AI plugin vs full email client — two very different approaches to smarter email.
Shortwave replaces your entire email client with an AI-native one. Messybox works alongside your existing Gmail or Outlook. If you want a complete email overhaul with deep AI baked in, Shortwave is compelling. If you'd rather keep your current setup and add AI superpowers on top, Messybox is the lighter, more affordable path.
| Feature | Messybox | Shortwave |
|---|---|---|
| Core Features | ||
| AI Email Drafting | ✓ | ✓ |
| Smart Inbox Sorting | ✓ | ✓ |
| Follow-up Reminders | ✓ | ✓ |
| Meeting Summaries | ✓ | ✓ |
| AI Search | — | ✓ |
| Thread Summaries | — | ✓ |
| Platform & Experience | ||
| Works with Existing Client | ✓ | — |
| Gmail Support | ✓ | ✓ |
| Outlook Support | ✓ | — |
| Mobile Apps | — | ✓ |
| Desktop App | — | ✓ |
| Pricing | ||
| Free Plan | ✓ | — |
| Lowest Paid Plan | $12/mo | $24/mo |
| Team Plans | ✓ | ✓ |