Shortwave vs HEY: Which is Better in 2026?
Choosing between Shortwave and HEY 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: Shortwave wins this matchup. Our overall Email Clients pick is Superhuman. Our free Email Clients pick is Thunderbird. Pick HEY if you need its specific feature set.
Short on time? Here's the quick answer
We've tested both tools. Here's who should pick what:
Shortwave
Automate your email with AI for enhanced productivity and inbox management.
Best for you if:
- • You want a free tier before you commit
- • You want aI email client
- • You want good for productivity
HEY
Control your inbox with email filtering and organized replies
Best for you if:
- • You want innovative approach
- • You want no tracking pixels
| At a Glance | Shortwave | HEY |
|---|---|---|
Starts at | FreeFree tier available | $12/moHEY for Domains |
Best For | Email Clients | Email Clients |
Rating | 4.4/5 | 3.7/5 |
Free plan | Yes | No |
Choose Shortwave or HEY?
Choose Shortwave if
Automate your email with AI for enhanced productivity and inbox management.
- You want a free tier before you commit
- You want aI email client
- You want good for productivity
- Budget matters (Free vs $12/mo)
Choose HEY if
Control your inbox with email filtering and organized replies
- You want innovative approach
- You want no tracking pixels
| Feature | Shortwave | HEY |
|---|---|---|
| Pricing Model | Freemium | Paid |
| User Rating | ★4.4/5 68 reviews | ★3.7/5 27 reviews |
| Categories | Email ClientsAI Assistants | Email ClientsProductivity |
In-Depth Analysis
Shortwave
Automate your email with AI for enhanced productivity and inbox management.
Shortwave's pricing is fair, offering a generous Free tier for basic use and a well-priced Personal tier at $7/month for individual AI features.
Watch out
Potential for annual-only discounts not specified.
Strengths
- +AI email client
- +Good for productivity
- +Gmail integration
- +Active development
- +Good features
Weaknesses
- -Gmail only
- -Expensive premium
- -Learning curve
- -Feature gaps
- -Better alternatives exist
Key features
HEY
Control your inbox with email filtering and organized replies
HEY's pricing is on the expensive side for personal email, with 'HEY for You' at $99/year.
Strengths
- +Innovative approach
- +No tracking pixels
- +Clean design
Weaknesses
- -Requires new email address
- -Expensive
Key features
Pricing: Shortwave vs HEY
| Plan | Shortwave | HEY |
|---|---|---|
| Tier 1 | Free Free | $99 HEY for You |
| Tier 2 | $7 Personal | $12 HEY for Domains |
| Tier 3 | $14 Pro | N/A |
| Tier 4 | $24 Business | N/A |
Pricing verified from each vendor's public pricing page. Compare in detail on Shortwave pricing and HEY pricing.
Who Should Use What?
On a budget?
Shortwave has a free tier. HEY is paid only.
Go with: Shortwave
Want the highest-rated option?
Shortwave: 4.4/5 (68 reviews). HEY: 3.7/5 (27 reviews).
Go with: Shortwave
Value user reviews?
Shortwave: 68 reviews (4.4/5). HEY: 27 reviews (3.7/5).
Go with: Shortwave
3 Questions to Help You Decide
What's your budget?
Shortwave is freemium. HEY is paid. Shortwave lets you start free.
What's your use case?
Both are email clients tools. Compare their specific features to decide.
How important are ratings?
Shortwave is rated higher: 4.4/5 vs 3.7/5.
Key Takeaways
Shortwave
- Higher user rating: 4.4/5 vs 3.7/5
- Larger review base (68 reviews)
- Free tier available
- Our pick for this comparison
HEY
- Choose if you want control your inbox with email filtering and organized replies
The Bottom Line
Shortwave wins this matchup. Our overall Email Clients pick is Superhuman. Our free Email Clients pick is Thunderbird.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Shortwave or HEY better?
Shortwave is rated in our evaluation. Shortwave is freemium and HEY is paid.
What are Shortwave and HEY used for?
Shortwave: Automate your email with AI for enhanced productivity and inbox management.. HEY: Control your inbox with email filtering and organized replies.
What does Shortwave cost vs HEY?
Shortwave is freemium (free tier + paid plans). HEY is a paid tool. Visit their websites for detailed pricing.