Arc Search vs You.com
Two of the most-asked-about agents in the browser-agent space. Here's how they actually stack up.
Arc Search
AI-native browser feature that synthesizes web pages from a question
Free
Read full review →You.com
AI research assistant with multi-model picker and Advanced Research mode
Free + $20/mo
Read full review →Side-by-side comparison
| Arc Search | You.com | |
|---|---|---|
| Tagline | AI-native browser feature that synthesizes web pages from a question | AI research assistant with multi-model picker and Advanced Research mode |
| Pricing | Free | Free + $20/mo |
| Categories | browser-agent, search, mobile | search, research, chat |
| Made by | The Browser Company | You.com |
| Launched | 2024-01 | 2020-11 |
| Platforms | iOS, Android, macOS, Windows | Web, iOS, Android |
| Status | active | active |
Arc Search highlights
- + Browse for Me: synthesizes a custom page from a question instead of returning a list of links
- + Pinch-to-summarize any web page in a single gesture
- + Spaces and profiles for separating work, personal, and project contexts
- + Arc Max AI features including five-second page previews and tidy tab titles
- + Full-screen reader mode that strips clutter from articles automatically
You.com highlights
- + Multi-model picker: Claude Opus 4.7, GPT-5, Gemini 3, Llama, and more switchable per query
- + ARI (Advanced Research and Insights) for multi-step deep research reports with citations
- + Smart, Genius, and Research AI modes with different depth and speed tradeoffs
- + Custom AI personas and assistants for repeatable workflows
- + Developer API for web search, content extraction, and grounded LLM answers
Frequently Asked Questions
Which is better, Arc Search or You.com?
Neither is universally better. Arc Search (Free) leans into browser-agent, while You.com (Free + $20/mo) is closer to search. Pick based on which workflow you actually do every day.
What is the price difference between Arc Search and You.com?
Arc Search is free. You.com is free + $20/mo. See the pricing row in the comparison table.
Can I use Arc Search and You.com together?
In most cases, yes. They serve overlapping but distinct needs, so running them side by side is common until you decide which fits your workflow.