How We Evaluated ChatGPT Apps for Mac
We tested over 15 ChatGPT clients and AI assistants for Mac, evaluating each based on:
- Native Mac Experience - Does it feel like a true Mac app with proper keyboard shortcuts?
- System Integration - Can you access AI from anywhere on your Mac?
- Speed & Performance - How responsive is the app?
- AI Model Support - Does it support GPT-4, Claude, and other models?
- Value for Money - Is the pricing fair for what you get?
1. Elephas - Best Overall ChatGPT App for Mac
Elephas stands out as our top pick because it turns ChatGPT (and other AI models) into a truly native Mac experience. Instead of switching to a browser tab, you can summon AI assistance anywhere with a simple keyboard shortcut.
Key Features
- System-Wide Access: Press a shortcut in any app to get AI help
- Multiple AI Models: Use GPT-4, Claude, Gemini, or local models
- Knowledge Base: Upload your documents and chat with your own data
- Writing Assistance: Rewrite, summarize, or expand text inline
- App Integrations: Works with Notion, Obsidian, Apple Notes, and more
Pricing
- Monthly: $9.99/month
- Lifetime: $99 one-time (best value)
Pros & Cons
Pros
- System-wide AI access from any app
- Multiple AI model support
- Knowledge base for document Q&A
- Affordable lifetime option
- True native Mac experience
Cons
- Mac only (no Windows)
- Learning curve for power features
2. MacGPT - Best Menu Bar ChatGPT Client
MacGPT is a lightweight ChatGPT client that lives in your menu bar. It's perfect if you want quick access to ChatGPT without a full app taking up space.
Key Features
- Menu Bar Access: Always one click away
- Global Shortcut: Launch ChatGPT from anywhere
- Conversation History: All your chats saved locally
- Inline Mode: Type directly in any text field
Pricing
- One-time: $25 (uses your OpenAI API key)
3. ChatGPT Desktop - Official OpenAI App
OpenAI's official ChatGPT desktop app for Mac launched in 2024 and offers a native experience with all the features you'd expect from the web version.
Key Features
- Option+Space Shortcut: Quick access to ChatGPT
- Voice Mode: Talk to ChatGPT naturally
- Screenshot Analysis: Share your screen with ChatGPT
- GPTs Access: Use custom GPTs from the store
Pricing
- Free: GPT-4o limited access
- Plus: $20/month for unlimited GPT-4
4. Raycast AI - Best for Power Users
If you already use Raycast as your Mac launcher, their AI add-on is a no-brainer. It integrates ChatGPT directly into your launcher workflow.
Key Features
- Launcher Integration: AI in your existing workflow
- AI Commands: Custom AI-powered commands
- Quick AI: Instant answers without opening an app
- Extensions: Huge library of AI extensions
Pricing
- Raycast Pro: $8/month (includes AI)
5. TypingMind - Best Custom ChatGPT Interface
TypingMind offers a better ChatGPT interface than OpenAI's own. It's web-based but has a Mac app wrapper with additional features.
Key Features
- Better UI: Cleaner interface than ChatGPT
- Folders & Tags: Organize your conversations
- Prompt Library: Save and reuse prompts
- Multiple Models: GPT-4, Claude, and more
Pricing
- One-time: $39 (uses your own API keys)
6. BoltAI - Native Mac AI Client
BoltAI is a native Mac app focused on providing a clean, fast ChatGPT experience with support for multiple AI providers.
Key Features
- Native Mac App: Built with Swift for performance
- Multiple Providers: OpenAI, Anthropic, Google
- Prompt Library: Built-in and custom prompts
- Keyboard Shortcuts: Full keyboard navigation
Pricing
- One-time: $29 (uses your API keys)
7. Machato - Best Lightweight Option
Machato is a minimalist ChatGPT client for Mac that focuses on speed and simplicity.
Key Features
- Lightweight: Tiny app size, fast launch
- Simple UI: Just you and the AI
- Markdown Support: Beautiful response formatting
- Export: Save conversations as files
Pricing
- Free tier available
- Pro: $15 one-time
