HEY vs SaneBox: Which Should You Choose in 2026?
Choosing between HEY and SaneBox 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:
HEY
Email that screens your calls
Best for you if:
- • You need email clients features specifically
- • Email reimagined by Basecamp
- • Screener for incoming mail
SaneBox
AI email management and inbox organization
Best for you if:
- • You need ai assistants features specifically
- • AI-powered inbox filtering
- • Works with any email provider
| At a Glance |  HEY | |
|---|---|---|
Price | Paid | Paid |
Best For | Email Clients | AI Assistants |
Rating | 80/100 | 80/100 |
| Feature | HEY | SaneBox |
|---|---|---|
| Pricing Model | Paid | Paid |
| Editorial Score | 80 | 80 |
| Community Rating | No ratings yet | No ratings yet |
| Total Reviews | 0 | 0 |
| Community Upvotes | 77 | 0 |
| Categories | Email ClientsEmail Deliverability | AI AssistantsWorkflow Automation |
Understanding the Differences
Both HEY and SaneBox solve similar problems, but they approach them differently.HEY positions itself as "email that screens your calls" while SaneBoxfocuses on "ai email management and inbox organization". These differences matter depending on what you're trying to accomplish.
When to Choose HEY
HEY makes sense if you're looking for a comprehensive paid solution.
When to Choose SaneBox
SaneBox is worth considering if you need a professional-grade tool.
Who Should Use What?
Bootstrapped or small team?
Neither is free, but both have their value. Test them both and see which clicks.
We'd pick: SaneBox
Growing fast?
Your team doubled last quarter and you need tools that won't break when you add 50 more people. SaneBox is built for teams that are leveling up.
We'd pick: SaneBox
Enterprise with complex needs?
You need SSO, compliance certifications, and a support team that picks up the phone. HEY is built for organizations like yours.
We'd pick: HEY
Still not sure? Answer these 3 questions
How much can you spend?
Both are paid tools. If money isn't the issue, go with HEY—it scored higher.
Do you care what other users think?
Both have similar review counts. Read a few before you commit.
Expert opinion or crowd wisdom?
Our team rated HEY higher (80/100). But the community has upvoted HEY more (77 votes). Pick your source of truth.
Key Takeaways
What HEY Does Better
- More community upvotes
- Our recommendation for most use cases
Consider SaneBox If
- Its specific features better match your workflow
- You prefer its interface or design approach
The Bottom Line
If we had to pick one, we'd go with HEY (80/100). But the honest answer is that "better" depends on your situation. HEY scores higher in our analysis, but SaneBox might be the right choice if its specific strengths align with what you need most. Take advantage of free trials to test both before committing.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is HEY or SaneBox better?
Based on our analysis, HEY scores higher with 80/100. HEY ispaid while SaneBox is paid. The best choice depends on your specific needs and budget. We recommend testing both with free trials if available.
Can I switch from HEY to SaneBox easily?
Migration difficulty varies. Check if both tools support data export/import in compatible formats. Some tools offer migration assistance or have integration partners who can help with the transition.
Do HEY and SaneBox offer free trials?
Most software in this category offers free trials or free tiers. HEY is paid with potential trial.SaneBox is paid with potential trial. Visit their websites for current trial offers.