Screenpipe vs Omi — Local-First, Open-Source Alternative
Local-first screen memory vs cloud-uploaded screen & audio
Don't take our word for it — ask AI to compare the codebases
The Verdict
Omi offers a wearable pendant and desktop app that captures screenshots and audio. All AI processing goes through cloud services (OpenAI, Deepgram) — there is no local LLM option and no Apple Intelligence support. Screenpipe keeps everything 100% local, supports local AI via Ollama and Apple Intelligence, and is fully open-source. Both capture screen and audio, but only Screenpipe lets you run the full pipeline offline on your own machine.
Why Screenpipe Wins
Cloud-dependent wearable that uploads everything vs 100% local privacy
At a Glance
Cloud vs Local Processing
Omi processes all data through cloud services — OpenAI for chat, Deepgram for transcription. There is no local LLM option and no Apple Intelligence support. Screenpipe supports fully local AI via Ollama, Apple Intelligence, and Windows AI. You can run Screenpipe air-gapped with no internet and still get transcription, search, and AI chat. With Omi, no internet means no AI features.
Data Stays on Your Machine
Omi uploads screenshots and audio to their cloud for processing. Screenpipe stores everything in a local SQLite database on your device. Your data never touches an external server unless you explicitly choose to use a cloud AI provider.
Open Source
Omi's firmware is open-source, but the AI pipeline depends on proprietary cloud services. Screenpipe is fully open-source — the entire capture, OCR, transcription, and AI pipeline runs locally. You can audit every line of code.
Developer Access
Screenpipe exposes a full REST API and MCP server for building on top of your data. Query screen history, build automations, integrate with any tool. Omi has 250+ app integrations through their marketplace but no raw API access to your captured data.
Omi: pros & cons
Where Omi Is Strong
- Wearable pendant for in-person conversations
- Desktop app with screen capture
- Automatic transcription and summaries
- Low hardware cost ($89 pendant, no subscription)
- Mobile apps for iOS and Android
- 250+ third-party app integrations
Limitations
- Screen data and audio uploaded to cloud for processing
- No local LLM support — no Ollama, no Apple Intelligence
- No Linux support
- No API access to your data
Is Screenpipe a Good Omi Alternative?
Yes. Screenpipe is a strong Omi alternative and Omi competitor for anyone who values privacy, transparency, and data ownership. Unlike Omi, Screenpipe is fully open-source, keeps all data 100% local, and works on macOS, Windows, and Linux.
Screenpipe directly compares itself to Omi 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.