10 Best UPSC Preparation Apps in 2026 (Honest Comparison)
12 min read
Feb 23, 2026
Picking the right UPSC preparation app in 2026 is no longer a simple task. The market is flooded with options from established coaching giants that moved online to nimble AI-first startups promising to replace your entire study plan. Every app claims to be "the best." Most of them aren't lying, but most aren't telling you the full truth either.
This guide cuts through the marketing. We've evaluated ten of the most-used UPSC apps in India based on content quality, AI capabilities, mock test infrastructure, current affairs coverage, user experience, and pricing. Whether you're a fresh aspirant who just downloaded your first app or someone who's burned through two coaching subscriptions and is looking to optimize — this comparison will help you make a sharper decision.
What Actually Makes a UPSC App Worth Your Time?
Before diving into the list, it's worth setting the evaluation criteria because "best app" means very different things depending on where you are in your preparation.
A strong UPSC preparation app should deliver on six core dimensions:
- Content depth and syllabus coverage Does it cover all GS papers, optional subjects, and Essay, or is it shallow on some?
- Current Affairs integration Are daily updates directly mapped to the syllabus, or is it just news aggregation?
- Mock test quality Are the tests reflective of actual UPSC difficulty, or are they generic MCQ banks?
- AI and personalization Does the app adapt to your weak areas, or does it serve the same content to everyone?
- Mains and answer writing support Prelims alone doesn't crack UPSC. Does the app prepare you for Mains?
- Pricing and access parity Can a candidate from a Tier-3 city with a mid-range Android phone use it effectively?
Keep these six in mind as you read through each app's profile.
10 Best UPSC Preparation Apps in 2026
1. PrepAiro
Best for: AI-driven personalized preparation across Prelims and Mains
PrepAiro is one of the most thoughtfully designed UPSC apps to emerge in the AI era. Built specifically for civil services aspirants, it doesn't try to be everything to everyone it focuses sharply on making your preparation smarter, not just busier.
What sets PrepAiro apart is its adaptive learning engine. Rather than dumping hundreds of hours of video content and leaving you to figure out what to study, PrepAiro maps your current knowledge state across GS topics, identifies gaps, and builds a dynamic study plan that evolves week by week. If you score poorly in Modern History but well in Polity, the system automatically increases your Modern History load in the next cycle.
Key highlights:
- AI-curated daily current affairs aligned with the UPSC syllabus (not just headlines)
- Mains answer writing evaluation with structured feedback
- PYQ integration across subjects with difficulty tagging
- Spaced repetition for revision especially useful in the final 60 days
- Clean, fast UI that works well on mid-range devices
Pricing: Freemium model with meaningful free access; premium plans available
Ideal for: Aspirants who want structure and don't want to waste time building their own study plan from scratch.
2. SuperKalam
Best for: Progress tracking and analytics-heavy preparation
SuperKalam has built a loyal following among aspirants who love data. The app's standout feature is its detailed analytics dashboard you can see exactly how many hours you've studied, your accuracy across subjects, your performance trend over weeks, and how you compare to other users at a similar stage.
For aspirants who struggle with consistency or don't know where they stand relative to the competition, SuperKalam's tracking tools are genuinely useful. The app also features quality mock tests and a solid question bank, though its AI personalization is more basic compared to some newer entrants.
Key highlights:
- Detailed study analytics and progress dashboards
- Strong community features study groups and peer comparison
- Good Prelims-focused content and test series
- Habit tracking and streak-based motivation systems
Pricing: Freemium; paid plans unlock full test series and analytics
Ideal for: Data-driven aspirants who want accountability tools and peer benchmarking.
3. PadhAI
Best for: Free, AI-assisted UPSC prep for budget-conscious aspirants
PadhAI has made a strong case for being the most accessible AI-powered UPSC app currently available. It offers free access to a surprisingly comprehensive content library covering GS subjects with PDFs, quizzes, and current affairs without locking most of it behind a paywall.
The app's AI tutor feature allows aspirants to ask concept-level questions and get contextual, syllabus-relevant explanations. It's not a replacement for deep study, but it works well as an on-demand clarification tool. PadhAI also gamifies preparation with leaderboards and duel challenges, which some aspirants find genuinely motivating.
Key highlights:
- Strong free tier with broad syllabus coverage
- AI doubt-solving integrated into content flow
- Daily current affairs with PYQ mapping
- Gamified quizzes and competitive duel mode
Pricing: Largely free; some premium features available
Ideal for: First-time aspirants, those on a tight budget, or anyone wanting to explore AI-assisted prep before committing to a paid platform.
4. Dalvoy
Best for: Mains-focused preparation and answer writing
Dalvoy occupies a specific and important niche: serious Mains preparation. While most apps prioritize Prelims (because the audience is larger and the content is easier to standardize), Dalvoy invests heavily in Mains-stage tools essay writing prompts, answer frameworks, GS model answers, and peer review features.
If you've already cleared Prelims once or are preparing to crack Mains this year, Dalvoy's depth on GS Papers 2, 3, and Essay makes it worth a serious look. The platform also curates editorials and opinion pieces that are directly useful for building the analytical vocabulary UPSC Mains demands.
Key highlights:
- Structured Mains answer writing practice with evaluation
- Editorial curation and issue-based analytical content
- Model answers written by rank-holders and subject experts
- Essay writing module with thematic frameworks
Pricing: Subscription-based; no significant free tier
Ideal for: Serious Mains-stage aspirants or those in their second or third attempt.
5. Saval AI
Best for: Conversational AI doubt-solving and concept clarity
Saval AI takes a different approach it positions itself less as a content platform and more as an intelligent study companion. The core product is a conversational AI that you can query on any UPSC topic, ask for explanations at different depth levels, or use to generate quick revision summaries.
Think of it as having a well-read study partner available 24/7. Saval AI is most useful as a supplement to another primary platform rather than a standalone prep tool. Aspirants who use it as a revision and doubt-clarification layer tend to find it genuinely useful, especially during the final stretch before Prelims.
Key highlights:
- Conversational AI tutor with UPSC-specific knowledge base
- Topic summaries on demand
- Question-and-answer drilling on specific subjects
- Can be used effectively even in short study sessions
Pricing: Subscription-based with a free trial
Ideal for: Aspirants who already have a primary study plan but want an intelligent companion for doubt-solving and on-the-go revision.
6. Unacademy
Best for: Live classes and structured video-based coaching
Unacademy remains one of the largest and most recognized names in online UPSC coaching. Its primary strength is its educator network the platform hosts some well-known UPSC teachers whose video lectures and live sessions attract large audiences.
If you prefer a structured, class-like experience with scheduled sessions, live Q&As, and a wide variety of educators to choose from, Unacademy delivers that at scale. However, the platform's sheer size can work against focused aspirants the volume of content can be overwhelming, and the learning experience is less personalized compared to AI-first platforms.
Key highlights:
- Large library of video lectures across all GS subjects
- Live sessions and doubt-clearing with educators
- Test series and mock exams
- Multiple educators per subject useful for getting different perspectives
Pricing: Freemium; Unacademy Plus subscription required for most live and structured content
Ideal for: Aspirants who prefer video-lecture-based learning and want a coaching-like structure without physically attending classes.
7. Drishti IAS
Best for: Hindi-medium aspirants and traditional content reliability
Drishti IAS has earned strong credibility among Hindi-medium aspirants and those who prefer traditional, textbook-style study material. The platform's notes, monthly magazines, and current affairs coverage are considered reliable and exam-aligned by a large community of aspirants.
The Drishti app extends this to mobile, offering access to their current affairs content, video lectures, and test series. It's not the flashiest app in terms of UI or AI features, but its content quality and Hindi-medium depth are hard to match.
Key highlights:
- Highly trusted among Hindi-medium UPSC aspirants
- Monthly current affairs magazines in both Hindi and English
- Strong state PCS coverage alongside UPSC
- Reliable, conservative content aligned with NCERT and standard references
Pricing: Freemium with affordable premium plans
Ideal for: Hindi-medium aspirants, regional language learners, and those who prioritize content credibility over technological features.
8. Testbook
Best for: Mock tests, PYQ practice, and Prelims speed drills
Testbook built its reputation on test series quality, and that remains its strongest suit. The platform offers a massive question bank, well-structured mock tests, and detailed analytics on your performance. For Prelims preparation particularly for aspirants who need to sharpen their speed and accuracy Testbook's test infrastructure is among the best available.
The app also covers current affairs, but its primary identity remains a test and practice platform. If you need a place to take full-length mocks that mirror actual UPSC Prelims conditions, Testbook should be on your radar.
Key highlights:
- Extensive PYQ bank with detailed explanations
- High-quality mock tests with sectional and full-length options
- Strong performance analytics after each test
- Also covers CSAT, State PSC exams
Pricing: Freemium; test series passes available at various price points
Ideal for: Aspirants in the Prelims revision phase who want to maximize their test-taking exposure.
9. ClearIAS
Best for: Beginners and structured self-study starters
ClearIAS is particularly well-suited for aspirants who are new to UPSC and don't know where to begin. The platform offers a logically sequenced content library that walks you through the syllabus in a digestible order — starting from NCERT basics and building toward standard references.
Its study plans are clearly laid out, and the content is well-curated for the early stages of preparation. ClearIAS is less strong on AI features and adaptive learning, but for a first-year aspirant trying to build a foundation, it offers a reliable starting point.
Key highlights:
- Beginner-friendly structured study paths
- NCERT-to-standard-reference progression
- Current affairs quizzes and monthly compilations
- Free PDFs and notes for key topics
Pricing: Free access to most content; premium plans for full mock tests and study plans
Ideal for: First-year aspirants building their foundation and looking for a guided, structured starting point.
10. BYJU's IAS
Best for: Aspirants who want premium, full-service coaching online
BYJU's IAS offers a comprehensive, coaching-centre-style experience online. The platform provides live classes, recorded lectures, study material, mentorship, and test series under one roof. For aspirants who want a single, managed experience without piecing together resources from multiple platforms, BYJU's offers that completeness.
The trade-off is cost — BYJU's IAS is among the most expensive options on this list. The quality of content is generally solid, but recent changes in the organization have led to some aspirants reporting inconsistencies in live class availability and mentorship quality.
Key highlights:
- Comprehensive, full-service coaching experience
- Live classes and recorded video library
- Mentorship and guidance from educators
- Integrated test series
Pricing: Premium subscription; among the higher-priced options in the market
Ideal for: Aspirants who prefer a structured, managed coaching experience and have the budget to invest in a premium platform.
Feature Comparison Table
| App | AI Features | Mock Tests | Current Affairs | Mains Support | Hindi Medium | Free Tier | Best Stage |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| PrepAiro | ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ | ⭐⭐⭐⭐ | ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ | ⭐⭐⭐⭐ | ✅ | ✅ Strong | All stages |
| SuperKalam | ⭐⭐⭐ | ⭐⭐⭐⭐ | ⭐⭐⭐ | ⭐⭐⭐ | ✅ | ✅ Moderate | Prelims |
| PadhAI | ⭐⭐⭐⭐ | ⭐⭐⭐ | ⭐⭐⭐⭐ | ⭐⭐ | ✅ | ✅ Excellent | Beginners |
| Dalvoy | ⭐⭐⭐ | ⭐⭐⭐ | ⭐⭐⭐⭐ | ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ | ❌ | ❌ | Mains stage |
| Saval AI | ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ | ⭐⭐ | ⭐⭐⭐ | ⭐⭐⭐ | ❌ | ✅ Trial | All stages |
| Unacademy | ⭐⭐ | ⭐⭐⭐⭐ | ⭐⭐⭐⭐ | ⭐⭐⭐ | ✅ | ✅ Limited | All stages |
| Drishti IAS | ⭐ | ⭐⭐⭐ | ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ | ⭐⭐⭐ | ✅ Excellent | ✅ Moderate | All stages |
| Testbook | ⭐⭐ | ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ | ⭐⭐⭐ | ⭐⭐ | ✅ | ✅ Moderate | Prelims |
| ClearIAS | ⭐ | ⭐⭐⭐ | ⭐⭐⭐ | ⭐⭐ | ❌ | ✅ Strong | Beginners |
| BYJU's IAS | ⭐⭐ | ⭐⭐⭐⭐ | ⭐⭐⭐ | ⭐⭐⭐ | ✅ | ❌ | All stages |
How to Choose the Right App for Your Stage
If you're just starting out (0–6 months into preparation)
Begin with a free or low-cost platform that offers structured content and doesn't overwhelm you. Focus on building your subject foundation before worrying about mock tests. Apps with clear study paths and beginner-friendly navigation matter most at this stage. Avoid spending heavily on premium plans until you know your preparation style.
If you're in the middle phase (6–18 months)
This is when you need to start integrating current affairs consistently, take your first mock tests, and identify weak areas. An app with good analytics and adaptive features becomes significantly more valuable here. You should also start thinking about Mains — don't wait until Prelims is over to begin answer writing practice.
If you're in the final phase (Prelims or Mains within 6 months)
At this stage, test-taking exposure and revision quality matter most. Prioritize platforms with strong mock test infrastructure, spaced repetition tools, and current affairs that are sharp and syllabus-relevant rather than comprehensive but unfocused.
If you've cleared Prelims and are preparing for Mains
Shift your primary tool to something with Mains-specific support — structured answer writing practice, editorial curation, and model answer evaluation. Your Prelims app may not be the right tool for this phase.
A Note on Using Multiple Apps
The most effective preparation strategies in 2026 tend to involve two to three apps used for distinct purposes — not five or six apps used haphazardly. A common and effective combination looks something like this:
Primary platform for content, study planning, and current affairs → Test platform for mocks and PYQ practice → AI companion for doubt-solving and on-the-go revision.
Going beyond three apps usually creates more noise than value. The goal is focused, high-quality exposure — not volume.
Pricing Overview (2026)
| App | Free Access | Paid Plans (Approx.) |
|---|---|---|
| PrepAiro | ✅ Meaningful free tier | ₹1,999–₹4,999/year |
| SuperKalam | ✅ Limited free | ₹2,499–₹5,999/year |
| PadhAI | ✅ Extensive free | ₹999–₹2,999/year |
| Dalvoy | ❌ Minimal | ₹3,999–₹7,999/year |
| Saval AI | ✅ Trial | ₹1,499–₹3,499/year |
| Unacademy | ✅ Limited | ₹5,000–₹15,000/year |
| Drishti IAS | ✅ Moderate | ₹1,999–₹4,999/year |
| Testbook | ✅ Moderate | ₹999–₹3,499/year |
| ClearIAS | ✅ Extensive | ₹1,499–₹3,999/year |
| BYJU's IAS | ❌ Minimal | ₹20,000–₹60,000/year |
Note: Prices are approximate and subject to change. Always verify on the official platform before purchasing.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q1: Which is the best UPSC preparation app for beginners in 2026?
For beginners, apps that offer structured study paths, clear syllabus coverage, and a strong free tier are most valuable. Starting with an AI-driven platform helps you avoid spending months building a study plan that may not be optimized for your knowledge gaps.
Q2: Is it possible to clear UPSC using only a mobile app?
Yes — and many recent rank-holders have done this, or at least done the majority of their preparation through digital tools. The key is using apps that cover content, test practice, and current affairs cohesively. Standard reference books (NCERT, Laxmikanth, etc.) remain essential, but most aspirants now access them digitally.
Q3: Which UPSC app is best for current affairs in 2026?
The best current affairs experience comes from apps that don't just aggregate news but actively map it to the UPSC syllabus and integrate it with PYQs. Apps with daily digestible summaries rather than full-article news feeds are more useful for most aspirants.
Q4: Are AI-powered UPSC apps genuinely better than traditional coaching apps?
For personalization, yes — significantly. AI-powered apps can identify your weak areas, adapt your study plan dynamically, and provide 24/7 doubt resolution that traditional platforms can't match at scale. However, the quality of content and test infrastructure still matters, so look for platforms that combine both.
Q5: How many UPSC apps should I use simultaneously?
Two to three, with clearly differentiated purposes. One for primary content and planning, one for test practice, and optionally one for doubt-solving or revision. Using more than three apps tends to create fragmented preparation.
Q6: Which app is best for Mains preparation specifically?
Mains preparation requires a different toolset than Prelims — prioritize apps with structured answer writing practice, editorial curation, and analytical content over those with large MCQ banks.
Q7: Are paid UPSC apps worth the investment?
Most aspirants can get substantial value from free or low-cost tiers of the better apps before needing to upgrade. If you're in the later stages of preparation and need mock test access or advanced features, paid plans are generally worth it — especially compared to the cost of physical coaching.
Final Verdict
There's no single "best" UPSC app in 2026 — there's only the best app for your current stage, learning style, and budget. That said, a few clear patterns emerge from this comparison:
For AI-powered adaptive preparation: PrepAiro leads with a combination of smart study planning, current affairs integration, and Mains support that few competitors match holistically.
For budget-friendly AI access: PadhAI offers the most generous free tier with genuine AI features — a strong starting point for aspirants who haven't yet committed to a platform.
For test-heavy, analytics-driven prep: SuperKalam and Testbook complement each other well, especially in the Prelims run-up.
For Hindi-medium aspirants: Drishti IAS remains the most trusted and comprehensive option.
For Mains-stage deep work: Dalvoy's specialization in answer writing is hard to match.
The most important decision isn't which app you pick — it's how consistently and intentionally you use it.
Ready to Start Smarter?
If you're looking for a platform that maps your preparation intelligently, adapts to your schedule, and covers both Prelims and Mains without requiring you to stitch together five different apps, Download PrepAiro and start with the free tier today.
Your IAS journey is too important to leave to chance — or to apps that treat every aspirant the same.
This article was written by the PrepAiro editorial team. Content is based on publicly available information, platform features as of early 2026, and community feedback from UPSC aspirants.
