Gleam vs Smile.io: Which Should You Choose in 2026?
Choosing between Gleam and Smile.io 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.
Short on time? Here's the quick answer
We've tested both tools. Here's who should pick what:
Gleam
Marketing apps for growth
Best for you if:
- • You want to try before committing
- • You need landing pages features specifically
- • You need marketing apps for growth
- • You want to start free and upgrade later
Smile.io
The leading loyalty platform for Shopify brands to boost repeat purchases and maximize customer lifetime value.
Best for you if:
- • You want the higher-rated option (7.9/10 vs 0.0/10)
- • You need loyalty programs features specifically
- • Builds and manages customer loyalty programs for Shopify brands.
- • Increases repeat purchases and customer lifetime value (CLV).
| At a Glance | ||
|---|---|---|
Price | Free + Paid | Paid |
Best For | Landing Pages | Loyalty Programs |
Rating | —/100 | 79/100 |
| Feature | Gleam | Smile.io |
|---|---|---|
| Pricing Model | Freemium | Paid |
| Editorial Score | — | 79 |
| Community Rating | No ratings yet | No ratings yet |
| Total Reviews | 0 | 0 |
| Community Upvotes | 137 | 0 |
| Categories | Landing PagesLead Generation | Loyalty ProgramsE-commerce Platforms |
Understanding the Differences
Both Gleam and Smile.io solve similar problems, but they approach them differently.Gleam positions itself as "marketing apps for growth" while Smile.iofocuses on "the leading loyalty platform for shopify brands to boost repeat purchases and maximize customer lifetime value.". These differences matter depending on what you're trying to accomplish.
When to Choose Gleam
Gleam makes sense if you're looking for a budget-friendly option with a free tier solution.
When to Choose Smile.io
Smile.io is worth considering if you need a professional-grade tool. Scoring 79/100, it edges ahead in our evaluation.
Who Should Use What?
Bootstrapped or small team?
When every dollar counts, Gleam lets you get started without pulling out your credit card.
We'd pick: Gleam
Growing fast?
Your team doubled last quarter and you need tools that won't break when you add 50 more people. Smile.io is built for teams that are leveling up.
We'd pick: Smile.io
Enterprise with complex needs?
You need SSO, compliance certifications, and a support team that picks up the phone. Smile.io takes enterprise seriously.
We'd pick: Smile.io
Still not sure? Answer these 3 questions
How much can you spend?
Tight budget? Start free with Gleam, upgrade when you're ready.
Do you care what other users think?
Both have similar review counts. Read a few before you commit.
Expert opinion or crowd wisdom?
Our team rated Smile.io higher (79/100). But the community has upvoted Gleam more (137 votes). Pick your source of truth.
Key Takeaways
What Smile.io Does Better
- Higher overall score (79/100)
- Our recommendation for most use cases
Consider Gleam If
- You want to start free and scale later
- Its specific features better match your workflow
- You prefer its interface or design approach
The Bottom Line
If we had to pick one, we'd go with Smile.io (79/100). But the honest answer is that "better" depends on your situation. Smile.io scores higher in our analysis, but Gleam might be the right choice if its specific strengths align with what you need most. Take advantage of free trials to test both before committing.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Gleam or Smile.io better?
Based on our analysis, Smile.io scores higher with 79/100. Gleam isfreemium while Smile.io is paid. The best choice depends on your specific needs and budget. We recommend testing both with free trials if available.
Can I switch from Gleam to Smile.io easily?
Migration difficulty varies. Check if both tools support data export/import in compatible formats. Some tools offer migration assistance or have integration partners who can help with the transition.
Do Gleam and Smile.io offer free trials?
Most software in this category offers free trials or free tiers. Gleam is freemium with a free tier.Smile.io is paid with potential trial. Visit their websites for current trial offers.