ActiveWords vs TextExpander

ActiveWords turns typed words into triggers for Windows text expansion and automation. It can insert plain or formatted content, including RTF, HTML, and images, correct spelling in any context, launch programs, files, folders, and web pages, or run scripted sequences. One typed word can trigger multiple actions. Version 5’s ActionPad searches Words, applications, files, folders, and Start Menu items, and handles advanced and date calculations. Selected Text actions can search highlighted text, create email, open a URL, pass text to a custom script, or display it in Large Type. Sync stores Words, Actions, and Tags in a cloud-synced folder, commonly used with Dropbox, OneDrive, Box, and Google Drive. Enterprise deployments add read-only shared items, multiple shared files, centralized control, and support for Terminal Services, LAN, WAN, and NAS. ActiveWords supports Windows 10 and 11 and Windows Server 2019; Windows 7 is unsupported. There is no free plan, but a free 60-day trial requires no credit card.

TextExpander turns short keystrokes into saved Snippets that expand across devices and apps. It supports macOS, Windows, Chrome, Linux through a Chrome extension, iPhone and iPad, and a web app. The Free plan lasts indefinitely without a credit card and allows five active Snippets; free users can swap one active Snippet every two weeks. Free sharing covers up to five team members across three teams. New accounts preview advanced features for 30 days, then move to Free automatically with five Snippets remaining active. Pro costs $5.00 per month per user when billed annually, and Business costs $10.00 per month per user when billed annually; both include unlimited active Snippets and teams. Paid plans add dynamic content such as date math and JavaScript. Enterprise has custom pricing and can include SSO, SCIM, and customized reporting. Support includes community and email, with priority support on paid plans. Prices are in USD and exclude tax; VAT or GST may be added at checkout.