Proloquo2Go vs TouchChat vs TD Snap: Which AAC App Is Right?

Someone on your team (a therapist, a teacher, a supports coordinator) said your child or loved one could benefit from AAC. That stands for augmentative and alternative communication: basically, a way to say things when speaking is difficult or not possible. You started looking into apps, and three names keep coming up. Here's how they actually compare.

Quick comparison

Proloquo2Go

Made by AssistiveWare, Proloquo2Go is probably the most recognized AAC app in the world. It uses a research-based vocabulary system called Crescendo, which organizes words around core vocabulary (the small set of words we all use constantly, like “want,” “go,” “more,” “not”).

What it does well:

• The Crescendo system is well-researched and grows with the person. You can start with very simple grids and expand over time without switching apps.
• Over 25,000 symbols with natural-sounding voices. Available in English and Spanish (among other languages).
• Works across Apple devices: iPhone, iPad, Mac, and even Apple Watch for quick phrases.
• $249.99 one-time purchase. No subscription. You own it.

Who it's best for:Families already in the Apple ecosystem who want a polished, well-supported app that can grow from early communication to full sentences. It's especially popular for younger children and people just starting with AAC.

Limitations:Apple only. If you're using an Android tablet or a dedicated communication device, this isn't an option. It also doesn't support head tracking or switch scanning natively, so if the person needs those access methods, look at TouchChat or TD Snap instead.

TouchChat HD

TouchChat comes from PRC-Saltillo, a company with decades of experience in AAC. It's a full-featured app with nearly 40,000 SymbolStix symbols and multiple vocabulary systems to choose from.

What it does well:

• Built-in head tracking and switch scanning. This is a big deal for people with motor challenges who can't reliably tap a screen.
• Multiple page sets: WordPower, Gateway, and Pixon each take a different approach to vocabulary organization. A speech-language pathologist can help pick the right one.
• Over 45 button actions for deep customization.
• Voices in English, Spanish, French, Arabic, Hebrew, and Mandarin.

Who it's best for: People who need head tracking or switch scanning as their primary way to select words. Also a strong choice for families working with a speech therapist who prefers WordPower or another PRC-Saltillo vocabulary system.

Limitations:iOS only (no Mac, no watchOS, no Android). At $299.99, it's the most expensive of the three. The depth of customization can feel overwhelming at first. You'll likely want a therapist involved in the initial setup.

TD Snap

TD Snap is made by Tobii Dynavox, the biggest name in dedicated communication devices. The app is their software platform, and it runs on iPads as well as Tobii Dynavox's own hardware.

What it does well:

• The widest range of page sets: Core First (great for beginners), Motor Plan (for people who benefit from consistent motor patterns), PODD (a well-known clinical framework), Express, Aphasia, and more.
• Supports eye gaze input when paired with Tobii Dynavox devices. If the person can't use their hands or head reliably, eye gaze may be the answer, and TD Snap is built for it.
• The most affordable entry point: $9.99/month lets you start without a big upfront cost. Or pay $149.99 once.
• Integrates Google Assistant for smart home control directly from the communication device.

Who it's best for: People who need eye gaze access. People whose needs might change over time (the variety of page sets means you can switch approaches without switching apps). And families who want to start with a low monthly cost before committing.

Limitations:The subscription model means ongoing costs. If you stop paying, you lose access. The app is designed to work best with Tobii Dynavox hardware, and some features are only available on their devices. On a standalone iPad, you won't get eye gaze.

What about the GoTalk 20+?

Not everyone needs an app. The GoTalk 20+ Lite Touch from Attainment Company is a dedicated communication device with 20 message buttons and 5 core vocabulary keys. It costs between $100 and $500, needs no software or charging (it runs on batteries), and works right out of the box.

Consider the GoTalk when:

• The person isn't ready for a tablet-based app, or gets distracted by other apps on the iPad.
• You need something durable that can go to school, the park, or a group home without worrying about screen cracks or dead batteries.
• The person has a smaller set of things they need to communicate (up to 100 messages across five recording levels).
• Budget is tight. At $100 to $500, it's less than any of the three apps above (once you factor in the cost of an iPad).

How to try before buying

This is important: you should not spend $250 or more on an app without trying it first. Both Pennsylvania and Maryland have free AT lending programs that let you borrow devices and try software at home.

• Pennsylvania: TechOWL (Temple University) lets you borrow AAC devices for free for up to 5 weeks. Call 800-204-7428 or visit their website. No referral needed.
• Maryland: MDTAP (Maryland Department of Disabilities) runs a similar lending library. Call 800-832-4827.

Borrowing a device for a few weeks gives you (and the person who will actually use it) real experience. That's worth more than any comparison article, including this one.

How to pay

AAC apps and devices are covered under Medicaid waiver AT benefits in both states:

• Pennsylvania:The Consolidated Waiver covers up to $3,000/year for AT. That's enough for any of these apps (and potentially an iPad to run it on). See our full PA funding guide.
• Maryland: The Community Pathways Waiver covers up to $12,000/year for AT. See our full MD funding guide.

If the person is school-age with an IEP, the school district may also be required to provide AAC at no cost. Talk to the IEP team about an AT evaluation.