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Arc vs Raycast — Which One Wins?
A detailed, side-by-side comparison of Arc and Raycast to help you pick the right tool for your workflow.
TLDR
Quick Verdict
Raycast takes the lead with a 4.9 rating and is best for mac developers and power users. Arc (3.9) is the better pick if you need power users who want a modern browser that helps organize their web experience.
Side-by-Side Comparison
| Criteria | Arc | Raycast |
|---|---|---|
| Rating | ★★★★ 3.9(36) | ★★★★★ 4.9(210) |
| Pricing Model | free | freemium |
| Starter Price | N/A | $8/mo (Pro with AI) |
| Free Tier | No | Yes |
| Platforms | Mac, Windows, iOS | Mac |
| Learning Curve | moderate | Medium |
| API Available | No | Yes |
| Best For | Power users who want a modern browser that helps organize their web experience | Mac developers and power users |
| Verdict | recommended | Best Mac Launcher |
Feature Checklist
| Feature | Arc | Raycast |
|---|---|---|
| Spaces for context separation | — | |
| Split view multitasking | — | |
| Built-in notes and easels | — | |
| AI page summaries | — | |
| Command bar | — | |
| Custom boost themes | — | |
| Launcher | — | |
| AI Chat | — | |
| Clipboard History | — | |
| Snippets | — | |
| Extensions Store | — |
Arc
Pros
- ✓Innovative tab management
- ✓Split views are useful
- ✓Built-in productivity tools
- ✓Beautiful design
Cons
- ✕Requires changing browser habits
- ✕Performance with many tabs
- ✕No Android version
Raycast
Pros
- ✓Incredible speed
- ✓Massive extension ecosystem
- ✓Built-in AI is excellent
Cons
- ✕Mac-only
- ✕Can be overwhelming at first
- ✕Pro tier needed for AI
The Bottom Line
Both Arc and Raycast are solid tools in the Other space. Raycast edges ahead with a stronger overall rating (4.9 vs 3.9) and is the better choice for mac developers and power users. However, if you prioritize power users who want a modern browser that helps organize their web experience, Arc is worth serious consideration. We recommend trying the free tier or trial of each before committing.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Arc better than Raycast?▼
Raycast scores higher overall with a 4.9 rating vs 3.9. However, the best choice depends on your specific needs. Arc is best for Power users who want a modern browser that helps organize their web experience, while Raycast is best for Mac developers and power users.
Can I switch from Arc to Raycast?▼
Yes, most users can migrate between the two. Raycast offers a free tier to test before committing.
Which is more affordable, Arc or Raycast?▼
Arc starts at contact for pricing, while Raycast starts at $8/mo (Pro with AI). Raycast offers a free tier.