Fast AAC vs Grid 3
Fast AAC
fastaac.comGrid 3
smartboxaac.comSide by side
| Figure | Fast AAC | Grid 3 |
|---|---|---|
| Price from | Free | — |
| Free plan | Yes | — |
| Free trial | — | Yes |
| Open source | — | — |
| Windows | — | Yes |
| iOS | Yes | Yes |
| Android | Yes | — |
| Plans published | 2 | 0 |
| Spec score · AAC Communication Software | 8.2 (#6) | 7.8 (#11) |
| Languages | The maker says the app is available in multiple languages. | Grid is available in over 40 languages. |
| Purpose | Fast AAC is an AAC communication app designed to help people of all ages and abilities communicate. | Grid is AAC software designed to support people with communication and access needs, with tools for communication, independence and learning. |
| Support | The maker directs users to [email protected] for questions and support. | Smartbox says its support team can be contacted by phone, email or online chat, and it offers training for schools and organisations. |
Plans
In their own words
Fast AAC
Fast AAC is an augmentative and alternative communication app designed to help people of all ages and abilities communicate. Its customizable grid lets users rearrange tiles, create new ones and add personal images. The Google Play listing describes more than 1,500 image tiles and smart suggestions that predict next words from a user's entries. Tile colors can be adjusted, and light and dark mode presets are available. The maker says the app supports multiple languages. Fast AAC works without an internet connection and provides speech output with touch and swipe access. The privacy policy says the app collects no information and stores user-generated content on the device; the terms say it has no hosted accounts or cloud backups, so users are responsible for device-level backups. It is intended for nonverbal children and adults, including people with autism, cerebral palsy, stroke recovery or other speech challenges. The download is free; premium features require a one-time upgrade for 12.99 USD. The terms caution that predictions may be inaccurate and that the app is not a medical device or substitute for professional advice.
Grid 3
Grid 3 is AAC software from Smartbox for children and adults whose disabilities affect natural speech. It combines symbol vocabularies for different ages with text communication, including word prediction and AI-based assistance. The Fix tool can correct spelling and grammar, expand abbreviations, and fill missing letters or spaces. Speech output is available, and layouts are fully customizable. Access methods include eye gaze, touch with keyguards, switches, pointers, and voice activation. Grid can also provide access to email, SMS, social media, entertainment and streaming services, and web browsing. Computer Control operates a Windows computer, while Environment Control can operate technology around the home. The software supports more than 40 languages. Grid 3 requires Windows 10 or 11; Grid for iPad requires iOS 15 or later. Smartbox offers a 60-day Windows trial and a 30-day iPad trial. Pricing is by quote, with no free plan.