Lokalise vs Smartling
Updated June 2026 · A structured head-to-head comparison.
The verdict
Both Lokalise and Smartling are credible localization tools, and the right pick comes down to your priorities.
Choose Lokalise if you want a lower starting price (from $140/mo). Translation management for software teams.
Smartling — Enterprise translation management.
Lokalise vs Smartling: side by side
| Dimension | Lokalise | Smartling |
|---|---|---|
| Starting price | From $140/moWinner | Custom |
| Free plan | No | No |
| Pricing model | Subscription | Subscription |
| Best for | Product Teams, Developers, Localization Managers | Enterprise, Localization Managers, Global Brands |
| Platforms | Web, Api | Web, Api |
| Rating | 4.6/5 | 4.4/5 |
Lokalise key facts
- Vendor
- Lokalise
- Pricing
- Subscription — From $140/mo
- Free tier
- No
- Platforms
- Web, Api
- Best for
- Product Teams, Developers, Localization Managers
- Editor rating
- 4.6 / 5
- Founded
- 2017
- Headquarters
- Dover, DE, USA
Smartling key facts
- Vendor
- Smartling
- Pricing
- Subscription — Custom
- Free tier
- No
- Platforms
- Web, Api
- Best for
- Enterprise, Localization Managers, Global Brands
- Editor rating
- 4.4 / 5
- Founded
- 2009
- Headquarters
- New York, NY, USA
Frequently asked questions
Is Lokalise better than Smartling?
Neither is universally better — Lokalise edges ahead on overall rating, but the best choice depends on price, platforms, and your use case. See the side-by-side table above.
Is Lokalise or Smartling cheaper?
Lokalise is the more affordable of the two to get started, at from $140/mo. Lokalise starts at from $140/mo; Smartling starts at custom.
Can Lokalise replace Smartling?
Yes for most teams — both are localization tools with heavily overlapping features. The main trade-offs are pricing and platform support, covered in the comparison above.