This guide walks you through installing TransFlex, adding your first AI provider, and making your first translation. You’ll be up and running in under five minutes.
Step 1: Download and Install
Head to the download page and download the installer for your platform.
| Platform | File |
|---|---|
| macOS (Apple Silicon) | TransFlex_aarch64.dmg |
| macOS (Intel) | TransFlex_x86_64.dmg |
| Windows | TransFlex_setup.exe |
| Linux | TransFlex.AppImage or TransFlex.deb |
macOS: Open the .dmg, drag TransFlex to your Applications folder, then open it. If macOS blocks the app on first launch, go to System Settings → Privacy & Security and click Open Anyway.
Windows: Run the .exe installer and follow the prompts. Windows Defender may show a warning for unsigned apps — click More info → Run anyway.
Linux: For AppImage, make it executable (chmod +x TransFlex.AppImage) then run it. For .deb, install with sudo dpkg -i TransFlex.deb.
Step 2: Add an API Key
TransFlex needs an API key from at least one AI provider. Your key is stored securely in your OS keychain — it never leaves your machine except to communicate directly with the provider.
- Open TransFlex
- Open Settings (click the Settings icon in the header)
- Select AI Providers
- Choose your provider (e.g., OpenAI)
- Paste your API key and click Save
Getting an API Key
- OpenAI: Visit platform.openai.com/api-keys and create a new secret key
- Anthropic: Visit console.anthropic.com → API Keys
- Google Gemini: Visit aistudio.google.com → Get API key
Most providers offer a free tier or trial credits — enough to explore TransFlex before committing.
Step 3: Make Your First Translation
- Return to the main Translate tab
- Select your source language (or leave it on Auto-detect)
- Select your target language — for example, Vietnamese
- Type or paste the text you want to translate in the input area at the bottom
- Press Enter or click the Send button
TransFlex will stream the translation in real time. You’ll see the output appear word by word as the AI responds.
Step 4: Refine Your Translation
The chat-style interface means you can follow up naturally:
- Type “Make it more formal” to adjust the tone
- Type “Translate to Japanese instead” to switch the target language mid-session
- Type “Explain the second sentence” to get clarification
This iterative approach is what sets TransFlex apart from one-shot translation tools.
Tips for Better Results
Use the system prompt field. In Settings → Translation, you can define a default instruction like “Translate to Vietnamese using formal business language” that applies to every session automatically.
Pick the right model. For general text, gpt-4o-mini or claude-haiku-4-5 are fast and cost-effective. For technical or nuanced content, try gpt-4o or claude-sonnet-4.
Keep sessions focused. Each session maintains context. Starting a new session clears the context, which can help when switching between unrelated documents.
Keyboard Shortcuts
| Action | Shortcut |
|---|---|
| Send message | Enter |
| New line in input | Shift + Enter |
| Clear current session | Cmd/Ctrl + Shift + K |
Next Steps
- Read the full documentation to explore all features
- Report bugs or request features via GitHub Issues or email at security@transflex.app
Happy translating!