TranslateMyLetter vs. translation apps and AI chatbots
Short answer: a translation app tells you what the words say. TranslateMyLetter tells you what the letter means for you — what to do, by when, and how to reply formally.
| Translation apps (e.g. Google Translate, DeepL) | General AI chatbots | TranslateMyLetter | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Translates the text | ✓ | ✓ | ✓ explained in plain language |
| Finds your deadline | ✗ | If you ask | ✓ highlighted, with calendar reminder |
| Tells you what to do | ✗ | If you ask | ✓ step-by-step actions |
| Explains official jargon | Word-for-word only | If you ask | ✓ the key terms decoded |
| Drafts a formal reply in the letter's language | ✗ | If you write the right prompt | ✓ with a translation for you |
| Multi-page letters | Page by page | Varies | ✓ up to 4 pages as one letter |
| Keeps your letter | Check their policy | Often saved in chat history — check settings | ✗ never stored |
| Price | Free | Free or subscription | First letter free, then €1.99 |
When a free translation app is enough
If a letter is short, clearly informational ("your card has been sent") and asks nothing of you, a free translation app is fine. Use TranslateMyLetter when there's a deadline, a demand, a decision you might want to contest, or a reply you need to write.
When a general AI chatbot is enough
A general chatbot can explain a letter if you know what to ask and are comfortable with how it stores your conversation. TranslateMyLetter is purpose-built: the same structured answer every time — sender, deadline, actions, jargon, formal reply — without prompting, and without keeping your letter.
When you need a professional instead
For court documents, refusals of residence, large tax debts, or when an authority requires a certified translation, use a qualified lawyer, tax advisor or sworn translator. TranslateMyLetter is not a substitute for professional advice.