Intercom vs Zendesk: Which Should You Choose in 2026?
Choosing between Intercom and Zendesk 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:
Intercom
AI-first customer service platform
Best for you if:
- • You need help desk features specifically
- • AI-powered customer service
- • Live chat and help desk
Zendesk
Complete customer service solution
Best for you if:
- • You want the higher-rated option (8.9/10 vs 8.8/10)
- • You need chatbots features specifically
- • Enterprise-grade customer service platform
- • Industry leader in support software
| At a Glance |  Intercom |  Zendesk |
|---|---|---|
Price | Paid | Paid |
Best For | Help Desk | Chatbots |
Rating | 88/100 | 89/100 |
| Feature | Intercom | Zendesk |
|---|---|---|
| Pricing Model | Paid | Paid |
| Editorial Score | 88 | 89 |
| Community Rating | No ratings yet | No ratings yet |
| Total Reviews | 0 | 0 |
| Community Upvotes | 0 | 0 |
| Categories | Help DeskLive Chat | ChatbotsCustomer Success |
How Intercom and Zendesk Compare
Intercom
AI-first customer service platform
Paid · 88/100 score
Zendesk
Complete customer service solution
Paid · 89/100 score
Intercom is a help desk tool. Zendesk is in chatbots.
Who Should Use What?
On a budget?
Both are paid. Compare plans on their websites.
Go with: Zendesk
Want the highest-rated option?
Intercom: 88/100. Zendesk: 89/100.
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?
Intercom is a help desk tool. Zendesk is in chatbots. Pick the category that matches your needs.
How important are ratings?
Zendesk scores higher: 89/100 vs 88/100.
Key Takeaways
Zendesk
- Higher score: 89/100 vs 88
- Our pick for this comparison
Intercom
- Better fit for help desk
The Bottom Line
Zendesk (89/100) is our pick.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Intercom or Zendesk better?
Zendesk scores 89/100 in our evaluation. Both are paid.
What are Intercom and Zendesk used for?
Intercom: AI-first customer service platform. Zendesk: Complete customer service solution.
What does Intercom cost vs Zendesk?
Intercom is a paid tool. Zendesk is a paid tool. Visit their websites for detailed pricing.