OpenClaw Review
Your comprehensive guide to the open-source AI assistant that runs on any OS, any platform. The lobster way. 🦞
What is OpenClaw?
OpenClaw is an open-source personal AI assistant created by Peter Steinberger (founder of PSPDFKit). It connects powerful AI models like Claude to your daily tools and workflows.
Unlike ChatGPT or Claude Desktop, OpenClaw can:
- ✓ Run 24/7 on your own server
- ✓ Connect to Telegram, Discord, WhatsApp, Slack
- ✓ Execute code, manage files, browse the web
- ✓ Remember context across conversations
- ✓ Be proactive with scheduled tasks
# Install OpenClaw
npm install -g openclaw
# Start the setup wizard
openclaw init
# Run your AI assistant
openclaw start
🦞 OpenClaw is running!
Connected to Telegram @your_botWhy Choose OpenClaw?
100% Open Source
Full access to the code. Self-host, modify, contribute. No vendor lock-in.
Multi-Channel
Telegram, Discord, WhatsApp, Slack, iMessage - talk to your AI anywhere.
Powerful Tools
File access, code execution, web browsing, browser automation, and more.
Persistent Memory
Remembers your preferences, past conversations, and learns over time.
Proactive Agent
Schedule tasks, set reminders, get notifications. Works while you sleep.
Extensible Skills
Add custom skills for GitHub, Notion, weather, and anything you need.
How Does It Compare?
See how OpenClaw stacks up against other AI assistants
| Feature | OpenClaw | Claude Desktop | ChatGPT |
|---|---|---|---|
| Open Source | ✓ | ✗ | ✗ |
| Self-Hosted | ✓ | ✗ | ✗ |
| Multi-Channel (Telegram, Discord...) | ✓ | ✗ | ✗ |
| 24/7 Background Running | ✓ | ✗ | ✗ |
| Code Execution | ✓ | ✓ | Limited |
| Custom Skills/Plugins | ✓ | MCP | GPTs |
| Price | Free + API costs | $20/mo | $20/mo |
Ready to Try OpenClaw?
Join 122,000+ developers who've starred the project on GitHub.