What are the best language translation gadgets on the market?

I would like to be able to speak in English, and have this translated into most other languages, where ever I am. I would also like the response to be translated back to me into English.

Answer:

I've never used one of these on the road but I've met backpackers who swear by them and wouldn't leave home without one. Your question is making me think: should I get one too?

It's worth a thought. I can't make brand recommendations but I trawled the web a bit and came up with the following criteria - at least these are the things I would look for:
- languages supported
- the number of words and phrases it stores
- whether it 'talks' or not (a mixed blessing)
- size and weight
- size and type of display
- size of keyboard (make sure you can at least type with it!)
- conversions available: metric, currency etc
- price (range from $30 to well over $200)

So you're not lacking for choice.

The easiest way to find reviews is to search for reviews. What seems to provide good results is 'handheld translators reviews'. Or you can try one of the popular review sites, like Epinions.com.

If you do come up with a great choice, please come back and tell us which one, and why!

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