AFFiNE vs HEY
Updated June 2026 · A structured head-to-head comparison.
The verdict
Both AFFiNE and HEY are credible productivity collaboration tools, and the right pick comes down to your priorities.
Choose AFFiNE if you want a lower starting price (free - $7.99/user/mo), a free plan to start on and broader platform coverage. Open-source workspace blending docs, whiteboards, and databases.
Choose HEY if you'd rather have a longer free trial (14 days). Email that works for you.
AFFiNE vs HEY: side by side
| Dimension | AFFiNE | HEY |
|---|---|---|
| Starting price | Free - $7.99/user/moWinner | From $8.25/mo |
| Free plan | YesWinner | No |
| Free trial | - | 14 daysWinner |
| Pricing model | Open source | Subscription |
| Best for | Visual Thinkers, Open Source Fans | Individuals |
| Platforms | Web, Mac, Windows, Linux, iOS, Android, Self HostedWinner | Web, Mac, Windows, iOS, Android |
| Rating | 4.2/5 | 4.3/5 |
AFFiNE key facts
- Vendor
- Toeverything
- Pricing
- Open source - Free - $7.99/user/mo
- Free tier
- Yes
- Platforms
- Web, Mac, Windows, Linux, iOS, Android, Self Hosted
- Best for
- Visual Thinkers, Open Source Fans
- Editor rating
- 4.2 / 5
- Founded
- 2021
- Headquarters
- Singapore
HEY key facts
- Vendor
- 37signals
- Pricing
- Subscription - From $8.25/mo
- Free tier
- Free trial (14 days)
- Platforms
- Web, Mac, Windows, iOS, Android
- Best for
- Individuals
- Editor rating
- 4.3 / 5
- Founded
- 2020
- Headquarters
- Chicago, IL, USA
Frequently asked questions
Is AFFiNE better than HEY?
Neither is universally better - HEY edges ahead on overall rating, but the best choice depends on price, platforms, and your use case. See the side-by-side table above.
Is AFFiNE or HEY cheaper?
AFFiNE is the more affordable of the two to get started, at free - $7.99/user/mo. AFFiNE starts at free - $7.99/user/mo; HEY starts at from $8.25/mo.
Can AFFiNE replace HEY?
Yes for most teams - both are productivity collaboration tools with heavily overlapping features. The main trade-offs are pricing and platform support, covered in the comparison above.
Side-by-side software breakdowns and pricing changes - in your inbox monthly.