Open WebUI vs Jan
Open WebUI: A self-hosted, open-source chat interface for local and cloud AI models. Jan: An open-source desktop app for running AI chat models fully offline on your computer. Here is how they compare on features, pricing, platforms, pros and cons.
Quick verdict
Open WebUI
Best for: Technical teams who want their own private chatbot portal.
Stands out for: Free and open source; Highly customisable.
Jan
Best for: People who want a private, offline ChatGPT-style app.
Stands out for: Free and open source; Keeps data on your device.
Side-by-side comparison
| Visit openwebui.com (opens in a new tab) | Visit jan.ai (opens in a new tab) | |
|---|---|---|
| What it is | A self-hosted, open-source chat interface for local and cloud AI models. | An open-source desktop app for running AI chat models fully offline on your computer. |
| Pricing | Open source | Open source |
| Free to use | Yes | Yes |
| Category | AI Chatbots & Assistants | AI Chatbots & Assistants |
| Editor rank | #13 in category | #15 in category |
| Made by | — | Menlo Research |
| Best for | Technical teams who want their own private chatbot portal. | People who want a private, offline ChatGPT-style app. |
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Open WebUI vs Jan: questions
Is Open WebUI better than Jan?
Neither wins for everyone. Our editors rank Open WebUI slightly higher overall in AI Chatbots & Assistants, but Jan can be the better fit: People who want a private, offline ChatGPT-style app.
Which is free, Open WebUI or Jan?
Both can be used without paying: Open WebUI is open source and Jan is open source. Paid plans add more usage or features.
Can I use Open WebUI and Jan together?
Yes. Many people keep both and pick per task, for example give your team a private chat app on your own server with Open WebUI, and chat with a model without an internet connection with Jan.