Intercom vs Drift: Which Should You Choose in 2026?
Choosing between Intercom and Drift 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:
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
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
| At a Glance |  Intercom |  Drift |
|---|---|---|
Price | Paid | Paid |
Best For | Help Desk | Sales Enablement |
Rating | 88/100 | 81/100 |
| Feature | Intercom | Drift |
|---|---|---|
| Pricing Model | Paid | Paid |
| Editorial Score | 88 | 81 |
| Community Rating | No ratings yet | No ratings yet |
| Total Reviews | 0 | 0 |
| Community Upvotes | 0 | 0 |
| Categories | Help DeskLive Chat | Sales EnablementLive Chat |
How Intercom and Drift Compare
Intercom
AI-first customer service platform
Paid · 88/100 score
Drift
Conversational marketing platform
Paid · 81/100 score
Intercom is a help desk tool. Drift is in sales enablement.
Who Should Use What?
On a budget?
Both are paid. Compare plans on their websites.
Go with: Intercom
Want the highest-rated option?
Intercom: 88/100. Drift: 81/100.
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?
Intercom is a help desk tool. Drift is in sales enablement. 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 Intercom or Drift better?
Intercom scores 88/100 in our evaluation. Both are paid.
What are Intercom and Drift used for?
Intercom: AI-first customer service platform. Drift: Conversational marketing platform.
What does Intercom cost vs Drift?
Intercom is a paid tool. Drift is a paid tool. Visit their websites for detailed pricing.