Side by side
Refine vs tinySpell
Both stand on grammar checkers. Which one you can start free with, which one lets you read the code, and what each costs once you pay.
Free plan Mac
Refine combines local grammar assistance with rewriting and translation across Mac applications. The free tier provides core checking, while broader features require the paid plan and compatible macOS hardware.
Visit Refine Free plan Windows
tinySpell adds spelling checks to Windows applications, with clipboard support and configurable corrections. The free tier covers core checking, while tinySpell+ adds dictionaries, automation, language services, and portability for a listed monthly price.
Visit tinySpellThe facts
| Refine | tinySpell | |
|---|---|---|
| Free plan | Yes | Yes |
| Open source | Not published | Not published |
| Runs on | Mac | Windows |
| Lowest paid plan | See the plans | tinySpell+: $10, paid once |
| Plans published | 3 | 2 |
| Maker | Refine | Not published |
| Website | refine.sh | tinyspell.com |
| On grammar checkers | #70 of 88 | #74 of 88 |
Refine: what it does well
- Works offline after model download
- Supports 36 languages and 59 varieties
- Integrates with several Mac apps
- Offers local and cloud AI choices
- Free plan includes core grammar checking
What to know first
- Requires macOS 14 or later
- Windows and Linux are waitlisted
- Lifetime license covers one device
- Free plan limits advanced features
tinySpell: what it does well
- Monitors typing for misspelled words
- Checks copied clipboard text
- Free version controls enabled applications
- Paid tier supports Hunspell dictionaries
- Portable versions require no installation
What to know first
- Available only on Windows
- tinySpell+ is listed at $10 a month
- Portable tinySpell+ installations generally need separate licenses
- No installation-free limitation applies to portable versions
Alternatives to Refine Alternatives to tinySpell The whole list