Zendesk vs Kayako: Which Should You Choose in 2026?
Choosing between Zendesk 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:
Zendesk
Complete customer service solution
Best for you if:
- • You want the higher-rated option (8.9/10 vs 7.2/10)
- • You need chatbots features specifically
- • Enterprise-grade customer service platform
- • Industry leader in support software
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 |  Zendesk |  Kayako |
|---|---|---|
Price | Paid | Paid |
Best For | Chatbots | Workflow Automation |
Rating | 89/100 | 72/100 |
| Feature | Zendesk | Kayako |
|---|---|---|
| Pricing Model | Paid | Paid |
| Editorial Score | 89 | 72 |
| Community Rating | No ratings yet | No ratings yet |
| Total Reviews | 0 | 0 |
| Community Upvotes | 0 | 0 |
| Categories | ChatbotsCustomer Success | Workflow AutomationAI for Customer Service |
How Zendesk and Kayako Compare
Zendesk
Complete customer service solution
Paid · 89/100 score
Kayako
Unified customer service platform for modern support teams
Paid · 72/100 score
Zendesk is a chatbots tool. Kayako is in workflow automation.
Who Should Use What?
On a budget?
Both are paid. Compare plans on their websites.
Go with: Zendesk
Want the highest-rated option?
Zendesk: 89/100. Kayako: 72/100.
Go with: Zendesk
Value user reviews?
Neither has user reviews yet.
Go with: Zendesk
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?
Zendesk is a chatbots tool. Kayako is in workflow automation. Pick the category that matches your needs.
How important are ratings?
Zendesk scores higher: 89/100 vs 72/100.
Key Takeaways
Zendesk
- Higher score: 89/100 vs 72
- Our pick for this comparison
Kayako
- Better fit for workflow automation
The Bottom Line
Zendesk (89/100) is our pick.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Zendesk or Kayako better?
Zendesk scores 89/100 in our evaluation. Both are paid.
What are Zendesk and Kayako used for?
Zendesk: Complete customer service solution. Kayako: Unified customer service platform for modern support teams.
What does Zendesk cost vs Kayako?
Zendesk is a paid tool. Kayako is a paid tool. Visit their websites for detailed pricing.