Our Favourite 5 Website Localisation Tools

When it comes to making your content multilingual, having the right website localisation tools is crucial. Efficiency, accuracy, and ease of use are key factors. From a translator’s and a translation agency’s perspective, here are our top five picks for translation tools that help streamline the localisation process.

Smartcat

Pricing: Various plans available. Paid plans start at €95.99/month. Tip: As recommended by Smartcat, selecting “translation agency” will grant you access to a free plan. Smartcat pricing details.

Overview:
Smartcat provides a holistic platform for managing your entire translation process, from start to finish. Its AI-driven automation optimises workflows and lowers translation costs. Its integration with popular marketing tools ensures the efficient handling of multilingual content within existing ecosystems. Additionally, Smartcat’s marketplace connects businesses with global translation professionals, simplifying transactions through its in-platform payment system.

Favourite features:

• Marketplace of translators and specialists – Connects businesses with professionals worldwide.
• In-platform payment system – Simplifies transactions for agencies and freelancers.
• User-friendly platform – Designed for both professionals and non-industry users.
• Compatibility with multiple formats – Supports various file types, including video.

Areas for improvement:

• Frequent UI changes – Updates without prior notice can be disruptive.
• Support service – Response times can be slow.
• No offline functionality – Requires an internet connection.

CafeTran Espresso

Pricing: One-time payment of €200. CafeTran pricing details.

Overview:
CafeTran Espresso is a highly customisable CAT tool that offers advanced search capabilities across multiple databases. Its frequent updates introduce new features regularly, making it a versatile solution for individual needs. With its one-time payment model, it’s a cost-effective choice for freelancers and agencies.

Favourite features:

• Highly customisable – Tailor the tool to fit individual needs.
• Advanced search capabilities – Supports simultaneous searches across multiple databases.
• Frequent updates – New features are regularly added.

Areas for improvement:

• Lack of documentation – No comprehensive manual makes learning more challenging.
• Limited support resources – Fewer options compared to larger competitors.
• Steep learning curve – Requires time to master.

Matecat

Pricing: Free, open-source. Matecat pricing details.

Overview:
Matecat is a free, open-source translation tool known for its user-friendly interface and real-time collaboration features. Being 100% cloud-based, it requires no software installation and allows multiple users to work on projects simultaneously. While it offers less flexibility compared to premium tools, it remains an excellent choice for those seeking an easy-to-navigate solution with basic collaboration tools.

Favourite features:

• User-friendly interface – Easy to navigate, even for beginners.
• 100% cloud-based – No software installation required.
• Real-time collaboration – Allows multiple users to work on projects simultaneously.

Areas for improvement:

• Limited customisation – Less flexible than premium CAT tools.
• Fewer collaboration tools – Not as feature-rich as some alternatives.
• Occasional lagging – Performance issues with large files.

memoQ

Pricing: Starts at €185/month. memoQ pricing details.

Overview:
memoQ stands out with its advanced translation features and quality assurance tools, making it ideal for professional linguists and large agencies. Offering both cloud and desktop options, it provides great working flexibility. Its higher cost and requirement for setup and training may be a consideration, but its advanced capabilities ensure high translation accuracy and efficiency.

Favourite features:

• Quality assurance tools – Advanced features that help maintain translation accuracy.
• Cloud and desktop options – Offers working flexibility.
• Advanced translation features – Ideal for professional linguists and large agencies.

Areas for improvement:

• Expensive – Higher cost compared to many competitors.
• Requires setup and training – Not beginner-friendly.
• Outdated interface – Could use a modern design refresh.

SDL Trados Studio

Pricing: Starts at €180 per user/month. Trados pricing details.

Overview:
SDL Trados Studio is renowned for its industry-leading translation memory technology and robust QA features. It integrates well with various external platforms, making it a strong choice for managing complex translation projects. While it has a steep learning curve and time-consuming setup process, its advanced tools and strong integration options make it invaluable for professionals seeking high-quality translations.

Favourite features:

• Industry-leading translation memory technology – Ensures high-quality translations.
• Advanced tools – Includes strong QA and translation memory management features.
• Strong integration options – Works well with various external platforms.

Areas for improvement:

• Slow installation process – Can be time-consuming to set up.
• Steep learning curve – Requires training to use effectively.
• Outdated UI – Could benefit from a more modern design.

Final Thoughts about Our Favourite Website Localisation Tools

Each of these website localisation tools has its strengths and weaknesses, and the best choice depends on your specific needs. Smartcat and Matecat offer user-friendly, cloud-based solutions, while memoQ and SDL Trados Studio provide more advanced features for professionals. CafeTran Espresso is a great option for those looking for a one-time purchase with customisation options. Choosing the right website localisation tool will depend on factors like budget, required features, and ease of use.

Need expert advice on localisation or a tailored translation strategy? Get in touch with us today and let’s make your content work in every language!