In today’s digital era, mastering a foreign language has become an essential skill for global communication and career development. This study investigates the impact of Duolingo as an online language learning application and analyzes its effectiveness compared to traditional learning methods. Using a mixed-method approach, data were collected through questionnaires and open-ended questions to understand user perceptions and experiences. The results show that Duolingo’s gamified design, visual features, and interactive lessons motivate learners to maintain regular practice, which aligns with the principles of Mobile-Assisted Language Learning (MALL) and gamification. However, users also highlight limitations, such as the lack of real-life speaking practice, frequent advertisements, and premium features that require payment. The study identifies factors influencing Duolingo’s success, including user motivation, engagement, and the app’s ability to reduce boredom through enjoyable learning experiences. Supported by theories of Second Language Acquisition, Motivation, and Communication, this research confirms that Duolingo can effectively support vocabulary and grammar learning but may need to be combined with other 7 methods to develop comprehensive language skills. The findings contribute to the understanding of digital learning applications and provide valuable insights for learners and educators seeking to integrate technology into language education. Future research is suggested to involve larger and more diverse participants to deepen the investigation into the role of digital tools in foreign language acquisition

Keywords: Duolingo, Foreign language, SLA