With so many tools available—from translation management systems (TMSs) to browser-based AI assistants—choosing the right approach to machine translation can feel overwhelming.
To help you make the best choice, we’ve broken down the four most common machine translation (MT) options and their pros and cons.
Contents:
1. Introduction to the four machine translation options
b) Using a self-service MT tool
c) Direct access to an MT engine
Getting started: What are the four ways to access machine translation?
Machine translation has come a long way, and businesses now have more choice than ever regarding how they access it. From simple browser tools to enterprise-grade platforms; the right solution depends on your goals, budget and how much control you need.
Below, we discuss the four main approaches to MT and help you figure out which one is the best fit for your business.
1. Renting a TMS (translation management system) with built-in MT
Examples: CrowdIn, Smartling, Memsource
A TMS is a comprehensive platform that handles the entire localisation workflow. It integrates machine translation with translation memory, human review, and collaboration tools.
Not sure which TMS is right for you?
Our Comtec Advisory service offers tailored, independent advice to help you choose the right platform, configure it to your needs, and roll it out successfully across your team. Whether you’re comparing providers or navigating setup, we’re here to guide you.
Best for:
- Companies with ongoing, high-volume localisation needs
- Teams managing multiple languages and stakeholders
- Organisations that need integration with tools like GitHub, Figma or CMS platforms
Pros:
- All-in-one solution for managing translation workflows
- Supports large teams and collaboration
- Scales easily across regions and languages
- Secure and enterprise-ready
Cons:
- Higher costs (subscription, user seats, setup)
- Steep learning curve
- Overkill for occasional translation needs
- Setup can be time-consuming
2. Using a self-service MT tool from a language service provider (LSP)
Example: Pronto by Comtec
These tools offer a balanced solution: machine translation combined with translation memory, glossaries, and human review options. They’re ideal for businesses that want automation but still need brand consistency and support.
Best for:
- Businesses needing fast, accurate translation with minimal complexity
- Teams translating customer support, HR, training or marketing content
- Organisations without a dedicated localisation team
Pros:
- Quick, easy access to accurate translations
- Customised to your brand and style guide
- Automated post-editing comes as standard via *Pronto Auto Edit™
- Human post-editing is available when needed, thanks to *Pronto Pro Edit™
- Secure, with expert setup and support
- Scalable and cost-effective
Cons:
- Not a full project management solution
- Fewer integrations compared to enterprise TMS platforms
*Pronto Auto Edit™ provides fast, AI-powered post-editing as standard—ideal for everyday translation needs. For content that demands extra precision, Pronto Pro Edit™ adds a layer of expert human review by a professional linguist.
Want to know more? Download our brochure or get in touch; we’d love to schedule a free, personalised demo to show you how Pronto can help your business grow from as little as £550 a month.
3. Direct access to MT providers
Examples: DeepL Pro, Google Translate API, Microsoft Translator
You can plug into these MT engines via browser tools, plugins, or APIs. It’s also possible to integrate them into your TMS or CMS. They’re quick and easy but not always business-grade.
Best for:
- Startups or teams with very basic translation needs
- Developers looking to build their own tools
- Companies happy to sacrifice consistency for speed
Pros:
- Very fast and often low-cost
- Easy to use with minimal setup
- Great for ad hoc translations
Cons:
- No translation memory or glossary integration
- No built-in human review
- Potential data security concerns
- Limited language support vs. other options
4. Using AI-based chatbots for translation
Examples: ChatGPT, Claude, Gemini
LLM chatbots can generate translations on the fly, especially in conversational or creative contexts. They’re surprisingly powerful—but lack consistency and control.
Best for:
- Individuals or teams needing quick, informal translations
- Creative or marketing content
- First-draft translations or rewrites
Pros:
- Context-aware and flexible
- Helpful in adapting or summarising content
- Easy to refine via prompts
- Low cost
Cons:
- No translation memory
- Inconsistent output
- Not secure or compliance-ready
- Translations are at risk of hallucinations and AI bias
What matters most to your business?
Each approach to machine translation offers different strengths—so the best option for your business depends on what you value most.
Before choosing a solution, it’s worth asking yourself:
- How often do you need translation?
If it’s an occasional task, lightweight tools might be enough. But if translation is part of your day-to-day operations, you’ll benefit from something more robust and scalable. - How important is accuracy and brand consistency?
Free tools and chatbots can be helpful, but they don’t remember past translations or follow brand guidelines. If the tone of voice and terminology matter, look for a solution that supports glossaries and translation memory. - Do you need human input or quality control?
Some teams are happy with raw MT, while others need the reassurance of expert human review, especially for public-facing or regulated content. - What kind of support and setup do you need?
If you don’t have an in-house localisation team or tech resources, it’s wise to choose a provider that offers onboarding, training, and ongoing guidance. - Do you need integration with other platforms or workflows?
More advanced tools can be plugged into your CMS, design tools, or dev stack, saving time and reducing manual handovers. - What’s your budget and internal capacity?
MT solutions vary widely in cost, from free browser-based tools to enterprise systems with full automation. The right fit should offer value for money without overcomplicating your workflow.
There’s no one-size-fits-all answer, just the right fit for your team, goals, and workflow.
Need a bit more guidance?
Choosing the right machine translation approach can be tricky, especially with so many options on the market. If you’re still deciding, we’re here to help.
Did you know we have an advisory service?
We also offer Comtec Advisory , an independent, expert service designed to guide you through every stage of your machine translation journey. Whether you’re exploring MT for the first time or looking to optimise an existing setup, we can help you assess your needs, recommend the optimal solution, and provide practical support for selecting and implementing a TMS that fits your business.
We’re always happy to talk things through on the phone. If you prefer, you can leave your details below, and one of our team will contact you at a time that suits you.
No pressure, no jargon—just friendly, practical advice to help you make the best choice.
In the meantime, feel free to download our Pronto brochure to learn more about how Pronto can help your business grow internationally, from as little as £550 a month.