Olark vs Freshdesk: Which Should You Choose in 2026?
Choosing between Olark and Freshdesk 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:
Olark
Live chat software for customer support
Best for you if:
- • You need automation features specifically
- • Olark is a live chat software for customer support on websites
- • It provides real-time chat with automation, transcripts, and integrations
Freshdesk
Intuitive customer support software
Best for you if:
- • You want the higher-rated option (8.5/10 vs 7.9/10)
- • You want to try before committing
- • You need help desk features specifically
- • Cloud-based customer support software
- • Affordable alternative to Zendesk
| At a Glance |  Olark |  Freshdesk |
|---|---|---|
Price | Paid | Free + Paid |
Best For | Automation | Help Desk |
Rating | 79/100 | 85/100 |
| Feature | Olark | Freshdesk |
|---|---|---|
| Pricing Model | Paid | Freemium |
| Editorial Score | 79 | 85 |
| Community Rating | No ratings yet | No ratings yet |
| Total Reviews | 0 | 0 |
| Community Upvotes | 0 | 0 |
| Categories | AutomationLive Chat | Help DeskLive Chat |
How Olark and Freshdesk Compare
Olark
Live chat software for customer support
Paid · 79/100 score
Freshdesk
Intuitive customer support software
Free tier available · 85/100 score
Olark is a automation tool. Freshdesk is in help desk.
Who Should Use What?
On a budget?
Freshdesk has a free tier. Olark is paid only.
Go with: Freshdesk
Want the highest-rated option?
Olark: 79/100. Freshdesk: 85/100.
Go with: Freshdesk
Value user reviews?
Neither has user reviews yet.
Go with: Freshdesk
3 Questions to Help You Decide
What's your budget?
Olark is paid. Freshdesk is freemium. Freshdesk lets you start free.
What's your use case?
Olark is a automation tool. Freshdesk is in help desk. Pick the category that matches your needs.
How important are ratings?
Freshdesk scores higher: 85/100 vs 79/100.
Key Takeaways
Freshdesk
- Higher score: 85/100 vs 79
- Free tier available
- Our pick for this comparison
Olark
- Better fit for automation
The Bottom Line
Freshdesk (85/100) is our pick.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Olark or Freshdesk better?
Freshdesk scores 85/100 in our evaluation. Olark is paid and Freshdesk is freemium.
What are Olark and Freshdesk used for?
Olark: Live chat software for customer support. Freshdesk: Intuitive customer support software.
What does Olark cost vs Freshdesk?
Olark is a paid tool. Freshdesk is freemium (free tier + paid plans). Visit their websites for detailed pricing.