Shortcut AI vs Things 3: Which is Better in 2026?
Choosing between Shortcut AI and Things 3 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.
Bottom line: Things 3 is our overall pick for productivity workflows. Pick Shortcut AI if you need AI writing.
Short on time? Here's the quick answer
We've tested both tools. Here's who should pick what:
Shortcut AI
ChatGPT integration directly in Apple Notes on macOS
Best for you if:
- • You want to try before committing
- • You need AI writing features specifically
- • Integrates AI text generation directly into Apple Notes on macOS using a simple '+++' trigger.
- • Free tier offers basic completions with limited context; Pro tier provides full context and advanced AI models.
Things 3
Award-winning task manager for Apple
Best for you if:
- • You need productivity features specifically
- • GTD-based task manager for Apple ecosystem with elegant design and keyboard shortcuts.
- • Features projects, areas, tags, and seamless iCloud sync across Mac, iPhone, and iPad.
| At a Glance |  Shortcut AI |  Things 3 |
|---|---|---|
Starts at | FreeFree tier available | $9.99/onceiPhone |
Best For | AI Writing | Productivity |
Rating | 4.5/5 | 5.0/5 |
Free plan | Yes | No |
Choose Shortcut AI or Things 3?
Choose Shortcut AI if
ChatGPT integration directly in Apple Notes on macOS
- Seamless integration within Apple Notes, no app switching needed
- Simple trigger makes it easy to use while writing
- Free tier available for basic use
- Your work is AI writing-shaped, not productivity-shaped
Choose Things 3 if
Award-winning task manager for Apple
- Beautiful design (Apple)
- Powerful organization
- One-time purchase
- Your work is productivity-shaped, not AI writing-shaped
| Feature | Shortcut AI | Things 3 |
|---|---|---|
| Pricing Model | Freemium | Paid |
| User Rating | ★4.5/5 540 reviews | ★5.0/5 342 reviews |
| Categories | AI WritingNote-Taking | ProductivityProject Management |
In-Depth Analysis
Shortcut AI
ChatGPT integration directly in Apple Notes on macOS
Strengths
- +Seamless integration within Apple Notes, no app switching needed
- +Simple trigger makes it easy to use while writing
- +Free tier available for basic use
Weaknesses
- -Currently limited to macOS and Apple Notes only
- -Free tier has a small context limit, restricting longer completions
Key features
Value 72/100. At $6/mo for GPT-4 access in Apple Notes, this is a fair and budget-friendly option compared to standalone ChatGPT Plus at $20/mo, though it is limited to a single app and macOS only.
Watch out: No annual discount available
Things 3
Award-winning task manager for Apple
Strengths
- +Beautiful design (Apple)
- +Powerful organization
- +One-time purchase
- +Good keyboard shortcuts
- +Fast and reliable
Weaknesses
- -Apple only (no Windows/Android)
- -Significant upfront cost
- -No collaboration
- -No web version
- -Limited integrations
Key features
Value 90/100. Things 3 is a rare premium app that respects your wallet: one-time purchases of $49.99 (Mac), $19.99 (iPad), and $9.99 (iPhone) with zero subscription fees.
Watch out: Each platform is sold separately. If you want Mac + iPad + iPhone, that is $79.97 total, not a single purchase. There is no bundle discount.
Pricing: Shortcut AI vs Things 3
| Plan | Shortcut AI | Things 3 |
|---|---|---|
| Tier 1 | Free Free | $49.99 once Mac |
| Tier 2 | $6/mo Pro | $9.99 once iPhone |
| Tier 3 | N/A | $19.99 once iPad |
Pricing verified from each vendor's public pricing page. Compare in detail on Shortcut AI pricing and Things 3 pricing.
Who Should Use What?
On a budget?
Shortcut AI has a free tier. Things 3 is paid only.
Go with: Shortcut AI
Want the highest-rated option?
Shortcut AI: 4.5/5 (540 reviews). Things 3: 5.0/5 (342 reviews).
Go with: Things 3
Value user reviews?
Shortcut AI: 540 reviews (4.5/5). Things 3: 342 reviews (5.0/5).
Go with: Shortcut AI
3 Questions to Help You Decide
What's your budget?
Shortcut AI is freemium. Things 3 is paid. Shortcut AI lets you start free.
What's your use case?
Shortcut AI is a AI writing tool. Things 3 is in productivity. Pick the category that matches your needs.
How important are ratings?
Things 3 is rated higher: 5.0/5 vs 4.5/5.
Key Takeaways
Things 3
- Higher user rating: 5.0/5 vs 4.5/5
- Our pick for this comparison
Shortcut AI
- Has a free tier
- Larger review base (540 reviews)
- Better fit for AI writing
The Bottom Line
Things 3 is our pick. Shortcut AI has a free tier if you want to test without paying.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Shortcut AI or Things 3 better?
Things 3 is rated in our evaluation. Shortcut AI is freemium and Things 3 is paid.
What are Shortcut AI and Things 3 used for?
Shortcut AI: ChatGPT integration directly in Apple Notes on macOS. Things 3: Award-winning task manager for Apple.
What does Shortcut AI cost vs Things 3?
Shortcut AI is freemium (free tier + paid plans). Things 3 is a paid tool. Visit their websites for detailed pricing.