When it comes to business services such as translations, finding the biggest firm with the cheapest price may not always be the best practice.
Partnering with a suitable translation company should be a venture into finding the right fit for you, your project, your industry and your ethos!
Searching for the ‘best translation company’ will give you some great suggestions, but are they the perfect fit?
There are a variety of factors you must consider when choosing your translation service which excludes the price!
(These are based off research and off the opinions and information found online.)
Considerations
Are they trustworthy?
At the end of the day, a service is only as good as those completing it. The issue arises when every agency claims they provide the best translation services. So who do you believe?
The easiest way to check their credibility is by checking their Google Reviews and TrustPilot.
Also, any good company should display their case studies on their website!
Do they provide high-quality translations?
If the reviews aren’t clear around the quality of the translation itself, and they talk about other aspects of their experience then here’s a trick;
If your project has a significant word count, a translation agency should be happy to give you a small sample translation for free to display the quality of their work.
Are they ethical?
A decent translation company should be aware of the exploitative nature of the use of translators, in which late/underpayments are made for such valuable work. Do they care about the environment? In today’s world firms are more likely to partner with a sustainable company that genuinely cares about the environment and the future of the planet.
Take the time to see if they provide information regarding their practices!
Having a business that cares will reflect in their working relationship with you, as they understand that in the service industry, money exchanging hands is not the only important aspect.
Do they deliver projects on time with good communication?
When companies take on your project, a time frame should be discussed and given for the delivery of the translation.
The agency should also be transparent in its communications, so that both parties know what to expect. Use the reviews as a resource to find out whether they keep their word on these aspects.
If a time frame is not mentioned then this is a red flag!
Here’s our top 12 Translations Agencies That You Can Rely On
1. Translated (Rome, Italy)
Translated has been operating for over 20 years now and has dealt with around 253,231 clients, in 194 languages, in 40 areas of expertise.
They have been growing at a steady rate increasing their production from an average of 180,000 translations delivered in 2015, to 360,000 in 2018! No small feat.
They claim to value their employee’s and customers’ wellbeing with the utmost importance, whilst keeping sustainability firmly at the core of their vision.
Amongst other awards, in 2015, the European Commission awarded one of their projects as one of the best AI research projects of the previous 7 years.
Industries
- Advertising & Marketing
- Banking
- Business
- Gaming
- Manufacturing & Engineering
- Medical
- Travel
Are they trustworthy?
Translations have a high Trustpilot Rating of 4.8 Stars. These are all raving reviews on efficiency and quality.
They also have an array of successful case studies available on their website, with their latest one being with travel industry giant Airbnb.
Do they provide high-quality translations?
Based on their many positive reviews, and their portfolio of case studies, we believe they do provide high-quality translations!
Are they ethical?
Translated have a lot of respect for the environment, and are continuously making strives to benefit the climate! They currently deliver carbon-free translations and have various ongoing projects that will benefit the future of the world.
One of many; Restoring Einstein’s Father’s power plant!
Their translators and employees have also left sparkling reviews on their Glassdoor, with the main theme being the respect and feeling of being a part of a team that they receive whilst working there.
Do they deliver projects on time with good communication?
Their many reviews and multiple case studies would suggest that they definitely do.
2. Global Translations UK (Manchester & London, United Kingdom)
Global Translations UK are a youthful team, bringing vibrance to a very old market. With fresh ideas, they understand the importance of results-driven and customised high-quality translations in the modern age of technology.
With a vast network of trusted, experienced translators, they can deliver translations in over 120 languages.
They have won the Corporate Live Wire’s Award for Translation Agency of the Year for the past two years, and intend to keep up this streak!
They are known for their outstanding Technical Translation Services. With this, they are a very strong second contender, in a market of giants, a personable touch, tailored to your business goals, with a lighter price tag, is a breath of fresh air.
Industries
- Advertising & Marketing
- Business
- Banking
- Energy & Environmental
- Financial
- Gaming
- International Trade
- Legal
- Retail
- Technology
- Manufacturing & Engineering
- Travel
Are they trustworthy?
Global Translations UK currently have a 5 Star Rating on all platforms. Across Trustpilot and Google reviews, they have gained over 88 Five Star Reviews. With an impressive 100% customer satisfaction rate, they have built a fantastic reputation.
As previously mentioned, they have also been awarded Translations Agency of the Year for the last two years running by CorporateLiveWire
They are also ISO 17100: 2015 and ISO 9001: 2015 certified, the seal of approval from an external body whereby a company complies with internationally recognised ISO management systems.
These external sources of validation confirm that Global Translations UK are trustworthy.
Do they provide high-quality translations?
According to the reviews available online, they do provide high-quality translations as claimed!
They also offer a free sample translation for large projects to ensure that you are satisfied before making the commitment.
Are they ethical?
Global Translations UK intends to change and make a statement on the industry. It’s well known for the big firms to mistreat their translators, by either underpaying them or providing late payments, where those completing the difficult translations simply don’t see the money until the agency is paid by their client.
Global Translations UK are making active efforts to break the negative stigma and mistreatment of translators by ensuring all payments are punctual and translators are not underpaid. The industry norm is a 30 – 45 days payment terms. Global Translations UK intend to undo this trend, by paying their translators either before a project has begun, or as soon as it is completed.
On Glassdoor (employee rating system), Global Translations UK have a 5 Star rating, with some flattering reviews from previous employees as seen below!
Furthermore, they have committed to planting a tree for every translation! Quite out of the ordinary for this sector, but this clearly shows their value for the environment and the future of the world. Below is a picture of the locals planting trees in Madagascar.
Previously, Global Translations UK have also sponsored members of the local community. One example is a sportsman, contributing towards furthering their career. Helping to build and enhance their local community is of great importance to them.
Do they deliver projects on time with good communication?
Global Translations UK will not continue with a project without a time frame being agreed upon. This is to insure both translator and client are happy with the agreement. Once doing so they can confidently say they’ll meet the delivery time without any complications!
Global Translations UK prides itself on its no-messing, transparency, which creates smooth sailing for all of their projects.
These claims of hitting delivery times are all backed by their reviews which preach excellence in this department.
3. Tomedes (Beaverton, United States)
Tomedes aims to meet the translation needs of businesses and close the quality gap.
They have since grown massively with a 97% client satisfaction rate.
This wouldn’t have been possible without their large network of translators, which can offer translations in 120 different languages.
Not only do they have outstanding reviews, but they are also members of the American Translators Association!
Industries
- Automotive
- Advertising & Marketing
- Banking
- Legal
- Medical
- Technical
Are they trustworthy?
Tomedes’ portfolio of reviews is sparkling! They have received 92 reviews on Google, averaging 4.9 Stars. They have also received 294 reviews on Trustpilot, also avergaing 4.9 Stars.
Tomedes’ has provided an extensive list of successful case studies on their site, which also displays that they’re trustworthy.
With a 97% satisfaction rate, their volume of work, shows consistency and is very impressive!
They are also fully ISO certified!
Do they provide high-quality translations?
Based on their great reviews, we believe they do.
Are they ethical?
When a company has cases of mistreatment of their translators, there are always running themes and evidence within reviews.
On Glassdoor Tomedes generally have good reviews, holding a 4.3 Star rating. There are bad reviews, which may indicate some unethical practices in the treatment of some employees which should be noted.
Do they deliver projects on time with good communication?
It is safe to say Tomedes do deliver projects on time with great communication.
4. Espresso Translations (London, United Kingdom)
Espresso Translations are a fast-growing London-based translation agency. They are a customer-driven company that promises reliable, accurate and affordable translations. Founded in 2011, it is one of the newer translation agencies on the market!
They have continued to grow, and now boast a network of over 2000 translators, offering translations in over 150 language combinations.
Industries
- Medical
- Financial
- Legal
Are They Trustworthy?
Espresso Translations have 55 Google Reviews, averaging 4.9 Stars. They also have 31 Trustpilot Reviews, and hold 4.5 Stars here!
These combined reviews are very impressive to say the least!
They are also ISO 17100 : 2015 certified.
Do they provide high-quality translations?
Based on their shining array of reviews, we believe they certainly do provide high-quality translations.
Are they ethical?
Espresso Translations has been built by translators, so they understand the hardships of this industry. There is nothing to suggest they are unethical in their work so we must assume that they are!
There isn’t much information available online.
Do they deliver projects on time with good communication?
The reviews available would suggest that they definitely do!
5. Absolute Translations (London, United Kingdom)
Absolute Translations are quite the corporate agency, with a large employee base. They have been around since 2001, so know their way around the Translations Market!
They provide translations in over 200 tongues, which is impressive.
Absolute translations were recognised for their good work in 2012 and gained membership of Goldman Sachs 10KSB!
This is a market giant, whose corporate appeal brings in the big companies.
Industries
- Advertising & Marketing
- Business
- Financial
- Government
- IT
- Legal
- Medical
- Technical
Are they trustworthy?
Absolute Translations currently hold a 4.8 Star Rating on Google and TrustPilot. They have received over 1,800 reviews in total.
Do they provide high-quality translations?
According to the reviews available online, they do provide high-quality translations as claimed!
Are they ethical?
Due to their large pool of resources, Absolute Translations has the ability to offer services to everyone. They pride themselves on inclusivity.
On Glassdoor, there were a few discrepancies.
This review was left by one of their previous project managers.
There is not a lot here to suggest ethical practices from Absolute Translations including misogyny, uncomfortable working environments and dishonest practices.
In general, their reviews are mediocre on Glassdoor, averaging 3.9 Stars. However, it would be naive to overlook such bad ones!
Do they deliver projects on time with good communication?
Based on the many positive reviews regarding their delivery and quick communication, we believe that they do deliver projects on time, with good communication.
6. RWS Group (Buckinghamshire, UK)
RWS Group was founded in 1958, making it one of the oldest translation companies around. They have an impressive global network of 7,500+ people, which they claim consists of many industry experts.
One of their slogans and commitments is to “Making Global Connection a Reality.”
In 2015 RWS Group won the Queen’s Award for Enterprise! One of the highest accolades for business success.
A long-standing business with a large foothold in the industry!
Industries
- Automotive
- Banking
- Business
- Gaming
- Government
- Legal
- Lifescience
- Managed Care
- Manufacturing & Engineering
- Media
- Retail
- Technology
- Travel
Are they trustworthy?
There aren’t a lot of direct customer reviews available online on platforms like Trustpilot, however, their case study portfolio on their website is very impressive.
Having the trust of such huge companies can quickly put them into the trustworthy category when it comes to delivering the work promised.
Do they provide high-quality translations?
Again, referring to their catalogue of top-tier case studies, it is safe to say that provide high-quality translations.
Are they ethical?
RWS has been part of the United Nations Global Compact initiative since 2020;
“A voluntary leadership platform for the development, implementation and disclosure of responsible business practices.”
This initiative aims to develop and reach levels of sustainability in even the largest corporations. A great global measure.
When it comes to the treatment of employees and translators, their Glassdoor reviews show a mediocre 3.7 Star Review. Most reviews are positive about the company, but we have found evidence of underpayment of staff and translators.
Here is one of the substandard reviews.
Do they deliver projects on time with good communication?
Due to there being few client reviews online, the case studies must be relied on. These are all very flattering and would suggest the projects are delivered on time with good communication.
7. Talking Heads (Sheffield, United Kingdom)
Talking Heads are another great agency, over 20 years old! Their message is clear, they are passionate about creating multilingual content, tailored for your sector.
It’s not clear from their website exactly how many languages they have available for translation, however, they do boast a network of over 11,000 linguists worldwide.
They have received recognition from ATC UK Language Services Market Survey, which named them as the 3rd fastest growing language service provider in the UK.
This is another incredible Translations Agency who have been around for a long time!
Industries
- Advertising & Marketing
- Animals
- Business
- Banking
- Energy & Environmental
- Gaming
- International Trade
- Legal
- Manufacturing & Engineering
- Medical
- Public Sector
- Retail
- Technology
- Sport
- Travel
Are they trustworthy?
Talking heads have around 11 reviews on Google at a 4.9 Star rating and 7 reviews on indeed at a 4.6 Star!
You would hope for a few more to be sure, but this seems like a great start.
They are also ISO 17100: 2015 certified.
Do they provide high-quality translations?
Based on their 11 Google Reviews, it would be reasonable to suggest that they do!
Are they ethical?
Talking Heads describes how it is a family-run business, which you’d think allows them to have a unique level of care and attention to detail when it comes to their clients.
The reviews from current and ex-employees on Glassdoor show that they have an average rating of 4.6 Stars! In general, most employees seem to be happy here, however, there were some negative reviews;
This is an interesting perspective that certainly brings the working environment into question. We don’t believe what is stated is unethical, but it certainly doesn’t look great.
Do they deliver projects on time with good communication?
Their reviews would suggest that they deliver projects on time and provide communication while doing so.
8. The Translation People (Manchester, United Kingdom)
The Translation People have been in business for 42 years! They have a wealth of experience and hold down 9 different offices across Europe and the United States.
They offer translations in 320 language combinations, using a pool of just over 5,000 linguists.
This is impressive!
Industries
- Advertising & Marketing
- Animals
- Banking
- Business
- Energy & Environmental
- Gaming
- Insurance
- International Trade
- IT
- Legal
- Manufacturing & Engineering
- Medical
- Public Sector
- Retail
- Sport
- Technology
- Travel
Are they trustworthy?
The Translation People don’t have any visible reviews on Google or TrustPilot, however, do boast a large client portfolio on their website and provide various case studies available for reading.
These all seem very legitimate, especially due to the addition of video testimonials from some of their clients.
It would be nice to see some of these reviews on external platforms.
Do they provide high-quality translations?
Based on some of their sparkling testimonials, we believe they do.
Are they ethical?
There’s no mention of specific ethical commitments by The Translation People on their website. However, they have various blogs named ‘meet the translator,’ in which the translator expresses their experiences working with the company.
This indicates that The Translation People aim to keep healthy relationships with their translators, which is what we love to see.
They have one review on Glassdoor that definitely backs up this point too!
Do they deliver projects on time with good communication?
Based on their client testimonials, they provide fast services with good communication from a friendly team.
9. Global Voices (Stirling, United Kingdom)
Global Voices has been around since 2004, an experienced business to say the least. They hold a network of over 9000 translators, spreading over 150 languages.
Their values are as stated; “Customer satisfaction is at the heart of everything we do at Global Voices. We are an expert language solutions provider, aiming to create a suitable solution for every customer.”
Industries
- Automotive
- Banking
- Education
- Gaming
- Government
- Legal
- Lifescience
- Manufacturing & Engineering
- Media
- Retail
- Technology
- Travel
Are they trustworthy?
Global Voices do not have a Trustpilot feature, however, they do have some Facebook and Glassdoor reviews.
On both Facebook and Glassdoor, they have received a very mixed bag. They’re averaging 3 Stars across the board.
Facebook:
In terms of the bad reviews, there is little that brings the trustworthiness of the company’s services into question.
Most around the delivery of work are positive. We believe the questions start with their ethics on the treatment of employees and working culture.
Whether you believe these effects their trustworthiness, is up to you, but we believe it does.
Global Voices do however boast some great testimonials on their website. Including Red Bull, the BBC, Disney and Samsung.
Do they provide high-quality translations?
Based on their successful Case Studies displayed, and some of the noteworthy companies they have worked with, we believe they do provide high-quality translations.
Are they ethical?
No, passing interns’ work as qualified professional translators to clients is dishonest.
And on Glassdoor;
The treatment of staff and overall principles in a business’s ethos shape their ethics! Having multiple reviews like this is a clear indication of unethical conduct.
Do they deliver projects on time with good communication?
Their Case Studies and service reviews would suggest that they do deliver projects on time with good communication.
10. LanguageLine (California, United States)
LanguageLine is a thriving translation and interpretation agency, that aims to reduce the limitations felt by a continuously diversifying world.
They boast a 98% client retention rate, translating over 200 languages, through their network of 12,000 linguists. Impressive!
Industries
- Finance
- Legal
- Healthcare
- Police & Criminal Justice
- Government
Are they trustworthy?
LanguageLine are ISO 17100:2015-05, ISO 9001:2015, ISO 18587:2017, and CAN/CGSB 131.10-2017 certified, which means they follow the correct process requirements!
They have 43 reviews on Google, with an average 3.6 Star Rating. These are a very mixed bag to be completely honest!
Do they provide high-quality translations?
The majority of responses are very positive on the external rating sites, this would indicate that they do provide high-quality translations. They also offer an array of successful case studies on their blog, which would confirm this!
Are they ethical?
They have a boat load of ethical commitments which is great to see.
Environmental awareness
- “85% of our workforce field call from their own home offices.”
- “LanguageLine encourages all interpreters to use public transport, and not private vehicles, where it is practical.”
- “Face-to-face and in-person British Sign Language interpreting assignments to video and telephone engagements.”
Sustainable workforce
- “LanguageLine’s work at home model also adds to our resilience; our ability to maintain employment for our workforce and support for our clients even during times where physical human movement is restricted by incidents such as extreme climate conditions and global health pandemics.”
Chosen Charities
LanguageLine hold various fundraisers each year for the following charities;
- Cancer Research UK
- The Food Chain
- Hearing Dogs for Deaf People
- Mental Health Foundation
Do they deliver projects on time with good communication?
Within the mixed bag of reviews, there is no mention of poor timing in the delivery of translations. So we can assume that LanguageLine deliver their projects on time.
There is however some discrepancies around their communication, so you can do some more digging yourselves, and see how you get on!
11. Lionbridge (Waltham, United States)
Lionbridge Translations takes claim to being one of the oldest and most certified in the game! Having their 25th anniversary this year, with continual success is impressive in itself.
“We’re bridge-builders. Barrier-breakers. Linguistic experts and cultural translators.”
They boast their AI-driven services, that cover over 350 different languages. They have a network of over 500,000 translators in around 5,000 different cities.
Lionbridge was named as One of America’s Best Employers in 2021 among many other awards over the years.
Lionbridge are supposedly the gold standard of translations!
Industries
- Automotive
- Banking
- Business
- Gaming
- Legal
- Lifescience
- Manufacturing & Engineering
- Retail
- Technology
Are they trustworthy?
Lionbridge Translations also have fairly mixed external reviews. With Trust Pilot rating them 2.5 Stars, and Google Rating them 3 Stars.
They are also ISO 17100: 2015 certified, which shows they are compliant to the international ISO management system!
Many of the bad reviews are from those working for the company. The trouble with such Corporate Translation Agencies is the Translators often get overlooked, which can lead to poor treatment of them.
They do also have an extensive list of successful case studies that you can check out for yourself on their website.
Do they provide high quality translations?
Based on their lengthy portfolio of case studies, with big business clients, it is safe to say they provide high-quality translations.
Are they ethical?
Based on what has been read online from previous translators, and various review sights, the evidence shows they are unethical.
Do they deliver projects on time with good communication?
Lionbridge pride themselves on delivering in some of the fastest turnaround times possible, with great communication. You can be sure to get your project back in time for your deadline.
12. Mars Translation (Guangdong, China)
Mars Translation is one of the leading international translation platforms. Starting in 2012, Mars Translation has put their stamp on the market. They offer translations in over 150 languages, and they have a pool of over 5000 translators worldwide.
This company is on the corporate end of the translation agency spectrum, delivering high quantities of translations at a vast rate.
Their mission is to act more as an online portal that will connect those in need of translations with those capable of providing them
This is a great option if you need a cheap, quick translation.
Industries
- Advertising & Marketing
- Banking
- Business
- Gaming
- Manufacturing & Engineering
- Medical
- Travel
Are they trustworthy?
As an internationally known agency, it is surprising to see some of the reviews they have received.
On TrustPilot they are at an average of 3.6 Stars and on TranslationReport have received 2.2 Stars.
I don’t believe it’s a case of being untrustworthy, but simply not delivering the high standards expected.
Do they provide high-quality translations?
It seems that the nature of delivering so many translations at a cheap rate has developed a gap in the quality of the service. Which in our opinion is the most crucial aspect when it comes to translations.
Are they ethical?
There is no mention of any ethical commitments on Mars Translation’s website.
There is however a couple of mentions of potentially unethical business on their reviews page. Deriving from their treatment of certain translators. Here it is;
And..
Saying this, they do have balancing opinions, and this could have been a couple of unfortunate experiences!
Do they deliver projects on time with good communication?
There are also fairly mixed reviews in this category also. The majority concludes that yes they do tend to deliver projects in a timely fashion, and communicate with clients.
We hope our considerations around the businesses within the translation market may come in useful. These reviews have been based on what is currently available online.
