Comparison

Satori Reader vs Learn JLPT

Price, ratings, monetisation and update history for both apps, side by side — with what reviewers say about each.

Head to head
About

Satori Reader

Enhance your Japanese reading and listening skills with engaging stories written by native speakers. Features adaptive kanji, smart definitions, and spaced repetition to build vocabulary. Get clarity with friendly annotations and human feedback.

Highlights
  • Compelling stories by native speakers
  • Audio narration by voice actors
  • Adaptive kanji presentation
  • Smart word definitions
  • Friendly annotations
  • Spaced repetition vocabulary review
  • Human feedback and support
Features
Read full description

Ready to take your Japanese reading and listening comprehension to the next level? Welcome to Satori Reader. COMPELLING STORIES Read from a growing library of engrossing stories written by native speakers for intermediate students, across genres such as fantasy, slice-of-life, thrillers, documentaries, news, and more. AUDIO Tap any sentence to hear it read aloud by native voice actors (no robots!). ADAPTIVE KANJI USAGE Crack the chicken-and-egg problem of reading kanji with our unique presentation engine, which adjusts the Japanese text to accommodate your actual knowledge. This allows you to challenge yourself for the kanji you should know without being overwhelmed by what you don't. SMART DEFINITIONS Tap any word for a definition. This is more than just an automated lookup. Satori Reader shows the actual sense of each word as it's being used in the sentence. For example, the particle の has many uses: it can indicate possession; it can turn the preceding verb or phrase into a noun; it can stand in for another word; and more. We show you exactly what is happening in every instance of every word. FRIENDLY ANNOTATIONS Gray underlines indicate longer annotations that break down tricky expressions, provide cultural background, or help you to read between the lines. Our editors work hard to anticipate what might be confusing and proactively help you to make sense of things. Good-bye, confusion. Hello, clarity! SPACED REPETITION SYSTEM (SRS) The built-in spaced repetition review system helps you to build your vocabulary. Create review cards instantly as you read. Each card you create takes along a snapshot of the sentence in which you encountered the word, further helping to cement it in your memory. You can even play back the audio of that sentence while reviewing the word! HUMAN FEEDBACK Still confused about something? Just ask in the discussion section below each episode. Our team of friendly human beings is ready to help. Satori Reader is built by a team that cares. Our goal is to bring satori (enlightenment) into your Japanese reading life. Set up a free account today, and let's get started. SUBSCRIPTION DETAILS ▪ OPTIONS: Download the app for free and enjoy unlimited access to the first two episodes of each series (new series released regularly), plus complete access to special series such as Closeup: Obon Society. Subscribed for unlimited access to the entire Satori Reader library of more than 1200 episodes (new episodes released each week), including crystal-clear audio, helpful annotations, and real human feedback. Try your first month FREE (limit one per customer; cannot be used in combination with other introductory offers; offers subject to change). ▪ EXTRAS: Your subscription to Satori Reader comes with complimentary web access, as well as access to Satori Reader on all your smartphones and tablets. ▪ PRIVACY POLICY: https://www.satorireader.com/privacy ▪ TERMS OF SERVICE: https://www.satorireader.com/terms ADDITIONAL SUBSCRIPTION DETAILS ▪ Payment will be charged to your iTunes Account at confirmation of purchase (following any trial period). ▪ Subscription automatically renews unless auto-renew is turned off at least 24 hours before the end of the current period. ▪ Account will be charged for renewal within 24 hours prior to the end of the current period, and identify the cost of the renewal. ▪ Subscriptions may be managed by the user and auto-renewal may be turned off by going to the user's Account Settings after purchase. ▪ Any unused portion of a free trial period, if offered, will be forfeited when the user purchases a subscription to that publication, where applicable. ▪ Cancel your subscription at any time. If you cancel, you will retain full access to Satori Reader for the period you paid for and you will not be billed again. If you have any questions, write to support@satorireader.com for speedy assistance. Thank you for your business!

About

Learn JLPT

Features
Read full description

Learn JLPT: Study & Prep N5–N1 is your complete Japanese study companion for mastering vocabulary, kanji, and grammar from beginner (N5) to advanced (N1). Built with structure, focus, and the traditional Red-Sheet memorization method, it helps you study smarter and remember longer. A Structured Path to JLPT Success Follow a clear, goal-oriented course that divides all JLPT levels into chapters and daily lessons. Each section includes vocabulary, kanji, and grammar organized for consistent progress. Track your completion rate, unlock new lessons, and review at your own pace. Whether you’re starting from scratch or refining your fluency, Learn JLPT adjusts to your level. The “Red-Sheet” Method, Reinvented Inspired by Japan’s classic study trick “Akashīto,” the Red-Sheet lets you hide meanings and test your recall before revealing answers. This active recall method builds long-term memory far more effectively than passive reading. Combined with spaced repetition and review tracking, it creates a powerful rhythm of learning and retention. Three-Step Learning Flow Every lesson follows a science-based structure: • Preview – Review words, meanings, readings, romaji, and examples. For kanji, see detailed readings and stroke order. • Flash – Hide meanings with the Red-Sheet and reveal them only when ready. • Quiz – Test your knowledge with adaptive questions that reappear until you master them. This flow transforms short sessions into measurable progress. In-Depth Kanji Learning Each kanji includes readings (on and kun), meanings, example compounds, and animated stroke order. Audio playback and contextual examples reinforce both recognition and usage. Smart Review & Progress Tracking Track accuracy, review time, and daily activity through visual analytics. Identify weak areas, redo missed questions, and monitor your growth over 7- and 30-day charts. Daily Study Reminders Stay consistent with up to five custom reminders that keep you motivated. Set your preferred times and let the app gently prompt you to study every day. Clean Design, Focused Experience Enjoy a distraction-free interface made for productivity. Once lessons are downloaded, everything works offline—perfect for learning during commutes or breaks. For Every Learner Learn JLPT supports every level and learning style: visual learners benefit from Red-Sheet memorization, while active learners master through quizzes and progress tracking. It’s ideal for self-study, exam prep, or classroom support. Key Features • Complete N5–N1 curriculum • Vocabulary, kanji, and grammar in one place • Red-Sheet active recall system • Kanji details with stroke order & audio • Adaptive quiz and retry system • Progress analytics and daily charts • Up to 5 study reminders • Offline access after download Premium Option Upgrade to Premium for an ad-free experience, faster loading, and smoother transitions between lessons. Purchases can be restored anytime on any device. Why It Works Learn JLPT turns memorization into action. You don’t just read—you recall, test, and refine. Short sessions fit easily into busy schedules, helping you build lasting habits and real Japanese fluency. Start today and master JLPT step by step, with confidence and focus. — Subscriptions & Legal • Title: Premium Membership (auto-renewing) • Lengths: 1 month / 3 months / 6 months / 12 months (prices shown at purchase) • Auto-renew: Subscriptions renew automatically unless canceled at least 24 hours before the end of the current period. • Manage/Cancel: In Settings › Apple ID › Subscriptions (or via apps.apple.com/account/subscriptions). • Restore: Tap Restore Purchases in the app if you previously subscribed with the same Apple ID. • Privacy Policy: https://learnjlpt.okinijlpt.net/privacy_policy.html • Terms of Use (EULA): https://learnjlpt.okinijlpt.net/terms_of_use.html

Screenshots

Satori Reader4 screens
Learn JLPT4 screens

Verdict

The call

The clearest difference is iOS requirement: Learn JLPT at 12.0 against Satori Reader's 15.0. On price, ads, in-app purchases and device support there is nothing between them.

Scored on Price · Rating · Positive reviews · Number of ratings · Update frequency · Ads · In-app purchases · Monetization · Best chart rank · Devices · Requires iOS

CostPrice · In-app purchases · Ads · Monetization

Both are free to download. Satori Reader sells 3 in-app purchases, starting at $8.99 per month and Learn JLPT sells 4 in-app purchases, starting at $7.99 per 3 months. Whichever you choose, the download price is not the number that matters.

Scorecard1 real difference · 9 level
Satori Reader versus Learn JLPT: the parameters behind the verdict, then further details
ParameterSatori ReaderLearn JLPT
PriceFreeFree
Rating4.8 (219 ratings) — better—
Positive reviews90.2% of reviews—
Number of ratings219 — better—
Update frequencyEvery 3 months—
AdsNoNo
In-app purchasesYesYes
MonetizationFree with in-app purchases—
DevicesiPhone, iPad, iPodiPhone, iPad, iPod
Requires iOS15.012.0 — better
Further details — not scored
Size81 MB66 MB
Age rating12+4+
DeveloperBrak Software, Inc.Mai Van Dat

Bugs and requests

Satori Reader

Reported bugs

2 issues
  • Login issues and account creation problems
  • Syncing and loading delays on some devices

Requested features

4 requests
  • Dark mode option
  • Ability to loop audio playback
  • Kanji lookup/learning tools integration
  • More advanced/diverse content selection

Learn JLPT

Not enough reviews yet to summarise bugs or requests.

In-app purchases

3 purchases

Satori Reader

Subscriptions3
  • Satori Reader Monthly1 Month trial4 variants$8.991 Month
  • Satori Reader Annual1 Month trial$89.991 Year
  • Satori Reader Annual1 Year trial3 variants$89.991 Year
4 purchases

Learn JLPT

Subscriptions3
  • Membership 3 Months$7.993 Months
  • Membership 6 Months$12.996 Months
  • Membership 1 Year$19.991 Year
One-time1
  • Premium Lifetime Unlock$29.99

Questions

Is Satori Reader free?
Satori Reader is free to download, with in-app purchases available.
Is Learn JLPT free?
Learn JLPT is free to download, with in-app purchases available.
Do Satori Reader or Learn JLPT have ads?
Neither Satori Reader nor Learn JLPT shows ads.

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