i18next vs Smartling: Which Should You Choose in 2026?
Choosing between i18next and Smartling 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
- • A comprehensive JavaScript i18n framework for web, mobile, and desktop.
- • Offers advanced features beyond basic localization, including plugins for language detection and translation loading.
Smartling
End-to-end localization & translation services for global growth powered by AI.
Best for you if:
- • You want the higher-rated option (9.0/10 vs 0.0/10)
- • AI-powered translation and localization platform for various content types.
- • Automates up to 99% of the translation process with 50+ integrations and APIs.
| At a Glance |  i18next |  Smartling |
|---|---|---|
Price | Free | Paid |
Best For | Translation | Translation |
Rating | —/100 | 90/100 |
| Feature | i18next | Smartling |
|---|---|---|
| Pricing Model | Free | Paid |
| Editorial Score | — | 90 |
| Community Rating | No ratings yet | No ratings yet |
| Total Reviews | 0 | 0 |
| Community Upvotes | 0 | 0 |
| Categories | Translation | TranslationAI Assistants |
How i18next and Smartling Compare
i18next
Internationalization framework for JavaScript, providing a complete localization solution for any platform.
Free
Smartling
End-to-end localization & translation services for global growth powered by AI.
Paid · 90/100 score
Who Should Use What?
On a budget?
i18next is free. Smartling is paid.
Go with: i18next
Want the highest-rated option?
Smartling scores 90/100. i18next is unrated.
Go with: Smartling
Value user reviews?
Neither has user reviews yet.
Go with: Smartling
3 Questions to Help You Decide
What's your budget?
i18next is free. Smartling is paid. Go with i18next if free matters most.
What's your use case?
Both are translation tools. Compare their specific features to decide.
How important are ratings?
Not all tools have been rated yet.
Key Takeaways
Smartling
- Higher score: 90/100 vs unrated
- Our pick for this comparison
i18next
- Completely free
The Bottom Line
Smartling (90/100) is our pick. That said, i18next is free — hard to beat on price.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is i18next or Smartling better?
Smartling scores 90/100 in our evaluation. i18next is free and Smartling is paid.
What are i18next and Smartling used for?
i18next: Internationalization framework for JavaScript, providing a complete localization solution for any platform.. Smartling: End-to-end localization & translation services for global growth powered by AI..
What does i18next cost vs Smartling?
i18next is completely free. Smartling is a paid tool. Visit their websites for detailed pricing.