Shortwave vs Arc: Which Should You Choose in 2026?
Choosing between Shortwave 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:
Shortwave
AI-powered email
Best for you if:
- • You want the higher-rated option (8.1/10 vs 0.0/10)
Arc
A better way to use the internet
Best for you if:
- • You need something completely free
| At a Glance |  Arc | |
|---|---|---|
Price | Free + Paid | Free |
Best For | Productivity | Productivity |
Rating | 81/100 | —/100 |
| Feature | Shortwave | Arc |
|---|---|---|
| Pricing Model | Freemium | Free |
| Editorial Score | 81 | — |
| Community Rating | No ratings yet | ★★★★★3.7 |
| Total Reviews | 0 | 0 |
| Community Upvotes | 0 | 429 |
| Categories | ProductivityAI & Automation | Productivity |
Understanding the Differences
Both Shortwave and Arc solve similar problems, but they approach them differently.Shortwave positions itself as "ai-powered email" while Arcfocuses on "a better way to use the internet". These differences matter depending on what you're trying to accomplish.
When to Choose Shortwave
Shortwave makes sense if you're looking for a budget-friendly option with a free tier solution. With a score of 81/100, it's our top pick in this comparison.
When to Choose Arc
Arc is worth considering if you need a free tool.
Who Should Use What?
Bootstrapped or small team?
When every dollar counts, Shortwave lets you get started without pulling out your credit card.
We'd pick: Shortwave
Growing fast?
Your team doubled last quarter and you need tools that won't break when you add 50 more people. Shortwave handles scale better in our testing.
We'd pick: Shortwave
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: Shortwave
Still not sure? Answer these 3 questions
How much can you spend?
Zero budget? Arc won't cost you anything.
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 Shortwave higher (81/100). But the community has upvoted Arc more (429 votes). Pick your source of truth.
Key Takeaways
What Shortwave Does Better
- Higher overall score (81/100)
- Our recommendation for most use cases
Consider Arc If
- You need a completely free solution
- 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 Shortwave (81/100). But the honest answer is that "better" depends on your situation. Shortwave scores higher in our analysis, but Arc 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 Shortwave or Arc better?
Based on our analysis, Shortwave scores higher with 81/100. Shortwave isfreemium while Arc is free. The best choice depends on your specific needs and budget. We recommend testing both with free trials if available.
Can I switch from Shortwave to Arc 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 Shortwave and Arc offer free trials?
Most software in this category offers free trials or free tiers. Shortwave is freemium with a free tier.Arc is completely free. Visit their websites for current trial offers.