MaxAI vs Merlin
Which should you use? A side-by-side look at what each one does, who it suits, what it costs, how hard it is to set up, and where each falls short.
AI tool · Freemium
A browser extension for one-click AI actions on selected text, emails and pages.
AI tool · Freemium
A browser extension giving access to several AI models on any page, for summarising, writing and chat.
The short answer
Choose MaxAI if you need…
- Rewriting selected text
- Email replies in the browser
Choose Merlin if you need…
- Summarising pages and YouTube videos
- Multi-model chat in the browser
Side-by-side
| MaxAI | Merlin | |
|---|---|---|
| Type | Plugins & extensions · AI browser extensions | Plugins & extensions · AI browser extensions |
| Price | Freemium | Freemium |
| Platforms | Chrome | Chrome, Web, iOS, Android |
| Works with | Chrome, Gmail | Chrome, Gmail |
| Hands-on tested by us | Not yet | Not yet |
| Last checked | 2026-10-29 | 2026-10-29 |
What each one is
MaxAI
A browser extension for one-click AI actions on selected text, emails and pages. Fast for quick text tasks. Similar features are now built into many browsers and apps.
Merlin
A browser extension giving access to several AI models on any page, for summarising, writing and chat. Handy all-in-one sidebar. It can read the pages you visit, so review its permissions.
Best for
MaxAI
- Rewriting selected text
- Email replies in the browser
Merlin
- Summarising pages and YouTube videos
- Multi-model chat in the browser
Strengths
MaxAI
- Right-click AI actions
- Email and social reply drafts
- Page summaries
- Multiple models
Merlin
- Sidebar chat with multiple models
- Page and video summaries
- Writing help in text fields
Frequently asked questions
What is the difference between MaxAI and Merlin?
MaxAI: A browser extension for one-click AI actions on selected text, emails and pages. Merlin: A browser extension giving access to several AI models on any page, for summarising, writing and chat. MaxAI suits rewriting selected text, while Merlin suits summarising pages and youtube videos.
Are MaxAI and Merlin free?
MaxAI: Freemium. Merlin: Freemium.
What are other alternatives to MaxAI and Merlin?
Other options people compare them with include HARPA AI, Monica, Sider.
Keep comparing
Built from our catalogue entries for both products: open-source details come from each project's README (AI-assisted, refreshed weekly) and GitHub data; AI-tool details are editorial. Spotted something wrong? Let us know from either product's page.