Sendbird vs Stream: Which is Better in 2026?
Choosing between Sendbird and Stream 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:
Sendbird
Chat and messaging API for apps
Best for you if:
- • Sendbird is a chat and messaging API for apps and websites
- • It provides in-app chat, voice, and video with moderation tools
Stream
Add chat and activity feeds to your app
Best for you if:
- • Stream is an API for building scalable chat and activity feeds
- • It provides real-time messaging with moderation and customization
| At a Glance |  Sendbird |  Stream |
|---|---|---|
Starts at | $399/moStarter | Free tier + paid plansFree tier available |
Best For | API Tools | API Tools |
Rating | - | - |
Choose Sendbird or Stream?
Choose Sendbird if
Chat and messaging API for apps
- Good chat API
- UIKit components
- Moderation tools
Choose Stream if
Add chat and activity feeds to your app
- Chat and activity feeds
- Good APIs
- Active development
| Feature | Sendbird | Stream |
|---|---|---|
| Pricing Model | Freemium | Freemium |
| User Rating | ★4.4/5 155 reviews | ★4.5/5 75 reviews |
| Categories | API ToolsCommunication | API ToolsCommunication |
In-Depth Analysis
Sendbird
Chat and messaging API for apps
Strengths
- +Good chat API
- +UIKit components
- +Moderation tools
- +Push notifications
- +Good documentation
Weaknesses
- -Per-MAU pricing
- -Expensive at scale
- -Learning curve
- -Feature limits by tier
- -Vendor lock-in
Key features
Stream
Add chat and activity feeds to your app
Strengths
- +Chat and activity feeds
- +Good APIs
- +Active development
- +Good documentation
- +Scalable
Weaknesses
- -Expensive at scale
- -MAU-based pricing
- -Learning curve
- -Vendor lock-in
- -Feature complexity
Key features
Pricing: Sendbird vs Stream
| Plan | Sendbird | Stream |
|---|---|---|
| Tier 1 | Free Developer | Free Maker |
| Tier 2 | $399 Starter | custom Scale |
| Tier 3 | Custom Pro | custom Enterprise |
| Tier 4 | Custom Enterprise | N/A |
Pricing verified from each vendor's public pricing page. Compare in detail on Sendbird pricing and Stream pricing.
Who Should Use What?
On a budget?
Both are freemium. Compare plans on their websites.
Go with: Sendbird
Want the highest-rated option?
Neither has user reviews yet.
Go with: Sendbird
Value user reviews?
Neither has user reviews yet.
Go with: Stream
3 Questions to Help You Decide
What's your budget?
Both are freemium. Pricing won't help you decide here.
What's your use case?
Both are api tools tools. Compare their specific features to decide.
How important are ratings?
Neither has user reviews yet.
Key Takeaways
Stream
- Higher user rating: 4.5/5 vs 4.4/5
- Free tier available
- Our pick for this comparison
Sendbird
- Larger review base (155 reviews)
The Bottom Line
Stream is our pick.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Sendbird or Stream better?
Stream is rated in our evaluation. Both are freemium.
What are Sendbird and Stream used for?
Sendbird: Chat and messaging API for apps. Stream: Add chat and activity feeds to your app.
What does Sendbird cost vs Stream?
Sendbird is freemium (free tier + paid plans). Stream is freemium (free tier + paid plans). Visit their websites for detailed pricing.