Platform Comparison
Nihongo Master vs. Rosetta Stone
Rosetta Stone is one of the oldest names in language learning. It teaches you Japanese by showing pictures and playing audio, without ever explaining grammar rules or translating words for you. That approach can work for some languages, but Japanese has three writing systems and grammar that is very different from English. Most learners need explanations to make real progress.
Try Nihongo Master FreeFeature Comparison
| Feature | ⭐ Nihongo Master | Rosetta Stone |
|---|---|---|
| JLPT-Aligned Curriculum | ✅ | ✗ |
| Spaced Repetition Drills | ✅ | ✗ |
| Grammar Lessons | ✅ | ✗ |
| Kanji Learning | ✅ | 〜 |
| Built-in Dictionary | ✅ | ✗ |
| Pronunciation Practice | 〜 | ✅ |
| Handwriting Practice Sheets | ✅ | ✗ |
| Community / Forums | ✅ | ✗ |
| Native Mobile App | ✗ | ✅ |
| Mobile-Responsive Web | ✅ | ✅ |
| Free Plan / Trial | Free Trial | ✗ |
| Monthly Price | $14/mo | $12 to $36/mo |
✅ = Yes · 〜 = Partial · ✗ = No · Last updated May 2026.
Where Nihongo Master Wins
Grammar explanations are important for Japanese. Nihongo Master explains the rules. Rosetta Stone does not.
JLPT curriculum gives you clear goals. Rosetta Stone has no structured milestones.
Spaced repetition drills help you remember vocabulary over the long term.
A built-in dictionary for kanji, hiragana, and vocabulary all in one place.
Printable handwriting practice sheets for kana and kanji.
Much more affordable. Rosetta Stone lifetime plans can cost hundreds of dollars.
Our Honest Take
Every platform has strengths. Here's where Rosetta Stone genuinely holds its own.
Rosetta Stone has a pronunciation scoring tool that listens to your voice and gives feedback. Nihongo Master lets you record and compare, but does not score you.
Some learners prefer learning without translations. If that is your style, Rosetta Stone is built for it.
The Bottom Line
Rosetta Stone's picture-based approach can work for some languages. For Japanese, with three writing systems and grammar that works very differently from English, most learners need explanations. Nihongo Master provides them.
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