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Freshchat vs Hiver — Which One Wins?
A detailed, side-by-side comparison of Freshchat and Hiver to help you pick the right tool for your workflow.
TLDR
Quick Verdict
Hiver takes the lead with a 4.4 rating and is best for teams wanting helpdesk features without leaving gmail. Freshchat (4.1) is the better pick if you need teams in the freshworks ecosystem wanting ai chat.
Side-by-Side Comparison
| Criteria | Freshchat | Hiver |
|---|---|---|
| Rating | ★★★★ 4.1(88) | ★★★★ 4.4(92) |
| Pricing Model | freemium | freemium |
| Starter Price | $19/agent/mo | $19/user/mo |
| Free Tier | Yes | Yes |
| Platforms | Web, iOS, Android | Web (Gmail), Chrome Extension |
| Learning Curve | Easy | Easy |
| API Available | Yes | Yes |
| Best For | Teams in the Freshworks ecosystem wanting AI chat | Teams wanting helpdesk features without leaving Gmail |
| Verdict | Best Free Live Chat | Best Gmail Helpdesk |
Feature Checklist
| Feature | Freshchat | Hiver |
|---|---|---|
| AI Chatbots | — | |
| Live Chat | — | |
| — | ||
| Unified Inbox | — | |
| Bot Builder | — | |
| Shared Inbox | — | |
| Ticket Assignment | — | |
| SLA Tracking | — | |
| Automation | — | |
| Analytics | — |
Freshchat
Pros
- ✓Generous free tier
- ✓Great Freshworks integration
- ✓Multi-channel messaging
Cons
- ✕AI chatbots less sophisticated than Intercom Fin
- ✕Best features locked behind ecosystem
- ✕Customization limited
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 Freshchat 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 in the freshworks ecosystem wanting ai chat, Freshchat is worth serious consideration. We recommend trying the free tier or trial of each before committing.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Freshchat better than Hiver?▼
Hiver scores higher overall with a 4.4 rating vs 4.1. However, the best choice depends on your specific needs. Freshchat is best for Teams in the Freshworks ecosystem wanting AI chat, while Hiver is best for Teams wanting helpdesk features without leaving Gmail.
Can I switch from Freshchat to Hiver?▼
Yes, most users can migrate between the two. Hiver offers a free tier to test before committing.
Which is more affordable, Freshchat or Hiver?▼
Freshchat starts at $19/agent/mo, while Hiver starts at $19/user/mo. Freshchat offers a free tier. Hiver offers a free tier.