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DeepSeek vs Backyard AI
DeepSeek scores higher in our catalogue (4.3 vs 3.8), but the right pick depends on what you need: Backyard AI may suit you better on price and features.
0| DeepSeek0 | Backyard AI0 | |
|---|---|---|
| Editor score | 4.3 / 5 | 3.8 / 5 |
| Price | Free | $9/mo |
| Price band | Free | Under $10/mo |
| Free tier | Yes | Yes |
| Price detail | Free to use; API billed per token (DeepSeek-V4-Flash ~$0.15-$0.60 per 1M tokens). | Free local tier. Hosted cloud: Standard $12/mo or $9/mo billed yearly; Pro $35/mo or $26/mo billed yearly. |
| Adult content | No adult mode | Optional mature mode |
| Voice | No | Voice notes |
| Images | No | Yes |
| Video | No | No |
| Memory | Yes | Yes |
| Custom characters | No | Yes |
| Companion types | Any character | Any character |
| Platforms | Web, iOS, Android | Desktop, iOS |
| Runs locally | No | Yes |
DeepSeek — our take
Not a companion, but its free, capable chat and long memory make it a credible daily AI friend.
- Free with no usage cap
- Strong reasoning and coding
- Long conversation memory
Backyard AI — our take
The easiest way to run a local companion without touching a terminal.
- Friendly desktop app
- No setup knowledge required
- Character card ecosystem
DeepSeek vs Backyard AI — common questions
Which is cheaper, DeepSeek or Backyard AI?
DeepSeek is the cheaper of the two at Free, against $9/mo for Backyard AI.
Which one has a free tier?
Both do — you can try either without paying.
Which remembers conversations better?
Both keep context across sessions. The practical difference is elsewhere: price and platform coverage differ between them.
Which handles adult content differently?
DeepSeek: No adult mode. Backyard AI: Optional mature mode. This directory is SFW — we record whether a mature mode exists so you know before signing up, and we describe no explicit material.