Drift vs Intercom: Which Should You Choose in 2026?
Choosing between Drift and Intercom 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:
Drift
Conversational marketing platform
Best for you if:
- • You need sales enablement features specifically
- • Live chat for sales and support
- • AI chatbot handles common questions
Intercom
AI-first customer service platform
Best for you if:
- • You want the higher-rated option (8.8/10 vs 8.1/10)
- • You need help desk features specifically
- • AI-powered customer service
- • Live chat and help desk
| At a Glance |  Drift |  Intercom |
|---|---|---|
Price | Paid | Paid |
Best For | Sales Enablement | Help Desk |
Rating | 81/100 | 88/100 |
| Feature | Drift | Intercom |
|---|---|---|
| Pricing Model | Paid | Paid |
| Editorial Score | 81 | 88 |
| Community Rating | No ratings yet | No ratings yet |
| Total Reviews | 0 | 0 |
| Community Upvotes | 0 | 0 |
| Categories | Sales EnablementLive Chat | Help DeskLive Chat |
How Drift and Intercom Compare
Drift
Conversational marketing platform
Paid · 81/100 score
Intercom
AI-first customer service platform
Paid · 88/100 score
Drift is a sales enablement tool. Intercom is in help desk.
Who Should Use What?
On a budget?
Both are paid. Compare plans on their websites.
Go with: Intercom
Want the highest-rated option?
Drift: 81/100. Intercom: 88/100.
Go with: Intercom
Value user reviews?
Neither has user reviews yet.
Go with: Intercom
3 Questions to Help You Decide
What's your budget?
Both are paid. Pricing won't help you decide here.
What's your use case?
Drift is a sales enablement tool. Intercom is in help desk. Pick the category that matches your needs.
How important are ratings?
Intercom scores higher: 88/100 vs 81/100.
Key Takeaways
Intercom
- Higher score: 88/100 vs 81
- Our pick for this comparison
Drift
- Better fit for sales enablement
The Bottom Line
Intercom (88/100) is our pick.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Drift or Intercom better?
Intercom scores 88/100 in our evaluation. Both are paid.
What are Drift and Intercom used for?
Drift: Conversational marketing platform. Intercom: AI-first customer service platform.
What does Drift cost vs Intercom?
Drift is a paid tool. Intercom is a paid tool. Visit their websites for detailed pricing.