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At some point in every adventure, you'll need to contact a local — either by giving directions to a taxi driver, asking for recommendations, or (at worst) explaining symptoms to a doctor. The best way to prepare? Getting one of the best pocket translators.
At a glance: The best pocket translators
Pocket translators are compact devices that quickly translate between two languages in real time (although they usually work with multiple languages). This means you can speak to the device and it will quickly say the phrase in the language you want. Because pocket translators are designed specifically for translation, these devices are much faster and more advanced than the normal smartphone translator app. For example, if you're fluent in two languages, then you'll know that Google Translate often makes strange choices or mistakes (especially if you use slang, work with accents, or try to speak casually).
With the best pocket translators, you have fluid, natural communication in both directions – regardless of the speaker's voice. If you're looking for a more exciting, safer travel experience, check out the best pocket translators below.
The best pocket translators to buy online
Whether you're traveling or just learning a new language at home, the best pocket translators below are an easy and effective communication tool for two-way translation and conversation. We created this list by testing pocket translators in a few scenarios, using both voice-to-text translations. We also compared our experiences with other expert and customer reviews before recommending the translators below. All available through trusted retailers with an average customer rating of at least 3.7/5 stars.
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Pocketalk S
Pocketalk is one of the biggest names in pocket translators, and their S model is the best pocket translator we've tested. Here are the specifications for the Pocketalk S languages, taken from their website: “61 two-way voice, 21 two-way voice-to-text, and up to 37 more one-way obscure voice-to-text languages. The camera will recognize and translate 55 languages.” In short, most of the languages loaded on the Pocketalk S work for voice-to-speaker translation both ways, which is a huge plus, while the rest may require a bit of tweaking. read by one or more participants.In our test, the built-in LTE data connectivity was a breeze.Plus, the Pocketalk S is smaller than an iPhone, making it very easy to carry.
Runner up
Vasco V4
Another highly recommended pocket translator device is the Vasco V4. The smartphone-like device has a very simple interface, which makes it easy for outsiders to understand if needed. It comes with 108 languages (76 are voice-activated), so you'll probably be covered for any conversation. This also uses a built-in SIM card for data connectivity that you'll never have to pay for. It comes very close to the Pocketalk S, but the defining feature for us was the Pocketalk's slightly smaller size. our pockets tend to fill up quickly when we travel.
Headphone translator
timer M3
Headphone translators are another style of pocket translator. They are usually smaller (about the size of AirPods) and work great for discrete audio translation at all times. However, give up photo and text translation capabilities. If you want to go the headphone route, get these Timekettle M3s. You can share them with someone and have a quick, organic conversation without the device in the middle. 40 languages are loaded into the app, and the 25-hour battery life with the charging case (7.5 hours of continuous use) gives the M3 more juice than the options above.
Pocket Translator Buying Guide
Because it's a relatively new invention, distinguishing the good pocket translators from the bad ones can be difficult. Below are some features we considered when shopping for the best pocket translators.
Languages: Obviously, the more languages the better, so we've selected translators with dozens of languages (up to 104 at the most advanced). However, you want to make sure that a pocket translator is proficient in all the languages it supports. For example, some translators may support fewer languages than others, but they may also offer faster and more accurate translations. If you don't plan to use too many languages, just look for a high-quality translator who can nail down the language you want.
Connectivity: Most pocket translators have built-in data connections for translating without another device or WiFi connection. Some also work by connecting your smartphone and using your phone data or WiFi connection. The former (translators with built-in data) take the lead, as you can use them anywhere, anytime without a WiFi or smartphone connection.
Battery life: Keeping devices charged is always difficult while traveling, and unfortunately, it's also more devastating when your device dies (for example, when you're miles from the hotel and completely lost). Battery life with pocket translators varies quite a bit (even between high-end models), so be aware of this when shopping.
Data: As mentioned, most of the best pocket translators use built-in data connections to work. Fortunately, all of our data-connected options include a free two-year data plan. However, you'll want to check two things when it comes to data: coverage and the cost of paying for data after your free two years are up.
How we chose the best pocket translators
While testing pocket translators, we spent plenty of time playing with dozens of languages. But we also used them in real English-Spanish and English-French conversations, and while traveling for a few days in Portugal, having some conversations and using camera functions for text translations. After testing, we combed through customer feedback and other expert reviews to arrive at the picks above.
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