Shortwave vs HEY: Which Should You Choose 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.
By Toolradar Team · Last updated February 28, 2026 · Methodology
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 the higher-rated option (8.1/10 vs 8.0/10)
- • You want to try before committing
- • AI-powered email assistant for organizing, writing, and searching emails.
- • Enhances team collaboration with shared threads, comments, and AI-searchable archives.
HEY
Email that screens your calls
Best for you if:
- • Email reimagined by Basecamp
- • Screener for incoming mail
| At a Glance |  Shortwave |  HEY |
|---|---|---|
Price | Free + Paid | Paid |
Best For | Email Clients | Email Clients |
Rating | 81/100 | 80/100 |
| Feature | Shortwave | HEY |
|---|---|---|
| Pricing Model | Freemium | Paid |
| Editorial Score | 81 | 80 |
| Community Rating | No ratings yet | No ratings yet |
| Total Reviews | 0 | 0 |
| Community Upvotes | 0 | 77 |
| Categories | Email ClientsAI Assistants | Email ClientsNewsletter Tools |
How Shortwave and HEY Compare
Shortwave
Automate your email with AI for enhanced productivity and inbox management.
Free tier available · 81/100 score
HEY
Email that screens your calls
Paid · 80/100 score
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: 81/100. HEY: 80/100.
Go with: Shortwave
Value user reviews?
Neither has user reviews yet.
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 scores higher: 81/100 vs 80/100.
Key Takeaways
Shortwave
- Higher score: 81/100 vs 80
- Free tier available
- Our pick for this comparison
HEY
- More community upvotes (77)
The Bottom Line
Shortwave (81/100) is our pick.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Shortwave or HEY better?
Shortwave scores 81/100 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: Email that screens your calls.
What does Shortwave cost vs HEY?
Shortwave is freemium (free tier + paid plans). HEY is a paid tool. Visit their websites for detailed pricing.