Translation & language
LibreTranslate
A free translation server you can self-host
Popularity
★ 16k
Last update
August 2026
License / pricing
AGPL-3.0
Category
Translation & language
What it does
An open translation API and web app that runs entirely on your own machine.
Summary based on the project's own description. The Japanese page has a fuller beginner guide: setup difficulty, what to prepare, and a step-by-step start.
Screenshots & visuals
Before you start
- Setup difficultyEasy to start
- Command lineRequired
- API keyRequired
- Sends data onlineNo
Judged automatically from the project's own metadata. Always confirm on the official page.
LibreTranslate FAQ
- Is LibreTranslate free?
- LibreTranslate itself is free, but it needs an API key for an external AI service. That service charges separately, though some have a free tier.
- Do I need to install anything or write code to use LibreTranslate?
- It needs the command line. If you are not comfortable typing commands, expect to get stuck during setup.
- Does LibreTranslate work on a phone?
- No. It needs a computer.
- Can I use LibreTranslate commercially?
- The licence is AGPL-3.0. Using it commercially is fine, but if you distribute something built on it you may be required to release that under the same licence. Keep it internal, or check before distributing.
How it compares
The conditions that decide whether you can actually use it, side by side.
| Tool | Command line | API key | Sends data out | Phone | Commercial use |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| LibreTranslate (this page) | Required | Required | No | No | Yes |
| RTranslator | Not needed | Not needed | No | Yes | Yes |
| LiveCaptions-Translator | Not needed | Required | Yes | No | Yes |
| MouseTooltipTranslator | Not needed | Not needed | Yes | No | Yes |
"Sends data out" means your input is uploaded to someone's server. Pick "No" when the material cannot leave your organisation.