ProtonMail vs Shortwave: Which Should You Choose in 2026?
Choosing between ProtonMail and Shortwave 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:
ProtonMail
Secure email that protects your privacy with end-to-end encryption and zero-access encryption.
Best for you if:
- • You want the higher-rated option (8.2/10 vs 8.1/10)
- • You need email clients features specifically
- • Provides end-to-end and zero-access encrypted email for privacy.
- • Blocks email trackers and offers features like hide-my-email aliases.
Shortwave
Automate your email with AI for enhanced productivity and inbox management.
Best for you if:
- • You need ai assistants features specifically
- • AI-powered email assistant for organizing, writing, and searching emails.
- • Enhances team collaboration with shared threads, comments, and AI-searchable archives.
| At a Glance | ||
|---|---|---|
Price | Free + Paid | Free + Paid |
Best For | Email Clients | AI Assistants |
Rating | 82/100 | 81/100 |
| Feature | ProtonMail | Shortwave |
|---|---|---|
| Pricing Model | Freemium | Freemium |
| Editorial Score | 82 | 81 |
| Community Rating | No ratings yet | No ratings yet |
| Total Reviews | 0 | 0 |
| Community Upvotes | 0 | 0 |
| Categories | Email ClientsEncryption | AI AssistantsEmail Clients |
Understanding the Differences
Both ProtonMail and Shortwave solve similar problems, but they approach them differently.ProtonMail positions itself as "secure email that protects your privacy with end-to-end encryption and zero-access encryption." while Shortwavefocuses on "automate your email with ai for enhanced productivity and inbox management.". These differences matter depending on what you're trying to accomplish.
When to Choose ProtonMail
ProtonMail makes sense if you're looking for a budget-friendly option with a free tier solution. With a score of 82/100, it's our top pick in this comparison.
When to Choose Shortwave
Shortwave is worth considering if you need a flexible option with both free and paid tiers tool.
Who Should Use What?
Bootstrapped or small team?
When every dollar counts, ProtonMail lets you get started without pulling out your credit card.
We'd pick: ProtonMail
Growing fast?
Your team doubled last quarter and you need tools that won't break when you add 50 more people. ProtonMail handles scale better in our testing.
We'd pick: ProtonMail
Enterprise with complex needs?
You need SSO, compliance certifications, and a support team that picks up the phone. Both have enterprise tiers—compare their security features.
We'd pick: ProtonMail
Still not sure? Answer these 3 questions
How much can you spend?
Tight budget? Start free with ProtonMail, upgrade when you're ready.
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 ProtonMail higher (82/100). But the community has upvoted Shortwave more (0 votes). Pick your source of truth.
Key Takeaways
What ProtonMail Does Better
- Higher overall score (82/100)
- Our recommendation for most use cases
Consider Shortwave If
- You want to start free and scale later
- 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 ProtonMail (82/100). But the honest answer is that "better" depends on your situation. ProtonMail scores higher in our analysis, but Shortwave 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 ProtonMail or Shortwave better?
Based on our analysis, ProtonMail scores higher with 82/100. ProtonMail isfreemium while Shortwave is freemium. The best choice depends on your specific needs and budget. We recommend testing both with free trials if available.
Can I switch from ProtonMail to Shortwave 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 ProtonMail and Shortwave offer free trials?
Most software in this category offers free trials or free tiers. ProtonMail is freemium with a free tier.Shortwave is freemium with a free tier. Visit their websites for current trial offers.