A true beginner would appreciate the built-in server list, which lets you get started quickly. Either you like that look or you don’t, be sure to look closely at some screen caps before you download. Many people like the retro, minimalist look that harkens back to the old days (I’m talking 1990s) where multiple channels are streamed together into a single window, and people relied on typed or shortcut commands to do most things. Unusually ambitious in being available for Mac OS X, iOS, and even Windows. LimeChat 2.33įree but donations are accepted. On the other hand, an experienced user would be empowered with advanced features like op and oper actions, flood control, tracking of friends, ignoring of foes, logging, channel-specific input history, and scripting via not just Applescript but all the usual languages. A new user would feel comfortable thanks to conversation tracking, address books. As a result, the user interface feels “right” and everything makes sense. Textual looks easy and simple, but implements a full array of chat features that are neatly tucked away just below the surface. Textual is one of a few truly modern Mac IRC clients, as it uses the App Store, supports Notification Center, Retina displays, and is still being updated regularly (latest release as of this review was November 2012). Textual 2.1.1Īvailable from Mac App Store for $4 (trial version disconnects you every 2 hours). It is based on the Xchat 2 code base and therefore Open Source and Free Software. XChat Aqua/Azure is OS X native front-end of xchat2 written on Cocoa rather than GTK2. This is more than most users will need, as you can transfer files, chat on multiple networks, plaster your screen with mIRC colors, and handle scripting via Applescript. They’ve been around since 2004 or so, and have grown from a lightweight client into a stable, full-featured one that supports not just IRC but also SILC and ICB. Good for novices and advanced users alike. Open source freeware, available for Mac OS X and iOS. All of these apps are stable and usable, and that reflects not only the multi-year track record of these particular programs, but the overall maturity of IRC itself. This is a radical change from just a few years ago, when the best apps were shareware worth $30 or more. Most apps in this list are free or just a few dollars. Mac IRC clients are all grown up and have entered the new era of free cloud computing and the Mac App Store.

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