Clash Client
Comparison

Currently the only client covering all four platforms — Windows, macOS, Android, iOS — with a consistent workflow across the board. Importing a subscription, switching proxy mode, enabling TUN all follow the same menu logic on phone and computer alike, so switching devices means no relearning. Built on the mihomo core, its rule routing and protocol support sit at the current mainstream level of the ecosystem; the iOS version ships through the App Store, with clashplus.io as the official site. For beginners, the essentials come with sensible defaults; for power users, the core parameters aren't hidden away either. If you don't want to spend time comparing options, just pick this one.

The most feature-complete option on desktop. Config overrides (Merge) and script enhancements let you append your own rules without touching the original subscription text; service mode means TUN doesn't need admin permission prompted every single time; and Linux support is the most complete among the mainstream clients. The trade-off is a deeper settings menu, which can leave first-time users unsure where to start. It's a solid pick for advanced desktop users, anyone who needs custom rule chains, or anyone whose main system is Linux.

One of the most consistent open-source clients across platforms: Windows, macOS, Linux and Android all share the same interface, with subscription management, latency testing and group switching landing in exactly the same place. Feature choices lean toward "good enough and easy," without as many advanced toggles as Verge Rev, but the common actions take fewer steps. Good for anyone using both a computer and a phone who doesn't want to juggle two different mental models.

The most customizable interface on Windows: themes, layout and sidebar can all be tuned to taste, and configs can be post-processed with scripts. Its feature skeleton shares roots with Verge Rev, running on the mihomo core with no compromise on rule capability. It's built more for users willing to spend time shaping the tool into their own form — if you just want to install and go, the earlier stops are more convenient; if you enjoy the tinkering process, this stop is worth getting off at.

Once the de facto standard on Windows — countless old tutorial screenshots online come from it. The project is discontinued: the original core no longer evolves, new protocols and rule types aren't supported, and no fixes will come for issues you hit. Its value now lies in the volume of legacy material and the muscle memory of long-time users — if you're learning from an old tutorial, it can help you match up concepts, but it's not recommended for a fresh setup. Existing users can check the config migration ideas in Beginner to Advanced for a smooth switch to an actively maintained client.

The closest thing to the raw core on Android: config options are exposed almost exactly as the mihomo native structure defines them, giving precise control over overrides, DNS and TUN details — the most direct way to verify how a given config field behaves on mobile. The flip side is minimal onboarding guidance, which can leave newcomers lost among a screen full of parameters. It suits users already comfortable with Clash config file structure, or anyone who needs fine-grained debugging on a phone; first-time Android users should start with Clash Plus or FlClash instead.

The lightest of the eight: small install size, low background footprint, and an interface trimmed down to the most frequent actions — import subscription, pick a node, toggle proxy. It doesn't aim for feature coverage; complex rule editing and script extensions aren't part of the design. For old Android devices, backup phones, or anyone who just wants something to install once and rarely open, this simplicity is a feature. Transfer to CMFA or FlClash when you need finer routing control.

The archetypal macOS menu-bar app: no Dock icon, no desktop footprint, just click the menu bar icon to switch nodes or modes — light enough that you barely notice it's running. The project is now discontinued, and the risk of compatibility issues after major system updates will keep accumulating. Current users can keep going for now, but migration should be on the roadmap — both the macOS versions of Clash Plus and Clash Verge Rev can pick up the same subscription without a hitch.