In an increasingly globalized world, translation tools are essential for businesses looking to communicate their product information effectively across language and regional boundaries. Translations play a crucial role, especially for companies with extensive product catalogs that require precise and high-quality translations delivered quickly. Manual translations are often too time-consuming for large companies, and specialized terminology can also be a challenge. But how can companies achieve fast and high-quality translations?
The average writing speed in the industry is approximately 300 to 500 words per hour – far too slow for a fashion company with thousands of product descriptions that are only relevant for a limited time. To address this, many companies are turning to modern translation tools. However, not all tools provide the necessary accuracy and customization options for commercial use.
In this guide, you’ll learn:
- Which translation tools are particularly suitable for e-commerce
- The types of translation tools and how they work
- The pros and cons of each tool
Table of Contents
- How do Translation Tools Work?
- The Benefits and Challenges of Using Translation Tools
- A Comparison of the 7 Best Translation Tools for E-Commerce
- Conclusion
1. How do Translation Tools Work?
Most translation tools use artificial intelligence (AI) and machine learning to translate text from one language to another. They analyze the source text by breaking it down into smaller units such as words, phrases, and sentences and recognize language patterns and grammar rules before translating and assembling the final text in the target language.
Modern translation technology has now expanded to include adaptive machine translation. Some tools, like Google Translate and DeepL, use models that learn during the translation process and adapt to specific requirements. AI models like GPT-4 and BERT further enhance accuracy by understanding context and syntax, which is especially beneficial for complex texts.
Data-to-Text Translation Software:
In addition to traditional translation software, there are also data-to-text tools, such as AX Semantics. These tools use machine learning and Natural Language Generation (NLG) to automatically create content based on data. Unlike standard word-for-word translation, they rely on semantic rules that can be applied independently of language, allowing for quick and precise localization of large volumes of text, such as product descriptions. Data-to-text software is particularly suitable for companies that need efficient, large-scale, multilingual content creation.
2. The Benefits and Challenges of Using Translation Tools
Translation tools offer numerous advantages, making it easier for businesses to market their products globally and communicate effectively. The key benefits include:
- Speed and Cost Savings: Machine translations are generally faster and more affordable than manual translations, making them ideal for repetitive content like product descriptions.
- Quality Consistency: Data-to-text software, in particular, maintains high quality through predefined rules and structures.
- Improved Efficiency: Automated processes and optimized workflows allow for faster project completion.
However, challenges still exist:
- Quality Assurance: Machine translations often require human review to ensure accuracy, especially for nuanced texts.
- Context and Nuances: Many translation tools struggle with cultural nuances and context-specific phrases.
- Data Privacy and Security: For sensitive data, secure tools are essential. DeepL and Microsoft Translator offer specific privacy policies, though these should be regularly reviewed.
- Language and Regional Limitations: Not all languages are supported equally, so companies must ensure their specific needs are met.
- Training and Integration: Integrating tools into existing systems often requires training and adjustments to optimize usage.
3. A Comparison of the 7 Best Translation Tools for E-Commerce
Choosing the right translation tool has a significant impact on the quality and efficiency of translation work. It is therefore essential for companies to make an informed decision and find the best possible solution for their translation needs.
Here are 7 tools commonly used in e-commerce that have proven effective:
1. axite
axite is a data-driven content operations platform supporting over 110 languages. With the help of semantic rules and AI-powered features, it enables the rapid and high-quality translation of large volumes of text. Unique among tools, axite allows users to select different translation technologies for various use cases and integrates automated quality assurance mechanisms. Additionally, it transfers formatting and adjusts hyperlink destinations to corresponding language domains, significantly enhancing editorial workflow efficiency. This makes axite ideal for companies that need flexibility in technology.
- Pros: Fast, scalable, error-free translations; cost-effective, flexible technology options
- Cons: Requires initial setup
Pros and cons of AX Semantics:
| + | - |
| very efficient, automatically generates texts in different languages | initial setup required |
| easy scaling of large translation projects, without compromising quality or speed | Paid tool |
| highly consistent and error-free translations | |
| reduces costs by minimizing human translation efforts | |
| suitable for a wide range of translation needs, from product descriptions to sports reports | |
| significant time savings compared to manual translation processes | |
| Complete text coverage in record time through combining various technologies |
2. DeepL
The DeepL translation tool is based on artificial intelligence and uses neural networks to automatically translate texts from one language to another. Unlike conventional statistical translation tools, DeepL is based on a so-called "deep learning" approach, in which the software analyzes millions of texts and learns how words and sentences are best translated.
However, this can quickly lead to errors, as shown by the localization problem of AX Semantics customer AKKU SYS: In addition to some humorous mis-phrasings, there were also far-reaching translation errors. For example, the DeepL translation into Italian turned the word "advantages" into the word "disadvantages". In addition, other problems with the DeepL plugin arose, which finally caused AKKU SYS to stop using the tool. The basic version of DeepL is free of charge. Integrations, five or more document translations per month, and access to the glossary are not free. DeepL can translate texts into up to 33 languages.
| + | - |
| often provides more accurate translations than other training-based tools | currently supports only a limited number of languages compared to other tools |
| can translate even lengthy texts in seconds | well suited for general translations, but has difficulty translating specific terminology |
| user interface is designed to be intuitive and easy to use | does not allow human correction or intervention in the translation process |
| questionable privacy policy, as DeepL analyzes and stores all typed text to improve neural networks and translation algorithms |
3. Google Translate
Google Translate is a free online translation tool that uses machine translation. It allows users to translate words, sentences, documents, and even images or web pages between languages. Google Translate supports 133 languages, offering syntax and grammar considerations for accuracy. However, quality can vary depending on the language pairing and text complexity. Google Translate now also offers automatic translation of image captures.
- Pros: Easy integration into websites and e-commerce platforms; free access
- Cons: Inaccurate translations for complex expressions; potential privacy concerns
| + | - |
| easy integration into websites or e-commerce platforms, simplifying implementation | inaccurate translations, especially of complex or idiomatic expressions |
| free access | cannot account for cultural differences or nuances, which can lead to misunderstandings |
| text is sent to Google, which may raise privacy concerns | |
| no direct control over the translation, content may not have the desired quality or accuracy |
4. Microsoft Translator
Microsoft Translator is a translation tool developed by Microsoft. It allows users to translate text, phrases, or entire documents from one language to another. It supports a wide range of languages and is used by companies, agencies, educational institutions, and individuals to translate content and share information.
Microsoft Translator can also be used independently of Microsoft products. This works through an API that allows translation features to be integrated into applications. In addition, Microsoft Translator is available as a standalone app for iOS, Android, and Windows, and it can be used directly in the web browser. It is also possible to upload translations directly to the Microsoft Translator website or import a translation file in Excel format. The translation tool can translate text in more than 100 languages and is integrated into several Microsoft products.
| + | - |
| translates sensitive data securely and privately without sending the text to external servers | advanced features and integrations with other applications available at additional cost |
| integrates with other Microsoft applications and services, such as Microsoft Office and SharePoint, to facilitate collaboration and management of multilingual content | provides good translations, but limited ability to customize for specific industries and business models |
| offers a variety of customization options to meet specific company or industry requirements, such as adding specialized terminology or creating custom translation memories | inaccurate or incorrect translations may occur, especially with complex or idiomatic phrases |
5. Reverso
Reverso is a multilingual translation tool that allows you to translate texts, words, phrases and sentences into 26 languages. The tool uses a combination of machine translation and human editing to achieve higher accuracy and quality of translations.
Reverso offers a user-friendly interface with features such as context search, grammar checking and verb conjugation tables. It also has a pronunciation feature for translated words and phrases, which can be useful in some circumstances. Reverso can be used free of charge and is available on various platforms, such as web, iOS and Android.
| + | - |
| free of charge | no customized translations possible, no guarantee of accuracy or quality of translations, especially when translating technical terms or marketing content |
| available on various platforms such as web, iOS and Android | may be slightly slower in delivering translations, as they are edited by a human translator |
| user-friendly interface and functions | no special support for the needs of e-commerce companies, such as integrations with e-commerce platforms or special features for product descriptions and online sales |
6. Lingenio
Lingenio specializes in language technology and offers a wide range of products and solutions. It uses advanced technologies such as neural networks and machine learning to deliver accurate and natural translations. Although Lingenio supports only four languages (German, Russian, Chinese and French), it offers speech recognition and speech synthesis. The four languages result in eight different possible combinations, although translations from Chinese to French or from English to French are not possible.
The tool also offers additional features such as grammar checking, spell checking and synonym search to improve the quality of translations. Lingenio can also be customized to specific requirements and industries to achieve better results for specialized translations.
Lingenio is available as a desktop application for Windows operating systems and as a web application. The tool also offers special solutions for companies that need customized translation and language technology.
| + | - |
| can be customized to specific requirements and industries, provides good results for specialized translations | number of supported languages limited to English, German, French and Chinese |
| additional features such as grammar checking, spell checking and synonym search | paid tool and may be too expensive for some companies |
| available as a desktop application for Windows operating systems and as a web application | only translations between a few language pairs |
7. MyMemory
MyMemory is an online translation tool that allows users to translate texts, documents, web pages and other content into over 140 languages. It is based on a machine translation algorithm that is trained using translation databases and models. It is the largest translation memory in the world, containing 8,174,017,983 segments of human-translated text (as of 10/28/2024). It collects translation memories from users in the European Union and the United Nations, as well as domain-specific multilingual web sites.
Users can search for translations, download them, and contribute to MyMemory by editing entries or adding their own “memories”. When human translation is not available, MyMemory provides machine translation technology. The tool supports a wide range of languages and also provides a spelling and grammar checker.
MyMemory also has an API that allows developers to integrate the tool into their own applications and systems. MyMemory is available for free, but there are also paid options with additional features and higher accuracy.
| + | - |
| free basic version | quality of translations may be unreliable as the tool is fed by a community of volunteers |
| easy API integration with established e-commerce platforms | collects and stores submitted segments long-term, whether the submission is public or private |
| restrictions, such as limits on the number of characters and the number of translations per day, are impractical for companies |
| Translation tool | Accuracy/ Quality | Integration | Number of languages | Human intervention necessary? | Costs |
| axite | Very high | Easy integration into own systems | Over 110 languages available | Yes | Chargeable, individual offer |
| DeepL | High | API | 29 | Yes | Chargeable |
| Google Translat e | High | API, browser extension | 133 | Yes | Free of charge |
| Microsoft Translator | High | API, Microsoft products | Over 100 | Yes | Free of charge to chargeable |
| Reverso | High | Website | 26 | Yes | Free of charge to chargeable |
| Lingenio | High | API | 4 | No | Chargeable |
| MyMemory | Varies | API, Website | Over 140 | Yes | Free of charge |
4. Conclusion
The use of translation tools can be of great benefit to e-commerce companies. They enable faster and more efficient translation of texts into different languages, which is especially beneficial in global markets and when internationalizing your business. They can also help reduce costs, save time, and streamline workflows.
However, there are also some challenges to using translation tools, such as quality assurance, context sensitivity, security concerns, language diversity, and training and integration. Businesses should be aware of these challenges and select a tool that meets their needs.
Overall, translation tools are an effective way to overcome language barriers and promote business globalization. By using reliable and high-quality translation tools, as well as careful planning and monitoring, companies can maximize the benefits and minimize the challenges.
