Quick Comparison
| Feature | Snowball | Monica CRM |
|---|---|---|
| Business card scanning | 2-second AI scan | Not available |
| Voice notes | ||
| Offline mode | Self-hosted only | |
| Open source | ||
| Self-hosting option | ||
| Life events tracking | Basic notes | Detailed |
| Mobile app | Native iOS | Web-based |
| CRM integrations | 100+ | Limited |
Different Philosophies
Monica is an open-source personal CRM focused on tracking relationships over time—birthdays, family members, conversation history. It's thoughtful software. But for professional networking with business cards and events, it falls short.
Key Differences
Professional Networking Focus
Snowball is built for conferences, meetups, and business events. Monica is designed for personal relationships like friends and family.
Business Card Scanning
Scan cards in 2 seconds. Monica has no card scanning—every contact is manual entry.
Voice Notes
Capture context while the conversation is fresh. Monica has text notes only.
Native Mobile App
Snowball is a fast, native iOS app. Monica is primarily web-based.
When Monica Makes Sense
- You want open-source, self-hosted software
- You're tracking personal relationships (friends, family)
- You want detailed life event tracking
- Privacy through self-hosting is essential
- Professional networking isn't your focus
When to Choose Snowball
- You network professionally at events
- You need fast business card scanning
- You want voice notes for context
- You need CRM integrations for work
- You prefer a polished mobile experience
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Monica really free?
Monica has a free tier and an open-source version you can self-host. Snowball also has a generous free tier.
Can I self-host Snowball?
No. Snowball is a cloud-synced iOS app. For self-hosting, Monica is the better choice.
Which is better for privacy?
Monica's self-hosted version gives you complete control. Snowball uses on-device AI so card images never leave your phone, but contacts sync to cloud.
Can I use both?
Yes. Some users use Monica for personal relationships and Snowball for professional networking.