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SillyTavern vs Backyard AI
SillyTavern 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.
| SillyTavern0 | 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 and open source under AGPL-3.0. You pay only for whichever model API you connect. | Free local tier. Hosted cloud: Standard $12/mo or $9/mo billed yearly; Pro $35/mo or $26/mo billed yearly. |
| Adult content | Optional mature mode | Optional mature mode |
| Voice | Live calls | Voice notes |
| Images | Yes | Yes |
| Video | No | No |
| Memory | Yes | Yes |
| Custom characters | Yes | Yes |
| Companion types | Any character | Any character |
| Platforms | Desktop, Web | Desktop, iOS |
| Runs locally | Yes | Yes |
SillyTavern — our take
If you want total control and zero subscription, this is where the advanced users live.
- Complete control over prompt and memory
- Works with local or hosted models
- Free forever
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
SillyTavern vs Backyard AI — common questions
Which is cheaper, SillyTavern or Backyard AI?
SillyTavern 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: voice support differs between them.
Which handles adult content differently?
SillyTavern: Optional mature 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.