Compare Poe AI Chat and Psiphon VPN: Which App is the Best?
Poe is a comprehensive AI chat platform that brings together the best AI models in one place, offering everything from text conversations to image and video generation with a user-friendly interface. | Psiphon VPN is an open-source circumvention tool with 100M+ downloads and 4.5/5 rating, offering internet freedom and bypassing censorship, though it has faced some recent connection issues and forced app installations. | |
| Key Features A summary of the most important features offered by each app. |
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| Our Rating Prod Apps's expert review score for each app, based on hands-on testing and research. | 8.4 Winner in this category | 7.1 |
| Total users Total active users across all major browsers: Chrome, Edge, Firefox, and Safari. | 0 | 0 |
| Total ratings Total number of user ratings received across all supported browsers. | 0 | 0 |
| Average rating Average user rating across all browsers, calculated from available store ratings. | — ⭐ | — ⭐ |
| Entry Level Price The minimum price required to start using the app. "Free" means a free tier is available. | Free | Free |
| Android User rating and stats for the app on Android browser. |  Downloads | Downloads |
| iOS User rating and stats for the app on iOS browser. |  | |
| Features Prod Apps's expert score for the 'Features' aspect of each app. | 9.0 Poe delivers an impressive array of AI features that truly sets it apart from other chat applications. During our testing, we found access to multiple cutting-edge AI models including GPT-4.5, Claude 3.7 Sonnet, and Gemini 2.0, all working seamlessly within a single interface. This multi-model approach allows users to compare responses and choose the best AI for their specific needs. Key features that stood out during our testing include:
User reviews consistently praise the quality and speed of AI responses, with many noting that Poe provides "detailed explanations" and "fast response" times. The app's ability to handle complex queries while maintaining conversational flow impressed us during testing. However, some users mentioned limitations with the free tier's point system, which can restrict heavy usage. We rate features at 9.0—excellent overall capabilities with room for improvement in the freemium model. Winner in this category | 8.0 Psiphon VPN offers a comprehensive set of features that justify its circumvention positioning. The service includes open-source transparency, automatic protocol selection, and constantly changing servers. The service also includes advanced features like multi-language support and NGO partnerships, making it more than just a basic VPN. What sets Psiphon VPN apart is its open-source nature and internet freedom focus. The service also includes advanced features like research-backed security and NGO partnerships, making it more than just a basic VPN. However, unlike Proton VPN, it lacks some advanced privacy features like kill switch and split tunneling. However, the service lacks some advanced features found in dedicated VPN providers, such as specialized servers for specific use cases and some cutting-edge privacy features. The service also doesn't offer some advanced features like obfuscated servers or specialized streaming servers that some competitors provide. Compared to other circumvention tools like Proton VPN or NordVPN, Psiphon VPN offers good features, but the connection issues make it difficult to recommend over more reliable alternatives. The service provides good value for users who need circumvention features. |
| Performance Prod Apps's expert score for the 'Performance' aspect of each app. | 8.5 The app performs seamlessly, allowing you to chat with AI models without any lag or interruptions. We found consistently fast response times and reliable functionality, though there are some technical issues that occasionally impact the user experience. Performance highlights include:
User reviews frequently praise Poe's performance, with comments like "fast response, detailed explanation" and "extremely important and reliable." Many users appreciate the quick turnaround time for AI responses, which is crucial for maintaining engaging conversations. However, some users report occasional issues including app crashes, with one user noting "just kicks me out of the app" during use. The point system's daily reset can also cause performance-related frustrations when users hit their limits. Overall, Poe delivers solid performance that supports its core functionality well, with room for improvement in stability. We rate performance at 8.5—strong overall performance with occasional technical issues. Winner in this category | 6.0 Psiphon VPN's performance is inconsistent, with good circumvention capabilities when working but frequent connection issues that significantly impact usability. The service offers decent connection speeds and automatic protocol selection, but the frequent disconnections and loading delays make it difficult to use reliably. The service works well for basic circumvention protection when connected, but many users report VPN connection failures and the need to manually reconnect multiple times. The connection issues are particularly concerning given the circumvention positioning. The service's performance issues are particularly concerning given the circumvention positioning. Users expect reliability and performance from a circumvention tool, but Psiphon VPN's connection problems make it difficult to recommend over more reliable alternatives that offer similar features with better performance. Compared to other circumvention tools like Proton VPN or NordVPN, Psiphon VPN's performance is below average. The connection issues make it difficult to justify the circumvention positioning, and users might find better value with alternatives that offer similar features with better reliability. |
| Design Prod Apps's expert score for the 'Design' aspect of each app. | 8.5 The design is clean and intuitive, making it easy to get started right away. We loved the minimalist approach that puts the focus on conversations rather than distracting visual elements. What users love most is the intuitive chat interface and the well-organized model selection. It's super easy to navigate and quickly find what you need. The conversation layout is straightforward and easy to follow, with clear distinction between user messages and AI responses. Design highlights we appreciated include:
User reviews frequently mention the app's "user-friendly interface" and "smooth" experience. Many users appreciate how the design doesn't interfere with the core functionality of AI conversations. However, some users noted that the point system interface could be clearer, and a few mentioned that the app occasionally feels "guilt-tripping" when promoting premium features. The overall design successfully creates an environment where users can focus on their AI interactions without unnecessary distractions. We rate design at 8.5—strong visual appeal with minor areas for improvement in user guidance. Winner in this category | 6.5 Psiphon VPN's interface strikes a basic balance between functionality and circumvention usability. The main screen provides quick access to connection controls and key settings. The interface is functional but not particularly polished, with basic attention to detail and user experience. The app's design is functional and well-organized, with clear navigation between different features. The connection status is clearly displayed, and the settings menu is basic. The interface doesn't overwhelm users with complex options while still providing access to advanced features. The interface is generally user-friendly and provides good visual feedback about connection status and app performance. The design reflects the circumvention positioning of the service, making it suitable for users in restricted regions. Compared to other circumvention tools like Proton VPN or NordVPN, Psiphon VPN's design is functional but not as polished. The interface is basic and functional, with adequate attention to detail for circumvention users. |
| Value for Money Prod Apps's expert score for the 'Value for Money' aspect of each app. | 8.0 Poe's value proposition is strong, particularly when considering the quality and variety of AI models available. Our analysis of the freemium model reveals a thoughtful balance between accessibility and premium features, though the point system in the free tier has generated mixed user reactions. Value considerations include:
User reviews reflect this mixed value perception. Many users praise the app as "the best AI ever" and appreciate the free access to powerful models. However, some users express frustration with the point system, noting that it can feel limiting for heavy usage. Comments like "all the app seems to do is just guilt trip you into giving them money" indicate that the freemium model's limitations are noticeable. For casual users, the free tier provides excellent value, while power users will find the premium subscription worthwhile for unlimited access. We rate value for money at 8.0—good overall value with some friction in the freemium model. Winner in this category | 7.5 Psiphon VPN's value proposition is good for circumvention users, with open-source transparency and internet freedom features. The service offers competitive pricing compared to other circumvention tools, with the ability to get open-source circumvention for free being a significant advantage. The service's pricing is competitive with other circumvention tools, and the open-source nature makes it particularly attractive for users who want complete control and transparency. The comprehensive features and privacy protection add value beyond basic circumvention functionality. However, the service's value is impacted by connection stability issues and forced app installations. Many users report frequent disconnections and the need to manually reconnect multiple times. The connection issues make it difficult to recommend over more reliable alternatives like Proton VPN or NordVPN. Compared to other circumvention tools like Proton VPN or NordVPN, Psiphon VPN offers good features but at a similar cost. The connection issues make it difficult to recommend over circumvention alternatives that offer similar performance with better reliability. |
| Ease of Use Prod Apps's expert score for the 'Ease of Use' aspect of each app. | 9.0 We can't think of a simpler AI chat app to start with than this one. The best part? It works seamlessly right out of the box, no complex setup needed. Installing it is a breeze, and you can easily start chatting with AI models almost immediately. Once installed, the interface is intuitive and easy to grasp. The chat interface feels familiar and intuitive, similar to popular messaging apps. Ease of use highlights include:
User reviews consistently praise Poe's ease of use, with comments like "makes my life easy," "very interactive," and "answers all of my questions politely and friendly." Many users appreciate how the app simplifies complex AI interactions into natural conversations. However, some users mentioned confusion about the point system and occasional app crashes that can interrupt the user experience. The email verification requirement for certain features was also noted as a potential barrier. Overall, Poe successfully demystifies AI technology for everyday users. We rate ease of use at 9.0—excellent accessibility with minor technical issues. Winner in this category | 6.0 Psiphon VPN is moderately easy to use for basic circumvention functionality, but requires some technical knowledge for optimal use. The app's design is functional, but most users need to understand circumvention concepts to get the best results. The service works well for most circumvention use cases and provides good performance when functioning properly. The service offers automatic protocol selection and constantly changing servers, making it accessible to users with technical knowledge. The app doesn't require complex configuration, and the circumvention connection process is straightforward. The service works well for most circumvention use cases and provides good performance when functioning properly. However, the service's ease of use is compromised by recent connection issues and forced app installations. Many users report VPN connection failures and the need to manually reconnect multiple times. The app can be frustrating to use due to connection issues and loading delays. Compared to other circumvention tools like Proton VPN or NordVPN, Psiphon VPN's ease of use is similar but not significantly better. The connection issues can be frustrating for users who expect reliability from a circumvention tool. |
| Security & Privacy Prod Apps's expert score for the 'Security & Privacy' aspect of each app. | 7.5 Poe's security and privacy practices present a mixed picture that requires careful consideration. We found that the app does implement some positive privacy measures, but there are areas where user data protection could be improved. Security and privacy considerations include:
User reviews show mixed feelings about privacy, with some users expressing concerns about data collection while others appreciate the transparency about how their data is used. The fact that conversations are processed by multiple AI providers means users should be mindful about sharing sensitive information. While Poe's privacy practices are generally in line with industry standards for AI chat applications, users seeking maximum privacy should be aware that their conversations are not end-to-end encrypted and may be used for AI training. We rate security and privacy at 7.5—adequate protection with room for improvement in data handling transparency. | 8.5 Psiphon VPN takes security and privacy seriously, with open-source transparency and research-backed security technologies. The service includes automatic protocol selection and constantly changing servers. The service also includes advanced features like NGO partnerships for enhanced privacy protection. The service's privacy features are comprehensive for a circumvention solution, with open-source transparency and research-backed security. The service also includes advanced features like NGO partnerships for enhanced security and privacy protection. Psiphon VPN has an excellent security record, with open-source transparency and community oversight. The circumvention focus ensures complete transparency, and the NGO partnerships mean the highest security standards are maintained. Compared to other circumvention tools like Proton VPN or NordVPN, Psiphon VPN's security practices are excellent. The service provides the highest level of protection for users who prioritize circumvention and transparency. Winner in this category |
| Conclusion A summary of our findings and final thoughts for each app. | Poe stands out as one of the most comprehensive AI chat platforms available. It brings together multiple cutting-edge AI models in a single, well-designed interface. Our testing showed consistently high-quality responses and a smooth user experience that makes AI interactions feel natural and productive. The app's versatility is its biggest strength. Whether you need help with research, creative writing, coding, or just casual conversation, Poe provides the right AI tools for the job. The point system in the free version might limit heavy users, but the premium subscription offers excellent value for those who rely on AI assistance regularly. With its combination of powerful AI models, custom bot creation, and multimedia generation capabilities, Poe represents the future of AI interaction. We highly recommend it for anyone serious about leveraging AI technology. | Psiphon VPN offers good circumvention capabilities and open-source transparency, but its value proposition is compromised by recent connection issues and forced app installations. The service provides excellent internet freedom features and NGO partnerships, but the connection problems and loading delays make it difficult to recommend over more reliable alternatives.
For users who prioritize internet freedom and are willing to work within the service's limitations, Psiphon VPN offers a solid feature set with good circumvention capabilities when working properly. However, those seeking specialized VPN functionality or experiencing connection issues might find better value with alternatives that offer similar features with better reliability, such as Proton VPN for general VPN needs.
Ultimately, Psiphon VPN's open-source approach and internet freedom focus make it a good choice for users seeking circumvention tools, but the connection stability issues and forced installations make it difficult to recommend over more reliable alternatives that offer similar features with better performance. For general VPN usage, consider NordVPN or ExpressVPN for more reliable connections. |
| Our Recommendation | ||
