WPML Review: Key Translation Plugin Features for 2025
Written by
- Redaction Team
- Digital Marketing, WordPress Blog
WPML continues to be a leader among WordPress translation plugins, providing a robust solution for creating a multilingual site. This review takes a close look at WPML’s translation features, its compatibility with popular page builders and themes, and its overall value as a premium plugin.
Discover why WPML stands out as the best WordPress translation plugin in this WPML plugin review and how it can help you translate your entire site into 65 languages and more.
What is WPML and How Does It Work?
WPML is a powerful multilingual plugin designed specifically for WordPress websites. It offers a translation service that lets you translate interface strings directly, add a translation for pages, posts, custom post types, taxonomy, and more. Whether you want to translate your site manually or use professional translation services, WPML provides flexibility and dedicated support for both approaches.
Key points about WPML:
- Multilingual CMS: Allows you to create a multilingual website that caters to different languages and regions.
- Translation Management Page: WPML’s centralized translation management page simplifies the translation process.
- Integration: Seamlessly works with popular WordPress plugins and themes, including woocommerce.
- Automatic Translation: WPML comes with automatic translation credits, helping you kick-start the translation process for your content.
Understanding the WPML Plugin for WordPress
WPML is more than just a translation tool—it’s a comprehensive WordPress multilingual plugin that integrates with your site’s core functionalities.
How to Install WPML on Your WordPress Site
Getting started with WPML is straightforward:
- Purchase a WPML Plan: Choose the plan that fits your number of sites and CMS plan requirements.
- Download the Plugin: After purchasing, download the core plugin and any add-ons you need.
- Install and Activate: Upload the plugin to your WordPress website and activate it.
- Configure Settings: Set up your language switcher, define the taxonomy for translated content, and connect your WPML account.
- Start the Translation: Use the translation management page to add a translation to your content manually or set up automatic translation credits.
Overview of WPML Translation Features
WPML provides a comprehensive set of translation features that cater to both beginners and advanced users:
- Professional Translation Services: Collaborate with certified translators directly through the plugin.
- Automatic Translation: WPML’s automatic translation credits allow you to translate content quickly, though there are limitations when translating complex content.
- Language Switcher: Easily add a language switcher to your site to help visitors navigate between different languages.
- Integration with WooCommerce: Ideal for creating a multilingual ecommerce store, WPML integrates seamlessly with WooCommerce Multilingual & Multicurrency with WPML plugin.
- Regular Updates: WPML offers regular updates, ensuring compatibility with the latest wordpress version and themes.
Key Features of WPML 4.7 Version in 2025
WPML 4.7 introduces significant improvements to streamline the translation process and enhance user experience:
- New Translation Dashboard – A completely revamped dashboard that allows you to manage all translations from a single screen, including posts, pages, WooCommerce products, forms, and widgets. It also provides a word count estimate before translation.
- Easy String Translation – WPML now auto-detects untranslated texts from themes and plugins directly from the site’s frontend, making string translation effortless.
- Enhanced Advanced Translation Editor – Features smarter segmentation (grouping paragraphs for a more natural translation flow), and a layout mirroring the WordPress editor for better content structure.
- Automatic Glossary Retranslation – Updates to the WPML Glossary can now automatically retranslate affected content, ensuring consistency across the site.
- Seamless Plugin Integration – Improved compatibility with major plugins, including WooCommerce Multilingual, ACF Multilingual, WPML SEO, and CF7 Multilingual.
WPML 4.7 is gradually rolling out, but users can update manually through the WordPress admin panel to experience these new features immediately.
WPML Pricing Plans
Multilingual Blog
€39
- Standard Translation: ✅
- Advanced Editor: ❌
- Automatic Translation: ❌
- String Translation: ❌
- Translation Management: ❌
- Page Builder Support: ❌
- Websites: 1 Production, 3 Development
Multilingual Agency
€199
- Standard Translation: ✅
- Advanced Editor: ✅
- Automatic Translation: 180,000 credits
- String Translation: ✅
- Translation Management: ✅
- Page Builder Support: ✅
- Websites: Unlimited
Is WPML Worth Your Time and Money?
When considering any WordPress plugin for creating a multilingual website, it’s important to evaluate both the cost-effectiveness and user satisfaction.
Comparing WPML to Other Translation Plugins
WPML stands out from its competitors with features such as:
- Comprehensive Translation Management: Unlike some translation plugins for WordPress that are limited to translating posts only, WPML allows you to translate interface strings directly and supports a wide range of content types.
- Integration: WPML integrates with popular WordPress plugins and themes, including the most widely used page builders and ecommerce solutions like woocommerce.
- Professional Services: It goes beyond the free plan limitations by offering dedicated support and professional translation services.
Analyzing the Cost-Effectiveness of WPML
WPML is a premium plugin, but its benefits often justify the cost:
- Multiple Languages: Translate your entire site into different languages effortlessly.
- Dedicated Support: Enjoy customer support that operates 6 days per week, ensuring help is always available.
- Translation Credits: Automatic translation credits and regular updates ensure that WPML stays competitive and relevant.
User Feedback on WPML Performance
Users of WPML often highlight:
- Ease of Use: Despite the wide array of features, the interface is designed to be user-friendly.
- Reliability: Regular updates and a robust support forum make WPML a go-to plugin.
- Multilingual Capabilities: Whether you want to create a multilingual cms or simply translate your site’s interface, WPML provides all the necessary tools.
How Easy is it to Use WPML?
WPML is designed with user experience in mind, balancing a rich feature set with intuitive usability.
User Experience and Ease of Use
The plugin’s interface is streamlined for efficiency:
- Clear Dashboard: A well-organized dashboard makes it easy to manage translations.
- Step-by-Step Setup: From installing the plugin to configuring your language switcher, WPML offers clear instructions.
- Support Resources: Access to a support forum and dedicated customer support ensures that any issues are resolved quickly.
Step-by-Step Guide to Creating a Multilingual Website
Follow these steps to translate your site effectively:
- Install WPML: Begin by installing the WordPress plugin for creating multilingual websites.
- Configure Languages: Set up your desired languages and arrange them in a language switcher.
- Add Translations: Translate your pages, posts, and custom post types using the translation management page.
- Test Your Site: Preview your site in multiple languages to ensure that everything displays correctly.
- Optimize: Regularly update WPML and check the support forum for any common issues or new tips.
Common Issues and Solutions in Using WPML
Some challenges may arise when using WPML:
- Plugin Conflicts: Occasionally, conflicts may occur with other plugins and themes. WPML offers regular updates to mitigate this issue.
- Translation Errors: Automated translations might not always be perfect. Consider using professional translation services for more accuracy.
- Configuration Challenges: New users may face difficulties configuring the translation process; detailed documentation and a support forum are available to help.
What Are the Best WPML Alternatives?
While WPML is one of the best WordPress translation plugins, it’s wise to know the alternatives available in the market.
Comparative Analysis of Popular WordPress Translation Plugins
Other popular WordPress multilingual plugins include:
- Polylang: A favored alternative that offers a free plan, though there’s no free version of WPML. Used Polylang users appreciate its simplicity.
- TranslatePress: Known for its intuitive interface and visual translation process.
- Weglot: Offers a robust translation service with an emphasis on automatic translations.
Pros and Cons of WPML vs. Polylang
WPML:
- Pros:
- Comprehensive translation management features.
- Integration with woocommerce and popular WordPress themes.
- Regular updates and dedicated support.
- Cons:
- Premium pricing may not suit every budget.
- Some learning curve for new users.
Polylang:
- Pros:
- Offers a free plan for basic multilingual setups.
- Simple and lightweight.
- Cons:
- Fewer features for professional translation services.
- Limited integration with some plugins and themes.
When to Choose a Free Version of a Translation Plugin
If you are just starting out or have a limited budget, a free version like the one offered by Polylang might be sufficient. However, for those who want to create a multilingual WordPress website with professional translation services, WPML provides a more comprehensive solution that translates your entire site efficiently.
How Does WPML Handle Automatic Translation?
WPML’s automatic translation features simplify the process of translating content, making it one of the best WordPress translation plugins for busy site owners.
Understanding WPML’s Translation Management Features
WPML integrates a translation management page that:
- Centralizes Translation: Manage all translation tasks from one dashboard.
- Assigns Translators: Easily assign tasks to translators or opt for professional translation services.
- Monitors Progress: Track translation progress across different pages and posts.
Using Translation Credits Effectively
Automatic translation credits provided by WPML allow you to:
- Start the Translation Process Quickly: Use credits to translate your site’s content immediately.
- Optimize Costs: Manage your credits carefully to ensure you’re using them for high-priority content.
- Integrate with Professional Services: Supplement automatic translations with manual reviews and professional translation services if necessary.
Limitations of Automatic Translation with WPML
While WPML’s automatic translation is a strong feature, there are some limitations:
- Accuracy: Automated translations may require human review to ensure accuracy.
- Complex Content: For content with technical terms or specific taxonomy, manual translation may be more effective.
- Customization: Certain language nuances might not be captured perfectly without a professional translator.
Can WPML Be Used with Page Builders?
WPML integrates well with many popular page builders, making it an excellent choice for creating a multilingual blog or website.
Integrating WPML with Popular Page Builders
WPML integrates seamlessly with popular page builders, allowing you to:
- Translate Plugins and Themes: Ensure that both your theme and plugin content are fully translated.
- Maintain Design Consistency: Keep your multilingual site looking uniform across different languages.
- Support for Custom Layouts: Easily translate complex layouts created with drag-and-drop builders.
Creating a Multilingual Blog Using WPML and Page Builders
To create a multilingual blog:
- Choose a Compatible Page Builder: Select one that works well with WPML.
- Install and Configure WPML: Follow the setup process to add a language switcher and configure translation settings.
- Translate Your Content: Use the translation management page to add translations for blog posts, pages, and interface strings.
- Test and Optimize: Preview your site in multiple languages and adjust as needed.
Challenges in Page Builder Compatibility with WPML
While WPML works with many page builders, some challenges may include:
- Layout Issues: Certain custom layouts may need adjustments after translation.
- Plugin Conflicts: Occasionally, conflicts can occur with popular WordPress plugins and themes. However, WPML offers regular updates and dedicated support to resolve these issues.
Conclusion WPML Review
WPML offers a comprehensive and user-friendly approach to translating your site into multiple languages. Its robust translation process, compatibility with woocommerce and popular WordPress plugins, and dedicated customer support make it one of the best WordPress translation plugins available in february 2025.
For anyone looking to create a truly multilingual WordPress website, WPML provides the tools necessary to translate your entire site seamlessly. Whether you’re a beginner or an experienced developer, the multilingual cms capabilities and regular updates ensure that your site remains current and user-friendly.
WPML’s advanced features, including the ability to translate interface strings directly and use automatic translation credits, have positioned it as a go-to plugin for creating a multilingual site. Its regular updates, professional translation services, and integration with popular page builders and themes make it a standout wordpress plugin for creating a multilingual site that supports different languages and provides a seamless translation service.
Whether you want to translate your site manually, use professional translators, or combine both methods, WPML allows you to add a translation that enhances your website’s reach and usability. With support for 65 languages, a robust taxonomy system, and detailed customer support available 6 days per week, WPML comes as a reliable, feature-rich option for anyone looking to build a truly multilingual wordpress website.
Explore WPML today to unlock a world of multilingual possibilities for your site.
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