How to Say Device in Spanish | MostUsedWords.com
As of 2026, understanding how to translate "device" into Spanish is crucial for effective communication about technology and everyday gadgets. In this article, we will explore various ways to express the term "device" in Spanish, including its pronunciation and context-specific translations.

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What is "Device" in Spanish?
The word "device" can be translated into Spanish using several terms depending on the specific context:
- Dispositivo (IPA: /dis.po.ˈsi.ti.βo/): This term generally refers to any kind of electronic or mechanical device, such as smartphones, laptops, and kitchen appliances.
- Artilugio (IPA: /ar.ti.ˈlu.xjo/): A less common but playful alternative for "device," often used in a more casual setting.
- Aparato (IPA: /a.pa.ˈɾa.to/): Refers to any mechanical or electronic device, including appliances and equipment.
Usage of 'Dispositivo' in Technology Contexts
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The Spanish Frequency Dictionary series covers the 10,000 most common Spanish words — ranked by how often native speakers actually use them, with IPA pronunciation, English translations, and bilingual example sentences at every level.
Browse the full series →In the realm of technology, "dispositivo" is widely used to describe electronic devices such as smartphones, tablets, laptops, and other gadgets. For instance:
- Necesito un dispositivo nuevo para trabajar desde casa.
(I need a new device to work from home.)
Comparison with Other Languages
While "dispositivo" is the standard translation for "device" in Spanish, other languages might use different terms. For example:
- In French: Dévise (IPA: /de.viz/)
- In German: Vorrichtung (IPA: /foːʁˈʁɪçtuŋ/)
Sample Sentences for Different Contexts
To help you understand the usage of these terms, here are some sample sentences:
- Necesito un dispositivo nuevo para trabajar desde casa.
(I need a new device to work from home.)
- ¿Has visto el artilugio que acaba de salir al mercado?
(Have you seen the new gadget that just came out?)
- Este aparato es perfecto para cocinar arroz.
(This appliance is perfect for cooking rice.)
Pronunciation Guides and Audio Clips
To ensure you pronounce these terms correctly, here are some pronunciation guides:
- Dispositivo (IPA: /dis.po.ˈsi.ti.βo/)
- Artilugio (IPA: /ar.ti.ˈlu.xjo/)
- Aparato (IPA: /a.pa.ˈɾa.to/)
Frequently Asked Questions
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What is the most common word for "device" in Spanish?
The most commonly used term is dispositivo.
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Can I use 'artilugio' to refer to a smartphone?
While it's possible, 'artilugio' has a more playful tone and might not be the best choice for formal contexts.
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Is there a gender-neutral way to refer to devices in Spanish?
The terms dispositivo, aparato, and artilugio are all grammatically masculine or feminine, but you can use 'el' or 'la' before them for clarity.
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How do I say "mechanical device" in Spanish?
The term dispositivo mecánico (IPA: /dis.po.ˈsi.ti.βo me.kˈka.niko/) is used to describe mechanical devices.
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