Dots vs MacGPT
Side-by-side comparison · Updated September 2026
| Description | OpenAI's persistent agents for ongoing work across connected apps, with read-only proactive research and separate approval rules for actions. | MacGPT is a native macOS app designed to provide quick access to ChatGPT directly from your menu bar. With a single click, users can initiate conversations with one of the leading AI language models. Note, to use MacGPT's native features, users need their own OpenAI API key, which is not included in the purchase. The app supports features like Global, Inline, and conversation mode, but requires macOS Ventura or newer. Updates and additional features are continually being rolled out for enhanced functionality. |
| Category | AI Agents | ChatGPT Plugin |
| Rating | No reviews | No reviews |
| Pricing | Pricing unavailable | Paid |
| Starting Price | N/A | $20 |
| Plans | — |
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| Use Cases | — |
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| Tags | macOSChatGPTmenu barOpenAI API key | |
| Features | ||
| Persistent assignments on a separate cloud computer | ||
| Connected-app context with Activity View to inspect and redirect work | ||
| Read-only proactive research; actions follow connected-app rules and approval controls | ||
| Global access to ChatGPT from anywhere on your Mac | ||
| Inline feature for text field integration | ||
| Menu bar access for quick conversation start | ||
| Conversation mode for hands-free chatting | ||
| Latest GPT-4o model support | ||
| Customizable keyboard shortcuts | ||
| One-time payment with free updates | ||
| Supports macOS Monterey, Ventura, and Sonoma | ||
| Compatibility with OpenAI API | ||
| Additional macOS utilities available for enhanced functionality | ||
| View Dots | View MacGPT | |
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