Shortwave vs beehiiv
Shortwave: AI-first Gmail client that summarises threads, drafts replies and finds anything in your inbox. beehiiv: Newsletter platform with growth tools, monetisation and AI help for writing and images. 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.
beehiiv
Best for: Writers and creators building a newsletter business.
Stands out for: Built for newsletter growth; Free plan to start.
Side-by-side comparison
| Visit shortwave.com (opens in a new tab) | Visit beehiiv.com (opens in a new tab) | |
|---|---|---|
| What it is | AI-first Gmail client that summarises threads, drafts replies and finds anything in your inbox. | Newsletter platform with growth tools, monetisation and AI help for writing and images. |
| Pricing | Free + Paid | Free + Paid |
| Free to use | Yes | Yes |
| Category | AI Email & Inbox | AI Email & Inbox |
| Editor rank | #3 in category | #8 in category |
| Made by | Shortwave | beehiiv |
| Best for | Busy professionals on Gmail who get a lot of email. | Writers and creators building a newsletter business. |
| Key features |
|
|
| Pros |
|
|
| Cons |
|
|
| Use it to |
|
|
| Web app | ||
| iPhone & iPad | ||
| Android | ||
| Windows | ||
| Mac |
Shortwave vs beehiiv: questions
Is Shortwave better than beehiiv?
Neither wins for everyone. Our editors rank Shortwave slightly higher overall in AI Email & Inbox, but beehiiv can be the better fit: Writers and creators building a newsletter business.
Which is free, Shortwave or beehiiv?
Both can be used without paying: Shortwave is free + paid and beehiiv is free + paid. Paid plans add more usage or features.
Can I use Shortwave and beehiiv together?
Yes. Many people keep both and pick per task, for example ask your inbox when a contract was sent with Shortwave, and start a weekly newsletter with a website with beehiiv.