Which AI AI Chatbots tool is better in 2026?
Founded by Kai-Fu Lee — maker of the Yi model family.
AI companion platform for meaningful conversations.
| 01.AI | Candy AI | |
|---|---|---|
| Tagline | Founded by Kai-Fu Lee — maker of the Yi model family. | AI companion platform for meaningful conversations. |
| Founded | 2023 | 2023 |
| HQ | Beijing, CN | Limassol, CY |
| Employees | 201-500 | 11-50 |
| Total funding | $1B | Undisclosed |
| Latest round | Series A · Nov 6, 2023 | Bootstrapped |
| Valuation | — | — |
| Pricing | Freemium | Freemium · From $13/mo |
| Free plan | — | — |
| Free trial | — | — |
| Categories |
Choose 01.AI if price matters most — it starts at Freemium, which is friendlier for teams watching burn. Both AI Chatbots tools ship core features, so the cost delta often decides it for small teams and solo operators.
Choose 01.AI if you want the most established option — it has raised $1B, suggesting more runway for enterprise features, support, and long-term roadmap. For mission-critical workflows or larger teams, that stability often outweighs a lower monthly price.
Massive 70% off Candy AI Premium — personalized AI companion chat with voice and image generation.
It depends on your priority. 01.AI has raised more capital and is the more established option; Candy AI has broader feature depth. See the side-by-side table above.
Yes — 01.AI starts at Freemium, while Candy AI starts at Freemium · From $13/mo.
01.AI: Paid only. Candy AI: Paid only.
Contextual paths to related AI startups, deals and rankings.