// comparison
AegisRunner vs Katalon
Katalon relies on a desktop IDE, record-and-playback, and Groovy scripting. AegisRunner generates a full regression suite from a URL — no code, no Object Repository, and exports to Playwright anytime.
Side-by-side
| Feature | Katalon | AegisRunner |
|---|---|---|
| Approach | Record-and-playback + Groovy/Java scripting | AI-generated tests from a URL — zero coding |
| Getting started | Download Katalon Studio desktop IDE | Paste a URL in the browser |
| Page discovery | Manual — you record what to test | Automatic — AI finds every page and state |
| Selector strategy | XPath-heavy via Object Repository | Text, role, aria-label, data-testid — resilient |
| Visual regression | Katalon TestOps add-on (paid) | Built-in, pixel-level diffs |
| A11y / SEO / security | Not included | Built-in on every scan |
| CI/CD | Katalon Runtime Engine (paid licence) | GitHub Actions, GitLab CI, webhooks — included |
| Code export | Proprietary Katalon format | Standard Playwright TypeScript — yours |
| Mobile testing | Yes (Appium-based, you author the tests) | Native iOS & Android on real devices — tests AI-generated |
| Free tier | Very limited | Yes — 1 project, 25 pages, no credit card |
| Entry paid plan | ~$175/mo (Katalon Premium) | $9/mo (Starter) |
Comparison reflects publicly available information and may change as products evolve. Spotted something out of date? Tell us.
Frequently asked questions
Is AegisRunner a good Katalon alternative?
If you want regression coverage without maintaining Groovy scripts or an Object Repository, yes. AegisRunner generates and heals tests automatically from your URL, and exports standard Playwright if you ever want the code.
Do I need to install anything?
No. Katalon Studio is a desktop IDE; AegisRunner runs entirely in your browser. Paste a URL and the scan starts.
Can I export my tests?
Yes — AegisRunner exports clean Playwright TypeScript, so you're never locked into a proprietary format.
Does AegisRunner test native mobile apps?
Yes — upload your .apk or .ipa and the AI explores the app on a real iOS or Android device, generates the test cases, and runs them on real hardware. No Appium scripting. Cross-platform journeys can even act in the mobile app and verify on the website in a single test.
Where does Katalon win?
Desktop application testing (Windows apps) and teams with a large existing investment in Katalon Studio scripts and the Object Repository. If your suite already lives there and works, migration has a cost.
Try it on your own site
Paste a URL and get a full regression suite in minutes — free, no card required.
Start free