[2026 Latest] 12 Recommended Free Chinese Translation and Text-to-Speech Services

Jan. 26, 2026

[2026 Latest] 12 Recommended Free Chinese Translation and Text-to-Speech Services

I want to translate sentences into Chinese and create reading audio!
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A must-read for those who want to hear Chinese translation results in audio!

In this article, from the perspective of a user who actually uses Chinese-related services, we will introduce recommended methods for everything from Chinese translation of text to vocalization.

By combining free translation apps and text-to-speech tools, it is possible to efficiently learn Chinese and acquire accurate pronunciation.

We especially recommend linking the high-quality text-to-speech service "Ondoku" with various translation tools.

Anyone can easily create high-quality Chinese translation audio.

If you want to know recommended methods for anyone to easily vocalize Chinese translations without installation, please read until the end.

[Free] Recommended AI Reading Services for Creating Chinese Audio for Translation

Ondoku

If you want to read translated Chinese aloud, we recommend the free-to-use "Ondoku"!

"Ondoku" is an AI reading service that allows anyone to easily read Chinese aloud with the latest AI.

Since you can freely change the reading speed, it is perfect for studying Chinese pronunciation!

It supports not only Mandarin but also regional dialects and reading in Cantonese, so you can add more realistic audio to video content for China.

From those studying Chinese to Chinese experts, there is no doubt everyone will be satisfied!

Why not try using "Ondoku" to read your translated Chinese text aloud?

[Free is OK] What are the Points of Chinese Translation and Text-to-Speech?

What are the Points of Chinese Translation and Text-to-Speech?

First, we will briefly introduce the key points of Chinese translation and text-to-speech.

Free reading tools are recommended for vocalizing Chinese translations

When vocalizing Chinese translations, it is most effective to use a dedicated AI reading tool.

While translation apps sometimes come with audio features, dedicated reading tools are superior in terms of sound quality and naturalness.

By using a high-quality text-to-speech service like "Ondoku", you can obtain more natural and easy-to-understand Chinese audio.

Many reading tools can be used for free, so the appeal is that you can try vocalizing Chinese translations without worrying about costs.

AI reading services use the latest AI technology called deep learning to learn native pronunciation from large amounts of Chinese audio.

Therefore, they can read translated Chinese sentences with the exact pronunciation of a native speaker.

AI services are also recommended for Chinese translation (Free available)

Due to the development of AI technology in recent years, the accuracy of Chinese translation has also improved dramatically.

In the past, automatic translation often resulted in mistranslations, but even free translation app services can now translate Chinese with high precision.

AI translation services can understand context and translate, providing more natural and accurate translation results.

Thanks to these technological advances, an environment has been created where anyone can easily enjoy high-quality Chinese translation and audio learning.

In what scenes are Chinese translation and text-to-speech useful?

In what scenes are Chinese translation and text-to-speech useful?

Speaking of situations where Chinese translation is useful, the first is studying pronunciation.

When studying Chinese, knowing the accurate pronunciation is extremely important.

Because Chinese is a tonal language, the meaning changes completely if the tone is different, even with the same pronunciation.

By checking Chinese sentences as audio, you can learn accurate pronunciation and intonation.

It is especially recommended for when you compose your own sentences.

By having AI read aloud sentences you made while studying Chinese, you can learn the rhythm and pauses used by native speakers.

How to link translation tools and text-to-speech

The method to link Chinese translation and text-to-speech is very simple.

First, translate Japanese into Chinese using translation apps such as DeepL, Google Translate, Baidu Translate, or Youdao.

Next, copy the translated Chinese text and paste it into a text-to-speech service like "Ondoku".

All that's left is to have the text-to-speech service read the Chinese translation!

Since it can be executed easily without special skills or knowledge, it is also ideal for Chinese beginners.

By combining free translation apps and reading tools, high-quality Chinese audio learning becomes possible without spending money.

[Free] 5 Recommended Chinese Translation Services

Now, we will introduce recommended Chinese translation services selected from the perspective of someone actually studying Chinese.

1. DeepL: Recommended AI translation service for security concerns

DeepL

DeepL is an AI translation service that is highly rated for its natural translation results.

It also demonstrates practical performance in Chinese translation.

However, while DeepL is capable of near-perfect translations for Western languages starting with English, it gives the impression of struggling with fine nuances of expression in Chinese.

When a native Chinese speaker reads it, it seems the text makes it obvious that a foreigner used a translation service.

This is said to be because the translation is often performed as a pivot translation through English.

It is recommended when you want to translate without using services based in mainland China.

It is also ideal for those who prioritize security by subscribing to a paid plan.

Since DeepL does not have a text-to-speech function, it is recommended to use it in combination with a reading tool like "Ondoku".

2. Google Translate: Recommended translation service for casual use (Pinyin available)

Google Translate

Google Translate is the most widely used free translation service and boasts considerable accuracy in Chinese translation as well.

For short sentences, it is possible to translate with accuracy that contains no errors in terms of sentence meaning.

However, when looking up the meaning of an unknown word or translating a single word from your native language, the impression is that it often fails to translate to a word with the intended meaning.

Also, when a native Chinese speaker reads it, it easily becomes a sentence that is immediately recognizable as having been automatically translated from a foreign language.

The fact that Chinese translation results are displayed in Pinyin is also a welcome feature for those studying Chinese.

It also has a reading function, but the drawback is that the speed cannot be changed.

For those studying Chinese, we recommend reading with services that allow speed changes, such as "Ondoku".

3. Baidu Translate: Translation service operated by a major Chinese company (Pinyin available)

Baidu Translate

Baidu Translate is a translation service provided by the operator of China's largest search engine, "Baidu," and has particularly excellent accuracy in Chinese translation.

It is capable of translations that accurately capture Chinese nuances and phrasing, and it also supports the latest expressions used within China.

For foreigners studying Chinese, the display of Pinyin is also convenient.

Although it is a free translation app, its Chinese-specific performance is of a quality comparable to paid services.

The translation accuracy of idioms and cultural expressions unique to Chinese is high, making it recommended for those who want to learn more natural Chinese expressions.

Mobile apps for iPhone and Android are also available, and compared to the Youdao Translate introduced next, there is an impression that functions for non-native Chinese speakers are more extensive.

However, unlike AI translation services, it does not have a function to understand the context of sentences, so it is not good at creating translation text based on fine nuances or slang.

Conversely, since unintended free translation is unlikely, it is ideal when you want to translate into simple Chinese sentences.

It is also recommended for checking for mistranslations by reverse-translating Chinese sentences made with AI translation services back into your native language.

4. Youdao Translate: Most popular AI translation service in mainland China

Youdao Translate

Youdao Translate is a translation service provided by NetEase, a major Chinese IT company, and is widely used by native Chinese speakers.

While Baidu is more famous overseas, it seems that in mainland China, Youdao Translate is used more than Baidu Translate.

It is characterized by high-precision translation corresponding to Chinese nuances and the latest phrasing, making it popular among Chinese learners as well.

As a free translation app, it supports a wide range of functions from basic translation to offline translation and voice translation.

Since it is a service from mainland China, its strength lies in its quick response to the latest Chinese expressions and slang.

However, for foreigners, there are inconvenient points, such as the lack of a Pinyin display function.

Since it is strictly a service for native Chinese speakers, it is recommended to use it once you have become somewhat accustomed to Chinese.

5. DeepSeek: World's best generative AI service for Chinese translation

DeepSeek

DeepSeek is a generative AI service from China that can be used for free.

Unlike other services, you need to give instructions to the AI, such as "Please translate."

While DeepSeek's AI performance itself is often said to be inferior to competing services like ChatGPT or Claude, its performance regarding Chinese translation is incomparably higher than services from America.

It is particularly excellent at translations that reflect expressions and nuances unique to Chinese.

Especially because it supports Chinese internet slang and the latest buzzwords, it is also ideal for learning modern Chinese.

However, one thing to be careful about is how you give translation instructions.

If you give instructions like "Casual chat on WeChat" or "Posting to SNS," caution is needed because it often results in an excessively light writing style.

While it is a service that can be used for free, within the scope of personal use, it can be utilized without security issues.

If translated well, you can create sentences at a level where it is indistinguishable from a native speaker, so it can be used for multiple purposes such as using Chinese SNS, creating Chinese videos, or for business purposes.

If you are concerned about security, one method is to use it only for translating text for services within China, such as WeChat, QQ, Rednote, or Douyin (Chinese version of TikTok).

Since DeepSeek does not have a reading function, it is recommended to use it in conjunction with a reading tool like "Ondoku".

[Free Available] 7 Recommended Chinese-Compatible AI Reading Services

Next, we will introduce Chinese-compatible AI reading services recommended for use in combination with AI translation services!

1. Ondoku: Recommended free Chinese AI reading service

Ondoku

"Ondoku" is a high-quality text-to-speech service that utilizes the latest AI technology.

Since it is a web service that can be used from a browser, you can easily vocalize Chinese text without installation.

Even with the free plan, reading up to 5,000 characters is possible, so it can be used easily right now for a wide range of purposes such as study, business, and content creation.

Since it is a service from Japan, it is also recommended for use at work.

What is ideal for those learning Chinese is that it has a speed adjustment function.

The reading speed can be lowered to 0.3x, so you can check pronunciation with a slow reading voice.

In addition to Mandarin, it also supports regional dialects and Cantonese.

By selecting Chinese (Taiwan), you can also read with Taiwanese pronunciation, so it is also perfect for those who are familiar with the "Taiwanese accent."

Why not try using "Ondoku" for free to read aloud sentences translated into Chinese?

2. iFLYTEK: Popular AI reading service in China

iFLYTEK

iFLYTEK is an AI text-to-speech service provided by the Chinese AI company Iflytek, specializing in high-quality Chinese reading.

It is a service widely used within China and can read with very natural Chinese pronunciation and intonation.

It supports diverse Chinese voices, including dialects and regional accents, making it ideal for Chinese pronunciation learning.

However, since it is a service based in mainland China, it may take some effort to register from outside China, such as authentication with a phone number or WeChat account.

3. Youdao Speech Synthesis: Chinese AI reading service with native pronunciation

Youdao Speech Synthesis

Youdao Speech Synthesis is an AI text-to-speech service provided by the major Chinese IT company NetEase, specializing particularly in Chinese reading.

Basic functions can be used for free, and there are paid plans for advanced functions or more usage.

Because it is a service developed by Chinese natives, the Chinese pronunciation and intonation are very natural.

It supports not only standard Chinese but also some regional dialects, helping with a wider range of Chinese learning.

This is also a service from mainland China, so registration may be difficult due to authentication with a phone number or WeChat account.

4. Baidu Large Model Speech Synthesis: AI reading service from a major Chinese AI company

Baidu Large Model Speech Synthesis

"Baidu," China's largest search engine, also provides the voice synthesis service "Large Model Speech Synthesis" within its AI service "Baidu AI Open Platform."

"Large Model Speech Synthesis" refers to speech synthesis using a large-scale model.

It is basically a paid service, but you can experience its performance on the official website.

It can read with a natural voice exactly like native Chinese pronunciation.

Since it is primarily intended for use within China, the pronunciation accuracy of the latest Chinese expressions and phrasing is also high.

However, this also requires Baidu account registration for use.

5. TTS Reader: Chinese-compatible reading service usable in a browser

TTS Reader

TTS Reader is a browser-based text-to-speech service that supports multiple languages including Chinese.

Basic functions are available for free, and paid plans are also provided for additional features.

For Chinese text reading, voice engines from Google, Microsoft, Amazon, etc., can be used, allowing you to choose your favorite voice.

This reading service is recommended when you want to use it casually from a browser without installation.

6. ReadSpeaker: Chinese-compatible AI reading service for a wide range of uses

ReadSpeaker

ReadSpeaker is a long-established voice synthesis service used worldwide, supporting many languages including Chinese.

As a web service usable from a browser, it supports a wide range of applications.

A free trial is available, after which you can choose from various pricing plans depending on your usage.

In Chinese reading, it can read with the natural pronunciation of standard Chinese (Mandarin).

The support system for companies is extensive, and implementation into large-scale sites and applications is also possible.

7. Speechify: AI reading service that can also link with China's Baidu

Speechify

Speechify is an AI-utilizing text-to-speech service that supports many languages including Chinese.

A characteristic is its focus on Chinese translation functions, and it can use the voice synthesis engine of Baidu's AI reading service "Text to Speech."

It can read easy-to-understand audio with natural native intonation and pronunciation.

If registration for Baidu's "Text to Speech" introduced in this article is difficult, it is a recommended service to use as an alternative.

[Free] Detailed explanation of how to translate into Chinese and read with "Ondoku"

1. Translate the text into Chinese

Translate the text into Chinese

First, translate the original text, such as Japanese or English, into Chinese.

  • DeepL
  • Baidu Translate

In the case of specialized translation services like these, just paste the text and translate it.

When using AI like DeepSeek, give an instruction to the AI such as "Please translate this text into Chinese."

Translation instruction to DeepSeek

After translation with DeepSeek

Once the text is translated, reverse-translate it back to the original language to check if the meaning is correct.

2. Preparing to read with "Ondoku"

Open the "Ondoku" top page.

Ondoku

Paste the Chinese sentences into the text box.

Paste Chinese sentences into the text box

Select Chinese from "Language."

Select language

In "Ondoku", you can choose:

  • Mandarin (Mainland China): Chinese from mainland China
  • Mandarin (Taiwan): Chinese from Taiwan
  • Cantonese (Hong Kong): Cantonese

Next, choose the type of voice, such as female, male, or child.

Select voice type

In "Mandarin (Mainland China)," it is also possible to choose dialects such as Sichuan dialect or Shandong dialect.

*You can listen to Chinese voice samples in this article.

Adjust the speed and pitch.

Preparation complete

Now preparation is complete!

Press "Read aloud" to generate the audio.

3. Free reading complete with "Ondoku"

The reading process in "Ondoku" is completed immediately.

The screen will switch, and the audio will automatically start playing.

Reading complete

The audio file can be saved in MP3 format from "Download."

If you want to change settings, adjust the speed or pitch and then press "Read aloud" again.

This completes the flow of reading Chinese translation text with "Ondoku".

In this way, you can read Chinese translation text very easily, so why not try "Ondoku" for free yourself first?

How to Choose a Free Chinese Translation Service

How to Choose a Free Chinese Translation Service

Recommended checkpoints when choosing a Chinese translation service

When choosing a Chinese translation service, it is important to first prioritize translation accuracy.

Since Chinese can have grammatical structures that differ significantly from other languages, the key is to choose a translation service that can appropriately handle these differences.

With the Chinese translation services introduced in this article, you can create Chinese sentences without worrying about mistranslations.

Since Chinese has Simplified and Traditional characters, it is also important to choose a translation app that supports both depending on your purpose.

Also, having a Pinyin (pronunciation symbols) display function is convenient as it allows you to check pronunciation before vocalizing the Chinese translation.

Since many free translation apps have sufficient functionality, choose the one that best fits your purpose.

Check for smartphone/tablet app support as well

When choosing a Chinese translation service, mobile-compatible apps that are easy to use on smartphones and tablets are also recommended.

If you want to quickly translate Chinese signs or menus and check them with audio while on the go, a mobile app with a camera translation function is convenient.

However, in the case of services from mainland China such as Baidu Translate, Youdao Translate, or DeepSeek, there are many cases where they cannot be used without authenticating a phone number and registering an account.

Also, when using on an Android smartphone, some apps may not be installable from Google Play and may require downloading the app from the service's official website and installing it manually.

It is recommended to consider whether to install by comparing the app's convenience with the effort of installation and security.

How to Choose a Free Chinese Text-to-Speech Service

How to Choose a Free Chinese Text-to-Speech Service

The importance of natural pronunciation and voice quality

When choosing a Chinese text-to-speech service, the most important factors are natural pronunciation and voice quality.

Mechanical and unnatural pronunciation will not be useful for actual Chinese conversation, and there is a danger of remembering incorrect pronunciation.

Text-to-speech services that utilize the latest AI technology can read with the natural Chinese pronunciation of native speakers.

Especially in Chinese where tones are important, choosing a high-quality voice service that can reproduce accurate pitch will enhance your learning effect.

With services that adopt the latest AI voice synthesis technology like "Ondoku", you can create natural Chinese audio even for free.

Reading speed and voice adjustment functions

In Chinese text-to-speech, the function to adjust the speed according to the learning level is important.

Beginners can listen closely to pronunciation at a slow speed, while advanced learners can practice at natural conversation speed to learn effectively.

If there is a function to adjust the voice pitch, you can more accurately remember the tones unique to Chinese by matching it to your own voice pitch.

When using a reading service for studying Chinese, it is recommended to choose a service like "Ondoku" where speed and pitch adjustment are possible.

Flexibility of text input and supported formats

When choosing a Chinese text-to-speech service, the flexibility of the text input method is also an important decision point.

In addition to directly entering text, it is convenient if it supports loading text from images.

"Ondoku" also allows reading from images.

Choose a reading tool with an interface that is easy to copy and paste from Chinese translation services.

Long text support is also a point.

A service capable of reading long Chinese texts is efficient as it can process sentences all at once.

Advantages of browser-based reading services

Reading services that can be used from a browser have the advantage of being able to vocalize Chinese translations immediately without installation.

Since they can be accessed from any device such as a PC, smartphone, or tablet, Chinese learning is possible regardless of location.

Browser-based reading services like "Ondoku" always use the latest version, so there is no need to worry about updating functions or data.

Because processing is performed in the cloud, high-quality Chinese audio can be generated regardless of the smartphone's specs.

What are Examples of Using Free Chinese Translation and Reading Services?

What are Examples of Using Free Chinese Translation and Reading Services?

Efficient study method for Chinese learning beginners

For beginners who have just started learning Chinese, a learning method that combines a translation app and a text-to-speech service is effective.

First, convert basic phrases or greetings you want to learn into Chinese using a translation app, and check the pronunciation with a voice service like "Ondoku".

Next, practice pronunciation yourself while listening to the audio to acquire accurate tones and intonation.

By focusing on phrases frequently used in daily conversation, you can efficiently acquire practical Chinese language skills.

It is also recommended to periodically record and compare your own pronunciation to check your progress.

"Shadowing" is recommended for language learning.

Please take a look at this article where we explain the method.

Utilize Chinese translation and text-to-speech for business too

Translation and text-to-speech are also useful for presentations and meetings in Chinese.

First, translate your presentation script into Chinese using an AI translation service.

Check the translated script with a text-to-speech tool like "Ondoku" to learn pronunciation and intonation.

It is important to acquire accurate pronunciation for particularly important content or technical terms by checking the audio many times.

If you download the audio file, you can listen and practice repeatedly during commutes or free time.

By utilizing these free services, you can significantly reduce the time spent on presentation preparation.

Preparing Chinese phrases before traveling

Those with an upcoming trip to China can use translation apps and text-to-speech services to prepare phrases useful for the trip in advance.

List necessary phrases by scene, such as checking in at a hotel, ordering at a restaurant, or explaining a destination in a taxi.

Translate these phrases into Chinese and check the pronunciation with a voice service like "Ondoku".

It is reassuring to download particularly important phrases as audio files so you can check them even offline.

By combining free translation apps and voice services, you can efficiently prepare before your trip.

During your trip, you can also upload photos of signs or menus to "Ondoku" to check the pronunciation with audio.

Summary: Free AI services are recommended for Chinese translation and reading!

The combination of Chinese translation and text-to-speech tools is a powerful ally for Chinese learning!

Because you can efficiently learn accurate translation and natural pronunciation, you can steadily improve your Chinese skills even through self-study.

Of course, AI translation and reading services are also useful for business and Chinese content creation.

Why not try to master Chinese by utilizing free Chinese translation and reading services that leverage the latest AI technology, starting with "Ondoku"?

■ AI voice synthesis software "Ondoku"

"Ondoku" is an online text-to-speech tool that can be used with no initial costs.

  • Supports approximately 50 languages, including Japanese, English, Chinese, Korean, Spanish, French, and German
  • Available from both PC and smartphone
  • Suitable for business, education, entertainment, etc.
  • No installation required, can be used immediately from your browser
  • Supports reading from images

To use it, simply enter text or upload a file on the site. A natural-sounding audio file will be generated within seconds. You can use voice synthesis up to 5,000 characters for free, so please give it a try.

Text-to-speech software "Ondoku" can read out 5000 characters every month with AI voice for free. You can easily download MP3s and commercial use is also possible. If you sign up for free, you can convert up to 5,000 characters per month for free from text to speech. Try Ondoku now.
HP: ondoku3.com
Email: ondoku3.com@gmail.com
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