Lookback vs Lyssna: Which Should You Choose in 2026?
Choosing between Lookback and Lyssna 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:
Lookback
Build better products faster with AI-powered qualitative research that keeps people at its core.
Best for you if:
- • Conducts moderated and unmoderated qualitative research across devices.
- • Utilizes AI (Eureka) for rapid analysis, insight surfacing, and note-taking.
Lyssna
Validate products with users, recruit participants, and gather feedback to shape products users love.
Best for you if:
- • You want to try before committing
- • Conduct moderated interviews, unmoderated tests, and surveys.
- • Recruit participants from a panel of 690,000+ or use your own.
| At a Glance | ||
|---|---|---|
Price | Paid | Free + Paid |
Best For | User Research | User Research |
Rating | —/100 | —/100 |
| Feature | Lookback | Lyssna |
|---|---|---|
| Pricing Model | Paid | Freemium |
| Editorial Score | — | — |
| Community Rating | No ratings yet | No ratings yet |
| Total Reviews | 0 | 0 |
| Community Upvotes | 0 | 0 |
| Categories | User ResearchCustomer Feedback | User ResearchSurvey Tools |
Understanding the Differences
Both Lookback and Lyssna solve similar problems, but they approach them differently.Lookback positions itself as "build better products faster with ai-powered qualitative research that keeps people at its core." while Lyssnafocuses on "validate products with users, recruit participants, and gather feedback to shape products users love.". These differences matter depending on what you're trying to accomplish.
When to Choose Lookback
Lookback makes sense if you're looking for a comprehensive paid solution.
When to Choose Lyssna
Lyssna is worth considering if you need a flexible option with both free and paid tiers tool.
Who Should Use What?
Bootstrapped or small team?
Lyssna won't cost you anything to start, which is exactly what early-stage teams need.
We'd pick: Lyssna
Growing fast?
Your team doubled last quarter and you need tools that won't break when you add 50 more people. Lyssna is built for teams that are leveling up.
We'd pick: Lyssna
Enterprise with complex needs?
You need SSO, compliance certifications, and a support team that picks up the phone. Lookback is built for organizations like yours.
We'd pick: Lookback
Still not sure? Answer these 3 questions
How much can you spend?
Want to test first? Lyssna has a free tier to get you started.
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 Lookback higher (/100). But the community has upvoted Lyssna more (0 votes). Pick your source of truth.
Key Takeaways
What Lookback Does Better
- Our recommendation for most use cases
Consider Lyssna 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 Lookback. But the honest answer is that "better" depends on your situation. Lookback scores higher in our analysis, but Lyssna 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 Lookback or Lyssna better?
Based on our analysis, Lookback scores higher with high/100. Lookback ispaid while Lyssna is freemium. The best choice depends on your specific needs and budget. We recommend testing both with free trials if available.
Can I switch from Lookback to Lyssna 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 Lookback and Lyssna offer free trials?
Most software in this category offers free trials or free tiers. Lookback is paid with potential trial.Lyssna is freemium with a free tier. Visit their websites for current trial offers.