Arc Browser
Smokeball
| Feature | Arc Browser | Smokeball |
|---|---|---|
| Pricing | Free only | From $39/mo |
| Free Plan | ✓ Yes | ✗ No |
| Rating | 4.5 / 5 | 4.5 / 5 |
| Best For | knowledge-workers, researchers, designers, tab-heavy-users | small-law-firms, mid-size-firms, litigation-practices, billable-hour-firms |
| Founded | 2022 | 2007 |
| Vertical Tabs | ✓ | ✗ |
| Spaces | ✓ | ✗ |
| Split View | ✓ | ✗ |
| Boosts | ✓ | ✗ |
| Easel | ✓ | ✗ |
| Notes | ✓ | ✗ |
| Ai Features | ✓ | ✗ |
| Automatic Time Tracking | ✗ | ✓ |
| Document Automation | ✗ | ✓ |
| Matter Management | ✗ | ✓ |
| Billing | ✗ | ✓ |
| Reporting | ✗ | ✓ |
| Microsoft Integration | ✗ | ✓ |
✓ Arc Browser Pros
- Innovative sidebar with vertical tabs and spaces
- Built-in tools (notes, easel, split view) reduce extensions
- Profiles and spaces for work/personal separation
- Beautiful design with attention to detail
✗ Arc Browser Cons
- Mac and iOS focused (Windows version limited)
- Steep learning curve from traditional browsers
- Company pivoting away from Arc to new product
✓ Smokeball Pros
- Automatic time recording
- Deep Microsoft Office integration
- Strong document automation
- Excellent for billing accuracy
✗ Smokeball Cons
- Windows-only desktop app
- Higher price point
- Learning curve for automation
The Verdict
Arc Browser is built for knowledge workers and researchers, with a focus on vertical-tabs and spaces. Smokeball targets small law firms and mid size firms and leads with automatic-time-tracking and document-automation.
Arc Browser uses custom enterprise pricing, while Smokeball starts at $39/mo — a tangible advantage for teams with a fixed budget.
Arc Browser has a free plan, which gives it a meaningful edge for individuals and small teams exploring their options. Smokeball requires a paid subscription from day one.
Feature-wise, Arc Browser offers broader built-in capabilities (7 features vs 6), while Smokeball takes a more focused approach — which can mean a simpler, faster onboarding experience.
This is a genuinely close comparison. If you can, sign up for both free trials (where available) and run a one-week test with your actual team tasks before deciding.