As international travel becomes increasingly popular and more accessible, tourists are finding new ways to broaden their experiences. While resort destinations and luxury hotels still get plenty of business, many people are making choices that help them further immerse themselves in the local culture, such as staying in an Airbnb, going on a local food tour, or using public transportation. Going off the beaten path has created a stronger need for portable, accurate translation devices that don’t rely on your phone service to work.
A portable language translation device is a necessity for any international traveler. Even if you know a few basic phrases, having a translator at your fingertips can help you avoid unexpected roadblocks or misunderstandings. These convenient two-way voice translators enable you to have conversations in real-time without searching online or relying on your phone and most will fit conveniently in your pocket. You can also use these powerful online communication tools for business!
Qualities of a Good Real-Time Translator
When shopping for a new translator, there are a few features to look for:
- Multiple language support
- WiFi requirements
- Device size
- Translation response time
- Dictionary features
- Touch-screen
There are dozens of excellent translation devices on the market. Reading reviews on Amazon can help you narrow down your choices as well. Here are some of our top picks for the best translator devices for international travelers.
Pocketalk
This portable language translator device supports 74 different languages using AI-powered instant voice translation. The Pocketalk comes with its own two-year data plan and Bluetooth capabilities. Small and efficient, this impressive device allows you to translate almost anywhere without the need for a hotspot.
The touchscreen is very easy to navigate, making it a great choice for new travelers. A longer, seven-hour battery life also makes it an excellent choice for tourists planning busy days.
BUOTH Smart Voice Translator
The BUOTH Smart Voice Translator is a budget-friendly option that supports 70 different languages. The two-way translator uses WiFi and mobile hotspots to deliver prompt, accurate translations. Noise cancellation also allows you to easily translate conversations in loud or crowded environments. The small device comes with a USB charger, so you won’t need to worry about finding a compatible outlet if you are traveling overseas.
Langogo Pocket AI Translator
This powerful voice assistant is a traveler’s best friend and one of the best online communication tools for business! In addition to supporting 105 different languages, the Langogo Pocket AI Translator helps tourists by providing important information on the go, such as exchange rates, hotel or attraction information, weather forecasts, and more. The smart voice assistant is powered by 24 translating engines and quickly utilizes WiFi to deliver fast, accurate information. eSIM technology integration allows you to connect to the Internet without swapping the device’s embedded SIM card or manually connecting to Wi-Fi.
ZOTO Smart Language Translator
If you are seeking an efficient, low-budget option, the ZOTO Smart Language Translator is for you! This small touchscreen device supports 42 languages using WiFi or mobile hotspot. One thing that sets ZOTO apart from other devices is the battery life. A powerful 1200mAh battery offers 12 hours of working time or 7 days of standby time. While you should still pack a charger just in case, this battery life is more than enough for many tourists.
The ZOTO Smart Language Translator also has many of the features international travelers need, including an independent noise-reduction microphone and a large, easy-to-read touchscreen. It also provides quick translations in about 0.3 seconds provided it has an Internet connection.
MORTENTR Smart Voice Translator
Noise-canceling microphones are a must for tourists traveling to noisy, crowded cities. The MORTENTR Smart Voice Translator is known for providing clear sound. You’ll also be able to replay audio if needed.
The MORTENTR Smart Voice Translator supports 70 languages using WiFi or mobile hotspot. The convenient device offers exceptional voice-to-text translations in real time. With a long 10-hour battery life, it is easy to see why many tourists invest in this unique device.
Sogou Salange Pro Translator Device
The Sogou Salange Pro is a larger translator with a larger, 3.1-inch color touchscreen. This two-way translator utilizes Smart AI to provide speedy translations in up to 42 different languages. While you will need a WiFi or mobile hotspot connection, it is able to translate English to Chinese while offline, making it ideal for travelers going to Asia.
One thing that sets the Salange Sogou Pro apart from other travel-friendly translation devices is its photo recognition feature. You’ll be able to translate the text on menus and signs, helping you to better navigate your surroundings independently. While this feature is only available in English, Japanese, and Chinese, the feature may be expanded in the future.
WT2 Language Translator Earbuds
If you are looking for a hands-free option, the WT2 Language Translator Earbuds easily connect to your phone’s Bluetooth and support 36 different languages. With each person using an earbud, you can have clear translations instantly. Touch mode allows you to isolate your voice, so the earbuds won’t pick up any excessive noise. If you don’t want to lend your earbud to people or you are talking to multiple people, you can activate speaker mode instead. This makes it one of the best online communication tools for business.
Alcorrect JoneR Translator
The Alcorrect JoneR Translator is a small device that resembles a tiny phone. The colorful touch display clearly shows translations in 55 different languages. Like many other translation devices, you will need WiFi or a mobile hotspot to access real-time translation services; however, the device does offer offline two-way translation between English and Chinese. Object recognition features also make the device ideal for tourists who want to immerse themselves in the local culture as independently as possible.