Translation proxy services have revolutionized how businesses create multilingual websites. Instead of managing separate WordPress installations or complex translation plugins, a proxy translates your content on-the-fly. But which service is right for you?
What is a Translation Proxy?
A translation proxy sits between your website and visitors. When someone requests your German version, the proxy:
- Intercepts the request
- Fetches content from your original site
- Translates it on-the-fly
- Serves the translated version
No changes to your WordPress installation required.
Popular Translation Proxy Services
Weglot
The most popular option, Weglot offers 110+ languages and uses DeepL for translation. Pros: Easy setup, wide language support. Cons: Per-word pricing can get expensive, search limitations.
Clonable
Creates “clones” of your site in different languages with subfolder URLs. Pros: Better performance, WooCommerce support, extensible. Cons: Requires plugin for full functionality.
Bablic
Focused on detailed control over translations. Pros: Fine-grained editing. Cons: No native search support, smaller market presence.
GTranslate
Offers both proxy and plugin modes with Google Translate integration. Pros: Affordable, familiar Google quality. Cons: Less control over translations.
Localize.js
Developer-focused with API integration. Pros: Scalable, good for apps. Cons: More technical setup required.
The Search Problem
Important: All translation proxies struggle with search functionality. Your database remains in the original language, so searching in translated languages returns no results.
Solutions vary by service:
- Weglot: Translate-back feature (limited)
- Clonable: Built-in search + plugin support
- Bablic: No native solution
- GTranslate: Limited support
Our Recommendation
For WordPress sites, we recommend Clonable + Jokerist Search:
- Clonable handles translation proxy duties
- Jokerist Search provides pre-translated search indexes
- Combined, they offer the best multilingual experience
Download Jokerist Search – it’s free!
Last modified: January 22, 2026