aText vs TextExpander

aText replaces abbreviations you define with frequently used phrases in applications, helping speed up repeated typing on Windows and macOS. Snippets can insert formatted text, images, and attachments into applications such as Word, Mail, Outlook, Pages, and Gmail. It can capitalize new sentences and correct double capitals. Advanced snippets can use date and time scripts, editable fields, keystrokes, scripting, and mouse scripts; built-in options cover misspelling correction, HTML and JavaScript coding, and emojis. Data can sync between computers through OneDrive, Dropbox, Google Drive, iCloud Drive, or a shared network folder, including across Windows and macOS. The maker describes collaboration in a multi-user environment and support for virtual machines and remote desktop clients. Its privacy policy says the app monitors keystrokes globally to expand abbreviations, but does not collect, save, or transmit keystrokes typed in other applications or transmit user-created data. A 21-day trial is available, and a free plan is listed. Personal One year costs $4.99 a year for one user on three computers and expires without automatic charge. Other listed options include lifetime and business licenses, with terms and limits varying by plan.

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.