Comparison
PrepMyJapanese vs Anki for JLPT
Quick answer: Anki is free, infinitely flexible spaced repetition — you build (or download) everything yourself. PrepMyJapanese is better when your goal is a timed JLPT mock with approximate scaled scores and sectional minimums — the failure mode that surprises candidates on results day.
| Capability | PrepMyJapanese | Anki |
|---|---|---|
| Timed full-length JLPT mock | Yes | No |
| Sectional pass minimums | Yes | No |
| Scaled-score style 0–180 feedback | Yes | No |
| Explicit N5–N1 focus | Yes | Partial |
| Vocab / kanji SRS depth | Partial | Yes |
| Grammar drill depth | Partial | Partial |
| Generous free tier | Partial | Yes |
Where PrepMyJapanese is better
- Full-length timed JLPT mock flow with pass/fail style feedback
- Sectional minimums surfaced the way the real exam fails unbalanced candidates
- Approximate scaled 0–180 scoring with an explicit disclaimer (not an official JEES conversion)
- Mock credits you can spend across levels — buy once, use on the level you need
- Supporting path: video courses, ebooks, vocab/kanji practice, and an AI tutor
Where Anki is better
- Free on desktop; unmatched deck flexibility
- Works for any JLPT level if you curate cards well
- Industry standard for serious vocab retention
Gaps for JLPT exam day: Zero exam simulation out of the box Setup and deck quality are entirely on you Easy to over-collect cards and under-practice timed sections
Choose PrepMyJapanese if…
Learners who have a JLPT date (or SSW/career goal tied to N4+) and need realistic timed mocks with section-level diagnosis.
One-time mock packs (not a subscription): from a single timed mock (~$13 USD) up to multi-mock packs; video courses and ebooks sold separately.
Choose Anki if…
Self-directed learners who already know how to run an SRS and only need retention.
Free on desktop/Android; iOS app is paid. Decks vary.
Can you use both?
Yes — and that is often optimal. Keep Anki for what it does best (flashcard srs), then run PrepMyJapanese mocks to check whether vocabulary, reading, and listening hold up under real timing and sectional floors.
Practice scores on PrepMyJapanese are approximate readiness signals, not official JLPT results.