Interpreter vs InterpretBank
Quick answer
InterpretBank is terminology software. It helps you build glossaries, memorize terms, and look up words during assignments.
Interpreter is real-time transcription. It shows every word spoken during a call so you don't have to take notes.
Different tools for different problems. If you're an over-the-phone interpreter who wants to stop writing during calls, Interpreter is built for you.
What InterpretBank does
InterpretBank manages glossaries. You build terminology databases, import terms from documents, organize by client or subject. Flashcards help you memorize before assignments. A lookup feature lets you search during booths.
It runs on Windows and macOS, with a mobile app. Conference interpreters use it to prep for specialized assignments where knowing the terminology beforehand is the job.
The ASR add-on transcribes speech and highlights terms from your glossaries. Useful in a booth. Less useful on phone calls where you don't know what terms are coming.
What Interpreter does
Every word on screen, the moment it's spoken. Both speakers. Both languages. Real-time.
Turn it on, share your call audio, watch the transcript appear. No glossaries to build. No prep. It catches everything—the terms you expected and the ones you didn't.
Browser-based, no installation. Works with Zoom, Teams, Meet, whatever your agency uses. Made for phone interpreters.
Feature comparison
| Feature | Interpreter | InterpretBank |
|---|---|---|
| Primary purpose | Call transcription | Glossary management |
| Best for | OPI interpreters | Conference interpreters |
| Real-time transcription | Add-on ($) | |
| Two-way translation | ||
| Glossary building | ||
| Flashcards | ||
| Speaker identification | ||
| Browser-based | ||
| HIPAA compliant | Not specified | |
| No installation |
Pricing comparison
For an OPI interpreter working 40 hours/month:
$10–$16/month
Polyglot Mini: $0.25/hr ($10). Polyglot: $0.40/hr ($16). No subscriptions.
~$11/month
€9.99/month includes ASR with one engine. Premium ASR engine has usage-based pricing.
InterpretBank is cheaper on paper, but it's glossary software with ASR added on. Interpreter is real-time transcription built for OPI from the start.
Choose InterpretBank if
- You do conference or booth interpreting where terminology prep is essential
- You want to build glossaries over time and share them with colleagues
- You need flashcards to memorize terms before specific assignments
- You work offline frequently
Choose Interpreter if
- You're an over-the-phone interpreter
- You want every word captured, not just pre-loaded terms
- You're tired of taking notes while listening and interpreting
- You need HIPAA compliance for medical calls
- You want pay-as-you-go pricing without monthly commitments
The real question
Different tools, different problems.
InterpretBank: preparation. Build glossaries before assignments.
Interpreter: execution. Capture everything during calls, prepared or not.
Some interpreters use both. But if you're doing OPI and have to pick one? Taking notes during calls is the harder problem. That's what Interpreter solves.