Comparison
Maho vs Aside Browser
Aside Browser (YC F25) focuses on "AI delegation" via bundled Gemini keys. Maho takes a different posture: "AI as a tool" with complete data sovereignty, multi-provider BYOK, native Spaces, and cross-platform native shells.
| Feature | Maho Browser | Aside Browser | Verdict |
|---|---|---|---|
| AI Integration | Multi-provider BYOK (OpenAI, Anthropic, Ollama, LM Studio) + Managed Free Trial | Gemini bundled key (zero setup) + BYOK settings for ChatGPT/Claude | Maho for flexibility, Aside for instant setup |
| Agent Architecture | ACP (Agent Client Protocol) standard with out-of-process watchdog sandboxing | AsideAgentManager in-process web-driver (ChatGPT Atlas backend) | Maho (robust isolation) |
| Spaces & Layout | Native Spaces (visual themes, per-space configurations) + Tab Folders & Pinned Sections | Vertical tabs + AI-based tab sorting/tidy | Maho (organization), Aside (auto-sorting) |
| Supported Platforms | macOS, Windows, Linux desktops + native iOS & Android shells | macOS only | Maho (any device) |
| Privacy & Sovereignty | Built-in cosmetic/network ad blocker + E2E encrypted self-hostable sync relay | No ad blocker; standard sync backend (no self-host option) | Maho |
| Productivity Suites | Maho Mail (Tauri React client) + Built-in Draw Easel, Tab Notes, Command Palette | Browser only (no mail/easel/notes) | Maho |
Why Maho?
Maho is built for users who want to control their tools. By bringing your own API keys (or utilizing our managed free trial), you pay exactly what the tokens cost without a $20/month markup. Our architecture isolates the AI agent to an out-of-process sandbox, so your secrets and local files are never exposed. With built-in Spaces, Easel, Notes, and a native Mail client, Maho is a complete privacy-first productivity hub.
Why Aside?
Aside Browser is excellent for users who want zero configuration. The YC F25 team has built a highly polished, Gemini-bundled workflow that automates simple web-driver tasks immediately out of the box. If you do not mind paying a $20/month premium for automated tab tidy and web-delegated task completion, Aside provides a convenient first-run experience.
Try Maho Browser today.
Free forever. Self-hostable sync relay. Available on macOS, with iOS and Android native shells in active development.