SillyTavern
4.3
The self-hosted frontend the power users all run
If you want total control and zero subscription, this is where the advanced users live.
FreeMatureVoice calls+5
Home / Tags / Desktop app
Desktop app
8 sites in the catalogue match this tag.
Filters
ChatGPT
4.2
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.
$20/moVoice callsMemory+4
Claude
4.0
The most careful conversational partner of the big models
Best for nuanced, long-form conversation; it will decline romantic roleplay firmly.
$20/moVoice notesMemory+2
The standard interface for running local models
Not a companion app, but the plumbing most local companion setups are built on.
FreeMatureVoice notes+4
Risu AI
3.9
Browser-based character chat with card importing
A lighter alternative to SillyTavern that runs in a browser tab with no install.
FreeMatureVoice notes+4
Backyard AI
3.8
A polished desktop app for local companions
The easiest way to run a local companion without touching a terminal.
$12/moMatureVoice notes+4
Faraday
3.7
Local characters with personality settings built in
Free, offline and surprisingly good at persona consistency for a local app.
FreeMatureMemory+2
KoboldAI
3.6
Local story generation with no cloud dependency
The classic offline story engine: clunky, but it never phones home.
FreeMatureMemory+2
Desktop app — common questions
What does “Desktop app” mean here?
It is a trait we recorded for a site after opening the product, not a marketing claim copied from its website. 8 entries in the catalogue carry it.
Which Desktop app site ranks highest?
SillyTavern, with an editorial score of 4.3 out of 5, at Free. Ranking is by our editorial score and is never influenced by payment.
Are there free options that match?
Yes — 8 of the 8 entries tagged Desktop app have a free tier. Switch the price filter on this page to see only those.