GhostDesk vs Arc: Which is Better in 2026?
Choosing between GhostDesk and Arc comes down to understanding what each tool does best. This comparison breaks down the key differences so you can make an informed decision based on your specific needs, not marketing claims.
Short on time? Here's the quick answer
We've tested both tools. Here's who should pick what:
GhostDesk
Stay in flow with an AI assistant that floats above any app, private during screen shares.
Best for you if:
- • You need AI assistants features specifically
- • AI overlay for Windows that floats above any app.
- • Keeps private notes and AI interactions hidden during screen shares.
Arc
A better way to use the internet
Best for you if:
- • You need something completely free
- • You need productivity features specifically
- • Productivity browser
- • Sidebar interface
| At a Glance |  GhostDesk |  Arc |
|---|---|---|
Starts at | $5/mo24-HOUR | FreeFree tier available |
Best For | AI Assistants | Productivity |
Rating | - | 4.8/5 |
Free plan | No | Yes |
Choose GhostDesk or Arc?
Choose GhostDesk if
Stay in flow with an AI assistant that floats above any app, private during screen shares.
- Maintains privacy during screen shares, recordings, and demos.
- Eliminates the need for tab switching, improving workflow efficiency.
- Provides AI assistance directly within any active application.
- Your work is AI assistants-shaped, not productivity-shaped
Choose Arc if
A better way to use the internet
- Innovative browser
- Good tab management
- Spaces feature
- You want a fully free tool (GhostDesk requires payment)
- Your work is productivity-shaped, not AI assistants-shaped
| Feature | GhostDesk | Arc |
|---|---|---|
| Pricing Model | Paid | Free |
| User Rating | No ratings yet | ★4.8/5 44 reviews |
| Categories | AI AssistantsProductivity | Productivity |
In-Depth Analysis
GhostDesk
Stay in flow with an AI assistant that floats above any app, private during screen shares.
Strengths
- +Maintains privacy during screen shares, recordings, and demos.
- +Eliminates the need for tab switching, improving workflow efficiency.
- +Provides AI assistance directly within any active application.
- +Offers advanced AI models (DeepSeek V3 + GPT fallback).
- +Supports various input methods including voice and OCR.
Weaknesses
- -Currently only available for Windows.
- -Trial has a daily question limit (10 questions/day).
- -Requires Google Sign-In to start the trial.
Key features
Arc
A better way to use the internet
Strengths
- +Innovative browser
- +Good tab management
- +Spaces feature
- +Clean design
- +Active development
Weaknesses
- -Mac only currently
- -Resource heavy
- -Learning curve
- -Different from Chrome
- -Sync limited
Key features
Pricing: GhostDesk vs Arc
| Plan | GhostDesk | Arc |
|---|---|---|
| Tier 1 | $5 one-time 24-HOUR | 0 Free |
| Tier 2 | $9.99/mo MONTHLY | N/A |
| Tier 3 | $21.99 one-time 3 MONTHS | N/A |
| Tier 4 | $34.99 one-time 6 MONTHS | N/A |
Pricing verified from each vendor's public pricing page. Compare in detail on GhostDesk pricing and Arc pricing.
Who Should Use What?
On a budget?
Arc is free. GhostDesk is paid.
Go with: Arc
Want the highest-rated option?
Arc is rated 4.8/5. GhostDesk has no ratings yet.
Go with: Arc
Value user reviews?
GhostDesk: no ratings yet. Arc: 44 reviews (4.8/5).
Go with: Arc
3 Questions to Help You Decide
What's your budget?
GhostDesk is paid. Arc is free. Go with Arc if free matters most.
What's your use case?
GhostDesk is a AI assistants tool. Arc is in productivity. Pick the category that matches your needs.
How important are ratings?
Arc is rated 4.8/5; GhostDesk has no ratings yet.
Key Takeaways
Arc
- Completely free
- Our pick for this comparison
GhostDesk
- Better fit for AI assistants
The Bottom Line
Arc is our pick.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is GhostDesk or Arc better?
Arc is rated in our evaluation. GhostDesk is paid and Arc is free.
What are GhostDesk and Arc used for?
GhostDesk: Stay in flow with an AI assistant that floats above any app, private during screen shares.. Arc: A better way to use the internet.
What does GhostDesk cost vs Arc?
GhostDesk is a paid tool. Arc is completely free. Visit their websites for detailed pricing.