Franklin 14 Language Speaking Global Translator (EST-5114)

For intellectual study of any of the languages in the Franklin device, it is okay. You can look phrases and words up and see and hear them.Unfortunately, I was really wanting a device that would work like a universal translator, in the Star Trek sense. I wanted a device that would translate what I said, on the fly, so that any local shop keeper would understand what I was asking him or her, in his or her own language. I then wanted the shopkeeper to be able to respond, and have the Franklin translate back into English for me.I guess what I wanted is not available yet. I was hoping the Franklin would be that device, but it was not.I didn't want to learn how to learn speak a new language the old fashioned way, like we used to have to do in school.

Not what I hoped for. Slow and difficult to type into.

I'm still waiting for my refund. (3 WEEKS)the Franklin electronic 14 language its worth nothing !!!! very very small keys and very very small letters need a magnifyinglensvery hard and confusing to figure it out ,do not go by the reviews , you will be making a mistake buying this dictionary the way I did!!!!

...Okay product & had real problems & except somewhat complex... recommended w/ much patience... ;)

I am very happy with this product, but was hesitant to buy it at first, based upon the previous customer reviews. I am working towards my master's degree in French, and hope to move to France this year. This is the perfect item to carry along in your pocket when you need a word, or phrase, you haven't learned, or forgotten. Yes, it is small enough to carry in your pocket, but why the previous reviewers state, the text is so small to read, is something I don't understand. When you receive this item, it is factory set at a font you can read, but at the same time you can also increase the font size very easily with one button. Perhaps they did not read the instructions first, as I did. To read the instructions in it's entirety, you simply go to the website as instructed on the Quick Start Guide. There you can read the instructions in it's entirety, or even download it to your computer, as a PDF file. The audio is excellent, and adjustable too. The audio will enable you to say the word correctly. This device will improve my language skills both in the classroom, and in France. I could not be happier with this language translator.

Just received this today. Overall, it appears to fit my needs. I read the previous comments and somewhat agree about the size of the keys, BUT, who wants to carry around a bigger item? What you lose in keyboard button space, you make up with in a compact device. I am now shopping for a carrying case to protect it, and figure a knockout Blackberry case should do. I agree that it would be great to have a voice-input button similar to using Google translate, but from my experience, GT picks up a lot of subtle differences in pronunciation and can put out nonsensical phrases!

Not what I expected. Odd voice sound, so didn't even use in on my trip to France. I have purchased Franklin in the past and been quite happy.

Good and easy