Introduction
On macOS, ClashX and Clash Verge are the two most popular proxy tools. Both are developed based on the Clash core, but each has unique features in terms of functionality, user experience, and use cases. This article will provide an in-depth comparison of these two tools from multiple dimensions to help you make the best choice.
Whether you are a casual user seeking simplicity or an advanced user needing deep customization, this article will provide comprehensive reference information.
Product Overview
ClashX
ClashX is a lightweight macOS menu bar proxy tool known for its simplicity and stability. It adopts the native macOS design style and integrates perfectly into the system environment. ClashX's core philosophy is "simplicity is beauty," providing users with essential features while avoiding redundant and complex configurations.
Native experience, low resource usage, fast startup, simple and intuitive configuration
Clash Verge
Clash Verge is a cross-platform proxy client developed based on the Tauri framework, offering richer features and a more modern interface. It supports not only macOS but also Windows and Linux, making it suitable for users who need to use it across multiple platforms. Clash Verge is characterized by comprehensive functionality and strong customizability.
Cross-platform support, rich visual configuration, built-in rule editor, support for multiple proxy protocols
Feature Comparison
| Feature | ClashX | Clash Verge |
|---|---|---|
| Basic Proxy | ✅ Supported | ✅ Supported |
| Rule Management | ✅ Basic | ✅ Advanced |
| Visual Editor | ❌ Not Supported | ✅ Supported |
| Cross-Platform | ❌ macOS Only | ✅ macOS/Win/Linux |
| Resource Usage | ✅ Low | ⚠️ Medium |
| Configuration Complexity | ✅ Simple | ⚠️ Complex |
The feature comparison shows that ClashX focuses more on simplicity and efficiency, while Clash Verge offers more advanced features and customization options. Which one to choose depends on your specific needs and usage habits.
Performance Testing
We conducted performance tests on both tools in the same hardware environment, using a MacBook Pro (M1 Pro, 16GB RAM). Test items include memory usage, CPU usage, and startup time.
Test results show that ClashX has significant advantages in resource usage and startup speed, thanks to its native development architecture. Although Clash Verge uses more resources, it is still within acceptable limits for modern computers.
Interface Design
ClashX adopts macOS native menu bar design, with all operations completed in the menu. The interface is simple and intuitive. The advantage of this design is that it does not occupy desktop space and operations are quick, but the downside is limited feature display.
Clash Verge provides a complete window interface with modern UI design and dark mode support. The visual configuration panel makes complex proxy settings more intuitive, especially suitable for users who need to frequently adjust configurations.
ClashX follows the philosophy of "tools should be invisible," while Clash Verge believes that "visualization makes control more intuitive." There is no right or wrong between the two philosophies, they just serve different user groups.
Use Case Recommendations
Choose ClashX if you:
- Only use macOS
- Seek simplicity and efficiency
- Don't need to frequently modify configurations
- Want minimal resource usage
- Prefer native macOS style
Choose Clash Verge if you:
- Need cross-platform usage
- Need visual configuration interface
- Frequently edit rules and configurations
- Prefer feature-rich tools
- Not sensitive to resource usage
Conclusion and Recommendations
Both ClashX and Clash Verge are excellent proxy tools, each with its own strengths. ClashX is more suitable for macOS users seeking simplicity and efficiency, while Clash Verge is more suitable for users who need cross-platform usage and advanced configurations.
For most average users, ClashX's features are more than sufficient, and its lightweight and native experience are important advantages. If you are an advanced user who needs fine control over proxy rules or needs to use it across multiple platforms, Clash Verge would be the better choice.
Our Recommendation
If you are still hesitating, try both tools. They are both free and open source, and you can make the best choice based on actual experience. For macOS users, we recommend starting with ClashX, as it meets the needs of 90% of users.
