Yotpo Loyalty vs Smile.io: Which Should You Choose in 2026?
Choosing between Yotpo Loyalty and Smile.io 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:
Yotpo Loyalty
Loyalty and referrals by Yotpo
Best for you if:
- • You want to try before committing
- • You need loyalty and referrals by yotpo
- • You want to start free and upgrade later
Smile.io
The leading loyalty platform for Shopify brands to boost repeat purchases and maximize customer lifetime value.
Best for you if:
- • You want the higher-rated option (7.9/10 vs 0.0/10)
- • Builds and manages customer loyalty programs for Shopify brands.
- • Increases repeat purchases and customer lifetime value (CLV).
| At a Glance | ||
|---|---|---|
Price | Free + Paid | Paid |
Best For | Loyalty Programs | Loyalty Programs |
Rating | —/100 | 79/100 |
| Feature | Yotpo Loyalty | Smile.io |
|---|---|---|
| Pricing Model | Freemium | Paid |
| Editorial Score | — | 79 |
| Community Rating | No ratings yet | No ratings yet |
| Total Reviews | 0 | 0 |
| Community Upvotes | 145 | 0 |
| Categories | Loyalty ProgramsReferral Marketing | Loyalty ProgramsE-commerce Platforms |
Understanding the Differences
Both Yotpo Loyalty and Smile.io solve similar problems, but they approach them differently.Yotpo Loyalty positions itself as "loyalty and referrals by yotpo" while Smile.iofocuses on "the leading loyalty platform for shopify brands to boost repeat purchases and maximize customer lifetime value.". These differences matter depending on what you're trying to accomplish.
When to Choose Yotpo Loyalty
Yotpo Loyalty makes sense if you're looking for a budget-friendly option with a free tier solution.
When to Choose Smile.io
Smile.io is worth considering if you need a professional-grade tool. Scoring 79/100, it edges ahead in our evaluation.
Who Should Use What?
Bootstrapped or small team?
When every dollar counts, Yotpo Loyalty lets you get started without pulling out your credit card.
We'd pick: Yotpo Loyalty
Growing fast?
Your team doubled last quarter and you need tools that won't break when you add 50 more people. Smile.io is built for teams that are leveling up.
We'd pick: Smile.io
Enterprise with complex needs?
You need SSO, compliance certifications, and a support team that picks up the phone. Smile.io takes enterprise seriously.
We'd pick: Smile.io
Still not sure? Answer these 3 questions
How much can you spend?
Tight budget? Start free with Yotpo Loyalty, upgrade when you're ready.
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 Smile.io higher (79/100). But the community has upvoted Yotpo Loyalty more (145 votes). Pick your source of truth.
Key Takeaways
What Smile.io Does Better
- Higher overall score (79/100)
- Our recommendation for most use cases
Consider Yotpo Loyalty 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 Smile.io (79/100). But the honest answer is that "better" depends on your situation. Smile.io scores higher in our analysis, but Yotpo Loyalty 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 Yotpo Loyalty or Smile.io better?
Based on our analysis, Smile.io scores higher with 79/100. Yotpo Loyalty isfreemium while Smile.io is paid. The best choice depends on your specific needs and budget. We recommend testing both with free trials if available.
Can I switch from Yotpo Loyalty to Smile.io 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 Yotpo Loyalty and Smile.io offer free trials?
Most software in this category offers free trials or free tiers. Yotpo Loyalty is freemium with a free tier.Smile.io is paid with potential trial. Visit their websites for current trial offers.