Chatwoot
9.4#1 in help desk softwareFrom $19 a monthFree planAndroidiOSWebAPI
VisitChatwoot vs Kayako
What both publish
| Fact | Chatwoot | Kayako |
|---|---|---|
| Custom integrations | Its API channel provides REST API access, webhooks, and custom-platform integrations for creating and managing conversations. | The integrations page says Kayako provides REST API access and real-time webhooks for custom integrations. |
| Founded | 2016 | 2001 |
| Product | Chatwoot is an AI-powered, open-source customer support platform with an omnichannel support desk and knowledge base. | Kayako describes itself as an AI help desk and customer support platform. |
| Security | Chatwoot states that it is SOC 2 Type II certified, GDPR compliant, and encrypts data at rest and in transit with AES-256 using AWS KMS hardware security modules. | Kayako’s security page describes single sign-in, two-factor authentication, role-based access restrictions, IP restrictions, HTTPS/TLS encryption, backups, and DDoS mitigation. |
Chatwoot plans
- HackerFree
- Startups$19 a month
- Business$39 a month
- Enterprise$99 a month
- Captain AI additional credits$20 a month
- Community EditionFree
Kayako plans
- Kay AI Agent$1, paid once
- Kayako OnePriced on request
Pick Chatwoot if…
Chatwoot suits support, sales, or engagement teams that want to manage multiple conversation channels together. It also fits teams that need self-hosting, API access, or a shared knowledge base.
Pick Kayako if…
Kayako suits businesses that need a shared support queue, ticket handling, help content, automation, or AI-assisted case resolution. Its stated customer range includes startups, large companies, charities, and governments.