Best Translation Services of 2023 Reviewed – Top 15 Selection

Looking for a reliable translation service provider? Selecting the right partner for your translation project shouldn’t be solely guided by cost. If you want to ensure consistent delivery and high-quality results, it pays to spend a little more on a service provider. Looking for a translation agency that can help your business become an international enterprise? You’ll want a service that can scale as you do. Even if you don’t think you’ll need enhanced translation and localization services right now, you may do in the future. 

Unsure of what to look for in a translation company? Below, we explore what you should look out for when selecting a provider from the thousands available. You’ll also find a shortlist of 15 of the best companies around, including some of the most popular US translation services and agencies based further afield.

What is a Translation Service?

In the past, translation services were largely tasked with transforming text from one language into another. While text-based translations are still at the heart of most agencies, a good translation company will now offer a range of additional services. 

These can include things like voice-over and subtitle translation for video content, as well as transcription services. Competitive agencies will also offer fast translation services, helping clients meet tight deadlines and deliver last-minute assignments.  

In most cases, translation companies will also offer proofreading and editing services. These can be used to improve computer-assisted translations or fine-tune more involved pieces that have previously been worked on by human translators. 

Many translation service providers work with common language pairs like English-French, English-German, and Spanish-Portuguese. However, the best translation companies can cover thousands of unique language pairs. 

Translation and Localization Services: Are They The Same Thing?

When searching for translation and language services, you’ll no doubt encounter companies advertising localization solutions. Many people assume that translation and localization are the same thing. While the two are intertwined, there are some key differences. 

Pure translation involves turning text from one language into another. On the other hand, localization services are a far more involved process. It begins with standard human translation, but a linguist will adapt the language in such a way that it seems as though a native speaker produced the original text.

Key Things to Consider When Choosing a Translation Company

Unsure of what to look for when selecting professional translation services? We’ve picked out some of the most important criteria to consider when choosing a provider that can deliver accurate translations, every time.

Pricing

Not all translations are priced the same. Thankfully, most online translation services offer a variety of pricing options to accommodate all manner of projects. 

Looking for standard translations involving common language pairs? Starting rates of $0.09 are the standard for the most basic of translations. Searching for something more specific? Many companies turn to language services to handle business translations. The scope here is broad, with everything from email correspondence to business proposals included. For this kind of translation, you can expect starting rates of $0.13 per word. 

Not every agency offers certified document translation services. However, there’s a growing demand for exactly this kind of translation. Official documents like passports, birth certificates, and divorce decrees all require meticulous attention to detail when it comes to translation. Pricing varies for this kind of work, but a starting rate of $79 per page is a good benchmark. 

Are you searching for proofreading or editing services? Some translation companies include these services as part of a complete package. However, others will charge a small premium for them. Generally speaking, editing and proofreading cost half the rate of standard translations. If you’re eager to make a saving on your next translation project, choose an agency that includes this as part of the deal.

Express Translation Services

Turnaround time is important when it comes to translations. If you’re facing a last-minute emergency, you’ll need a reliable company that can deliver high-quality translations as quickly as possible. 

Some companies are able to deliver translations in a matter of hours. However, you should approach promises of 60-minute turnarounds with caution. If your project is only small, say a few hundred words, there’s no reason why professional translators can’t produce reliable results in a short period. However, if you’re dealing with large content volumes, it’s almost certain that machine translation will be used to achieve fast turnarounds. 

Sometimes, computer-assisted translations deliver acceptable results. That being said, they’re not particularly reliable and you’ll almost always encounter issues with grammar. What’s more, they’re a poor choice if you’re looking to have creative content translated. 

Daily turnaround times are far more common and slightly more affordable. If you need to have shorter documents translated, most agencies will be able to deliver first-rate results in a matter of days. However, this expedited delivery isn’t always possible with unusual language pairs. 

If it’s a larger project, you may be waiting longer than a week for your translations. It’s not just the volume of text that can lead to delays. Other factors like uncommon language pairs can slow down the process, even if an experienced translator has been assigned the job. If your project requirements are fairly unique, it’s always recommended that you get in touch with a translation vendor directly to confirm that they can deliver on time. 

Sometimes, businesses need ongoing translation support. The good news is that many agencies in the translation industry offer exactly this kind of service. More established companies will have dedicated resources that they can allocate to business accounts. As well as consistently high-quality results, ongoing arrangements benefit from regular delivery windows and dedicated project managers. Furthermore, these fixed arrangements can sometimes lead to substantial discounts for loyal customers.

Choose Translation Companies with Industry Expertise

As with content creation, it’s vital that you choose a translation company with a clear understanding of your industry and the documents you need to translate. This goes far beyond providing accurate word-for-word translations. 

In addition to having a keen understanding of industry-specific terms, a good translator needs to have a handle on your target audience. Looking for document translation services? You’ll need a service provider with a track record in translating things like court records, appeals, and immigration documents. What’s more, they’ll need to have insights into country-specific law and legislation. 

Do you need support with technical document translation? This kind of material has exacting requirements. An effective translator will need to have an established background in technical writing, as well as the translation itself. 

Machine Translation Services or the Human Touch?

Even top translation companies use machine translation services to assist in larger projects. These solutions are becoming increasingly more reliable, making them an effective tool for streamlining the translation process. 

With machine translation, computers take care of much of the hard work. It’s a good approach for translating large amounts of repetitive text. However, it doesn’t come close to the nuanced results provided by human translation. Even the best machine translation solutions require a human editor or proofreader to step in and check output text for accuracy and cultural relevance. 

Human translators are more expensive, but your increased investment is rewarded with far better results. Professional translators will be completely fluent in both the source and target language. Cultural fluency and inclusion of colloquialisms are also guaranteed, while there’s generally less for proofreaders and editors to do. Besides cost, the major drawback of human translation is that it can take considerably longer than relying on machine translations

How Will Your Translations Be Delivered?

Any good translation agency should offer clients a variety of delivery methods. Some companies deliver translated texts via email. Alternatively, they may choose to upload translated documents to cloud-based storage or import them into content management systems. However, if your documents are particularly sensitive, you’ll need to ensure your translation vendor of choice is using robust encryption to keep your material secure. 

In certain situations, physical copies of translated documents will need to be delivered. This is the case with certified translation services. If you’re working to a tight deadline, you’ll need to allow plenty of time for your documents to ship. Some agencies include express shipping as standard, while others charge a premium for it. In any case, make sure you ask for a tracking number so you can keep an eye on where your assets are at all times.

Customer Support

There’s always a chance that you’ll encounter some issues during a translation project. Sometimes, brief requirements may change. Other times, you may realize you’ve sent the wrong source text in error. Alternatively, you may just have plenty of questions to ask an agency before committing to work with them. 

This is why excellent customer support is a key thing to look out for. Live chat functionality is particularly useful, especially if you have questions to ask about the service itself. A comprehensive FAQ section will also make your life easier, providing you with readymade answers to common queries. 

However, there may come a point when you need to speak with someone directly. Look for an agency that offers extended telephone hours. If you’re choosing an agency based in a different country than you, make sure your office hours are halfway compatible.

Customer Feedback

As with any service, it pays to see what other customers have to say about a translation provider before you start working with them. Don’t just rely on what a company’s website has to tell you. After all, agencies aren’t going to promote testimonials from dissatisfied customers. Instead, use Google Business reviews and Trustpilot to build a more accurate picture. It’s also worth checking out what previous employees have to say about a company. A first-hand account from a freelancer might give you some clues that a company is overselling its credentials. 

When sifting through customer feedback, look for some telltale signs that you’re dealing with a reputable company. Did a service provider deliver satisfactory results? Did the service represent good value for money? 

If you’re choosing an agency that relies on machine translation, you’ll need to spend longer investigating feedback. Although the best translation services successfully integrate machine translation into a larger process, some rely too heavily on it.

Most customers will need to make contact with a translation agency during the course of the project. Customer insights will give you a clear idea of how well an agency responds to queries. Finally, look for any mention of missed deadlines. Even a slight delay can be costly. If you’re awaiting translations for too long, the wait can even cost you client relationships.

15 Best Translation Services

1. BLEND Express

Formerly known as One Hour Translation, BLEND Express was founded in 2008. With AI-powered localization services designed with enterprise-level companies in mind, BLEND’s an easy choice for businesses looking to truly expand. With a global network of more than 25,000 translators, you won’t struggle to find the right language experts for every job. 

The BLEND translator network produces content in more than 120 languages, with expertise in more than 15 different industries. Advanced technology expedites workflows, providing you with an efficient translation solution that delivers consistently accurate results, every time. 

Fast translation services are the standard here, allowing you to tackle even the biggest of projects without worrying about missing a deadline. You can also access some of the most reliable proofreading and editing services in the market.

Whether you’re looking for website translation, legal translations, or localized voice-over, BLEND makes it easy to kick-start your project with its online self-service platform. Simply choose your desired language pairs and upload your files, request a quote, and submit your project, and you’re good to go.

If you’re looking for services in specific places, check out BLEND’s translation services in New York, as well as their translation services in LA.

2. TransPerfect

With more than 25 years of experience, TransPerfect is one of the most established translation companies around. This reliable vendor caters to both individuals and business clients. If you’re looking for industry-specific translations, you’ve come to the right place. TransPerfect specializes in translations of technical documents, marketing materials, legal text, and more. 

Furthermore, TransPerfect offers localization services. With locations based in more than 90 countries, this is one of the largest translation agencies on the planet. This agency has 5,000 linguists on its books, producing translations in over 170 languages. You’ll find localization services tailored towards things like e-learning, software and apps, websites, and more. 

As well as a superior selection of translation and localization solutions, TransPerfect doesn’t disappoint when it comes to language tools and translation technology. CAT tools streamline large-scale translation projects, while quality assurance tools will bring peace of mind if it’s your first time outsourcing translation work to an agency.

3. LanguageWire

Based in Denmark, LanguageWire is one of Europe’s leading translation providers. What sets LanguageWire apart from many of its competitors is its impressive AI technology. You won’t find second-rate machine translations here. Innovative cloud-based solutions mean your content is translated in real-time, with all style guidelines and formatting preserved. 

A good choice for business customers, LanguageWire’s pricing structure works a little differently than other providers. A monthly subscription service provides you with ongoing computer-assisted translations, without you having to worry about paying for unwanted add-ons. What’s more, robust encryption means sensitive documents are kept secure at all times. 

Looking for human translations? LanguageWire’s extensive range of translation services caters to this. Experienced linguists are on hand to provide quality translations across all major industries, including the IT, engineering, and medical sector. You can also take advantage of localization and SEO support. Perfect if you’re looking to make the transition from a local brand to one with international reach.

4. Acolad Group

Previously known as Technicis, Acolad Group is a French-based translation service that works with an international network of experienced linguists. Along with standard translation and localization services, Acoland Group also excels when it comes to project management. If you’re looking for a translation partner for an ongoing arrangement, they’re an ideal choice. 

Unlike many other agencies, Acolad Group provides continued support for its clients. As with LanguageWire, this agency delivers when it comes to industry-leading translation technology and tools to make localization easier. 

With more than 2,500 employees operating in more than 25 countries, Acolad Group is one of the largest companies of its kind. If you’re searching for sector-specific translations, you’ll find them here. For more than 30 years, Acolad Group has specialized in producing translations for the legal, manufacturing, and life sciences fields. 

5. Summa Linguae

If you’re looking for an automated translation solution, you might want to consider Summa Linguae. Unlike other agencies, Summa Linguae allows customers to take charge of their translation requirements thanks to some of the best machine translation tools around. Based in Poland, this company provides a wealth of tools that allow users to translate everything from product descriptions to entire websites automatically. 

The ingenious Summa Linguae app makes quick work of importing and exporting information. Users can quickly identify which content is striking a chord with audiences, helping them retool their messaging effectively. 

As well as specializing in legal, financial, and medical translations, Summa Linguae offers a variety of enhanced translation services. You’ll find support for subtitling and voice-over translations, catering to all your audiovisual needs. An established team can also provide industry-leading expertise in the localization of games and soft

If you’re looking for an automated translation solution, you might want to consider Summa Linguae. Unlike other agencies, Summa Linguae allows customers to take charge of their translation requirements thanks to some of the best machine translation tools around. Based in Poland, this company provides a wealth of tools that allow users to translate everything from product descriptions to entire websites automatically. 

The ingenious Summa Linguae app makes quick work of importing and exporting information. Users can quickly identify which content is striking a chord with audiences, helping them retool their messaging effectively. 

As well as specializing in legal, financial, and medical translations, Summa Linguae offers a variety of enhanced translation services. You’ll find support for subtitling and voice-over translations, catering to all your audiovisual needs. An established team can also provide industry-leading expertise in the localization of games and software.

If you’re looking for an automated translation solution, you might want to consider Summa Linguae. Unlike other agencies, Summa Linguae allows customers to take charge of their translation requirements thanks to some of the best machine translation tools around. Based in Poland, this company provides a wealth of tools that allow users to translate everything from product descriptions to entire websites automatically. 

The ingenious Summa Linguae app makes quick work of importing and exporting information. Users can quickly identify which content is striking a chord with audiences, helping them retool their messaging effectively. 

As well as specializing in legal, financial, and medical translations, Summa Linguae offers a variety of enhanced translation services. You’ll find support for subtitling and voice-over translations, catering to all your audiovisual needs. An established team can also provide industry-leading expertise in the localization of games and software.

6. Keywords Studios

Established in 1998, Keyword Studios has emerged as an industry leader in the field of localization. As of 2023, the company has a network of more than 1,000 translators, offering extensive support for many different language pairs. 

You’ll find all the usual translation services on offer here, but Keyword Studios is particularly adept at software and app localization. Looking for audiovisual enhancement? Subtitling and voice-over translations are offered as standard here. Additionally, Keyword Studios are experts in content creation. 

Another area where Keyword Studios excels is machine translation. This provider has a large team of MT Language Specialists, working with the KantanMT platform to produce superior computer-assisted translations.

7. LanguageLine Solutions

LanguageLine Solutions has been growing strong for more than two decades. In the field of translation, few companies command as much respect as LanguageLine. This company specializes in certified document translations, as well as interpretation services. They work closely with government departments and the healthcare sector, as well as multinationals. 

If you prefer the human touch, you’ll like what LanguageLine Solutions offers. Customer support here is exceptional. All major translation projects are allotted a project manager, providing dedicated support every step of the way. 

Searching for a provider that can help with medical translations? There are few better specialist providers than LanguageLine Solutions. As well as boasting an unbeatable team of medical translators, LanguageLine is up-to-date with the latest healthcare practices. 

You’ll find support in more than 160 languages. What’s more, linguists are experienced with all manner of formats, including print media and online content. More recently, this agency has expanded into other fields, including gaming and media localization. 

8. Argos Multilingual

The best language service providers are truly global. Argos Multilingual is the way to go if you’re looking for a full range of translation services and have your eye on international outreach. Argos Multilingual has demonstrated expertise in financial, legal, and technical translations. 

User-friendly translation management systems make it easy for clients to keep an eye on the progress of their projects. Furthermore, superior customer service and dedicated project managers provide peace of mind for first-time users. 

If you’re looking for a provider that can handle large-scale projects, Argos Multilingual is a good choice. For high-volume projects, this company uses machine translation tools. With translation memory identifying repetition, you can expect expedited results and more consistent output.

9. Lionbridge

Lionbridge is generally considered one of the best translation providers around. Catering to individual and business clients alike, Lionbridge offers a full range of translation services for all industry sectors. You’ll find language software, tailored platforms to help with project management, as well as an extensive network of experienced linguists. 

Looking for something specific? Lionbridge excels at technical writing and translation, as well as localization of multiple media formats. You’ll also find one of the best transcreation providers on the planet, making it easy to adapt existing content for new audiences and languages. 

Have you had bad luck with other translation providers before? Lionbridge utilizes advanced management systems to expedite workflows and increase turnaround time. Machine learning is also on hand for those dealing with larger translation projects. Customers have ready access to these tools, allowing them to assess translation quality.

If it’s automation you’re after, Lionbridge is an easy choice. Individuals will find plenty to enjoy here, but Lionbridge is particularly well-suited to smaller organizations looking to evolve into global brands.

10. RWS

RWS is another industry leader when it comes to localization and translation services. This company is also one of the oldest of all translation providers, having operated for more than 60 years. Few companies come close to RWS when it comes to quality output and reliability. This agency is also renowned for its flexibility, providing tailored solutions to clients with specific project requirements. 

Unsurprisingly for a company with such a rich history, RWS combines an extensive linguist team with some of the best available translation technology. RWS has over 30 locations worldwide, with more than 3,000 linguists on its books. 

Some clients need to ensure that their translations are certified. RWS can deliver this. Translations can be produced in accordance with ISO 9001, ISO 17100, and ISO 13485. RWS certified translations are trusted by some of the biggest companies on the planet and across many sectors, including the medical, technology, and automotive industries. 

11. Hogarth Worldwide

Hogarth Worldwide was founded in 2008. Although this company was founded in the United Kingdom, it’s since branched out and established itself as an international contender in the translation sphere. Today, Hogarth is one of the largest translation providers in the world. 

You’ll find an exhaustive range of translation and language services on offer from Hogarth. One of their key focuses is creative translation, making them an ideal choice for those needing to adapt marketing materials. They also excel at digital marketing, making them a practical solution for those looking to move beyond the printed word and more traditional channels. 

Hogarth’s linguists can deliver translations in more than 60 languages. This is significantly less than some other companies, but you can be confident that you’ll get content that’s properly tailored for an international audience. Along with document translation, Hogarth also provides interpretation services for multinational companies and government agencies. 

12. thebigword

Offering translations in more than 200 languages, you won’t struggle to realize your translation projects when you choose thebigword. This company was established in 2001, making it one of the oldest around. Although this agency focuses on translation, you’ll also find a full range of services including transcription, interpretation, and localization. 

Currently, thebigword’s team includes more than 15,000 linguists. The majority of these are professional translators, with many boasting industry-specific expertise. In fact, thebigword is a popular choice with government agencies and emergency services. On average, this company handles more than 50,000 projects daily. 

Although thebigword employs a wide network of human translators, it also utilizes some of the best translation technology in the industry. Its computer-assisted translations are among the most reliable, while additional translation tools ensure your content is always of the highest quality. If you need quick results, this agency can deliver. Although you’ll pay more for premium service, thebigword’s rates are incredibly competitive. 

13. CyraCom

Based in the United States, CyraCom is a leading provider of language and translation services. Currently, CyraCom provides translations in more than 100 different languages. It’s a favorite provider for the healthcare sector, ranking highly in the field of medical interpretation services. Customers can arrange for translators to visit them onsite, or provide remote support via video or phone. 

Along with interpretation services, CyraCom impresses with its professional translation offering. Although its network only includes 4,000 linguists, CyraCom can provide translations in more than 350 languages. 

What’s more, this agency doesn’t disappoint when it comes to industry-specific knowledge. With an expansive portfolio that includes more than 5,000 happy clients, CyraCom’s translators have experience producing content for 100 different industries. Looking to target a new market? Localization services are also available here

Based in the United States, CyraCom is a leading provider of language and translation services. Currently, CyraCom provides translations in more than 100 different languages. It’s a favorite provider for the healthcare sector, ranking highly in the field of medical interpretation services. Customers can arrange for translators to visit them onsite, or provide remote support via video or phone. 

Along with interpretation services, CyraCom impresses with its professional translation offering. Although its network only includes 4,000 linguists, CyraCom can provide translations in more than 350 languages. 

What’s more, this agency doesn’t disappoint when it comes to industry-specific knowledge. With an expansive portfolio that includes more than 5,000 happy clients, CyraCom’s translators have experience producing content for 100 different industries. Looking to target a new market? Localization services are also available here. 

14. STAR Group

Operating in more than 30 countries, STAR Group is one of the largest agencies in operation. It’s the obvious choice if you’re looking for premium translations to aid a multilingual expansion. A complete range of language services is available here, including translations for software systems, websites, and standard documents. 

STAR Group has been around for more than 30 years. As such, you can expect professional linguists with unrivaled industry expertise. Currently, STAR Group offers translations in more than 160 languages. Need a translator to tackle a technical document translation? You’ll find one. Looking for linguists to work on translations for audiovisual content? STAR Group has plenty of suitable candidates. 

Along with localization services and translation, STAR Group also boasts advanced software and app solutions. AI technology makes it easy to undertake large translation projects, even if you’re using multilingual data. You’ll also find a suite of content marketing solutions available here. An in-house editorial team will not only conduct exhaustive content audits, but you can also rely on Star Group to perform invaluable market research.

15. Semantix

Although Semantix’s network of linguists is rather small at 2,000 translators, it does offer support in more than 170 languages. This makes it a superb choice for any company looking to expand from a regional operation to an international one. 

All the usual translation services are available here. Basic services include website translation, editing, and proofreading, as well as translation of multimedia content. You’ll also find interpretation services available, along with localization of voice-over and subtitling. 

Do you prefer to maintain a hands-on role? Semantix allows customers to maintain an active role in the translation process. Working documents can be accessed remotely, ensuring linguists are producing accurate translations in target languages. You can make changes on the fly to guide Semantix’s linguists, ensuring your original messaging isn’t lost in translation. 

Final Thoughts

If you’re planning on taking your business global, you’ll need access to a reliable translation provider. While some translation agencies make big claims about what they can offer, only first-hand experience can guarantee delivery. To make your life easier, spend some time researching what previous customers have to say. 

Next, weigh up your requirements carefully. Do you need little more than basic translations of business documents? A service provider that can guarantee fast turnaround at competitive rates is the way to go. Searching for a service that can evolve as you do? A multilingual strategy requires extensive support. 

Look for providers with AI-powered solutions that will deliver enhanced machine translations. Dealing with uncommon language pairs? Just because a company says it can provide translations from one language to another, doesn’t mean that the results are going to be up to scratch. Always ask for samples whenever possible and seek out testimonials that reflect the scope of your project. 

If you want an ongoing arrangement with a service provider, make sure their processes can be integrated into your own. Translation management systems make it easy to keep an eye on the translation process. Furthermore, you can provide feedback for linguists to guide future translations to ensure your content is hitting all the right notes.