The short version
Shortwave is the AI Gmail client. Inbox Hero is an AI that files the noise, drafts your replies, answers questions about your mail, and quarantines phishing — for one flat $10/mo (or $99/yr) after a 30-day free trial. If you want an inbox that runs itself (and a built-in security layer), Inbox Hero wins; if you specifically want AI Gmail client, Shortwave is worth a look.
Feature-by-feature
| Inbox Hero | Shortwave | |
|---|---|---|
| Price | $10/mo (or $99/yr) after a 30-day free trial | $14–$40/mo |
| Works beyond Gmail (IMAP) | ✓ | ✗ |
| Enhances your existing inbox | ✓ | New client |
| AI auto-filing to Later | ✓ | ✓ |
| Drafts replies in your voice | ✓ | ✓ |
| Fraud & phishing quarantine | ✓ | ✗ |
| Ask your inbox | ✓ | ✓ |
Where Shortwave is a fine choice
Shortwave, from former Google Inbox engineers, is a modern AI email client for Gmail with strong triage and natural-language search. It's excellent — but it's Gmail-only, requires moving to a new client, and its full AI sits at a higher price.
Where Inbox Hero pulls ahead
- Gmail-only: no iCloud, Yahoo or other IMAP mailboxes.
- You must switch to a new client instead of enhancing your current inbox.
- Full AI features sit at a higher monthly price.
- No dedicated fraud/phishing quarantine folder.
On top of that, Inbox Hero adds capabilities most tools in this space simply don't have — an AI you can ask about your inbox, replies drafted in your voice, and a Fraud folder that intercepts phishing and malware.
Frequently asked questions
Is Inbox Hero better than Shortwave?
For hands-off triage plus AI drafting, inbox Q&A, and phishing protection at one flat $10/mo (or $99/yr) after a 30-day free trial, Inbox Hero offers more in a single product. Shortwave ($14–$40/mo) is a good fit if you specifically want AI Gmail client.
How much do Inbox Hero and Shortwave cost?
Inbox Hero is free for 30 days ($0 today), then $10/month ($5 per extra mailbox) with everything included. Shortwave costs $14–$40/mo.
Can Inbox Hero and Shortwave both connect to Gmail?
Yes, both work with Gmail. Inbox Hero also connects to iCloud, Yahoo, Fastmail and other IMAP mailboxes, and layers onto your existing inbox rather than replacing it.
Take back your inbox today
Connect Gmail or any mailbox in one click. Inbox Hero files the noise, drafts your replies, and quarantines phishing. It is free for 30 days ($0 today).
Get started free