Comparison
PrepMyJapanese vs WaniKani for JLPT
Quick answer: WaniKani is best-in-class radical → kanji → vocab srs pipeline — deliberately narrow. 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 | WaniKani |
|---|---|---|
| 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 | No |
| Generous free tier | Partial | Partial |
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 WaniKani is better
- Outstanding kanji curriculum and mnemonics
- Clear SRS pacing that scales to thousands of characters
- Strong community and long track record
Gaps for JLPT exam day: Kanji/vocab only — no listening, reading passages, or timed full mocks Does not teach JLPT sectional strategy Subscription cost for a single skill
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 WaniKani if…
Learners who want a structured kanji ladder and will add mocks elsewhere.
Free intro levels, then paid subscription for the full kanji path.
Can you use both?
Yes — and that is often optimal. Keep WaniKani for what it does best (kanji 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.