When comparing WPML (WordPress Multilingual Plugin) and Polylang, two popular WordPress plugins for creating multilingual websites, several key differences and considerations come into play:
WPML
Features:
Comprehensive Translation Management: WPML provides a full-fledged translation management system, making it easy to translate posts, pages, custom types, taxonomies, menus, and even the theme’s texts.
Multilingual eCommerce: WPML offers robust support for WooCommerce, allowing you to create multilingual eCommerce sites.
Translation Services Integration: It integrates with various professional translation services for outsourced translation work.
Automatic Translation: WPML includes options for automatic translation using machine translation services.
Compatibility: It is highly compatible with most WordPress themes and plugins.
Ease of Use:
WPML is designed to be user-friendly, but its extensive features can result in a steeper learning curve for beginners.
Performance:
WPML is known to be quite powerful but can be heavy on server resources, especially on larger sites.
Pricing:
WPML is a premium plugin with various pricing tiers, starting from around $39 per year for a single site license, going up for more comprehensive packages.
Polylang
Features:
Core Translation Functionality: Polylang allows you to create multilingual content for posts, pages, media, categories, tags, and custom post types.
Customizable Language Switcher: It includes a customizable language switcher widget.
eCommerce Support: Polylang offers WooCommerce support, but this feature is available only in the Polylang Pro version or with a separate plugin (Polylang for WooCommerce).
Automatic Translation: Basic automatic translation is available but not as integrated or extensive as WPML’s offerings.
Ease of Use:
Polylang is often praised for its simplicity and straightforward interface, which many users find easier to manage, particularly for smaller websites.
Performance:
Polylang is generally considered lighter and less resource-intensive compared to WPML, making it a good option for smaller to medium-sized websites.
Pricing:
Polylang offers a free version with basic features. Polylang Pro, which includes more advanced features, starts at €99 per year.
Summary
Choose WPML if:
You need a comprehensive solution with advanced translation management capabilities.
Your site is complex, possibly including an eCommerce component.
You prefer having integrated support and access to professional translation services.
Choose Polylang if:
You’re looking for a lightweight and easy-to-use solution for a smaller website.
You need basic multilingual capabilities without the higher cost.
You prefer starting with a free option and upgrading if necessary.
Both plugins have their strengths and are well-suited for different types of users and website requirements. Your choice should depend on the specific needs of your website, your budget, and your preference for ease of use versus feature set.