Chatwoot vs Helpshift: Which Should You Choose in 2026?
Choosing between Chatwoot and Helpshift comes down to understanding what each tool does best. This comparison breaks down the key differences so you can make an informed decision based on your specific needs, not marketing claims.
By Toolradar Team · Last updated February 28, 2026 · Methodology
Short on time? Here's the quick answer
We've tested both tools. Here's who should pick what:
Chatwoot
Open source customer engagement
Best for you if:
- • You want the higher-rated option (8.3/10 vs 0.0/10)
- • You want to try before committing
- • You need crm features specifically
- • Chatwoot is an open-source customer engagement platform and Intercom alternative
- • It provides live chat, email, social media inbox, and chatbots in one tool
Helpshift
AI-first customer service platform combining AI, human specialists, and state-of-the-art technology.
Best for you if:
- • You need help desk features specifically
- • Combines AI and human agents for efficient customer service.
- • Offers comprehensive self-service, conversational support, and ticketing.
| At a Glance |  Chatwoot |  Helpshift |
|---|---|---|
Price | Free + Paid | Paid |
Best For | CRM | Help Desk |
Rating | 83/100 | —/100 |
| Feature | Chatwoot | Helpshift |
|---|---|---|
| Pricing Model | Freemium | Paid |
| Editorial Score | 83 | — |
| Community Rating | No ratings yet | No ratings yet |
| Total Reviews | 0 | 0 |
| Community Upvotes | 0 | 0 |
| Categories | CRMHelp Desk | Help DeskChatbots |
How Chatwoot and Helpshift Compare
Chatwoot
Open source customer engagement
Free tier available · 83/100 score
Helpshift
AI-first customer service platform combining AI, human specialists, and state-of-the-art technology.
Paid
Chatwoot is a crm tool. Helpshift is in help desk.
Who Should Use What?
On a budget?
Chatwoot has a free tier. Helpshift is paid only.
Go with: Chatwoot
Want the highest-rated option?
Chatwoot scores 83/100. Helpshift is unrated.
Go with: Chatwoot
Value user reviews?
Neither has user reviews yet.
Go with: Chatwoot
3 Questions to Help You Decide
What's your budget?
Chatwoot is freemium. Helpshift is paid. Chatwoot lets you start free.
What's your use case?
Chatwoot is a crm tool. Helpshift is in help desk. Pick the category that matches your needs.
How important are ratings?
Not all tools have been rated yet.
Key Takeaways
Chatwoot
- Higher score: 83/100 vs unrated
- Free tier available
- Our pick for this comparison
Helpshift
- Better fit for help desk
The Bottom Line
Chatwoot (83/100) is our pick.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Chatwoot or Helpshift better?
Chatwoot scores 83/100 in our evaluation. Chatwoot is freemium and Helpshift is paid.
What are Chatwoot and Helpshift used for?
Chatwoot: Open source customer engagement. Helpshift: AI-first customer service platform combining AI, human specialists, and state-of-the-art technology..
What does Chatwoot cost vs Helpshift?
Chatwoot is freemium (free tier + paid plans). Helpshift is a paid tool. Visit their websites for detailed pricing.