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Google Translate vs Smartling

Google Translate: Free translator for text, documents, websites, speech and photos in well over 100 languages. Smartling: Enterprise translation platform that mixes AI translation with professional linguists. Here is how they compare on features, pricing, platforms, pros and cons.

Quick verdict

Google Translate

Best for: Anyone who needs quick, free translation in many languages.

Stands out for: Free and very broad language support; Works offline on phones.

Smartling

Best for: Enterprises that want managed translation at scale.

Stands out for: Managed service option; Many connectors.

Side-by-side comparison

Comparison of Google Translate, Smartling
Visit translate.google.com (opens in a new tab)Visit smartling.com (opens in a new tab)
What it isFree translator for text, documents, websites, speech and photos in well over 100 languages.Enterprise translation platform that mixes AI translation with professional linguists.
Pricing
Free
Paid
Free to useYesNo
CategoryAI TranslationAI Translation
Editor rank#1 in category#11 in category
Made byGoogleSmartling
Best forAnyone who needs quick, free translation in many languages.Enterprises that want managed translation at scale.
Key features
  • Text, document and website translation
  • Camera translation of signs and menus
  • Live conversation mode
  • Offline language packs on mobile
  • AI plus human translation
  • Website and app connectors
  • Translation memory
  • Quality checks
Pros
  • Free and very broad language support
  • Works offline on phones
  • Managed service option
  • Many connectors
Cons
  • Idioms and formal documents may need a human check
  • Business pricing only
Use it to
  • Read a menu abroad with your camera
  • Translate a PDF into English
  • Hold a two-way conversation with a stranger
  • Translate a website without copying text by hand
  • Mix AI and human translation by content type
  • Track translation quality
Web app
iPhone & iPad
Android
API

Google Translate vs Smartling: questions

Is Google Translate better than Smartling?

Neither wins for everyone. Our editors rank Google Translate slightly higher overall in AI Translation, but Smartling can be the better fit: Enterprises that want managed translation at scale.

Which is free, Google Translate or Smartling?

Google Translate can be used for free (free), while Smartling is paid.

Can I use Google Translate and Smartling together?

Yes. Many people keep both and pick per task, for example read a menu abroad with your camera with Google Translate, and translate a website without copying text by hand with Smartling.

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