By the TraceMind team
TraceMind vs SurfMind
AI history manager using embeddings and FAISS for semantic search; currently free/experimental.
TL;DR
SurfMind experiments with FAISS-based search but can rely on server processing. TraceMind keeps AI, indexing, and screenshots fully local with richer filters and analytics.
What is SurfMind?
SurfMind is an AI history extension that uses embeddings/FAISS to search browsing sessions.
It is early-stage and may send queries to servers for processing; feature set is still evolving.
What is TraceMind?
TraceMind is an AI browser history extension that indexes full page content plus screenshots.
Everything runs locally with AES-256-GCM encryption, offline support, and no account required.
Privacy & Data Storage
| Aspect | TraceMind | Alternative | Winner |
|---|---|---|---|
| Data path | Local-only | May call servers for search | TraceMind |
| Encryption | AES-256-GCM at rest | Not disclosed | TraceMind |
| Offline | Yes | Limited | TraceMind |
| Account | No | Varies | TraceMind |
Search Capabilities
| Aspect | TraceMind | Alternative | Winner |
|---|---|---|---|
| Search type | AI semantic + keyword | AI embeddings | Tie |
| Visual recall | Screenshots | None | TraceMind |
| Filters | Date, domain, exclusions, similarity | Basic | TraceMind |
| Analytics | Dashboard | None | TraceMind |
Features & Controls
| Aspect | TraceMind | Alternative | Winner |
|---|---|---|---|
| Pricing | Free + $5/mo Pro | Free (beta) | TraceMind |
| Reliability | Offline-safe, local | Dependent on servers | TraceMind |
| Screenshots | Yes | No | TraceMind |
| Similarity control | Slider + exclusions | Not available | TraceMind |
Pricing
| Plan | TraceMind | SurfMind |
|---|---|---|
| Free | ✓ (unlimited pages, 365 days) | Free beta |
| Paid | $5/mo or $50/yr | N/A |
Integrations
SurfMind focuses on search; no major integrations. TraceMind similarly focuses on browsing recall but adds screenshots and analytics.
Ease of Use
Both are simple to install; TraceMind offers clearer privacy controls and stable offline behavior.
Which should you choose?
Choose TraceMind if you…
- ✓You want guaranteed local processing
- ✓You rely on visual recall and analytics
- ✓You need exclusion controls and retention settings
Choose SurfMind if you…
- •You want to try an experimental FAISS-based tool
- •You are comfortable with potential server processing
Verdict
TraceMind is the safer pick for privacy and reliability. SurfMind is interesting for experimentation but lacks screenshots and analytics today.
Frequently Asked Questions
Does SurfMind run locally?
It uses FAISS but may call servers for queries. TraceMind keeps indexing, AI, and search fully local.
Which is better offline?
TraceMind. It is built to work offline; SurfMind can depend on connectivity.
Do either support screenshots?
TraceMind automatically saves page screenshots; SurfMind does not.
Explore other comparisons
🎯 Direct browser history/memory tool
🖥️ OS-level recall tool
📚 Adjacent (bookmarking/PKM)