i18next vs Lokalise: Which Should You Choose in 2026?
Choosing between i18next and Lokalise comes down to understanding what each tool does best. This comparison breaks down the key differences so you can make an informed decision based on your specific needs, not marketing claims.
By Toolradar Team · Last updated February 28, 2026 · Methodology
Short on time? Here's the quick answer
We've tested both tools. Here's who should pick what:
i18next
Internationalization framework for JavaScript, providing a complete localization solution for any platform.
Best for you if:
- • You need something completely free
- • You need translation features specifically
- • A comprehensive JavaScript i18n framework for web, mobile, and desktop.
- • Offers advanced features beyond basic localization, including plugins for language detection and translation loading.
Lokalise
Localization platform for teams
Best for you if:
- • You want the higher-rated option (8.5/10 vs 0.0/10)
- • You need api tools features specifically
- • Automates and streamlines translation and localization projects.
- • Uses AI and integrations to accelerate workflows and ensure quality.
| At a Glance |  i18next |  Lokalise |
|---|---|---|
Price | Free | Paid |
Best For | Translation | API Tools |
Rating | —/100 | 85/100 |
| Feature | i18next | Lokalise |
|---|---|---|
| Pricing Model | Free | Paid |
| Editorial Score | — | 85 |
| Community Rating | No ratings yet | No ratings yet |
| Total Reviews | 0 | 0 |
| Community Upvotes | 0 | 0 |
| Categories | Translation | API ToolsTranslation |
How i18next and Lokalise Compare
i18next
Internationalization framework for JavaScript, providing a complete localization solution for any platform.
Free
Lokalise
Localization platform for teams
Paid · 85/100 score
i18next is a translation tool. Lokalise is in api tools.
Who Should Use What?
On a budget?
i18next is free. Lokalise is paid.
Go with: i18next
Want the highest-rated option?
Lokalise scores 85/100. i18next is unrated.
Go with: Lokalise
Value user reviews?
Neither has user reviews yet.
Go with: Lokalise
3 Questions to Help You Decide
What's your budget?
i18next is free. Lokalise is paid. Go with i18next if free matters most.
What's your use case?
i18next is a translation tool. Lokalise is in api tools. Pick the category that matches your needs.
How important are ratings?
Not all tools have been rated yet.
Key Takeaways
Lokalise
- Higher score: 85/100 vs unrated
- Our pick for this comparison
i18next
- Completely free
- Better fit for translation
The Bottom Line
Lokalise (85/100) is our pick. That said, i18next is free — hard to beat on price.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is i18next or Lokalise better?
Lokalise scores 85/100 in our evaluation. i18next is free and Lokalise is paid.
What are i18next and Lokalise used for?
i18next: Internationalization framework for JavaScript, providing a complete localization solution for any platform.. Lokalise: Localization platform for teams.
What does i18next cost vs Lokalise?
i18next is completely free. Lokalise is a paid tool. Visit their websites for detailed pricing.