← Unyly▸ methods compared
How to Install MCP — 4 Methods Compared
Unyly vs manual JSON edit vs Desktop Extensions vs claude mcp add CLI. Which fits your setup.
▸ TL;DR
- Most users: Unyly. 80,000+ catalog, one-click install for every client.
- Claude Desktop only: built-in Extensions catalog, but ~50 items.
- CLI users: claude mcp add is fast, but Claude Code only.
- Custom/private MCP: hand-edit JSON or submit unlisted to Unyly.
| Feature | Unyly | Manual JSON | Desktop Extensions | claude mcp add |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Setup time | ~30 seconds | 5-15 minutes | ~30 seconds | ~1 minute |
| Needs terminal | No | Often | No | Yes |
| Catalog size | 80,000+ MCPs | Any (you find them) | ~50 vendor-curated | Any npm package |
| Security scans | Auto | Manual | Vendor-reviewed | None |
| Update notifications | Yes | No | Yes | No |
| Cross-client (Desktop+Cursor+Code) | Yes | Separate config each | Claude Desktop only | Claude Code only |
| Works for private/custom MCPs | Yes (submit unlisted) | Yes | No | Yes |
| Best for | Everyone | Power users + custom | Casual users | CLI users |
Which one to pick?
- If you want a broad catalog with one-click install
→ Unyly - If you only need Claude Desktop + vendor-curated picks
→ Desktop Extensions (via Settings → Extensions) - If you live in Claude Code (CLI)
→claude mcp add(or Unyly with Claude Code tab) - If installing private/custom MCP
→ Hand-edit JSON or submit unlisted to Unyly