolingo split its currency system by introducing gems for mobile users. This created two separate economies – lingots stayed on desktop while gems became the new mobile currency.
Earning Virtual Currency in Duolingo
Ways to Collect Gems on Mobile
The mobile app offers several paths to earn gems:
- Complete daily quests (3 challenges per day)
- Hit your daily XP goals
- Finish weekly friend quests (up to 100 gems)
- Take on double-or-nothing wagers (50 gems)
- Unlock achievements (around 25 gems each)
- Purchase gem bundles with real money
How to Gather Lingots on Desktop
Desktop users can earn lingots through:
- Maintaining streak milestones
- Completing achievements
- Taking double-or-nothing challenges
- Reaching daily XP targets
Daily Quests and Rewards
Mobile quests come in three chest types:
- Bronze (lowest gem reward)
- Silver (medium gem reward)
- Gold (highest gem reward)
Streak Bonuses and Achievement Rewards
Streak maintenance pays off differently on each platform:
- Desktop: Earn lingots every 10 days
- Mobile: Get gem rewards through daily tasks
- Both platforms reward completed achievements
Spending Options Compared
Mobile App Gem Purchases
The mobile app offers these gem-based features:
- Heart refills: 350 gems
- Streak freeze: 200 gems
- Legendary level tests: 100 gems
- Double-or-nothing wager: 50 gems
- Timer boost: 450 gems
- League repairs: 2000 gems
- Animated status: 500 gems
Desktop Lingot Store Items
Desktop users can spend lingots on:
- Streak freeze: 10 lingots
- Legendary challenges: 10 lingots
- Double-or-nothing: 5 lingots
- Bonus skills
- Power-ups
Price Differences Between Platforms
Gem prices run much higher than lingot costs. For example:
- Double-or-nothing costs 50 gems on mobile but only 5 lingots on desktop
- Legendary levels need 100 gems versus 10 lingots
- Heart refills cost 350-450 gems on mobile but aren’t needed on desktop
Currency Exchange and Conversion
Lingot to Gem Conversion Rates
No direct exchange exists between platforms. However, when Duolingo converts lingots to gems, they use roughly 20 gems per lingot. This rate changes based on your total balance.
The 12,000 Gem Maximum Cap
Recent user reports show a firm cap of 12,000 gems during conversion. Even users with over 200,000 lingots received only 12,000 gems. This limit helps prevent currency inflation.
Recent Platform Changes
Desktop users report lingots switching to gems automatically. The switch brings:
- All currency labeled as gems
- Higher prices for features
- New earning methods through quests
- Loss of some lingot-specific rewards
Smart Currency Management
Best Ways to Save and Earn
Smart earning strategies include:
- Set low daily XP goals for quick rewards
- Complete all three daily quests
- Join weekly friend quests
- Take double-or-nothing wagers when confident
- Track achievements for bonus rewards
Strategic Spending Tips
Make your currency last longer by:
- Using desktop for legendary levels (cheaper in lingots)
- Saving gems for essential features like streak freezes
- Avoiding cosmetic purchases until building a cushion
- Planning ahead for power-ups and boosts
Common Currency Issues and Solutions
Users often face these challenges:
- Random gem loss during 2x XP boosts
- Conversion rate confusion
- Platform-specific feature costs
- Limited earning options on desktop
Real Money Value
Gem Purchase Options
Current gem bundles cost:
- 1200 gems: £4.49 (UK pricing)
- 6500 gems: £17.99 (best value)
Cost Comparison Analysis
Breaking down the value:
- Each gem costs $0.04-0.05
- Features like streak freezes cost $8-10 in gems
- Legendary levels cost $4-5 in gems
- Monthly subscription might save money for heavy users
Free vs Paid Features
Super (paid) members get:
- Free legendary level attempts
- Unlimited hearts
- No timer costs
- Access to offline lessons
Future of Duolingo’s Virtual Economy
Platform Integration Updates
Recent trends suggest:
- Moving toward gems on all platforms
- Standardizing prices across devices
- New earning methods through quests
- Updated reward systems
Recent Currency System Changes
Latest developments include:
- Desktop conversion to gems
- New quest types
- Adjusted conversion rates
- Changed feature costs
The split between lingots and gems creates unique opportunities on each platform. Desktop users enjoy lower prices in lingots, while mobile users access more earning options through quests. Smart learners use both platforms to maximize their virtual currency benefits and enhance their language learning journey.
Remember that virtual currency helps enhance your learning experience but shouldn’t distract from the main goal – learning a new language. Focus on consistent practice and use your currency wisely to support your progress.
