Screenpipe vs Littlebird — Open-Source Local-First Alternative
Open-source local-first vs closed-source cloud-connected
The Verdict
Littlebird is a polished Mac-only AI assistant, but it only captures your active window - missing 90% of multi-monitor workflows. It's closed-source and connects to cloud services. Screenpipe captures all monitors simultaneously, is fully open-source, works on Mac, Windows, and Linux, and keeps all your data 100% local. Use any AI model (Claude, Gemini, or local via Ollama). Developer-friendly with full API access, yet simple enough for anyone. If you value complete capture, transparency, and data ownership, Screenpipe is the clear choice.
Why Screenpipe Wins
Mac-only cloud assistant vs cross-platform local-first
At a Glance
Multi-Monitor? Littlebird Misses 90%
Littlebird only captures your active window. If you work across multiple monitors - common for traders, developers, and power users - it literally misses 90% of what you're doing. Screenpipe captures all monitors simultaneously. Every screen, every pixel, all the time.
Open Source Matters
Screenpipe is fully open-source under MIT license. You can inspect every line of code, contribute improvements, or fork it for your own needs. With a tool that captures your entire digital life, transparency isn't optional - it's essential. Littlebird is closed-source, meaning you have to trust their claims about privacy without verification.
True Local-First
Screenpipe stores everything locally in a SQLite database and mp4 files. You can use fully local AI models through Ollama, meaning your data never leaves your machine. Littlebird captures context locally but sends data to cloud services for AI processing. If you're serious about privacy, there's no comparison.
Any AI Model You Want
Screenpipe works with Claude, Gemini, or any local model through Ollama. You choose the AI that fits your needs and budget. Littlebird locks you into their limited AI options with no flexibility.
Cross-Platform Freedom
Screenpipe runs on Mac, Windows, and Linux. Your workflow shouldn't be limited by your operating system. Littlebird is Mac-only with no timeline for Windows or Linux support. If you switch platforms or use multiple OS, Screenpipe has you covered.
Developer & User Friendly
Screenpipe exposes a full API for querying your captured data - perfect for developers who want to build custom automations. But it's also designed to be simple for non-technical users with an intuitive interface. Create 'pipes' - plugins that extend functionality - or just use it out of the box. Littlebird offers no API access or extensibility options.
Littlebird: pros & cons
Where Littlebird Is Strong
- Polished Mac-native experience
- Intelligent task suggestions
- Meeting transcription and summaries
- Auto-generated daily journals
- iPhone companion app
Limitations
- Only captures active window (misses multi-monitor setups)
- Mac-only (no Windows or Linux)
- Closed-source code
- Cloud-connected for AI features
- No access to raw data or APIs
- Cannot self-host or customize
- Limited AI model options
Is Screenpipe a Good Littlebird Alternative?
Yes. Screenpipe is a strong Littlebird alternative and Littlebird competitor for anyone who values privacy, transparency, and data ownership. Unlike Littlebird, Screenpipe is fully open-source, keeps all data 100% local, and works on macOS, Windows, and Linux.
Screenpipe directly compares itself to Littlebird on this page. The key difference: Screenpipe captures your screen and audio 24/7 while keeping everything stored locally on your device. No cloud uploads, no vendor lock-in, no proprietary black boxes.
Ready for True Data Ownership?
Join thousands who chose open-source, local-first AI memory. Your data stays yours.