Smuxi is designed for users who need a persistent IRC experience with robust logging and customization options, while Quassel IRC offers a modern interface and ease of use, especially suited for mobile and dynamic environments.
Quassel IRC
Pros:
Modern user interface with a focus on usability
Supports mobile clients for on-the-go access
Powerful features like split view and dynamic channel management
Built-in support for multiple protocols beyond IRC
Active development and community support
Cons:
Can be resource-intensive on low-end devices
Some advanced features may be overwhelming for novice users
Dependency on Qt libraries may limit compatibility
Smuxi
Pros:
Multi-platform support (Windows, Linux, MacOS)
Customizable user interface
Supports multiple IRC networks and channels
Persistent connection with a server (allowing for offline access)
Integrated chat logging
Cons:
Requires a server component for full functionality
Setup can be complex for beginners
Occasional compatibility issues with certain IRC networks