VS
Groove vs Hiver — Which One Wins?
A detailed, side-by-side comparison of Groove 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. Groove (4.1) is the better pick if you need small teams who need a help desk simpler than zendesk.
Side-by-Side Comparison
| Criteria | Groove | Hiver |
|---|---|---|
| Rating | ★★★★ 4.1(43) | ★★★★ 4.4(92) |
| Pricing Model | paid | freemium |
| Starter Price | $16/user/mo | $19/user/mo |
| Free Tier | No | Yes |
| Platforms | web | Web (Gmail), Chrome Extension |
| Learning Curve | easy | Easy |
| API Available | Yes | Yes |
| Best For | Small teams who need a help desk simpler than Zendesk | Teams wanting helpdesk features without leaving Gmail |
| Verdict | recommended | Best Gmail Helpdesk |
Feature Checklist
| Feature | Groove | Hiver |
|---|---|---|
| Shared inbox | — | |
| Knowledge base | — | |
| Live chat | — | |
| Collision detection | — | |
| Reporting | — | |
| Shared Inbox | — | |
| Ticket Assignment | — | |
| SLA Tracking | — | |
| Automation | — | |
| Analytics | — |
Groove
Pros
- ✓Simple email-like interface
- ✓Knowledge base included
- ✓Great for small teams
Cons
- ✕Limited automation
- ✕No free tier
- ✕Reporting is basic
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 Groove 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 small teams who need a help desk simpler than zendesk, Groove is worth serious consideration. We recommend trying the free tier or trial of each before committing.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Groove better than Hiver?▼
Hiver scores higher overall with a 4.4 rating vs 4.1. However, the best choice depends on your specific needs. Groove is best for Small teams who need a help desk simpler than Zendesk, while Hiver is best for Teams wanting helpdesk features without leaving Gmail.
Can I switch from Groove to Hiver?▼
Yes, most users can migrate between the two. Hiver offers a free tier to test before committing.
Which is more affordable, Groove or Hiver?▼
Groove starts at $16/user/mo, while Hiver starts at $19/user/mo. Hiver offers a free tier.