Hobnob AI vs Arc Search

Arc Search 'Browse for me' was the iOS hit of 2024. Hobnob AI takes the cited-answer idea and adds TrustScore, source filters, and a research workspace.

Where Hobnob AI wins

  • TrustScore (0–100) on every cited source — Arc Search does not expose source-quality signals.
  • Human-Internet filter to remove AI-generated content farms — one click, Arc Search can't do this.
  • Free unlimited cited search, plus built-in research workspace with folders, AI memory, and graph view.
  • Open source filtering across Reddit, YouTube, X, academic, and news — most Arc Search answers are single-bucket.

Where Arc Search wins

  • Beautiful mobile UX.
  • Browser + AI search in one app.
  • iOS-exclusive polish.

Feature-by-feature

FeatureHobnob AIArc Search
Free cited searchUnlimitedLimited / paywalled
TrustScore on sourcesYes (Credibility / Freshness / AI-likelihood)No
Human-Internet filterYesNo
Research workspaceFolders + AI memory + graph viewLimited or none
Source buckets (Reddit/YT/X)Yes (Starter and above)Limited
Deep research modeStarter and abovePaid only

Verdict

If source transparency, free-tier generosity, and an integrated research workspace matter to you, Hobnob AI is the better daily driver. If you're locked into Arc Search's ecosystem or specifically need one of its native strengths, keep using it alongside Hobnob.

Try Hobnob AI free

FAQ

Is Hobnob AI better than Arc Search?

For cited research with source-quality signals, yes. Arc Search has its own strengths (see comparison above) so many users keep both.

Is Hobnob AI free?

Yes. The free tier covers unlimited cited search with TrustScore. Paid tiers unlock Deep Research, source buckets, AI Memory, and remove ads.

Can I use both?

Absolutely. Use Arc Search for its native strengths and Hobnob AI for cited research, source filtering, and the workspace.

Why does Hobnob AI show ads?

To keep search free for everyone. Running real-time web crawls, large language models, and TrustScore checks costs real money. Paid plans remove ads and fund the team.

More comparisons

Recommended reading