Best IRC client?

[Raskal]

I'm wondering what IRC clients people think is the best? I'm a long time mIRC user but I think it's time to change it up.

Edit: Suggest free clients only please.

 

[DSee]

Xchat2 (Windows) & irssi (Linux)

 

[MichaelJB]

HydraIRC for windows, another vote for irssi on linux

 

[bAMtan2]

I'm not sure there is a best irc client. they all have problems. nettalk irc is another one.

 

[Soopy]

I don't think I can ever switch from mirc. After I learned how to code in mirc, possibilities became endless.

 

[TomRiddle]

I use mirc for making bots. I love mirc script, very powerful script engine. I use thrashirc for chatting. thrashirc has a spellchecker, emoticons, large paste buffering, URL grab/history, and less window flicker.

 

[XAuTomaT1CX]

Xchat or Chatzilla is the best free one for windows for sure, if your willing to pay MIRC is still the best