Freshdesk vs Intercom: Which Should You Choose in 2026?
Choosing between Freshdesk 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:
Freshdesk
Intuitive customer support software
Best for you if:
- • You want to try before committing
- • Cloud-based customer support software
- • Affordable alternative to Zendesk
Intercom
AI-first customer service platform
Best for you if:
- • You want the higher-rated option (8.8/10 vs 8.5/10)
- • AI-powered customer service
- • Live chat and help desk
| At a Glance |  Freshdesk |  Intercom |
|---|---|---|
Price | Free + Paid | Paid |
Best For | Help Desk | Help Desk |
Rating | 85/100 | 88/100 |
| Feature | Freshdesk | Intercom |
|---|---|---|
| Pricing Model | Freemium | Paid |
| Editorial Score | 85 | 88 |
| Community Rating | No ratings yet | No ratings yet |
| Total Reviews | 0 | 0 |
| Community Upvotes | 0 | 0 |
| Categories | Help DeskLive Chat | Help DeskLive Chat |
How Freshdesk and Intercom Compare
Freshdesk
Intuitive customer support software
Free tier available · 85/100 score
Intercom
AI-first customer service platform
Paid · 88/100 score
Who Should Use What?
On a budget?
Freshdesk has a free tier. Intercom is paid only.
Go with: Freshdesk
Want the highest-rated option?
Freshdesk: 85/100. 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?
Freshdesk is freemium. Intercom is paid. Freshdesk lets you start free.
What's your use case?
Both are help desk tools. Compare their specific features to decide.
How important are ratings?
Intercom scores higher: 88/100 vs 85/100.
Key Takeaways
Intercom
- Higher score: 88/100 vs 85
- Our pick for this comparison
Freshdesk
- Has a free tier
The Bottom Line
Intercom (88/100) is our pick. Freshdesk has a free tier if you want to test without paying.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Freshdesk or Intercom better?
Intercom scores 88/100 in our evaluation. Freshdesk is freemium and Intercom is paid.
What are Freshdesk and Intercom used for?
Freshdesk: Intuitive customer support software. Intercom: AI-first customer service platform.
What does Freshdesk cost vs Intercom?
Freshdesk is freemium (free tier + paid plans). Intercom is a paid tool. Visit their websites for detailed pricing.