MateCat vs Lokalise: Which Should You Choose in 2026?
Choosing between MateCat 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:
MateCat
Translate documents quickly and accurately with AI-powered CAT tools.
Best for you if:
- • You want to try before committing
- • You need translation features specifically
- • Open-source, cloud-based CAT tool for efficient document translation.
- • Utilizes machine translation, translation memories, and glossaries.
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 |  MateCat |  Lokalise |
|---|---|---|
Price | Free + Paid | Paid |
Best For | Translation | API Tools |
Rating | —/100 | 85/100 |
| Feature | MateCat | Lokalise |
|---|---|---|
| Pricing Model | Freemium | 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 MateCat and Lokalise Compare
MateCat
Translate documents quickly and accurately with AI-powered CAT tools.
Free tier available
Lokalise
Localization platform for teams
Paid · 85/100 score
MateCat is a translation tool. Lokalise is in api tools.
Who Should Use What?
On a budget?
MateCat has a free tier. Lokalise is paid only.
Go with: MateCat
Want the highest-rated option?
Lokalise scores 85/100. MateCat 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?
MateCat is freemium. Lokalise is paid. MateCat lets you start free.
What's your use case?
MateCat 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
MateCat
- Has a free tier
- Better fit for translation
The Bottom Line
Lokalise (85/100) is our pick. MateCat has a free tier if you want to test without paying.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is MateCat or Lokalise better?
Lokalise scores 85/100 in our evaluation. MateCat is freemium and Lokalise is paid.
What are MateCat and Lokalise used for?
MateCat: Translate documents quickly and accurately with AI-powered CAT tools.. Lokalise: Localization platform for teams.
What does MateCat cost vs Lokalise?
MateCat is freemium (free tier + paid plans). Lokalise is a paid tool. Visit their websites for detailed pricing.