Klaviyo vs Shortwave
Klaviyo: Email and SMS marketing for online stores, with AI that builds segments, flows and campaign copy. Shortwave: AI-first Gmail client that summarises threads, drafts replies and finds anything in your inbox. Here is how they compare on features, pricing, platforms, pros and cons.
Quick verdict
Klaviyo
Best for: Online shops on platforms such as Shopify that want data-driven email.
Stands out for: Powerful store-based targeting; Strong e-commerce focus.
Shortwave
Best for: Busy professionals on Gmail who get a lot of email.
Stands out for: Strong AI search and drafting; Fast, modern design.
Side-by-side comparison
| Visit klaviyo.com (opens in a new tab) | Visit shortwave.com (opens in a new tab) | |
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| What it is | Email and SMS marketing for online stores, with AI that builds segments, flows and campaign copy. | AI-first Gmail client that summarises threads, drafts replies and finds anything in your inbox. |
| Pricing | Free + Paid | Free + Paid |
| Free to use | Yes | Yes |
| Category | AI Email & Inbox | AI Email & Inbox |
| Editor rank | #2 in category | #3 in category |
| Made by | Klaviyo | Shortwave |
| Best for | Online shops on platforms such as Shopify that want data-driven email. | Busy professionals on Gmail who get a lot of email. |
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Klaviyo vs Shortwave: questions
Is Klaviyo better than Shortwave?
Neither wins for everyone. Our editors rank Klaviyo slightly higher overall in AI Email & Inbox, but Shortwave can be the better fit: Busy professionals on Gmail who get a lot of email.
Which is free, Klaviyo or Shortwave?
Both can be used without paying: Klaviyo is free + paid and Shortwave is free + paid. Paid plans add more usage or features.
Can I use Klaviyo and Shortwave together?
Yes. Many people keep both and pick per task, for example send an abandoned-cart reminder with Klaviyo, and ask your inbox when a contract was sent with Shortwave.