Electronic language translators translate phrases from one language into another and often organize key phrases by subject type. For example, many language translators have sections on hotels, restaurants and airports. Translators are ideal for tourists and foreign students; they also come in handy for people who are brushing up on language skills.
Typical costs:
Nonspeaking models are the most basic language translators and typically include a full QWERTY keyboard and a flip-up screen. Some models handle multiple languages; others are restricted to a single language. Nonspeaking translators generally cost $10-$30.For example, a Franklin 5 Language European Translator[1] sells for about $25.
Text-to-speech translators are slightly more expensive than nonspeaking models, but offer the added benefit of hearing someone speak a specific phrase. Text-to-speech translators typically cost $60-$200, depending on the complexity, features, language and size of dictionary. More comprehensive models, and more obscure languages, can cost more. For example, the ECTACO Spanish-English translator[2] costs $90.
Some text-to-speech translators, built in pen form, can scan the written word and provide text or speech translations. The pen-type is popular among students and language learners. For example, Wizcom makes a variety of Quicktionary[3] pens that scan text and provide translations of words and common phrases. The pens cost $159 -$229.
Speech-to-speech electronic translators recognize and translate spoken words and typically cost $100-$700. For example, iTravl[4] devices cost $320 and interchangeable 2GB SD cards cost $60 each.
What should be included:
Language translators should come with a data bank of hundreds of thousands of translations as well as thousands of phrases. Typically, language translators have batteries similar to those in watches, which are replaceable but have extremely long lives.
Additional costs:
Replacement batteries for electronic translators cost $5-$20.
Discounts:
Language translator apps are available for Android, Apple and Windows phones. Most of the apps are free or sell for less than $5, but reviews on functionality are often mixed.
Services online such as Google Translate[5] offer free translation services.
Shopping for electronic language translator:
TopTenReviews.com provides a comparison guide[6] of popular electronic translators.
10 Quick and Inexpensive Home Makeover Projects To Do While At Home You may not be able to host the large family gathering for the holidays, but there are still many ways to pick up items curbside to spruce up your indoor space for your everyday enjoyment and to bring a more festive spirit. || Posted December 30 2020
10 Key Ways to Prepare for Extreme Snow Forecasters are predicting a true nor'easter will hit the eastern and central states with rain, thunderstorms, ice, snow and high winds over the Thanksgiving weekend. It's crucial to plan ahead, before bad weather hits. || Posted November 26 2013
CostHelper is based in Silicon Valley and provides consumers with unbiased price information about thousands of goods and services. Our writers are experienced journalists who adhere to our strict editorial ethics policy.
CostHelper Community
shoulder mri Paid: 8000.00 Seriously, 8K for an MRI before all the secret insurance kicks in. I was stuck with a 1200 bill and my insurance is pretty good. This is insane for a 20 minute procedure with no nurse assistance... [more]
what should have cost under 100 Paid: 399.67 had my back wheel stuck on someone's driveway and I was pulled out as easily as a tractor could have done... [more]
Why is dental insurance stuck in the 80's? Paid: 55000.00 In 1986, I started my first full time Big Girl job, which came with options for medical insurance that ranged from "Volkswagon to Cadillac, and everything in between" which was up to me to choose based on my needs, what I could af... [more]