Desktop app

The self-hosted frontend the power users all run

If you want total control and zero subscription, this is where the advanced users live.

Memory, voice mode and the strongest general model

Not built as a companion, but its memory and voice mode make it a legitimate daily chat partner.

The most careful conversational partner of the big models

Best for nuanced, long-form conversation; it will decline romantic roleplay firmly.

The standard interface for running local models

Not a companion app, but the plumbing most local companion setups are built on.

Browser-based character chat with card importing

A lighter alternative to SillyTavern that runs in a browser tab with no install.

A polished desktop app for local companions

The easiest way to run a local companion without touching a terminal.

Local characters with personality settings built in

Free, offline and surprisingly good at persona consistency for a local app.

Local story generation with no cloud dependency

The classic offline story engine: clunky, but it never phones home.