The 5 Best Translation Devices – [2020 Reviews & Ratings]

A dedicated translation device, also known as a machine translator, is a gadget that can listen to a foreign language, translate what is being said into your native language, and vice versa.

The best translator will support a wide variety of languages, will work in a two-way conversation, and will function offline (Source).

Traveling abroad can be a fun and exciting adventure, but when you cannot communicate with the local population, it can be a bit difficult getting around the country. Thanks to the machine translator device, the language barrier presented in traveling to a foreign country can be drastically reduced, if not completely eliminated

Apps can be convenient, but recent advances in voice recognition and microprocessor technology have made real-time conversation with someone who speaks a foreign language possible. With a dedicated device, this can be done without draining your phone’s battery or needing access to the internet (Source).

With many devices to choose from across a wide price range, picking the right translator can be an overwhelming task. Before you buy go buy a new translator, consider the connectivity options, response time, and whether or not it works in two-way conversation. You should also consider its price and accuracy, and if it can work in offline mode.

In this article, we will take an in-depth look at all the top-rated translators. All of the translators in this review will help you communicate abroad better, whether you are someone who travels abroad regularly for business, or you are planning your first trip out of the country.

What Is a Translation Device?

In this fast-paced, multicultural world, many languages exist. It is impossible to learn every language to communicate with others. Even though English is the universal language, it is not known by a majority of the world.

That is where a translation device comes into use. This portable tool uses an advanced program that can translate the dialects of one language to another in real-time. It is so portable and easy to use that anyone can use it.

By just speaking to the device, it instantly translates the language into another, which the AI speaks out through the speaker present in the translating unit. Therefore, you get the freedom to communicate with a foreign person efficiently.

Depending on the features it offers, a translating device can have several advantages. For instance, they usually possess offline data in them, which makes them usable for translations without the need of an internet connection.

How Much Does a Good Translation Device Cost?

Translation devices vary greatly in cost. You can get a device for as low as $20, or pay as much as $2,000. The latter will have quite advanced data, giving you more flexibility at translating data.

The Top 5 Translation Devices

1. Smart Voice Language – The Best Translator Device

First up on our list is the Smart Voice Language Translator Device. This beautiful translator by Da Xian is probably the best device on the market. Why so? Well, you be the judge.

The Smart Voice supports over 45 different languages. It doesn’t matter where you’re traveling chances are you’ll be able to translate everything perfectly.

This device works quite efficiently with face-to-face translations as well as telephonic ones. That means you can use it to order food or make an appointment over the phone. No need for a tour guide or Google Translate.

Real-time translations take only a matter of seconds over Wi-Fi. The Smart Voice can also connect to Bluetooth and has a headphone jack. In other words, when it comes to this “smart” translator device, your connectivity options are endless.

More Features from the Smart Voice Translator

The Smart Voice has some impressive physical aspects. You’ll be pleased to learn this device features a 2.4-inch IPS touchscreen that is clear, smooth, and easy to use.

The touchscreen is surrounded by a metal frame that is extremely durable because everyone knows that accidents happen when traveling. The last thing you need is for your means of communication to fall and break while in China.

The Smart Voice also features a loud, accurate, and crystal-clear speaker along with a pre-mic. You can easily access the settings to configure the output to your liking.

Why This Translation Device is Great

Think about it. You’ve got a device that supports a large number of languages, has endless connectivity options, and gives you instant real-time translations. Not only that, but it’s also crystal-clear and durable.

Wouldn’t you say that’s the definition of great?

Main Features

• Over 45 different languages
• Wi-Fi and Bluetooth connectivity
• 3.5mm headphone jack
• 2.4inch IPS touchscreen
• A Metal frame surrounding the touchscreen

2. GRC Smart Language Translator Device

Coming in close to first place is yet another amazing translation device: the GRC Smart Language Translator. This device is just as impressive as the last.

For starters, it supports over 45 different languages. But that’s not all. You see, this device translates to over 45 different languages but with 97% accuracy!

That means there’s practically no chance of misunderstanding the person you’re talking to. You’ll both be able to say exactly what you mean. Translation doesn’t get any smoother than this.

More Features from the GRC Smart Translator

The GRC Translator is small, portable, and offers quite a long run time. It also gives you the choice between text and voice-based translation. You can write what you want to say and have the person you’re talking to write a reply.

Or you can simply have them speak into the device and you’ll hear the translation seconds later. This two-way translation system gives you the fastest output possible.

With a 2-inch screen and easily accessible settings, you’ll have full control over your translation device. You can also connect to Wi-Fi and 4G which means the internet is at your disposal. Having multiple connectivity features is definitely a plus!

Last but not least, if you’re worried about the battery dying while you’re out and about, don’t be. The GRC Translator can give you up to 12 hours of consistent usage without having to keep recharging the battery.

Why This Translation Device is Great

This one’s easy: accuracy, accuracy, accuracy. You can’t get enough of it. And when it comes to accuracy, the GRC is as great as it gets! Of course, its impressive battery life, connectivity features, and translation options also seal the deal.

Main Features

• Over 45 different languages
• 12 hours of consistent usage
• 2-inch screen
• Wi-Fi and 4G connectivity
• Accommodates text and speech translation

3. iFLYTEK Easy Trans 2.0

Next up is the iFLYTEK Easy Trans 2.0 translation device. While this might not be the most sophisticated device on our list, it certainly seems to be the most popular.

There are tons and tons of positive reviews and the internet is practically overflowing with comments on how much people love this translation device. Why, you ask? Well, here’s the deal.

For starters, the iFLYTEK can translate over 33 different languages. Sure, the last two devices could translate more, but the iFLYTEK still covers all the essential, commonly-used languages and then some.

The iFLYTEK comes in 3 different colors which is an option not many devices offer. But the iFLYTEK isn’t just a pretty face. It has a bunch of impressive features, as well.

More Features from the iFLYTEK

First of all, this translation device has an off-line engine. That means you can get a translation quickly in any kind of setting without having to find an internet connection. It works just as fast with or without the internet.

But that’s not all. Another great feature the iFLYTEK has to offer is the photo translator feature. With it, you can translate road signs, menus, product labels, and pretty much any kind of text you come across. Pretty handy, huh?

The iFLYTEK has useful connectivity options like Wi-Fi, Sim cards, and even virtual cards. With its off-line engine, photo translator, and unique design, it’s no wonder the iFLYTEK is so popular.    

Why This Translation Device is Great

The thing that really sets the iFLYTEK apart from the others is its off-line engine. You’re not always going to have instant access to the internet.

If you find yourself in a situation where there’s no 4G or Wi-Fi, you’ll be glad you’ve got the iFLYTEK in your pocket. Of course, being able to translate photos is also pretty cool.

Main Features

• Photo translator
• Off-line engine
• 3 different colors to choose from
• Over 33 different languages
• Connectivity options: Wi-Fi, Sim card, and virtual card

4. Travis Touch Smart Pocket Translator

If you think 45 and 36 were impressive numbers, you’re in for a shock. This beast of a translation device gives you access to more than double that number of languages. The Travis Pocket Translator supports a whopping 105 languages!

That’s more than any other translation device on our list and probably on the market. The Travis device gives you a choice between voice and text translation.

It also offers several connectivity options like 4G sim cards, Wi-Fi, and Bluetooth. Not to mention it comes with a data card that has 1GB of free data.

More Features from the Travis Smart Translator

The Travis also features two-way translation and a noise-canceling microphone which means you can use this incredible translation device consistently without trouble. It’s quite reliable no matter what the setting.

Another great thing about the Travis is that it supports wireless charging which is a plus because people tend to forget their charger cables when traveling.

With easily accessible settings, an impressive 2.4-inch touchscreen, and its incredible features, the Travis truly is a one-of-a-kind translation device.

Why This Translation Device is Great

This one’s a no-brainer. The best thing about the Travis is its insane amount of languages. We’re talking about 105 languages here! The chances of you running into someone who speaks language number 106 are pretty slim, wouldn’t you say?

It’s definitely great knowing you’ve got a reliable, comprehensive translation device in your pocket.

Main Features

• Wireless charging
• Over 105 different languages
• 2.4-inch touchscreen
• Two-way translation
• Noise-canceling microphone
• Connectivity options: Wi-Fi, Bluetooth, and 4G Sim card
• Voice and text translation

5. Langogo AI Language Translator Device

Last on our list, but definitely not least, is the Langogo AI Translator. Right off the bat, the first thing one would notice about this translation device is how incredible it looks. Its modular, 21^st-century design definitely catches the eye.

But its impressive design isn’t the only thing that earned it a spot on our list. For starters, the Langogo supports over 70 different languages.

Not only that but it connects to the world’s largest language database which means you’re getting accuracy and efficiency along with speed. All of this of course, in real-time.

The Langogo also comes with a “conversation mode” feature that makes your life much easier. You won’t have to keep clicking or pressing a button during a conversation or a phone call.

The Langogo automatically keeps the translation flowing.

More Features from the Langogo

The Langogo is extremely easy to use in any kind of setting thanks to its 3.1-inch touchscreen display and its noise-canceling microphone.

All you have to do is connect to your local 4G network or hotspot and you’ll have your translation in a matter of seconds. Or to be precise, in one second because that’s all the time the Langogo takes to translate.

Why This Translation Device is Great

The really impressive thing about the Langogo is its access to a massive language database. It utilizes 24 of the most powerful translation engines out there and all of them are at the tip of your fingers, a touch of a button away.

Features

• Over 70 different languages
• Has an eSim card slot
• Noise-canceling microphone
• 3.1-inch touchscreen display

How Do Translation Devices Work?

Most translation devices work on the same algorithm and program. However, the difference is in quality, listening capabilities, etc. For a translation unit to work properly, it needs to have decent components.

Let’s first understand the method of operation of a translation device. When you speak something to it, the microphone present in the device catches the dialect and changes the speech to text inside.

The text is then run through its offline or online database to detect the associated language with it. Once the language is detected, it translates the sentence into the desired language output.

The sentence changed to the output language is present in the text. The AI then speaks that text as a translated version of the original sentence. The process has many steps, which you might feel would take a considerable amount of time. However, the operation barely takes one to three seconds.

Capable devices even do it in milliseconds, which is quite impressive. Such devices are fast and efficient as they have offline data storage capabilities for the languages.

Why Do You Need a Translation Device?

Using a translation device is important nowadays if you are a frequent flyer and have to deal with people of various ethnicities all the time. Just think of a scenario where you lack a proper method to communicate with a foreigner. You might not agree as there is no understanding between you two.

With a translation device, you are getting a portable, autonomous, and efficient interpreter. Such a device instantly gives you the result for a sentence that you speak to it in your language. As a result, you can manage your business in a much easier way. Nowadays, language translation devices are so efficient that you might not need a human’s help most of the time.

One main reason is the availability of this unit with you at all times. You just keep it in your pocket and use it when needed. Another reason is the high-end AI algorithm that ensures accurate translations most of the time. A decent device will offer you the option to choose between offline and online data to translate.

That way, you get real-time results for the translations, thus saving a lot of your time and money.

Factors to Consider Before Buying

Translation devices enable you to experience different cultures while traveling but in your own language. If you are frequent personal or business travelers who prefer to keep their belongings by their side or under the seat consider buying under seat luggage.

1. Number of Languages Supported

This one’s a no-brainer. The more languages the translation device supports, the better it’ll be. But that doesn’t mean you have to pick a device that supports 100+ languages. Most devices cover about 20 and that’s usually enough.

It’s always a smart idea to look at the list of supported languages just to make sure the one(s) you’re looking for is covered. That being said, keep in mind that you won’t be buying a translation device every time you travel.

Get one that covers a wide range of languages because you never know where you’ll travel or who you’ll meet.

2. Type of Translation

There are several different methods of translation. Some devices translate speech, some translate text and images, and some can do both. Regardless of your choice, it’s usually better to go for a voice-recognizing device.

You won’t always be in a situation where you can write down what you’re trying to understand. You might not be able to text either. That’s why voice translation is always better. Besides, it’s easier.

3. Screen Size and Type

While the majority of translation devices these days come with a touchscreen, there are a few that have regular old screens. A touchscreen is usually easier to deal with and all you have to do is literally touch the option you want.

But it’s really a matter of preference. As for screen size, it comes down to what makes you more comfortable. A bigger screen is usually easier to handle and to look at. Some types are portable enough like the language translator earbuds, that do not have a screen on them but do have connectivity with smart apps for calibration.

4. Battery Life

Most people spend all day outside when they’re in another country and only return home or to their hotel late at night. That means you might not get that many chances to recharge your translation device.

That’s why battery life is an important factor to consider if you plan on traveling. Always check how many hours the translation device can go on a single charge. Some of the best devices on our list can last for up to 12 hours with consistent use.

5. Accuracy

Accuracy is another factor you need to consider. In fact, it might be the most important one. Think about it. You’re going to be dealing with a language you probably have no prior experience with.

Whatever your translation device says, you’ll go with. That means if someone gives you directions in French and the device mistranslates them, you’re probably going to get lost. Even worse, a regular comment can be mistaken for an insult.

When it comes to accuracy, you just can’t compromise. That’s why you should always look for a real time translator that has an accuracy of at least 90%. Anything less would be a waste of money and a risk not worth taking on.

FAQ’s about Translation Devices

How does a translation device work?

Most translation devices work through the press of a button which activates a highly sensitive microphone. This microphone then picks up and recognizes what the person in front of you is saying and translates it into the desired language.

The translation then comes out loud and clear through the translation device’s speaker.

What is two-way translation?

Two-way translation simply means the translation device lets you and the person you’re talking to communicate back and forth in your native languages. Every sentence and every response gets translated.

One-way translators, on the other hand, can translate your sentence into another person’s native language, but won’t translate their response back to your language.

Can I use the translation device to learn a new language?

Believe it or not, some people actually use translation devices to learn a new language. Of course, it takes quite a lot of effort on their part.

Some translation devices have a sort of memory or history feature where you can save and repeat certain phrases or translations later on. This is definitely a useful feature for someone trying to learn a new language.

Ready to Use a Translation Device?

A real-time translation device can change your whole travel experience 180 degrees. It enables you to talk to whomever you want and opens up all kinds of different activities and opportunities. You just need a good translation device that you can rely on.

If you’re having trouble deciding, why not go for one of the 5 voice translators on this list? Also, as the audio from the translation comes through, you may want to write down notes and organize them in a padfolio.

Pick one, start translating, and you’ll see the world in a whole new light! In addition, are you looking for devices that can make communication very easy when you’re hiking, exploring the outdoors? Buying walkie talkie watches is a solution for you.

Finally, if you need to assemble electronic devices, check out our guide of top-rated solder fume extractors. If you are using a translator, consider buying a leather fanny pack to keep it safe as they are convenient and useful to store phones, cameras, and other items.