ServiceNow vs Kayako: Which Should You Choose in 2026?
Choosing between ServiceNow and Kayako 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:
ServiceNow
Enterprise service platform
Best for you if:
- • You want the higher-rated option (8.4/10 vs 7.2/10)
- • You need help desk features specifically
- • Enterprise IT service management platform
- • Automates workflows and IT operations
Kayako
Unified customer service platform for modern support teams
Best for you if:
- • You need workflow automation features specifically
- • Unified customer service platform combining email, chat, and social support
- • Builds complete customer journey maps across all touchpoints
| At a Glance |  ServiceNow |  Kayako |
|---|---|---|
Price | Paid | Paid |
Best For | Help Desk | Workflow Automation |
Rating | 84/100 | 72/100 |
| Feature | ServiceNow | Kayako |
|---|---|---|
| Pricing Model | Paid | Paid |
| Editorial Score | 84 | 72 |
| Community Rating | No ratings yet | No ratings yet |
| Total Reviews | 0 | 0 |
| Community Upvotes | 0 | 0 |
| Categories | Help DeskWorkflow Automation | Workflow AutomationAI for Customer Service |
How ServiceNow and Kayako Compare
ServiceNow
Enterprise service platform
Paid · 84/100 score
Kayako
Unified customer service platform for modern support teams
Paid · 72/100 score
ServiceNow is a help desk tool. Kayako is in workflow automation.
Who Should Use What?
On a budget?
Both are paid. Compare plans on their websites.
Go with: ServiceNow
Want the highest-rated option?
ServiceNow: 84/100. Kayako: 72/100.
Go with: ServiceNow
Value user reviews?
Neither has user reviews yet.
Go with: ServiceNow
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?
ServiceNow is a help desk tool. Kayako is in workflow automation. Pick the category that matches your needs.
How important are ratings?
ServiceNow scores higher: 84/100 vs 72/100.
Key Takeaways
ServiceNow
- Higher score: 84/100 vs 72
- Our pick for this comparison
Kayako
- Better fit for workflow automation
The Bottom Line
ServiceNow (84/100) is our pick.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is ServiceNow or Kayako better?
ServiceNow scores 84/100 in our evaluation. Both are paid.
What are ServiceNow and Kayako used for?
ServiceNow: Enterprise service platform. Kayako: Unified customer service platform for modern support teams.
What does ServiceNow cost vs Kayako?
ServiceNow is a paid tool. Kayako is a paid tool. Visit their websites for detailed pricing.