With dozens of kanji apps available, choosing the right one can be overwhelming. We spent months testing the most popular options, tracking our progress, and comparing features. Here's our definitive ranking of the best kanji learning apps in 2026—based on real results, not marketing hype.
How We Ranked These Apps
Our ranking criteria focused on what actually matters for kanji mastery:
- Learning effectiveness: Does the app use proven methods like SRS?
- Kanji coverage: How many kanji can you learn? Is JLPT organized?
- User experience: Is it enjoyable to use daily?
- Value for money: What do you get for free vs paid?
- Mobile experience: Can you learn effectively on the go?
Quick Comparison Table
| Rank | App | Best For | Price | Our Score |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| #1 | Kanjidon | Overall best experience | Free / Premium | 9.5/10 |
| #2 | WaniKani | Structured mnemonic learners | $9/mo or $299 lifetime | 8.5/10 |
| #3 | Anki | DIY power users | Free (iOS $24.99) | 8.0/10 |
| #4 | Kanji Study | Reference and lookup | $12.99 one-time | 7.5/10 |
| #5 | Duolingo | Absolute beginners | Free / $12.99/mo | 7.0/10 |
| #6 | Remembering the Kanji | RTK method followers | $30 book + app | 6.5/10 |
| #7 | Kanji Tree | Casual learners | Free / $4.99/mo | 6.0/10 |
#1: Kanjidon — Best Overall (9.5/10)
Kanjidon takes the top spot for combining proven learning science with an experience you'll actually want to use every day. It's the rare app that makes kanji study feel like a game without sacrificing effectiveness.
What We Loved
- Nine different quiz types prevent autopilot learning
- SM-2 spaced repetition algorithm optimizes review timing
- Beautiful collectible card design makes each kanji memorable
- Real-time PvP battles add motivation and competition
- JLPT levels (N5-N1) perfectly organized from day one
- 21 interface languages—not just English
- Generous free tier with unlimited core features
- Native iOS and Android apps with offline mode
What Could Be Better
- No web version (mobile only)
- Some advanced features require Premium
Bottom line: Kanjidon is the best choice for most learners. It balances effectiveness with enjoyment better than any other app we tested. The free tier is generous enough to learn all JLPT N5-N4 kanji without paying.
#2: WaniKani — Best for Structured Learners (8.5/10)
WaniKani has earned its reputation as a serious kanji learning platform. Its radical-mnemonic system works well for learners who prefer highly structured, guided experiences.
What We Loved
- Comprehensive radical + kanji + vocabulary system
- Creative English mnemonics for each character
- Strong community and third-party tool ecosystem
- Proven track record with thousands of successful learners
What Could Be Better
- Expensive: $9/month or $299 lifetime
- No official mobile app (web-based only)
- Rigid pace—can't skip what you already know
- English-only interface
- Free tier limited to first 3 levels only
Bottom line: WaniKani is excellent if you have the budget, prefer web-based learning, and want a strictly guided path. Not ideal for learners who want flexibility or mobile-first experience.
#3: Anki — Best for DIY Power Users (8.0/10)
Anki is the Swiss Army knife of flashcard apps. It can do almost anything—but you'll spend hours configuring it before learning a single kanji.
What We Loved
- Completely free on desktop and Android
- Infinitely customizable
- Works for any subject, not just kanji
- Massive library of community-created decks
- Proven SM-2 algorithm
What Could Be Better
- Steep learning curve—hours of setup required
- iOS app costs $24.99
- Deck quality varies wildly
- No gamification or motivation features
- Looks like software from 2005
Bottom line: Anki is powerful but requires significant time investment to set up. Best for learners who enjoy tinkering and want maximum control. Not recommended for beginners or those who value their time.
#4: Kanji Study — Best Reference App (7.5/10)
Kanji Study excels as a reference and lookup tool. It's less of a learning system and more of a comprehensive kanji dictionary with study features.
What We Loved
- Excellent kanji lookup and search
- Detailed information for each character
- Good stroke order animations
- One-time purchase (no subscription)
What Could Be Better
- SRS implementation is basic
- No gamification
- Android only (no iOS version)
- Better as supplement than primary learning tool
Bottom line: Great as a reference tool to complement your main kanji app. Not sufficient as a standalone learning solution.
#5: Duolingo — Best for Absolute Beginners (7.0/10)
Duolingo is the world's most popular language app, but it wasn't designed specifically for kanji. It's a gentle introduction to Japanese that eventually hits a wall.
What We Loved
- Perfect for learning hiragana and katakana
- Gentle introduction to Japanese overall
- Highly polished, addictive experience
- Generous free tier
What Could Be Better
- Only covers ~1,200 kanji (incomplete)
- No systematic kanji teaching method
- Weak SRS compared to dedicated apps
- No JLPT level organization
- Premium is expensive at $12.99/month
Bottom line: Good for your first month learning Japanese, but you'll need to switch to a dedicated kanji app to make real progress in reading.
#6: Remembering the Kanji (RTK) — Best for Method Purists (6.5/10)
RTK is a classic method that teaches kanji meanings through imaginative stories. The app companion helps, but the method has significant limitations.
What We Loved
- Systematic approach to all 2,136 joyo kanji
- Creative mnemonic stories
- Strong community of RTK followers
What Could Be Better
- Teaches meanings only—no readings
- Requires separate study for pronunciation
- Book + app together cost $30+
- Method is controversial (meanings without readings)
- Dated app interface
Bottom line: Only recommended if you're committed to the RTK method specifically. Most learners are better served by apps that teach meanings and readings together.
#7: Kanji Tree — Best for Casual Learners (6.0/10)
Kanji Tree is a simple, no-frills kanji app. It does the basics competently but lacks the features that make dedicated study effective.
What We Loved
- Simple, clean interface
- Free tier available
- JLPT level organization
What Could Be Better
- Basic SRS implementation
- Limited quiz variety
- No gamification or motivation features
- Small development team means slow updates
Bottom line: Adequate for casual study, but serious learners will quickly outgrow it.
Our Recommendation
After testing all these apps extensively, we recommend starting with Kanjidon for most learners. It combines the proven science of spaced repetition with an experience that keeps you coming back. The free tier is generous enough to make significant progress before deciding if Premium is worth it.
If Kanjidon isn't for you: choose WaniKani if you prefer web-based, structured learning and don't mind the price. Choose Anki if you're a power user who enjoys building your own system. Use Duolingo only as a stepping stone before moving to a dedicated kanji app.
Whatever you choose, the most important thing is consistency. The best app is the one you'll actually use every day. Start today—your first kanji is waiting.
