Tool choice · 09
How to choose a Go app: compare jobs, not feature counts
Desktop review, guided cloud study, professional databases, online play, and problem training are different products. Choose a primary workflow first.
Do you drive the tree, or want guided study?
KaTrain, Sabaki, q5Go, and LizzieYzy favor active board and variation exploration. AI Sensei emphasizes automatic mistake finding, lessons, and quizzes. Read19 combines browser review, sharing, and cloud KataGo. The first difference is learning style, not just engine strength.
Active research and guided learning sit at opposite ends of a spectrum; one player may use both at different stages. Compare databases, play servers, and problem tools separately
SmartGo and Kifubara emphasize professional records and research organization. OGS and regional platforms center online play, broadcasts, and community. 101 Weiqi focuses on problems, classes, and homework. Analysis may appear in each, but their primary jobs differ from a dedicated review tool.
Primary workflow explains the product: research material, live games, and problem training do not fit one honest total score. Check platform, data, and engine boundaries last
Confirm operating systems, SGF import and export, offline behavior, model and search controls, local GTP or remote WSS support, and data portability. A closed ecosystem can feel smoother; open files and protocols support long-term archives and automation.
Choose one main workspace and add one specialist. Preserve portability through SGF and open protocol boundaries.
Product sources
Write down before choosing
- My primary job
- Required systems and devices
- Whether complete SGF export exists
- Whether local GTP or remote WSS is needed