11 Best Handheld Language Translator Devices for Your Travels

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Imagine being able to understand Italian, French, or Thai… without knowing any of these languages. Sounds crazy, right? Well, I have three words for you: handheld language translator.

A handheld language translator device is exactly how it sounds. It’s a pocket-sized device that you can bring with you on your travels, a handy tool that lets you communicate with locals even if you don’t know the language.

Wondering how this device will make your travels better? Read on.

How handheld language translator devices work

Most of the devices that you will see online have two buttons. These buttons are perfect for conversing with locals or foreigners you’ll encounter on your trips.

It works like this: Some devices require that you set the languages first, but others don’t and simply detect the language. You hold one button as you speak into the device with your language. The device will then translate what you said. And then the other person will speak into the device while pushing the other button.

However, some devices, especially the smaller ones, have only one button and can automatically detect the language and translate it accordingly.

Some handheld translators also have cameras that can capture and translate the text in the images. No more getting lost in translation when reading restaurant menus or street signs!

Depending on which device you buy, you’ll need WiFi, a hotspot, or mobile data to use it. Some come with SIM cards or eSIM, some don’t. Some also have additional features that are useful when traveling, like currency converters and weather forecasts.

Also read: 5 Best Universal Translator Devices That Exist Right Now

Why use a handheld language translator device

You might be wondering, why use a separate device when you have your ever-reliable smartphone that can download translator apps? Here are a few reasons why.

Convenience

Because a handheld language translator is pocket-sized, it’s portable and easy to carry around than say, a language learning book or travel phrasebook.

Unlike smartphones, a translator device’s sole purpose is well, to translate. So you won’t have to go through multiple clicks and comb through apps just to get what you need.

Most devices have translation speeds of less than one second, so you can have real-time conversations with locals and other foreigners. More opportunities to make friends and learn about new cultures!

Speech accuracy

There’s no doubt that most translator apps like Google Translate have come a long way in terms of accuracy and coverage. But while these apps do well with text translations, they often mess up spoken translations because of mediocre voice recognition capabilities.

Handheld translator devices specialize in translating speech so these devices have better voice recognition functions. Some can even recognize accents.

Some of these devices are also powered by AI. This means the more you use these AI translator devices, the more they produce more accurate results.

Aid for language learning

You’ll likely need a handheld language translator if you’re someone who frequently travels to different countries. Unless you’re a hyperpolyglot, it’s tough to learn so many languages.

But that doesn’t mean you can’t take advantage of your translator device for learning new languages. In your downtime, you can use your device to practice your listening and speaking skills. That’s also getting your money’s worth!

Now that you know how these devices work and why you need them for your travels, let’s get down to business. Here are 10 handheld language translator devices that we recommend you use on your next trip.

Best handheld language translator devices

1. Fluentalk T1 Handheld Translator Device

Timekettle has perfected the art of making language translator devices. One of its latest offerings is the Fluentalk T1, a handheld device that’s capable of online, offline, and image translations.

The device is built with a 4-inch large touchscreen with an ultra-clear resolution of 540x1080P. Despite the relatively large screen, it’s just about the size of a credit card and weighs merely 115g, making it easy to carry anywhere you need when you travel.

The T1 supports online translations for 40 languages and 93 accents, while it provides offline translations for 13 language pairings, ensuring a seamless and worry-free travel experience. It also comes with free mobile data for up to two years so you don’t need to look for WiFi connection every time!

What’s more, this device produces accurate translations, thanks to its multi-microphone array and EDC noise reduction algorithm, effectively capturing human voice in noisy surroundings.

Check the price of this device.

Key features:

• Fast and accurate online translations for 40 languages and 93 accents
• Offline translations for 13 language pairings in 8 languages
• Supports listen mode, chat translation, and photo translation
• Excellent noise reduction system
• Compact and lightweight

2. Pocketalk Classic Language Translator Device

Pocketalk is one of the most recommended handheld language translators for good reason. This portable translator device not only gives up-to-date and accurate translations but also fast translations!

On average, the classic Pocketalk unit gives translations in 0.6 seconds. This produces real-time conversations with almost no pauses. Of course, this varies depending on your environment (i.e. connection speed, crowded and loud areas) but it’s generally fast.

This two-way handheld translator can translate up to 82 languages including dialects, jargon, and slang, and even swear words. Text is also displayed on the screen as you speak. It also has noise-canceling microphones that pick up every word you speak even in busy, loud areas.

This device comes with a SIM card that works in 133 countries. There’s a built-in two-year data plan when you buy so you can start using it anywhere a cellular signal is available.

Check the price of this device.

Key features:

• Supports 82 languages, including dialects, jargon, and slang terms
• Speedy two-way translation
• Built-in two-year data plan
• Pocket-sized, compact design
• Powerful speakers and noise-canceling dual microphones

3. Pocketalk Model S Two-Way Voice Translator

In 2020, Pocketalk released a new model of its well-loved handheld voice translator. Pocketalk Model S has all the features of the Pocketalk Classic, with some bells and whistles.

The best upgrade to this handheld language translator is its camera and image translation. With its eight-megapixel camera, you can easily read road signs, menus, and even handwritten text. The large touchscreen displays the translated text on top of the image along with an optional audio translation.

Pocketalk Model S also has wider mobile bands so you can expect improved connectivity. You can also set PIN locks and timed automatic history deletion to protect your device and conversations.

Aside from translations, this device can also convert currency, length, weight, and temperature. It’s very handy and recommended for travelers… if you don’t mind the $120 price difference between the Pocketalk Classic and this newer model, that is.

Check the price of this device.

Key features:

• Fast translations for up to 82 languages
• Built-in two-year data plan but can also be used via WiFi
• Camera and image translation
• Added security with PIN lock and history deletion
• Added conversion feature

4. CheetahTALK CM Translator

Sleek is the first word that comes to mind with this handheld language translator. Winner of the iF Design Award 2019, CheetakTALK’s CM Translator is small, lightweight, and classy.

Despite its size, you’ll find that the CM Translator has impressive features. It supports 42 languages and is powered by a Microsoft Cloud-based AI service for fast, accurate two-way translations. This allows for almost seamless back-and-forth translations with foreigners and quicker learning for language learners.

Unlike the Pocketalk translator devices, CM Translator only has a single button, a microphone, a speaker, and no built-in screen.

While this may be a downside for some, it lends the device simplicity and a much better battery life of up to 24 hours of use or 180 days of standby. I think it’s perfect for a full day of exploring without the need to recharge!

Check the price of this device.

Key features:

• Real-time and accurate two-way voice translations for 42 languages
• Can connect via WiFi or mobile data
• Superior battery life
• Sleek and minimalist design that comes in white and UV black variant
• Companion mobile app

5. Langogo Genesis 2-in-1 AI Translator Device

While a simple translator device is enough on most occasions, if you’re a frequent traveler, having a multipurpose device is a dream. Langogo Genesis is one such device – it’s not just an instant voice translator but also a mobile hotspot!

Langogo provides fast two-way translations for over 100 languages at the push of a button. Powered by 24 translation engines and self-learning algorithms, it automatically recognizes the inter-translation language and translates it automatically without the need for A/B buttons or extra apps.

But even better, Langogo Genesis has an eSIM that lets it act as a mobile hotspot router. It can connect up to five devices simultaneously to the Internet so it can be used when traveling with friends or family.

Moreover, it has an audio recorder function that can record voice for up to 16 hours and transcribe it into text. It also doubles as a voice assistant, delivering useful tourist information like weather forecasts, exchange rates, nearby attractions, and more.

Check the price of this device.

Key features:

• One-button accurate translation for over 100 languages
• eSIM technology that can be used as a mobile hotspot for up to 5 devices
• Lots of extra features
• Two-year data plan
• Good battery life with a standby time of around a week

6. BUOTH Language Translator

Capable of translating 106 languages in real-time, BUOTH’s Language Translator is one of the best handheld translator devices in the market.

This translator features two buttons that let you real-time translated conversations. Its 2.4-inch touchscreen shows translated text. BUOTH also claims 0.1-second response time and 99% accuracy rate and the Amazon reviews do show positive reviews for these.

BUOTH Smart Voice Translator has high-definition recording and noise-reduction microphones so you can use it even in the middle of a busy street when traveling. It also has a playback function so if others don’t hear it clearly, you can play it again. Pretty nifty, yes?

Check the price of this device.

Key features:

• Fast and accurate two-way translations for 82 languages
• Touchscreen and playback function
• 12-month warranty guarantee
• Works on WiFi and doesn’t require a subscription
• 1,200mAh battery that can withstand 8 hours of use and 7 days standby time

7. JoneR Translator

What’s better than an accurate handheld language translator? A translator that recognizes accents.

Not only does JoneR Voice Language Translator support 55 languages, but it can also recognize 75 regional accents. In less than a second, your speech will automatically be translated into both voice and text. With four noise-canceling microphones, you can be sure that this device will work perfectly in any environment.

This translator also comes with a 13-megapixel camera, letting you translate text in images in up to 15 languages. And since it sports a 3.1-inch touchscreen, you can see the displayed text more clearly.

JoneR Translator works via WiFI, hotspot, or SIM card. It also has an eSIM data plan for 121 countries that can also be used as a mobile hotspot for up to five devices.

Check the price of this device.

Key features:

• High accuracy and fast response time for 55 languages and 75 accents
• Camera with good resolution for image translations
• Large battery capacity
• Offline access for English-Japanese and Japanese-Chinese
• Equipped with Google Maps, Google Search, and currency converter functions

8. Birgus Language Translator Device

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At 98% accuracy, Birgus’ handheld language translator boasts the highest accuracy rate. Pauses are minimal as it translates speech in less than one second.

And with a coverage of 106 languages, it’s one of the most versatile translator devices in the market.

Birgus Language Translator integrates cutting-edge Neural Machine Translation and AI assistance to enhance AI translations and assistant capabilities, offering you a travel experience void of language barriers.

In addition to its voice translation function, it also supports photo translation with OCR and audio recording translation.

And it supports offline access for eight languages. If this is important for you, check this list of offline translator devices that work without WiFi.

Check the price of this device.

Key features:

• Supports 106 languages, 8 of which are available offline
• High accuracy and fast response time
• Photo translation
• Recording translation
• Compact design

9. Jarvisen Language Translator Device

If you’re like and you like multifunctional devices, the Jarvisen translator will not disappoint you. This device provides spot-on translations for 60 languages spoken in over 200 countries in less than 0.5 seconds.

Jarvisen has a 4-microphone array with noise cancellation to pick up sounds clearly and translate them accurately. And since it’s powered with contextual AI engine, it constantly improves and even recognizes professional jargon in healthcare, IT, finance, legal, and more!

In addition, this handheld language translator also offers offline translation for English, Chinese, Japanese, Korean, Russian, and counting.

Check the price of this device.

Key features:

• Fast and accurate translations in 60 languages
• Contextual translations using polysemy recognition
• 4-microphone array with smart noise reduction
• Jargon recognition for select professional industries
• Supports WiFi, 4G/LTE, nano sim card, Bluetooth, and mobile hotspot

10. Vormor Language Translator Device

The Vormor handheld language translator supports real-time translations in 106 languages online, 8 offline, and 45 languages for image translations. How’s that for useful?

Its two-way translations aren’t to be underestimated too. Equipped with Google and Microsoft translation engines, this device can translate in less than 0.5 seconds and with 98% accuracy.

What’s more, this device comes with high-quality dual microphones that can also work as a voice recorder during meetings, lectures, or speeches. With a built-in 1200mah battery, you can easily use it on your trips abroad!

Check the price of this device.

Key features:

• Real-time translations online and offline
• Image translations
• 2.4-inch high-definition screen
• High-standard microphones and noise cancellation
• Long battery life

11. Vavus Language Translator Device

Between you and me, this device isn’t as inconspicuous or as sleek as other translators on this list. It’s designed like a metallic block reminiscent of old phones.

But once you get past the looks, you’ll find that the Vavus language translator is just as great as the next device. It covers 109 languages and dialects while providing high accuracy and speed. Plus, it has an 8-megapixel camera that can also translate images.

It doesn’t end there. This device also provides offline translations in 12 languages and includes an exchange rate tool and unit conversion!

Check the price of this device.

Key features:

• Real-time two-way translations with 98% accuracy
• Offline translations for 12 languages
• Works with a sim card or WiFi
• Also works as a WiFi hotspot
• Can be used with an earphone or speakers for broadcast mode

What to look for in a handheld language translator device

You’ve probably made a shortlist based on the features and reviews of the above devices. But just in case you need more help choosing the right translator for you, here are some factors you need to consider.

Supported languages

This list includes devices that support 40 to over 100 languages. 40 is already a lot but if you think you will be needing more than that, go for the ones that support more languages.

Also, make sure that the language you more frequently encounter (i.e., Japanese, if you frequently travel to Japan) is included in the device’s coverage.

Translation quality

Most of the devices listed here claim over 90% accuracy rate.

If you want to further trim down your list, you can look at how many translation engines (i.e. Google, Microsoft, Baidu, etc.) the device use. Some devices use just one engine while others integrate multiple engines. The more translation engines used, the higher the accuracy will be.

Having AI assistance is also a plus. This means the device learns and gets smarter the more that you use it.

Connectivity and access

Do you need a device that supports a SIM card? An eSIM that can be used anywhere in the world? Or a device that connects via WiFi or hotspot only? Do you need offline access?

If you can be certain that you will have access to WiFi or a hotspot all the time, you probably won’t need a SIM card or mobile data.

Using a SIM card also means you’ll need a data plan so that’s an added cost for you. But some translator devices can act as a mobile hotspot which can be useful for travel.

Not all devices have offline access and some that do only support a few languages. Here’s a list of translator devices that work offline. Carefully weigh your options based on your needs.

Battery life

You wouldn’t want your translator’s battery running out while you’re in a foreign country where you don’t speak the language. Opt for a handheld language translator device that can last at least six hours of operating time.

Conclusion

There you have it! I hope this list of best handheld language translator devices inspired you to break the language barriers and brave new adventures on foreign lands… even if you don’t speak the local language!

These are all available on Amazon so they’re just a few clicks away. In case you need translator earbuds, translator headsets, or pen translator devices, we have guides for those too.

Happy trip planning and happy shopping!