XTM vs Smartling: Why enterprise teams choose XTM for scalable localisation
Looking for a more powerful alternative to Smartling?
XTM Cloud gives enterprise teams the tools to move beyond basic proxy translation—with scalable workflows, full content control, and support for complex file types. Compare side by side and see why global organizations choose XTM to scale smarter, reduce friction, and take ownership of their localization strategy.
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Why feature-rich teams choose XTM for comprehensive localisation
Smartling works fine if you’re just managing basic website translation. But growing teams hit walls fast. XTM delivers enterprise-grade translation management that actually scales. Thousands of global companies trust XTM when basic proxy translation just doesn’t cut it anymore.
Three reasons why XTM wins
What’s the difference between XTM and Smartling?
Both handle translation management, but they’re built for completely different worlds. Smartling targets marketing teams who need quick website localisation through proxy technology. Simple setup, bundled services, perfect for teams wanting everything handled by one vendor.
XTM takes on the messy reality of enterprise localisation. Marketing campaigns, legal docs, complex file types – all with AI-powered quality controls and visual context that actually works. Whilst Smartling keeps things simple with vendor lock-in, XTM gives you the depth and flexibility you need when your localisation requirements explode beyond basic website content.
Here’s a side-by-side comparison of XTM and Smartling:
Feature
XTM
Smartling
XTM vs Smartling: AI translation and automation
AI translation has turned everything upside down for organisations and multilingual content. Modern translation management systems use artificial intelligence to speed things up, catch more errors and cut out manual busywork. The best platforms combine multiple AI engines with smart quality controls to deliver translations you’d actually publish.
XTM vs Smartling: Visual context and previews
Visual context helps translators understand exactly how their work will look to real users. Seeing translations in their final format cuts out errors, improves quality and speeds up review cycles. The best translation management systems provide real-time previews across multiple content types.
XTM vs Smartling: Enterprise deployment options
Deployment flexibility determines where and how organisations can run their translation management system. Enterprise teams often need specific hosting arrangements to meet security, compliance, or data sovereignty requirements. The right deployment model ensures localisation workflows align with corporate IT policies without causing headaches.
XTM vs Smartling: Workflow configuration
Workflow configuration determines how translation projects move through different stages – from initial content creation to final publication. Flexible workflows adapt to unique business processes, whilst rigid systems force organisations to change established procedures. Enterprise teams need workflows that scale with their complexity.
XTM vs Smartling: Financial and vendor management
Financial management helps organisations track localisation costs, manage vendor relationships, and demonstrate return on investment. Enterprise localisation involves multiple stakeholders, complex billing arrangements, and detailed reporting requirements. Integrated financial tools eliminate manual processes and improve project visibility.
Try XTM, the Smartling alternative that actually scales
Ready to scale your localisation beyond basic website proxy translation? XTM delivers enterprise-grade translation management that growing teams actually need. From AI-powered workflows to visual context across any file type, see why thousands of global companies choose XTM for their localisation programmes.
Get started with a free trial or speak to our localisation experts about your specific requirements. Discover how XTM can transform your translation processes whilst maintaining quality and security standards your business demands.
FAQs
Smartling is a cloud-based translation platform used to manage and automate content localisation for websites, apps, and documents.
Smartling is generally well-regarded for its remote-friendly culture, though experiences may vary. If you’re looking to work on cutting-edge AI in localisation, XTM is also a growing team to consider.
The CEO of Smartling is Jack Welde, who also co-founded the company.
Smartling offers a traditional TMS approach with translation management and automation, while LILT focuses on human-in-the-loop adaptive machine translation. XTM, by contrast, blends both approaches with AI agents and deep customisation for enterprises.
Resources to help you compare and choose with confidence
Dig deeper into how XTM delivers faster localization, greater control, and real ROI—so you can make the right call for your team.
