There was a time when Google Translate was a popular application when it came to translating into any language. Now the situation has changed, and Google Translate has a big competitor – Bing Microsoft Translator (also known as Bing Translate). The app’s functionality and the variety of languages ??it offers place it very close to the top of the list of the best online translators
If you don’t spend some time using both Google Translate and Microsoft Translator, it will be difficult for you to choose the best one. We have tested both apps and put together a comparison guide that highlights the best and worst features of these translators so you can make the right choice.
Google translation
A good choice for you if: you are looking for an app that can do everything and offers the maximum number of languages.
Not good for: Those looking for a translation app for less common languages, or those looking for a better conversation translation app.
- 109 languages ??are available.
- Clean and intuitive interface.
- A web version is available.
- 6 different translation modes.
- Ability to translate text from any other Android application.
- Offline mode.
- Not every language supports all translation modes.
- No talk mode. One-way translation only.
- The accuracy of the translation may vary from language to language. Especially when it comes to full translation of a sentence.
Google Translate is a free translator from Google that can be used on both computer and smartphone. The browser version has 109 languages ??and allows you to translate web pages, text and documents.
The mobile application has a wide range of functions. Application translation modes include:
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- Type. You can translate any text that you type in the application.
- Write. You can use your touchscreen to manually write any text and translate it in the app.
- Discussion. Google Translate uses your smartphone’s microphone to translate the text you speak.
- Snap. When you take a photo of any text, you can use the app to recognize and translate it.
- See You can use the app to translate text in real time while recording video.
The latter is especially impressive. You can point your smartphone camera at any text in another language, and the app will translate it in real time. This feature can make navigation to a new location and reading foreign signs almost effortless.
Another benefit is the ability to use Google Translate offline. All you have to do is download the language packs once when you first start using the translator and then you can use it without an internet connection. This feature will come in handy when you travel to a place where you don’t speak the language.
Google Translate would be unbeatable if all of the above features were available in all 109 languages ??the app offers. The main disadvantage of this online translator is the different levels of language support.
You can only use all translation modes with commonly used languages. Once you step outside this circle, you will find that some modes are not available. Some languages ??on the list can only be translated by typing.
Bing Microsoft Translator
A good choice for you if: you need an application that provides easy translation of a conversation in real time, or if you want to learn a new language.
Not Good For: Anyone who wants a single app that can translate to any language.
- Translation accuracy.
- An interactive and colorful interface.
- A web version is available.
- Wearable applications available.
- Split screen talk mode.
- Phrasebook for learning languages.
- Offline mode.
- Only 60 languages ??are available.
- Some languages ??do not support all translation modes.
- Language detection in camera mode is not accurate enough.
Bing Translate is a free translation tool from Microsoft that you can use on your computer, smartphone, Apple Watch, and Android Wear. The browser version is limited to translating text and web pages.
However, Microsoft Translator applications allow you to work in several different translation modes:
- Text. You can translate any text that you type in the application.
- Voice. Bing Translate uses your phone’s microphone to translate the text you speak out loud.
- Camera. When you take a photo of any text, you can use the app to recognize and translate it.
- Conversations. The app uses your smartphone’s microphone to broadcast your conversation with another person in real time.
The conversation mode that Bing Translate offers is really impressive. The app splits your screen in two, allowing you to choose different languages ??for each person.
For example, if you speak English and your friend speaks Russian, you can use the app to chat in real time without going back and forth for translation. Your friend will see on the screen everything you say, already translated into Russian.
Another handy feature of Bing Translate is the phrasebook. It contains all the essential phrases you might need when traveling in a foreign country. It can also be useful if you are using an app to learn a new language, not just translations.
Compared to Google Translate, there are not many languages ??in Microsoft Translator. However, Microsoft prioritizes quality over quantity. Most languages ??are fully supported and can be used for all translation modes offered by the application.
Like Google Translate, Bing Translate allows you to download language packs that you can use to translate text and images while offline.
Which is the best translator app for you?
Both Google Translate and Bing Translate have their own advantages. Each application can be of great help to you depending on your circumstances. Bing may be the best option for seamless communication, while Google is a great choice for those looking to cover as many languages ??as possible.
Which of the two translation apps are you using? What’s your favorite feature? Share your experience with us in the comments section below.
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