Shortwave review — The Jouster's take
Shortwave review: an AI email client for Gmail with smart summaries and replies. Pricing, alternatives, who it's for.
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Shortwave in brief
A solid, cheaper alternative to Superhuman for Gmail users who want built-in AI. Good experience without the eye-watering price tag.
- PriceFree (Pro at $9/mo)
- CategoryProductivity AI
- RecommendedWith caveats
The Essentials
- AI email client for Gmail — summaries, smart replies, triage
- Free plan, Pro at $9/mo
- Built by ex-Googlers who made Google Inbox
- Competes with Superhuman on AI email, but actually affordable
What is Shortwave?
Shortwave is a Gmail client built by ex-Google engineers — the same team behind Google Inbox, the beloved email app Google killed. Shortwave picks up where Inbox left off, with an AI layer on top: automatic thread summaries, reply suggestions, smart triage, and an AI assistant that answers questions about your inbox ("when is the meeting with Marc?"). At $9/mo, it's 3x cheaper than Superhuman for a comparable AI experience.
Strengths
Ex-Google Inbox team
The pedigree is real. Shortwave is a solid email product, not a sketchy AI addon bolted onto a mediocre client.
AI summaries and search
Summarize a 50-email thread in seconds. Search your inbox in plain English. These are AI features that actually save time.
Affordable pricing
$9/mo vs $30/mo for Superhuman. If you want an AI email client without breaking the bank, Shortwave has the best value.
Limits
Gmail only
No Outlook support. If you're on Microsoft 365, Shortwave isn't for you.
Not as polished as Superhuman
The interface, speed, and overall feel are good — just not on Superhuman's level. Superhuman has invested heavily in that premium experience.
Pricing
Free plan with limits. Pro at $9/mo. Check shortwave.com/pricing.
Alternatives
Shortwave = affordable AI email. Superhuman (superhuman.com) = $30/mo, premium experience, pricier. Gmail native with Gemini = included in Google Workspace, basic AI.
Verdict
Shortwave is the best AI email client if you're on Gmail and want built-in AI without paying $30/mo. If you're not ready to invest in Superhuman but want more than plain Gmail, Shortwave is the answer.
FAQ
Does Shortwave work with Google Workspace?
Yes, Shortwave supports Google Workspace accounts.
Does Shortwave have a mobile app?
Yes, iOS and Android apps are available.
Can you use Shortwave with multiple Gmail accounts?
Yes, Shortwave handles multiple Google accounts in one interface.
Is Shortwave secure for business email?
Shortwave follows Google security standards (OAuth). Check their privacy policy for details on data handling.
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Screenshots Shortwave
7
Shortwave : 0/10.
A solid, cheaper alternative to Superhuman for Gmail users who want built-in AI. Good experience without the eye-watering price tag..
Test Shortwave yourself
A free trial is available. Plan thirty minutes to form your own opinion.
Affiliate link. Joute earns a commission at no extra cost to you. Our verdict stays independent.
Shortwave
Free (Pro at $9/mo)