Atrial fibrillation (AF) is one of the most important causes of disability and mortality and is associated with several complications. Rhythm control through AF ablation is strongly suggested with pulmonary vein isolation (PVI) through single-shot ablation devices, like cryoballoon ablation (CBA) and circumferential pulsed-field ablation (PFA). In this review we will analyse the differences between these two techniques, in terms of their efficacy and safety profile. Then we will underline that the debate on the differences in costs between CBA and PFA is still controversial. For the lack of continuous rhythm monitoring during follow-up in most of the studies conducted, it is difficult to establish which one of these two technologies is more suitable for a given patient. Nowadays, the comparison between CBA and PFA is constantly evolving.