Shortwave vs ActiveCampaign
Shortwave: AI-first Gmail client that summarises threads, drafts replies and finds anything in your inbox. ActiveCampaign: Email marketing and automation platform with AI that builds journeys and writes content. Here is how they compare on features, pricing, platforms, pros and cons.
Quick verdict
Shortwave
Best for: Busy professionals on Gmail who get a lot of email.
Stands out for: Strong AI search and drafting; Fast, modern design.
ActiveCampaign
Best for: Businesses that want advanced automated email journeys.
Stands out for: Very flexible automations; Strong integrations.
Side-by-side comparison
| Visit shortwave.com (opens in a new tab) | Visit activecampaign.com (opens in a new tab) | |
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| What it is | AI-first Gmail client that summarises threads, drafts replies and finds anything in your inbox. | Email marketing and automation platform with AI that builds journeys and writes content. |
| Pricing | Free + Paid | Free trial |
| Free to use | Yes | No |
| Category | AI Email & Inbox | AI Email & Inbox |
| Editor rank | #3 in category | #6 in category |
| Made by | Shortwave | ActiveCampaign |
| Best for | Busy professionals on Gmail who get a lot of email. | Businesses that want advanced automated email journeys. |
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Shortwave vs ActiveCampaign: questions
Is Shortwave better than ActiveCampaign?
Neither wins for everyone. Our editors rank Shortwave slightly higher overall in AI Email & Inbox, but ActiveCampaign can be the better fit: Businesses that want advanced automated email journeys.
Which is free, Shortwave or ActiveCampaign?
Shortwave can be used for free (free + paid), while ActiveCampaign is free trial.
Can I use Shortwave and ActiveCampaign together?
Yes. Many people keep both and pick per task, for example ask your inbox when a contract was sent with Shortwave, and build a lead nurture sequence with ActiveCampaign.