Arya vs NovelAI
Which Companions AI tool is better in 2026?
Arya
AI relationship concierge that coaches couples right inside their text messages
NovelAI
AI storytelling and anime image generation from studio Anlatan
Side-by-side
Arya is the more established option (raised $37M); pricing is comparable on both sides.
| Metric | Arya | NovelAI |
|---|---|---|
| Taglinei | AI relationship concierge that coaches couples right inside their text messages | AI storytelling and anime image generation from studio Anlatan |
| Foundedi | 2022 | 2021🏆 |
| HQi | Tel Aviv, IL | — |
| Employeesi | 11-50 | 1-10🏆 |
| Neuron scorei | 55🏆 | 25 |
| Total fundingi | $37M🏆 | Undisclosed |
| Latest roundi | Growth | — |
| Valuationi | — | — |
| Cheapest paid plani | Pricing not disclosed | Pricing not disclosed |
| Free plani | ✓ | ✗ |
| Free triali | ✓ | ✓ |
| Top tier pricei | Pricing not disclosed | Pricing not disclosed |
| Pricing summaryi | Free | Free trial |
| Categoriesi |
Capability matrix
Developer-facing capabilities and access signals for Arya and NovelAI.
| Capability | Arya | NovelAI |
|---|---|---|
| MCP support | ✗ | ✗ |
| Public API | ✗ | ✗ |
| Webhooks | ✗ | ✗ |
| OAuth 2.0 | ✗ | ✗ |
| SDK languages | — | — |
| Free plan | ✓ | ✗ |
| Free trial | ✓ | ✓ |
| Verified | ✗ | ✗ |
| Active deal | ✗ | ✗ |
🟢 Strengths of Arya
- Has raised more capital ($37M vs Undisclosed)
- Higher Neuron score (55 vs 25)
- Offers a free plan
- Newer company (2022)
🔵 Strengths of NovelAI
- More mature (2021)
Which should you choose?
Choose NovelAI if price matters most — it starts at Free trial, which is friendlier for teams watching burn. Both AI Companions tools ship core features, so the cost delta often decides it for small teams and solo operators.
Choose Arya if you want the most established option — it has raised $37M, 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.
Frequently asked questions
Arya vs NovelAI — which is better?
It depends on your priority. Arya has raised more capital and is the more established option; NovelAI has broader feature depth. See the side-by-side table above.
Is Arya cheaper than NovelAI?
No — NovelAI's cheapest paid plan is Free trial, while Arya's is Free.
Do Arya and NovelAI offer free plans?
Arya: Yes, has a free plan. NovelAI: Free trial only.
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