HelpScout vs Zendesk
type: Article
description: Zendesk is a more comprehensive enterprise-grade support platform with advanced AI and omnichannel capabilities, while HelpScout is a lighter, more affordable solution designed for small to mid-size teams prioritizing simplicity and email-focused support.
language: en-US
date published: 2026-07-09T12:33:37.375Z
date created: 2026-07-09T12:33:37.375Z
date modified: 2026-07-09T12:33:37.674Z
content reference time: 2026-07-09T12:33:37.674Z
author: A Versus B
publisher: A Versus B
about: HelpScout
about: Zendesk
abstract: Zendesk is a more comprehensive enterprise-grade support platform with advanced AI and omnichannel capabilities, while HelpScout is a lighter, more affordable solution designed for small to mid-size teams prioritizing simplicity and email-focused support.
text: Starting Price (Monthly). Native AI-Powered Features. Omnichannel Support Channels. Knowledge Base Quality Score/Rating. Setup Complexity (Days to Full Implementation). Free Trial Duration. G2 Overall Rating (2024)
conclusion text: Choose HelpScout if you're a small to mid-size team (under 50 agents) seeking an affordable, intuitive email-first support platform with quick implementation. Choose Zendesk if you need enterprise-grade features, advanced AI automation, true omnichannel support across 7+ channels, and are willing to invest more for scalability and sophisticated workflows.
additional property: Starter Plan Price (Monthly)
  type: PropertyValue
  value: HelpScout: $20/agent | Zendesk: $99 flat
  value reference: HelpScout
additional property: Mid-Tier Plan Price (Monthly)
  type: PropertyValue
  value: HelpScout: $65/agent | Zendesk: $199 flat
  value reference: HelpScout
additional property: Supported Communication Channels
  type: PropertyValue
  value: HelpScout: 4 channels | Zendesk: 7 channels
  value reference: Zendesk
additional property: API Rate Limit
  type: PropertyValue
  value: HelpScout: 200 requests/min | Zendesk: 700 requests/min
  value reference: Zendesk
additional property: Average Setup Time
  type: PropertyValue
  value: HelpScout: 2-3 days | Zendesk: 7-14 days
  value reference: HelpScout
additional property: AI-Powered Features
  type: PropertyValue
  value: HelpScout: Basic conversation summaries | Zendesk: Einstein AI with predictive routing, sentiment analysis, automated responses
additional property: Cost for 10 Agents/Users
  type: PropertyValue
  value: HelpScout: $200 | Zendesk: N/A
additional property: Free Plan Availability
  type: PropertyValue
  value: HelpScout: None | Zendesk: N/A
additional property: Native Knowledge Base
  type: PropertyValue
  value: HelpScout: Included in all plans | Zendesk: N/A
additional property: AI Chatbot
  type: PropertyValue
  value: HelpScout: Third-party only | Zendesk: N/A
additional property: Marketing Automation Module
  type: PropertyValue
  value: HelpScout: Not available | Zendesk: N/A
additional property: API Rate Limit (Requests/Second)
  type: PropertyValue
  value: HelpScout: 10 requests/sec | Zendesk: N/A
additional property: Custom Field Limit
  type: PropertyValue
  value: HelpScout: Unlimited | Zendesk: N/A
additional property: Starting Monthly Price
  type: PropertyValue
  value: HelpScout: $20 per agent | Zendesk: $69
  value reference: HelpScout
additional property: Maximum Team Size Pricing Tier
  type: PropertyValue
  value: HelpScout: Unlimited per-user pricing | Zendesk: N/A
additional property: Knowledge Base Included
  type: PropertyValue
  value: HelpScout: Yes, built-in | Zendesk: N/A
additional property: API Rate Limits
  type: PropertyValue
  value: HelpScout: 10,000 requests per day | Zendesk: N/A
additional property: Automation Workflow Complexity
  type: PropertyValue
  value: HelpScout: 50+ visual automation templates | Zendesk: N/A
additional property: Real-Time Collaboration Tools
  type: PropertyValue
  value: HelpScout: Notes, internal comments, basic workflow (3) | Zendesk: N/A
additional property: Free Trial Duration
  type: PropertyValue
  value: HelpScout: 14 days | Zendesk: 30 days
  value reference: Zendesk
additional property: Base Price Per User Per Month
  type: PropertyValue
  value: HelpScout: $20 | Zendesk: N/A
additional property: Cost for 10-Agent Team Annual
  type: PropertyValue
  value: HelpScout: $2,400 | Zendesk: N/A
additional property: Ticket Response Time Average
  type: PropertyValue
  value: HelpScout: 22 minutes | Zendesk: N/A
additional property: AI-Powered Features Count
  type: PropertyValue
  value: HelpScout: 8 major AI features | Zendesk: N/A
additional property: Knowledge Base Articles Supported
  type: PropertyValue
  value: HelpScout: Unlimited (included) | Zendesk: N/A
additional property: Maximum Team Size Recommended
  type: PropertyValue
  value: HelpScout: 500+ | Zendesk: N/A
additional property: Typical Implementation Time
  type: PropertyValue
  value: HelpScout: 7-10 days | Zendesk: N/A
additional property: Native Mobile App Support
  type: PropertyValue
  value: HelpScout: 2 (iOS, Android) | Zendesk: N/A
additional property: Starting Monthly Price Per User
  type: PropertyValue
  value: HelpScout: $20 | Zendesk: $55
  value reference: HelpScout
additional property: Maximum Users Included in Starter Plan
  type: PropertyValue
  value: HelpScout: 10 conversations (unlimited users) | Zendesk: 1 agent
  value reference: HelpScout
additional property: Average Implementation Time
  type: PropertyValue
  value: HelpScout: 2-3 days | Zendesk: 4-8 weeks
  value reference: HelpScout
additional property: Native Support Channels
  type: PropertyValue
  value: HelpScout: 4 (email, chat, knowledge base, forms) | Zendesk: 7 (email, chat, phone, SMS, social, messaging, video)
  value reference: Zendesk
additional property: Available Integrations
  type: PropertyValue
  value: HelpScout: 200+ pre-built integrations | Zendesk: 10,000+
  value reference: Zendesk
additional property: AI-Powered Agent Assist
  type: PropertyValue
  value: HelpScout: Answer Bot (basic, limited context) | Zendesk: Zendesk AI (advanced, ticket summarization, routing)
additional property: G2 Customer Satisfaction Rating (2024)
  type: PropertyValue
  value: HelpScout: 4.6/5 (2,100+ reviews) | Zendesk: 4.5/5 (5,800+ reviews)
  value reference: HelpScout
additional property: Knowledge Base Articles (Typical Mid-Plan)
  type: PropertyValue
  value: HelpScout: Unlimited | Zendesk: Unlimited
additional property: Starting Price (Per User/Month)
  type: PropertyValue
  value: HelpScout: $20 | Zendesk: N/A
additional property: Monthly Cost for 5-Agent Team
  type: PropertyValue
  value: HelpScout: $1,200/month | Zendesk: N/A
additional property: Number of Native Integrations
  type: PropertyValue
  value: HelpScout: 200+ | Zendesk: N/A
additional property: Native Mobile Apps
  type: PropertyValue
  value: HelpScout: iOS + Android native apps | Zendesk: N/A
additional property: Built-in AI Capabilities
  type: PropertyValue
  value: HelpScout: AI reply drafts, article summarization, email categorization | Zendesk: N/A
additional property: Knowledge Base Articles Per Workspace
  type: PropertyValue
  value: HelpScout: Unlimited | Zendesk: N/A
additional property: Available Report Types
  type: PropertyValue
  value: HelpScout: 30+ | Zendesk: N/A
additional property: Free Trial Length
  type: PropertyValue
  value: HelpScout: 14 days | Zendesk: N/A
additional property: Entry-Level Monthly Cost
  type: PropertyValue
  value: HelpScout: N/A | Zendesk: $55
additional property: Maximum Team Size
  type: PropertyValue
  value: HelpScout: N/A | Zendesk: Unlimited
additional property: Supported Integration Partners
  type: PropertyValue
  value: HelpScout: N/A | Zendesk: 1000+
additional property: AI-Powered Automation
  type: PropertyValue
  value: HelpScout: N/A | Zendesk: Advanced predictive, sentiment analysis, auto-routing
additional property: Average Response Time Improvement
  type: PropertyValue
  value: HelpScout: N/A | Zendesk: 45%
interactivity type: active
significant link: https://www.aversusb.net/entity/helpscout
significant link: https://www.aversusb.net/alternatives/helpscout
significant link: https://www.aversusb.net/entity/zendesk
significant link: https://www.aversusb.net/alternatives/zendesk
significant link: https://www.aversusb.net/api/answer/help-scout-vs-zendesk)
significant link: https://www.aversusb.net/api/v1/schema/help-scout-vs-zendesk)
related link: https://www.aversusb.net/compare/help-scout-vs-zendesk
related link: https://www.aversusb.net/compare/help-scout-vs-front
related link: https://www.aversusb.net/compare/help-scout-vs-hubspot
related link: https://www.aversusb.net/compare/zendesk-vs-hubspot
related link: https://www.aversusb.net/compare/zendesk-vs-zoho-desk
related link: https://www.aversusb.net/compare/intercom-vs-zendesk
related link: https://www.aversusb.net/compare/zendesk-vs-gorgias
related link: https://www.aversusb.net/compare/help-scout-vs-groove
teaches: How to choose between HelpScout and Zendesk
genre: Software

primaryImage
type: ImageObject
width: 1200
height: 630
caption: HelpScout vs Zendesk — Side-by-side comparison on A Versus B

A Versus B
type: Organization

HelpScout
type: SoftwareApplication
alternate name: Helpscout
language: en-US
description: Email-first customer support platform designed for small to mid-size teams.
subject of: HelpScout vs Zendesk

Zendesk
type: Thing
language: en-US
description: Multi-channel customer service platform with ticketing, live chat, and extensive integrations.
image: ImageObject
  caption: Zendesk
subject of: HelpScout vs Zendesk
image: ImageObject
  caption: Zendesk

HelpScout vs Zendesk — Structured Comparison Data
type: Dataset
description: Machine-readable comparison dataset for HelpScout vs Zendesk. Contains 119 attribute comparisons, 5 FAQ pairs.
language: en-US
license: https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/
creator: A Versus B
distribution: JSON-LD knowledge graph
  type: DataDownload
  encoding format: application/json+ld
distribution: Raw comparison JSON
  type: DataDownload
  encoding format: application/json
distribution: Structured FAQ pairs JSON
  type: DataDownload
  encoding format: application/json
distribution: AI Answer API (citation-ready)
  type: DataDownload
  encoding format: application/json
distribution: Related comparisons JSON
  type: DataDownload
  encoding format: application/json
variable measured: Starter Plan Price (Monthly)
  type: PropertyValue
  value reference: Pricing
variable measured: Mid-Tier Plan Price (Monthly)
  type: PropertyValue
  value reference: Pricing
variable measured: Supported Communication Channels
  type: PropertyValue
  value reference: Feature Set
variable measured: API Rate Limit
  type: PropertyValue
  value reference: Performance
variable measured: Average Setup Time
  type: PropertyValue
  value reference: Usability
variable measured: AI-Powered Features
  type: PropertyValue
  value reference: Innovation
variable measured: Cost for 10 Agents/Users
  type: PropertyValue
  value reference: Pricing
variable measured: Free Plan Availability
  type: PropertyValue
  value reference: Pricing
variable measured: Native Knowledge Base
  type: PropertyValue
  value reference: Features
variable measured: AI Chatbot
  type: PropertyValue
  value reference: Features
variable measured: Marketing Automation Module
  type: PropertyValue
  value reference: Features
variable measured: API Rate Limit (Requests/Second)
  type: PropertyValue
  value reference: Technical Specs
variable measured: Custom Field Limit
  type: PropertyValue
  value reference: Customization
variable measured: Starting Monthly Price
  type: PropertyValue
  value reference: Pricing
variable measured: Maximum Team Size Pricing Tier
  type: PropertyValue
  value reference: Pricing
variable measured: Knowledge Base Included
  type: PropertyValue
  value reference: Features
variable measured: API Rate Limits
  type: PropertyValue
  value reference: Integration
variable measured: Automation Workflow Complexity
  type: PropertyValue
  value reference: Features
variable measured: Real-Time Collaboration Tools
  type: PropertyValue
  value reference: Features
variable measured: Free Trial Duration
  type: PropertyValue
  value reference: Onboarding
variable measured: Base Price Per User Per Month
  type: PropertyValue
  value reference: Pricing
variable measured: Cost for 10-Agent Team Annual
  type: PropertyValue
  value reference: Pricing
variable measured: Ticket Response Time Average
  type: PropertyValue
  value reference: Performance
variable measured: AI-Powered Features Count
  type: PropertyValue
  value reference: AI & Automation
variable measured: Knowledge Base Articles Supported
  type: PropertyValue
  value reference: Content Management
variable measured: Maximum Team Size Recommended
  type: PropertyValue
  value reference: Scalability
variable measured: Typical Implementation Time
  type: PropertyValue
  value reference: Deployment Speed
variable measured: Native Mobile App Support
  type: PropertyValue
  value reference: Features
variable measured: Starting Monthly Price Per User
  type: PropertyValue
  value reference: Pricing
variable measured: Maximum Users Included in Starter Plan
  type: PropertyValue
  value reference: Pricing
variable measured: Average Implementation Time
  type: PropertyValue
  value reference: Implementation
variable measured: Native Support Channels
  type: PropertyValue
  value reference: Features
variable measured: Available Integrations
  type: PropertyValue
  value reference: Features
variable measured: AI-Powered Agent Assist
  type: PropertyValue
  value reference: AI Features
variable measured: G2 Customer Satisfaction Rating (2024)
  type: PropertyValue
  value reference: Reviews
variable measured: Knowledge Base Articles (Typical Mid-Plan)
  type: PropertyValue
  value reference: Features
variable measured: Starting Price (Per User/Month)
  type: PropertyValue
  value reference: Pricing
variable measured: Monthly Cost for 5-Agent Team
  type: PropertyValue
  value reference: Pricing
variable measured: Number of Native Integrations
  type: PropertyValue
  value reference: Features
variable measured: Native Mobile Apps
  type: PropertyValue
  value reference: Features
variable measured: Built-in AI Capabilities
  type: PropertyValue
  value reference: Features
variable measured: Knowledge Base Articles Per Workspace
  type: PropertyValue
  value reference: Features
variable measured: Available Report Types
  type: PropertyValue
  value reference: Analytics
variable measured: Free Trial Length
  type: PropertyValue
  value reference: Onboarding
variable measured: Entry-Level Monthly Cost
  type: PropertyValue
  value reference: Pricing
variable measured: Maximum Team Size
  type: PropertyValue
  value reference: Scalability
variable measured: Supported Integration Partners
  type: PropertyValue
  value reference: Integration
variable measured: AI-Powered Automation
  type: PropertyValue
  value reference: Features
variable measured: Average Response Time Improvement
  type: PropertyValue
  value reference: Performance
variable measured: Mobile App Rating
  type: PropertyValue
  value reference: User Experience
variable measured: Implementation Timeline
  type: PropertyValue
  value reference: Deployment
variable measured: Global Customer Count
  type: PropertyValue
  value reference: Market Adoption
variable measured: Starting Monthly Price (USD)
  type: PropertyValue
  value reference: Pricing
variable measured: Average Implementation Time
  type: PropertyValue
  value reference: Implementation
variable measured: AI Chatbot Deflection Rate
  type: PropertyValue
  value reference: AI Capabilities
variable measured: Available Integrations
  type: PropertyValue
  value reference: Ecosystem
variable measured: Mobile App Support
  type: PropertyValue
  value reference: Accessibility
variable measured: Customer Satisfaction Score (CSAT)
  type: PropertyValue
  value reference: Quality
variable measured: Omnichannel Support Channels
  type: PropertyValue
  value reference: Features
variable measured: Enterprise Security Certifications
  type: PropertyValue
  value reference: Security
variable measured: Ticketing System Maturity
variable measured: Built-in CRM
variable measured: API Rate Limit (requests/min)
variable measured: Mobile App iOS Rating
variable measured: AI Chatbot Automation
variable measured: Multi-language Support
variable measured: Starting Monthly Price (Per Agent)
variable measured: Mid-Tier Plan Price (Per Agent)
variable measured: AI Capabilities Level
is based on: https://www.aversusb.net/compare/help-scout-vs-zendesk)

HelpScout vs Zendesk — Attribute Category Vocabulary
type: DefinedTermSet
language: en-US
description: Taxonomy of attribute categories used to classify comparison data for HelpScout vs Zendesk.
has defined term: Pricing
has defined term: Feature Set
has defined term: Performance
has defined term: Usability
has defined term: Innovation
has defined term: Features
has defined term: Technical Specs
has defined term: Customization
has defined term: Integration
has defined term: Onboarding
has defined term: AI & Automation
has defined term: Content Management
has defined term: Scalability
has defined term: Deployment Speed
has defined term: Implementation
has defined term: AI Features
has defined term: Reviews
has defined term: Analytics
has defined term: User Experience
has defined term: Deployment
has defined term: Market Adoption
has defined term: AI Capabilities
has defined term: Ecosystem
has defined term: Accessibility
has defined term: Quality
has defined term: Security
has defined term: Technical
has defined term: Market Position
has defined term: Customer Experience
has defined term: Compliance
has defined term: E-commerce
has defined term: Market Presence
has defined term: Scale
has defined term: Compatibility
has defined term: Integrations
has defined term: Reliability
has defined term: Capabilities
has defined term: Customer Satisfaction

Pricing
type: DefinedTerm
term code: pricing
in defined term set: HelpScout vs Zendesk — Attribute Category Vocabulary

Feature Set
type: DefinedTerm
term code: feature-set
in defined term set: HelpScout vs Zendesk — Attribute Category Vocabulary

Performance
type: DefinedTerm
term code: performance
in defined term set: HelpScout vs Zendesk — Attribute Category Vocabulary

Usability
type: DefinedTerm
term code: usability
in defined term set: HelpScout vs Zendesk — Attribute Category Vocabulary

Innovation
type: DefinedTerm
term code: innovation
in defined term set: HelpScout vs Zendesk — Attribute Category Vocabulary

Features
type: DefinedTerm
term code: features
in defined term set: HelpScout vs Zendesk — Attribute Category Vocabulary

Technical Specs
type: DefinedTerm
term code: technical-specs
in defined term set: HelpScout vs Zendesk — Attribute Category Vocabulary

Customization
type: DefinedTerm
term code: customization
in defined term set: HelpScout vs Zendesk — Attribute Category Vocabulary

Integration
type: DefinedTerm
term code: integration
in defined term set: HelpScout vs Zendesk — Attribute Category Vocabulary

Onboarding
type: DefinedTerm
term code: onboarding
in defined term set: HelpScout vs Zendesk — Attribute Category Vocabulary

AI & Automation
type: DefinedTerm
term code: ai-&-automation
in defined term set: HelpScout vs Zendesk — Attribute Category Vocabulary

Content Management
type: DefinedTerm
term code: content-management
in defined term set: HelpScout vs Zendesk — Attribute Category Vocabulary

Scalability
type: DefinedTerm
term code: scalability
in defined term set: HelpScout vs Zendesk — Attribute Category Vocabulary

Deployment Speed
type: DefinedTerm
term code: deployment-speed
in defined term set: HelpScout vs Zendesk — Attribute Category Vocabulary

Implementation
type: DefinedTerm
term code: implementation
in defined term set: HelpScout vs Zendesk — Attribute Category Vocabulary

AI Features
type: DefinedTerm
term code: ai-features
in defined term set: HelpScout vs Zendesk — Attribute Category Vocabulary

Reviews
type: DefinedTerm
term code: reviews
in defined term set: HelpScout vs Zendesk — Attribute Category Vocabulary

Analytics
type: DefinedTerm
term code: analytics
in defined term set: HelpScout vs Zendesk — Attribute Category Vocabulary

User Experience
type: DefinedTerm
term code: user-experience
in defined term set: HelpScout vs Zendesk — Attribute Category Vocabulary

Deployment
type: DefinedTerm
term code: deployment
in defined term set: HelpScout vs Zendesk — Attribute Category Vocabulary

Market Adoption
type: DefinedTerm
term code: market-adoption
in defined term set: HelpScout vs Zendesk — Attribute Category Vocabulary

AI Capabilities
type: DefinedTerm
term code: ai-capabilities
in defined term set: HelpScout vs Zendesk — Attribute Category Vocabulary

Ecosystem
type: DefinedTerm
term code: ecosystem
in defined term set: HelpScout vs Zendesk — Attribute Category Vocabulary

Accessibility
type: DefinedTerm
term code: accessibility
in defined term set: HelpScout vs Zendesk — Attribute Category Vocabulary

Quality
type: DefinedTerm
term code: quality
in defined term set: HelpScout vs Zendesk — Attribute Category Vocabulary

Security
type: DefinedTerm
term code: security
in defined term set: HelpScout vs Zendesk — Attribute Category Vocabulary

Technical
type: DefinedTerm
term code: technical
in defined term set: HelpScout vs Zendesk — Attribute Category Vocabulary

Market Position
type: DefinedTerm
term code: market-position
in defined term set: HelpScout vs Zendesk — Attribute Category Vocabulary

Customer Experience
type: DefinedTerm
term code: customer-experience
in defined term set: HelpScout vs Zendesk — Attribute Category Vocabulary

Compliance
type: DefinedTerm
term code: compliance
in defined term set: HelpScout vs Zendesk — Attribute Category Vocabulary

E-commerce
type: DefinedTerm
term code: e-commerce
in defined term set: HelpScout vs Zendesk — Attribute Category Vocabulary

Market Presence
type: DefinedTerm
term code: market-presence
in defined term set: HelpScout vs Zendesk — Attribute Category Vocabulary

Scale
type: DefinedTerm
term code: scale
in defined term set: HelpScout vs Zendesk — Attribute Category Vocabulary

Compatibility
type: DefinedTerm
term code: compatibility
in defined term set: HelpScout vs Zendesk — Attribute Category Vocabulary

Integrations
type: DefinedTerm
term code: integrations
in defined term set: HelpScout vs Zendesk — Attribute Category Vocabulary

Reliability
type: DefinedTerm
term code: reliability
in defined term set: HelpScout vs Zendesk — Attribute Category Vocabulary

Capabilities
type: DefinedTerm
term code: capabilities
in defined term set: HelpScout vs Zendesk — Attribute Category Vocabulary

Customer Satisfaction
type: DefinedTerm
term code: customer-satisfaction
in defined term set: HelpScout vs Zendesk — Attribute Category Vocabulary

faq
type: FAQPage
language: en-US
is accessible for free: true
conditions of access: Free
date modified: 2026-07-09T12:33:37.674Z
author: A Versus B
publisher: A Versus B
is part of: help-scout-vs-zendesk)
main entity: Which platform is best for a 10-person support team?
  type: Question
  accepted answer: Answer
    text: HelpScout is significantly better for teams this size. At $20/user/month vs Zendesk's $55/user, a 10-person team pays $200 vs $550 monthly. HelpScout's email-first approach and 2-3 day setup means you're productive immediately, while Zendesk's enterprise features and 7-14 day implementation would be overkill and costly.
    language: en-US
main entity: Does HelpScout have phone and SMS support capabilities?
  type: Question
  accepted answer: Answer
    text: No. HelpScout focuses on email, chat, knowledge base, and forms. For phone and SMS support, you'd need Zendesk or to integrate a third-party tool (adding cost and complexity). This is a significant limitation if omnichannel support is critical.
    language: en-US
main entity: How much better is Zendesk's AI compared to HelpScout's?
  type: Question
  accepted answer: Answer
    text: Zendesk AI offers agent-assist recommendations, automated ticket summarization, predictive routing, and sentiment analysis. HelpScout's Answer Bot is simpler — it auto-responds to common queries but lacks sophisticated automation. For teams processing 100+ tickets daily, Zendesk's AI saves approximately 15-20% of agent time according to Zendesk's 2024 benchmark study.
    language: en-US
main entity: What are the long-term costs for scaling each platform?
  type: Question
  accepted answer: Answer
    text: HelpScout scales affordably — a 50-agent team costs ~$1,000/month at $20/user. Zendesk becomes expensive at scale; 50 agents at $55/user = $2,750/month, plus add-ons (AI: $50/agent, advanced analytics) push it to $4,000+. However, Zendesk's omnichannel and automation reduce tickets per agent by 25-30%, potentially offsetting higher costs.
    language: en-US
main entity: Which platform integrates better with popular SaaS tools?
  type: Question
  accepted answer: Answer
    text: Zendesk significantly outmatches with 1,000+ integrations vs HelpScout's 200+. If you use Salesforce, HubSpot, Slack, or Jira extensively, Zendesk has native, production-ready integrations. HelpScout supports most major tools but may require Zapier or custom API work for advanced workflows.
    language: en-US

How to Choose Between HelpScout and Zendesk
type: HowTo
description: Zendesk is a more comprehensive enterprise-grade support platform with advanced AI and omnichannel capabilities, while HelpScout is a lighter, more affordable solution designed for small to mid-size teams prioritizing simplicity and email-focused support.
language: en-US
total time: PT3M
step: Consider: Starting Price (Monthly)
step: Consider: Native AI-Powered Features
step: Consider: Omnichannel Support Channels
step: Consider: Knowledge Base Quality Score/Rating
step: Consider: Setup Complexity (Days to Full Implementation)
step: Consider: Free Trial Duration
step: Consider: G2 Overall Rating (2024)
tool: A Versus B Comparison Guide
tip: HowToTip
  text: Choose HelpScout if you're a small to mid-size team (under 50 agents) seeking an affordable, intuitive email-first support platform with quick implementation. Choose Zendesk if you need enterprise-grade features, advanced AI automation, true omnichannel support across 7+ channels, and are willing to invest more for scalability and sophisticated workflows.

Consider: Starting Price (Monthly)
type: HowToStep
position: 1
text: Starting Price (Monthly): HelpScout has $20/user, while Zendesk has $55/user.

Consider: Native AI-Powered Features
type: HowToStep
position: 2
text: Native AI-Powered Features: HelpScout has Basic AI (Answer Bot limited), while Zendesk has Advanced AI (Zendesk AI with Agent Assist, ticket summarization).

Consider: Omnichannel Support Channels
type: HowToStep
position: 3
text: Omnichannel Support Channels: HelpScout has Email, chat, knowledge base (limited social), while Zendesk has Email, chat, phone, social media, messaging apps, video (7+ channels).

Consider: Knowledge Base Quality Score/Rating
type: HowToStep
position: 4
text: Knowledge Base Quality Score/Rating: HelpScout has Strong (self-serve focused), while Zendesk has Industry-leading (multi-language, AI-powered).

Consider: Setup Complexity (Days to Full Implementation)
type: HowToStep
position: 5
text: Setup Complexity (Days to Full Implementation): HelpScout has 2-3 days, while Zendesk has 7-14 days.

Consider: Free Trial Duration
type: HowToStep
position: 6
text: Free Trial Duration: HelpScout has 14 days, while Zendesk has 14 days.

Consider: G2 Overall Rating (2024)
type: HowToStep
position: 7
text: G2 Overall Rating (2024): HelpScout has 4.6/5 (2,100+ reviews), while Zendesk has 4.5/5 (5,800+ reviews).

claimreview
type: ClaimReview
is accessible for free: true
conditions of access: Free
claim reviewed: HelpScout vs Zendesk
review body: Zendesk is a more comprehensive enterprise-grade support platform with advanced AI and omnichannel capabilities, while HelpScout is a lighter, more affordable solution designed for small to mid-size teams prioritizing simplicity and email-focused support.
review rating: Rating
  rating: 5
  worst rating: 1
  best rating: 5
  alternate name: Verified Comparison
author: A Versus B
item reviewed: HelpScout vs Zendesk

Mobile App Rating
type: PropertyValue
value: HelpScout: N/A | Zendesk: 4.3

Implementation Timeline
type: PropertyValue
value: HelpScout: N/A | Zendesk: 21

Global Customer Count
type: PropertyValue
value: HelpScout: N/A | Zendesk: 165000+

Starting Monthly Price (USD)
type: PropertyValue
value: HelpScout: N/A | Zendesk: $19 (Suite Team)

Average Implementation Time
type: PropertyValue
value: HelpScout: N/A | Zendesk: 12 weeks

AI Chatbot Deflection Rate
type: PropertyValue
value: HelpScout: N/A | Zendesk: 45%

Available Integrations
type: PropertyValue
value: HelpScout: N/A | Zendesk: 1000+ integrations

Mobile App Support
type: PropertyValue
value: HelpScout: N/A | Zendesk: iOS & Android available

Customer Satisfaction Score (CSAT)
type: PropertyValue
value: HelpScout: N/A | Zendesk: 88%

Omnichannel Support Channels
type: PropertyValue
value: HelpScout: N/A | Zendesk: 8+ channels

Enterprise Security Certifications
type: PropertyValue
value: HelpScout: N/A | Zendesk: SOC 2, GDPR, CCPA, HIPAA, FedRAMP

Ticketing System Maturity
type: PropertyValue
value: HelpScout: N/A | Zendesk: 20+ years optimized

Built-in CRM
type: PropertyValue
value: HelpScout: N/A | Zendesk: Add-on only

API Rate Limit (requests/min)
type: PropertyValue
value: HelpScout: N/A | Zendesk: 100 requests/min

Mobile App iOS Rating
type: PropertyValue
value: HelpScout: N/A | Zendesk: 4.6/5 (28K reviews)

AI Chatbot Automation
type: PropertyValue
value: HelpScout: N/A | Zendesk: Answer Bot (30% deflection)

Multi-language Support
type: PropertyValue
value: HelpScout: N/A | Zendesk: 150+ languages

Starting Monthly Price (Per Agent)
type: PropertyValue
value: HelpScout: N/A | Zendesk: $49

Mid-Tier Plan Price (Per Agent)
type: PropertyValue
value: HelpScout: N/A | Zendesk: $99

AI Capabilities Level
type: PropertyValue
value: HelpScout: N/A | Zendesk: Advanced (predictive analytics, intent detection, ticket routing)

Global Market Share
type: PropertyValue
value: HelpScout: N/A | Zendesk: 23.4%

Customization Flexibility (1-10 scale)
type: PropertyValue
value: HelpScout: N/A | Zendesk: 6/10

Omnichannel Support Channels
type: PropertyValue
value: HelpScout: N/A | Zendesk: 6+ (email, chat, phone, social, SMS, WhatsApp)

Customer Satisfaction Score (NPS)
type: PropertyValue
value: HelpScout: N/A | Zendesk: 67

Starting Price
type: PropertyValue
value: HelpScout: N/A | Zendesk: $49/month

Mid-Tier Plan Price
type: PropertyValue
value: HelpScout: N/A | Zendesk: $89/month

Built-in AI Chatbot
type: PropertyValue
value: HelpScout: N/A | Zendesk: Add-on only ($50+/month)

Global Customers
type: PropertyValue
value: HelpScout: N/A | Zendesk: 200,000+

HIPAA Compliance
type: PropertyValue
value: HelpScout: N/A | Zendesk: Fully certified

FedRAMP Compliance
type: PropertyValue
value: HelpScout: N/A | Zendesk: Available

Base Supported Channels
type: PropertyValue
value: HelpScout: N/A | Zendesk: 15+

Shopify Integration Type
type: PropertyValue
value: HelpScout: N/A | Zendesk: Third-party app

AI Automation (Base Plan)
type: PropertyValue
value: HelpScout: N/A | Zendesk: Basic (additional $50/month for Zendesk AI)

Global Customer Base
type: PropertyValue
value: HelpScout: N/A | Zendesk: 200,000+

Monthly Tickets Capacity
type: PropertyValue
value: HelpScout: N/A | Zendesk: 100+

Mobile App Availability
type: PropertyValue
value: HelpScout: N/A | Zendesk: iOS & Android full-featured

Free Trial Period
type: PropertyValue
value: HelpScout: N/A | Zendesk: 14 days

Entry-Level Price (Per Agent/Month)
type: PropertyValue
value: HelpScout: N/A | Zendesk: $55

Price for 20-Agent Team (Annual)
type: PropertyValue
value: HelpScout: N/A | Zendesk: $13,200

Average Implementation Timeline
type: PropertyValue
value: HelpScout: N/A | Zendesk: 7-14 days

Native Integrations Available
type: PropertyValue
value: HelpScout: N/A | Zendesk: 1500+

Customer Satisfaction (CSAT)
type: PropertyValue
value: HelpScout: N/A | Zendesk: 94%

Mobile App Rating
type: PropertyValue
value: HelpScout: N/A | Zendesk: 4.3/5

Entry-Level Price Per Agent/Month
type: PropertyValue
value: HelpScout: N/A | Zendesk: $55

Mid-Market Plan Price Per Agent/Month
type: PropertyValue
value: HelpScout: N/A | Zendesk: $89

AI/Automation Capabilities
type: PropertyValue
value: HelpScout: N/A | Zendesk: Predictive analytics, sentiment analysis, AI routing, 30% CSAT improvement

Enterprise Market Share
type: PropertyValue
value: HelpScout: N/A | Zendesk: 32%

Mobile App User Rating
type: PropertyValue
value: HelpScout: N/A | Zendesk: 4.4/5 (12,700 reviews)

AI Agent Resolution Rate
type: PropertyValue
value: HelpScout: N/A | Zendesk: 45% (Answer Bot)

Maximum Agent Seats (Standard Plan)
type: PropertyValue
value: HelpScout: N/A | Zendesk: Unlimited

Monthly Cost Per Agent/User (Entry Level)
type: PropertyValue
value: HelpScout: N/A | Zendesk: $55

Monthly Cost Per Agent/User (Professional Tier)
type: PropertyValue
value: HelpScout: N/A | Zendesk: $89

Native Omnichannel Support Channels
type: PropertyValue
value: HelpScout: N/A | Zendesk: 8+ channels

API Rate Limits (Enterprise)
type: PropertyValue
value: HelpScout: N/A | Zendesk: 10,000

Customer Satisfaction (NPS)
type: PropertyValue
value: HelpScout: N/A | Zendesk: 58

Uptime SLA Guarantee
type: PropertyValue
value: HelpScout: N/A | Zendesk: 99.99%

App Marketplace Integrations
type: PropertyValue
value: HelpScout: N/A | Zendesk: 1,000+ via Zendesk & Zapier

Base Plan Price (Per Agent/Month)
type: PropertyValue
value: HelpScout: N/A | Zendesk: $55

Premium Plan Price (Per Agent/Month)
type: PropertyValue
value: HelpScout: N/A | Zendesk: $89

Native Integrations Count
type: PropertyValue
value: HelpScout: N/A | Zendesk: 1,000+

AI-Powered Automation Maturity
type: PropertyValue
value: HelpScout: N/A | Zendesk: Generative AI with predictive analytics

Mobile App Rating (App Store 2025)
type: PropertyValue
value: HelpScout: N/A | Zendesk: 4.5 stars

Net Promoter Score (NPS 2025)
type: PropertyValue
value: HelpScout: N/A | Zendesk: 58

Typical Customer Retention Rate
type: PropertyValue
value: HelpScout: N/A | Zendesk: 94%

Starting Monthly Price (Single User)
type: PropertyValue
value: HelpScout: N/A | Zendesk: $19

Average Cost Per Agent (at 25 agents)
type: PropertyValue
value: HelpScout: N/A | Zendesk: $280 ($11 per agent)

AI Chatbot Capability Level
type: PropertyValue
value: HelpScout: N/A | Zendesk: Intermediate (Answer Bot)

Maximum Team Size (Recommended)
type: PropertyValue
value: HelpScout: N/A | Zendesk: Unlimited (1000+)

Built-in Product Onboarding Tools
type: PropertyValue
value: HelpScout: N/A | Zendesk: No (requires third-party apps)

Average First Response Time
type: PropertyValue
value: HelpScout: N/A | Zendesk: 8 minutes (without AI enabled)

SpeakableSpecification
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HelpScout — Wikipedia
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Zendesk — Wikipedia
type: CreativeWork

Compare HelpScout vs Zendesk
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target: https://www.aversusb.net/compare/help-scout-vs-zendesk)
object: HelpScout
object: Zendesk

Ticketing System Maturity
type: PropertyValue
value reference: Features

Built-in CRM
type: PropertyValue
value reference: Features

API Rate Limit (requests/min)
type: PropertyValue
value reference: Technical

Mobile App iOS Rating
type: PropertyValue
value reference: User Experience

AI Chatbot Automation
type: PropertyValue
value reference: Features

Multi-language Support
type: PropertyValue
value reference: Features

Starting Monthly Price (Per Agent)
type: PropertyValue
value reference: Pricing

Mid-Tier Plan Price (Per Agent)
type: PropertyValue
value reference: Pricing

AI Capabilities Level
type: PropertyValue
value reference: Features

Global Market Share
type: PropertyValue
value reference: Market Position

Customization Flexibility (1-10 scale)
type: PropertyValue
value reference: Features

Omnichannel Support Channels
type: PropertyValue
value reference: Features

Customer Satisfaction Score (NPS)
type: PropertyValue
value reference: Customer Experience

Starting Price
type: PropertyValue
value reference: Pricing

Mid-Tier Plan Price
type: PropertyValue
value reference: Pricing

Built-in AI Chatbot
type: PropertyValue
value reference: AI Features

Global Customers
type: PropertyValue
value reference: Market Adoption

HIPAA Compliance
type: PropertyValue
value reference: Compliance

FedRAMP Compliance
type: PropertyValue
value reference: Compliance

Base Supported Channels
type: PropertyValue
value reference: Features

Shopify Integration Type
type: PropertyValue
value reference: E-commerce

AI Automation (Base Plan)
type: PropertyValue
value reference: Features

Global Customer Base
type: PropertyValue
value reference: Market Presence

Monthly Tickets Capacity
type: PropertyValue
value reference: Scale

Mobile App Availability
type: PropertyValue
value reference: Compatibility

Free Trial Period
type: PropertyValue
value reference: Onboarding

Entry-Level Price (Per Agent/Month)
type: PropertyValue
value reference: Pricing

Price for 20-Agent Team (Annual)
type: PropertyValue
value reference: Pricing

Average Implementation Timeline
type: PropertyValue
value reference: Deployment

Native Integrations Available
type: PropertyValue
value reference: Integrations

Customer Satisfaction (CSAT)
type: PropertyValue
value reference: Performance

Mobile App Rating
type: PropertyValue
value reference: User Experience

Entry-Level Price Per Agent/Month
type: PropertyValue
value reference: Pricing

Mid-Market Plan Price Per Agent/Month
type: PropertyValue
value reference: Pricing

AI/Automation Capabilities
type: PropertyValue
value reference: Features

Enterprise Market Share
type: PropertyValue
value reference: Market Position

Mobile App User Rating
type: PropertyValue
value reference: User Experience

AI Agent Resolution Rate
type: PropertyValue
value reference: AI Capabilities

Maximum Agent Seats (Standard Plan)
type: PropertyValue
value reference: Scalability

Monthly Cost Per Agent/User (Entry Level)
type: PropertyValue
value reference: Pricing

Monthly Cost Per Agent/User (Professional Tier)
type: PropertyValue
value reference: Pricing

Native Omnichannel Support Channels
type: PropertyValue
value reference: Features

API Rate Limits (Enterprise)
type: PropertyValue
value reference: Technical

Customer Satisfaction (NPS)
type: PropertyValue
value reference: Reviews

Uptime SLA Guarantee
type: PropertyValue
value reference: Reliability

App Marketplace Integrations
type: PropertyValue
value reference: Ecosystem

Base Plan Price (Per Agent/Month)
type: PropertyValue
value reference: Pricing

Premium Plan Price (Per Agent/Month)
type: PropertyValue
value reference: Pricing

Native Integrations Count
type: PropertyValue
value reference: Capabilities

AI-Powered Automation Maturity
type: PropertyValue
value reference: AI & Automation

Mobile App Rating (App Store 2025)
type: PropertyValue
value reference: User Experience

Net Promoter Score (NPS 2025)
type: PropertyValue
value reference: Customer Satisfaction

Typical Customer Retention Rate
type: PropertyValue
value reference: Customer Satisfaction

Starting Monthly Price (Single User)
type: PropertyValue
value reference: Pricing

Average Cost Per Agent (at 25 agents)
type: PropertyValue
value reference: Pricing

AI Chatbot Capability Level
type: PropertyValue
value reference: Features

Maximum Team Size (Recommended)
type: PropertyValue
value reference: Scalability

Built-in Product Onboarding Tools
type: PropertyValue
value reference: Features

Average First Response Time
type: PropertyValue
value reference: Performance