If you want to localize digital products like an expert, you need the right tools.

Once you consider factors such as your needs or your client’s requirements, you’ll have more clarity about the features your ideal tool should offer.

In this blog post, you’ll find an overview of six essential localization tools that may come in handy. In the next article, you’ll learn more about six other tools. Read on discover how each tool can boost your productivity and streamline your localization projects.

1. memoQ

memoQ is a preferred choice for many professionals in the translation and localization industry. It supports a variety of file formats including HTML, XML, JSON, PSD, which makes the tool a good fit for localization projects. Add to it a user-friendly interface and a plethora of advanced features, and you get a solution that might be hard to resist. Pricing varies depending on the license type, with options for freelance translators and larger organizations. Recently, memoQ hopped on the AI bandwagon by introducing Adaptive Generative Translation—a cutting-edge feature that leverages Large Language Models to enhance automatic translation.

2. Trados Studio

Trados Studio is renowned for its powerful translation memory technology, efficient terminology management, and extensive file format support, including XML, HTML, and JSON. This tool is particularly valued for its deep customization options and integration capabilities with various third-party applications, enhancing workflow automation. Pricing structures are tiered based on feature sets, catering to both individual freelancers and large enterprises. Trados Studio also includes AI-based features that are about to be further enhanced with the upcoming release of Studio 2024.

3. Crowdin

Crowdin stands out as a cloud-based localization tool that excels in project management and team collaboration. It supports a wide range of file formats common in localization projects. Features such as context-based AI translation or AI Assistant that can be fine-tuned based on your resources take the localization process to a whole new level. Crowdin offers a free tier for basic use, with paid plans providing additional features and support. The platform also integrates seamlessly with popular development tools and platforms, streamlining the localization workflow.

4. Transifex

Transifex is a web-based localization platform designed to facilitate the efficient management of multilingual websites or apps. It supports numerous file formats and offers features like automated translation updates, real-time website localization with AI, context-based AI translation, or collaboration tools. Transifex is available as a subscription-based model in three different tiers. It’s easy to use and offers integrations with various platforms such Figma, Jura, or Contentful.

5. Lokalise

Lokalise is yet another handy localization and translation management tool with advanced features. It also offers AI-based and context-aware translations and supports a wide range of file formats. Pricing is based on the number of users and project volume, making it scalable for different business sizes. Additionally, Lokalise comes with collaboration and project management features, as well as integrations with popular coding and marketing tools.

6. Smartcat

Smartcat is a free-to-use platform for freelancers but also offers paid solutions for teams and businesses. It supports an extensive array of file formats and comes with features for collaboration and project management. You’ll find here AI-based features too: AI translation, AI content generation, and AI human workflows. Smartcat is not only a tool for translation but also a marketplace for finding translation jobs and managing payments.

Though these tools might appear similar at first glance, each of them has a unique flair. The best way to find the perfect fit for your projects is to test before you invest.

Want to learn more about localization tools?

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Dorota Pawlak

Dorota helps digital brands infuse their content with a local touch. She is a localization consultant, translator specialized in IT, prompt engineer, and a book author. Dorota teaches online courses on localization, writes for her blog and a Medium publication. She also runs a Small Biz AI, a Substack newsletter for freelancers and small business owners ready to discover handy AI tools.