Chatwoot vs Hiver — Which One Wins?
A detailed, side-by-side comparison of Chatwoot and Hiver to help you pick the right tool for your workflow.
Quick Verdict
Hiver takes the lead with a 4.4 rating and is best for teams wanting helpdesk features without leaving gmail. Chatwoot (4.1) is the better pick if you need teams wanting intercom-like support without per-agent pricing through self-hosting..
Side-by-Side Comparison
| Criteria | Chatwoot | Hiver |
|---|---|---|
| Rating | ★★★★ 4.1(89) | ★★★★ 4.4(92) |
| Pricing Model | open_source | freemium |
| Starter Price | $19/agent/mo (Cloud Hacker) | $19/user/mo |
| Free Tier | Yes | Yes |
| Platforms | web, ios, android | Web (Gmail), Chrome Extension |
| Learning Curve | medium | Easy |
| API Available | Yes | Yes |
| Best For | Teams wanting Intercom-like support without per-agent pricing through self-hosting. | Teams wanting helpdesk features without leaving Gmail |
| Verdict | situational | Best Gmail Helpdesk |
Feature Checklist
| Feature | Chatwoot | Hiver |
|---|---|---|
| Open source and self-hostable | — | |
| Multi-channel inbox | — | |
| Live chat widget | — | |
| Knowledge base | — | |
| Chatbot integration | — | |
| WhatsApp and social media support | — | |
| Shared Inbox | — | |
| Ticket Assignment | — | |
| SLA Tracking | — | |
| Automation | — | |
| Analytics | — |
Chatwoot
Pros
- ✓Free self-hosted with unlimited agents and conversations
- ✓Multi-channel support including WhatsApp and social
- ✓Open source with full data control
Cons
- ✕Self-hosting requires DevOps setup and maintenance
- ✕AI features less mature than Intercom Fin
- ✕Cloud pricing is not notably cheaper than alternatives
Hiver
Pros
- ✓Works entirely inside Gmail
- ✓Zero learning curve
- ✓Affordable pricing
Cons
- ✕Gmail-only
- ✕Limited features vs full helpdesks
- ✕Not ideal for high-volume support
The Bottom Line
Both Chatwoot and Hiver are solid tools in the Customer Support space. Hiver edges ahead with a stronger overall rating (4.4 vs 4.1) and is the better choice for teams wanting helpdesk features without leaving gmail. However, if you prioritize teams wanting intercom-like support without per-agent pricing through self-hosting., Chatwoot is worth serious consideration. We recommend trying the free tier or trial of each before committing.