Choosing the right kanji learning app can make or break your Japanese journey. WaniKani has been a popular choice for years, but new alternatives like Kanjidon are changing the game. In this comprehensive comparison, we'll analyze both apps across every dimension that matters: learning method, features, and real-world effectiveness.
Quick Comparison: Kanjidon vs WaniKani at a Glance
| Feature | Kanjidon | WaniKani |
|---|---|---|
| Price | Free / Premium | $9/month or $299 lifetime |
| Kanji Covered | 5,000+ (Kana to N1) | 2,000+ (N5 to N1) |
| SRS Algorithm | SM-2 (proven) | Custom SRS |
| Quiz Types | 9 different modes | Typing only |
| Mobile App | iOS + Android native | Web-based (no app) |
| Offline Mode | Yes | No |
| Gamification | Full (battles, ranks, cards) | Limited (levels only) |
| Free Trial | Unlimited free tier | First 3 levels only |
| Languages | 21 interface languages | English only |
Learning Method: Two Different Philosophies
WaniKani's Approach: Radicals and Mnemonics
WaniKani breaks kanji into radicals (basic components) and creates English mnemonics for each one. You learn radicals first, then kanji that use those radicals, then vocabulary. The system is rigid but structured: you must complete each level before moving on.
The mnemonics are creative but very specific. You'll memorize stories about characters like 'Mrs. Chou' and 'Koichi'. For some learners, these stick perfectly. For others, memorizing the mnemonic feels like extra work on top of memorizing the kanji.
Kanjidon's Approach: Visual Cards and Variety
Kanjidon treats kanji like collectible cards. Each character is a beautifully designed card showing the kanji, meanings, readings, and example sentences. You build your collection by opening packs and reviewing what you've collected.
Instead of one quiz type, Kanjidon offers eight: meaning recognition, reading practice, listening, writing practice, and more. This variety prevents the 'autopilot problem' where you recognize cards without truly learning them. The SM-2 algorithm (the same proven system used by millions) calculates optimal review intervals.
Pricing: The Elephant in the Room
Let's be honest: WaniKani is expensive. At $9/month or $299 for lifetime access, it's a significant investment. The free tier only covers the first 3 levels (about 100 kanji), which isn't enough to evaluate whether the system works for you.
Kanjidon offers a generous free tier with full access to core features. You can open 3 packs daily and use the main quiz mode unlimited times. The Premium subscription unlocks all quiz types, removes ads, and adds extra features like audio pronunciation.
Mobile Experience: Native App vs Web
WaniKani doesn't have an official mobile app. You use it through a web browser, which works but isn't optimized for mobile learning. Third-party apps exist but cost extra and may break when WaniKani updates.
Kanjidon was built mobile-first with native iOS and Android apps. The experience is smooth, fast, and designed for quick study sessions. Offline mode lets you review anywhere—on the subway, on a plane, in the countryside with no signal.
Gamification: Why It Matters
Learning 2,000+ kanji takes months or years. Motivation is everything. WaniKani's gamification is minimal: you have levels, and that's about it. The reviews pile up, and many users burn out around level 20-30.
Kanjidon goes all-in on gamification: PvP battles against other learners, rankings from E to S tier, daily missions, streaks with rewards, collectible avatars and stamps. It sounds like a game because it is one—but one that teaches you real Japanese.
JLPT Coverage
Both apps cover JLPT N5 through N1. WaniKani focuses on the 2,136 jōyō kanji plus vocabulary. Kanjidon includes over 5,000 kanji and also covers kana (hiragana and katakana) for complete beginners.
Kanjidon lets you filter by JLPT level immediately. Want to focus only on N3 kanji for your upcoming exam? You can. WaniKani's level system doesn't align perfectly with JLPT levels, which can be frustrating if you're studying for a specific exam.
Pace and Flexibility
WaniKani controls your pace rigidly. Even if you already know 500 kanji from Genki textbooks, you start at level 1. You can't skip ahead. You can't slow down without reviews piling up. The system works, but it demands you adapt to it.
Kanjidon is more flexible. Study what you want, when you want. Focus on weak areas. Skip what you already know. The SRS still works its magic, but you have more control over your learning path.
Who Should Choose WaniKani?
- Learners who love structured, guided systems
- Those who find English mnemonics helpful
- People who prefer web-based learning
- Users willing to pay premium prices for a proven system
- Learners who don't mind starting from zero regardless of prior knowledge
Who Should Choose Kanjidon?
- Learners who want a mobile-first experience
- Visual learners who prefer images over mnemonics
- Budget-conscious students
- Gamers who respond to competition and rewards
- People who want variety in their study methods
- Non-English speakers (21 interface languages)
- Learners who value flexibility and control
The Verdict: It Depends on You
WaniKani is a solid choice if you have the budget, prefer web learning, and like structured mnemonic systems. It has helped thousands of learners reach kanji fluency.
Kanjidon is the better choice if you want a modern mobile experience, appreciate gamification, need budget-friendly options, or prefer visual and varied learning methods. Its free tier lets you try the full system before deciding.
The best app is the one you'll actually use consistently. Both can get you to kanji mastery—the question is which one fits your learning style, budget, and lifestyle. Try Kanjidon's free tier today and see if it clicks. Your kanji journey is waiting.
