AFFiNE vs Shortwave
Updated June 2026 · A structured head-to-head comparison.
The verdict
Both AFFiNE and Shortwave are credible productivity collaboration tools, and the right pick comes down to your priorities.
Choose AFFiNE if you want broader platform coverage. Open-source workspace blending docs, whiteboards, and databases.
Choose Shortwave if you'd rather have a higher overall rating (4.5/5). AI email client for Gmail.
AFFiNE vs Shortwave: side by side
| Dimension | AFFiNE | Shortwave |
|---|---|---|
| Starting price | Free - $7.99/user/mo | Free - $7/mo |
| Free plan | Yes | Yes |
| Pricing model | Open source | Freemium |
| Best for | Visual Thinkers, Open Source Fans | Professionals |
| Platforms | Web, Mac, Windows, Linux, iOS, Android, Self HostedWinner | Web, Mac, iOS, Android |
| Rating | 4.2/5 | 4.5/5Winner |
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
Shortwave key facts
- Vendor
- Shortwave
- Pricing
- Freemium - Free - $7/mo
- Free tier
- Yes
- Platforms
- Web, Mac, iOS, Android
- Best for
- Professionals
- Editor rating
- 4.5 / 5
- Founded
- 2020
- Headquarters
- San Francisco, CA, USA
Frequently asked questions
Is AFFiNE better than Shortwave?
Neither is universally better - Shortwave 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 Shortwave 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; Shortwave starts at free - $7/mo.
Can AFFiNE replace Shortwave?
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.