AI Copilot

Crux

An AI personal assistant that works across your desktop, files, apps, and workflow, keeping your data local and private.

What is Crux?

Crux is a local-first AI personal assistant that floats above your desktop, interacts with your files, apps, and workflow, and can be summoned via keyboard shortcut. It offers overlay and live assist modes, integrates with messaging platforms and tools, and processes data on your machine for privacy.

Crux vs Similar AI Tools

Pricing ModelPaidFree, FreemiumFree, FreemiumFree, Freemium
Free Credits
Key Features
  • Local-first AI processing (data stays on your machine)
  • Floating overlay accessible via keyboard shortcut
  • Works with local files, bash, and screen content
  • No account or email required – fully anonymous
  • Multiple AI models: Fast, Plus, Pro, and Vision
  • Supports image and file uploads (PDF, Word, spreadsheets, photos)
  • Multi-agent workflow with verification and self-healing
  • 50+ AI models auto-routed per agent
  • 1000+ OAuth2 app integrations
  • Private, account-scoped permission controls
  • Integrates with Gmail, Calendar, Notion, Granola, Plaud, CRM files, and more
  • Context-aware decision support with source-labeled evidence
Pros
  • Local-first design ensures data privacy
  • Works across desktop, files, and apps seamlessly
  • Fully anonymous, no account or email needed
  • Multiple AI models with different capabilities
  • Replaces 10+ separate tools with one platform
  • Multi-agent orchestration saves time and context switching
  • Private by design – your memory stays yours
  • Connects scattered apps and contexts
Cons
  • Still in beta, may have bugs
  • Only supports Mac (Apple silicon) and Windows for now
  • Free plan has limited daily credits and no web search
  • Chats are not encrypted on device (only locked)
  • Free tier limited to 5,000 credits per month
  • May have a learning curve for complex workflows
  • Requires trust in AI decision support
  • Limited to approved sources
Best For
  • Privacy-conscious individuals
  • Professionals managing multiple workflows
  • Privacy-conscious users
  • Anyone seeking a ChatGPT alternative without registration
  • Marketing teams
  • Content creators
  • Founders, operators, professionals, creators, students, caregivers, and ambitious people with high context load

How to use Crux?

  1. 1Download and install Crux for Mac or Windows.
  2. 2Launch the app and set up your workspace.
  3. 3Use Ctrl+Shift+Space (Windows) or ⌘+Shift+Space (Mac) to summon Crux anywhere.
  4. 4Type or speak your request (e.g., analyze a file, edit code, or answer questions).
  5. 5Crux can read files, run bash commands, and interact with your screen.

Crux Key Features

  • Local-first AI processing (data stays on your machine)
  • Floating overlay accessible via keyboard shortcut
  • Works with local files, bash, and screen content
  • Integrates with messaging apps (WhatsApp, Telegram, Discord) and tools (GitHub, Notion, Google Suite, etc.)
  • Live assist mode for real-time help over your screen

Crux Use Cases

  • Personal productivity assistant
  • Code review and debugging
  • Data analysis and report generation
  • Learning and language practice
  • UI/UX improvement suggestions

Crux Pricing & Free Credits

Crux currently operates on a Paid model.

Lifetime License

$10 one-time

Full access to Crux for Mac (Apple silicon) and Windows, including all features.

Crux Pros & Cons

Pros

  • Local-first design ensures data privacy
  • Works across desktop, files, and apps seamlessly
  • One-time affordable pricing
  • Integrates with a wide range of tools and platforms

Cons

  • Still in beta, may have bugs
  • Only supports Mac (Apple silicon) and Windows for now
  • Limited third-party integrations compared to some competitors

What is Crux best for?

  • Privacy-conscious individuals
  • Professionals managing multiple workflows
  • Developers needing a local AI assistant
  • Users looking for an affordable AI copilot

Crux FAQ

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