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Free Zendesk alternatives
Every pick starts with a genuine free tier, which makes it the easiest way to test a full workflow for zero dollars. Start free and upgrade only when it earns it.
What is the best free alternative to Zendesk?
Intercom is the free Zendesk alternative we recommend first. Unlike Zendesk, Intercom ships a genuine free tier, so you can start without a card and only pay once it earns it. It scores 4.5 in our testing, and at $29/mo it keeps the monthly bill reasonable. See the full ranked list below to compare every pick.
3 free alternatives worth your time
Intercom
4.5 out of 54.5Comprehensive review, pricing, and analysis.
Unlike Zendesk, Intercom ships a genuine free tier, so you can start without a card and only pay once it earns it.
- The most modern, intuitive user interface for support agents and customers alike.
- Fin AI genuinely reduces human ticket volume by up to 50 percent in our testing.
Crisp
4.3 out of 54.3Affordable live chat and shared inbox.
Unlike Zendesk, Crisp ships a genuine free tier, so you can start without a card and only pay once it earns it.
- Well established product with an active user base
- Regular updates and clear roadmap
Freshdesk
4.2 out of 54.2Help desk software with a generous free tier.
Unlike Zendesk, Freshdesk ships a genuine free tier, so you can start without a card and only pay once it earns it.
- Well established product with an active user base
- Regular updates and clear roadmap
Zendesk vs the free alternatives
| Tool | Our score | From | Free tier | Best for |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Zendesk | 4.2 | $19/mo | No | The enterprise help desk standard. |
| Intercom | 4.5 | $29/mo | Yes | Growing SaaS companies requiring advanced live chat, proactive messaging, and powerful AI ticket resolution. |
| Crisp | 4.3 | $25/mo | Yes | Affordable live chat and shared inbox. |
| Freshdesk | 4.2 | $15/mo | Yes | Help desk software with a generous free tier. |
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