What are CAT Tools and why are They Important for Professional Translators?

To answer this question, it’s important to understand what exactly CAT tools are good for – and how they differ from machine translation engines. A CAT tool is a software program used by professional translators that helps optimize their workflow so that they don’t have to translate entire documents from scratch. It works by breaking up text into smaller components such as phrases or words, which then can be translated more quickly and accurately.

The main benefit of using a CAT tool is that it helps translators save time by leveraging existing translations from past projects. This means the translator doesn’t have to start completely from scratch every time, but instead can use the tool to check for any similar phrases or words that have already been translated – allowing everyone to build on what’s already there. With machine translation engines, this process goes one step further: The engine itself does some of the work for you, automatically translating large portions (or even entire documents) with accuracy that is becoming increasingly closer to human-level quality.

However, because of its automated nature, MT (machine translation) engines still require additional manual editing and correcting in order to ensure accuracy. This is why CAT tools are still widely used, despite the rapid development of machine translation: They allow translators to work more quickly and accurately by leveraging past translated material, while also giving them ultimate control over the quality of their translations. In a nutshell, MT engines make the process faster while CAT tools help maintain quality.

10 Popular CAT Tools on the Market

Now that you know what they’re good for, let’s take a look at some of the most popular CAT tools for professional translators on the market.

Here’s a quick list of 10 top-notch CAT tools:
1) SDL Trados Studio
2) Phrase (former Memsource Cloud)
3) XTM Cloud 
4) Smartcat
5) MateCat 
6) Doc3™ 
7) Wordfast Anywhere
8) Idiom WorldServer
9) Déjà vu X3 Professional Suite  
10) Lingotek Translation Manager

If you are a freelancer, you might be interested in this list of the best free translation software for freelance translators that is efficient and won’t break the bank.

Benefits of Cloud vs Desktop Tools for Translation Projects

The above CAT tools can be divided into two main categories: cloud-based CAT tools, and desktop CAT tools. Cloud-based CAT tools are ideal for teams of translators who need to collaborate on projects in real-time. These tools provide a shared workspace where multiple translators can work on the same project simultaneously. Some popular cloud-based CAT tools include Memsource Cloud, XTM Cloud, Smartcat, and Doc3™.

Desktop CAT tools are designed for individual translators who need a more user-friendly interface. These tools provide a range of features such as automated translation memory management, terminology management, and quality assurance checks. Popular desktop translation software includes SDL Trados Studio, Memsource Editor, Wordfast Anywhere and Idiom WorldServer.

The pricing models for these tools vary depending on the type of tool and the features included. Cloud-based solutions typically charge a monthly subscription fee based on usage or number of users, while desktop applications usually require an upfront purchase with optional maintenance fees for upgrades and support.

The Place of CAT Tools in the Age of AI-Powered Machine Translation Engines

So, it’s clear that CAT tools still have an important role to play in the translation industry – even in an age where AI-powered machine translation engines are rapidly advancing.  By leveraging existing translations and giving translators ultimate control over the quality of their work, CAT tools can help streamline processes while also ensuring accuracy and consistency.

That’s why they will continue to be a vital part of the localization landscape for years to come! That’s it for this post – but if you’d like to find out more about these tools, why not check out some of the CAT tools mentioned above? There’s something for everyone, whether you’re a beginner or a seasoned professional.

Get Exploring, Find the Right CAT Tool For You!

At its core, CAT tools are an invaluable asset to any professional translator. They help streamline the translation process, reduce time and effort, and – most importantly – ensure ultimate accuracy and consistency in translated texts.

If you’re in the market for a translation tool, look no further than Doc3 ™, the CAT tool for professional translators that is perfect for freelance translators and small to medium-sized LSPs. With advanced features and a sleek, modern design, Doc3™ lets you take control of your translation projects like never before.

This translation software is compatible with all standard translation file formats including SDLXLIFF, MQXLIFF, and TRANSIT TPF. Plus it offers some convenience features such as low-cost subscription Add-ons, including Private Cloud Storage, Real-time Translation QA, and the Doc3™ MT Engine features. So why wait? If you’re looking for an efficient CAT tool that won’t break your budget, look no further than Doc3™.

Try Doc3 ™ today and see for yourself!