Google Translate vs Human Translators: A Comparative Analysis
While translating a significant amount of text, companies look for options enabling them to do the task quickly, accurately, and cost-effectively! One of the most obvious choices companies make in this regard is Google Translate as it is free and instant. However, translation isn’t converting text from one language to another. While considering factors like cost and speed, companies shouldn’t ignore contextual relevance and accuracy. This is where human translators come into play.
So, what should you choose? That creates the need to understand the difference between Google Translate and human translators. So, let’s get straight to the point!
Google Translate vs Human Translators – Key Differences
Google Translate has revolutionized translations. However, the availability of instant translation support hasn’t made human translators redundant. So, how do you know which one is the right choice for you? Let’s come to that a little later. For now, let’s look at some key differences between Google Translate and human translations.
| Aspect | Google Translate | Human Translation |
| Speed | Instant translations for most of the text inputs | Translations can take a little longer given the human or manual effort involved. Besides, the speed varies upon translator’s experience, expertise and language understanding. |
| Quality and Accuracy |
Google translate uses statistical models and neural networks for text translation. Accuracy may depend on language pairs with results for common ones being more accurate than those less commonly spoken. Nevertheless, Google Translate may struggle with context-specific text, idioms and cultural nuances |
Human translations are much more contextually relevant, given the capabilities of human intellect and cultural comprehension. Increased accuracy, particularly in the case of complex text. Greater adaptability to the needs, preferences and expectations of the local audience. |
| Cost |
Google Translate is free for general use. Businesses can use it via API access. Furthermore, companies can save a lot using it for large volumes, yet with a straightforward translation requirement. After a certain usage Google Translation is chargeable as on Nov 2024 |
Human translators come with a cost attached to them, which could vary with the translator’s expertise, experience, the complexity of translation involved, the timeframe, etc. |
| Reliability | Reliable for basic translations but potentially inconsistent while dealing with specific terms and terminologies. | Highly reliable, particularly for translations concerning the healthcare, legal, or any other technical domain. |
| Data Security and Confidentiality | Interactions may not be secure. Queries entered may get stored in the database to improve further outcomes. | With human translators, you can sign NDAs to ensure the security and confidentiality of your document. |
| Flexibility | Google Translate’s flexibility is limited, given the pre-determined algorithms and models. | The adaptability and flexibility are extensive, depending on the translator’s ability to change and evolve per the situation’s demands. |
Google Translate vs Human Translations – Which One to Choose?
Now that’s a good and valid question! Between Google Translate and human translators, there’s no single winner. Why? It is because, on the one hand, you have technology that simplifies life and expedites tasks. On the other, you have human intellect and abilities that you can leverage the way you want.
So, while speed and cost matters, factors like contextual accuracy, quality, and adaptability prove equally important. Accordingly, the choice between the two depends on your project and target audience requirements.
For example, if you have a project with minimal complexities but a large volume requirement, Google Translate can prove the right choice. However, if the complexity is high and the volume is low, you may opt for human translators. In some cases, you can blend both to balance speed, accuracy, and quality.
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With expertise in over 200 languages and experience serving diverse domains, Filose proves the correct choice for professional translations! Translation and localization are among our core offerings. Our approach involves blending machine translation and human translation to deliver exemplary accuracy and phenomenal outcomes. Trust us for reliable translation support and timely project completion. Please email us at sales@filose.com to connect with our experts and get a free quote for your requirements.
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