Freshdesk vs FreshService: Which Should You Choose in 2026?
Choosing between Freshdesk and FreshService 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:
Freshdesk
Intuitive customer support software
Best for you if:
- • You want the higher-rated option (8.5/10 vs 8.1/10)
- • Cloud-based customer support software
- • Affordable alternative to Zendesk
FreshService
AI-powered ITSM platform for simple, scalable IT service and business team collaboration.
Best for you if:
- • Cloud-based IT service management (ITSM) platform by Freshworks
- • ITIL-ready with incident, problem, change, and asset management
| At a Glance |  Freshdesk |  FreshService |
|---|---|---|
Price | Free + Paid | Free + Paid |
Best For | Help Desk | Help Desk |
Rating | 85/100 | 81/100 |
| Feature | Freshdesk | FreshService |
|---|---|---|
| Pricing Model | Freemium | Freemium |
| Editorial Score | 85 | 81 |
| Community Rating | No ratings yet | No ratings yet |
| Total Reviews | 0 | 0 |
| Community Upvotes | 0 | 0 |
| Categories | Help DeskLive Chat | Help DeskIncident Management |
How Freshdesk and FreshService Compare
Freshdesk
Intuitive customer support software
Free tier available · 85/100 score
FreshService
AI-powered ITSM platform for simple, scalable IT service and business team collaboration.
Free tier available · 81/100 score
Who Should Use What?
On a budget?
Both are freemium. Compare plans on their websites.
Go with: Freshdesk
Want the highest-rated option?
Freshdesk: 85/100. FreshService: 81/100.
Go with: Freshdesk
Value user reviews?
Neither has user reviews yet.
Go with: Freshdesk
3 Questions to Help You Decide
What's your budget?
Both are freemium. Pricing won't help you decide here.
What's your use case?
Both are help desk tools. Compare their specific features to decide.
How important are ratings?
Freshdesk scores higher: 85/100 vs 81/100.
Key Takeaways
Freshdesk
- Higher score: 85/100 vs 81
- Free tier available
- Our pick for this comparison
FreshService
The Bottom Line
Freshdesk (85/100) is our pick.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Freshdesk or FreshService better?
Freshdesk scores 85/100 in our evaluation. Both are freemium.
What are Freshdesk and FreshService used for?
Freshdesk: Intuitive customer support software. FreshService: AI-powered ITSM platform for simple, scalable IT service and business team collaboration..
What does Freshdesk cost vs FreshService?
Freshdesk is freemium (free tier + paid plans). FreshService is freemium (free tier + paid plans). Visit their websites for detailed pricing.