Dialpad vs Zendesk: Which Should You Choose in 2026?
Choosing between Dialpad and Zendesk 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:
Dialpad
AI-powered Contact Center and Unified Communications platform for customer service and sales.
Best for you if:
- • You want to try before committing
- • You need transcription features specifically
- • AI-powered business communications
- • Voice, video, and messaging
Zendesk
Complete customer service solution
Best for you if:
- • You want the higher-rated option (8.9/10 vs 8.4/10)
- • You need chatbots features specifically
- • Enterprise-grade customer service platform
- • Industry leader in support software
| At a Glance |  Dialpad |  Zendesk |
|---|---|---|
Price | Free + Paid | Paid |
Best For | Transcription | Chatbots |
Rating | 84/100 | 89/100 |
| Feature | Dialpad | Zendesk |
|---|---|---|
| Pricing Model | Freemium | Paid |
| Editorial Score | 84 | 89 |
| Community Rating | No ratings yet | No ratings yet |
| Total Reviews | 0 | 0 |
| Community Upvotes | 0 | 0 |
| Categories | TranscriptionCall Center | ChatbotsCustomer Success |
How Dialpad and Zendesk Compare
Dialpad
AI-powered Contact Center and Unified Communications platform for customer service and sales.
Free tier available · 84/100 score
Zendesk
Complete customer service solution
Paid · 89/100 score
Dialpad is a transcription tool. Zendesk is in chatbots.
Who Should Use What?
On a budget?
Dialpad has a free tier. Zendesk is paid only.
Go with: Dialpad
Want the highest-rated option?
Dialpad: 84/100. Zendesk: 89/100.
Go with: Zendesk
Value user reviews?
Neither has user reviews yet.
Go with: Zendesk
3 Questions to Help You Decide
What's your budget?
Dialpad is freemium. Zendesk is paid. Dialpad lets you start free.
What's your use case?
Dialpad is a transcription tool. Zendesk is in chatbots. Pick the category that matches your needs.
How important are ratings?
Zendesk scores higher: 89/100 vs 84/100.
Key Takeaways
Zendesk
- Higher score: 89/100 vs 84
- Our pick for this comparison
Dialpad
- Has a free tier
- Better fit for transcription
The Bottom Line
Zendesk (89/100) is our pick. Dialpad has a free tier if you want to test without paying.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Dialpad or Zendesk better?
Zendesk scores 89/100 in our evaluation. Dialpad is freemium and Zendesk is paid.
What are Dialpad and Zendesk used for?
Dialpad: AI-powered Contact Center and Unified Communications platform for customer service and sales.. Zendesk: Complete customer service solution.
What does Dialpad cost vs Zendesk?
Dialpad is freemium (free tier + paid plans). Zendesk is a paid tool. Visit their websites for detailed pricing.