Stop guessing. Compare real monthly costs for ThriveDesk, Freshdesk, Gorgias, Intercom, and more based on your team size and feature needs.
Prices are estimates based on publicly available data as of late 2024/early 2025. Actual pricing may vary due to taxes, regional differences, or special offers.
Navigating the Maze of Helpdesk Pricing in 2026
Choosing the right customer support platform isn’t just about features—it’s about predicting your future burn rate. With pricing models shifting from “per agent” to “per ticket” or “flat rate,” finding the true cost of ownership is harder than ever.
🙇♂️ The “Per Agent” Trap
Legacy giants like Zendesk and Intercom typically charge “per agent, per month.” This model is low-risk for solo founders but punitive for growing teams. Adding your 6th agent could jump your bill by $100+ instantly. If your support team outpaces your revenue growth, this model becomes a liability.
🏆 The Flat Rate Advantage
Challengers like ThriveDesk and Crisp are popularizing “flat rate” or “tiered” pricing. You pay for the platform’s utility, not the headcount. For a team of 10, switching from a $100/agent plan to a $99/month flat plan can save over $10,000 annuallywithout sacrificing essential features like shared inboxes or live chat.
Hidden Costs: AI & Add-ons
The sticker price rarely tells the whole story. Modern helpdesks often fragment their billing:
- Automation Taxes:Tools like Gorgias and Tidio may charge extra for “AI resolutions” or “AI credits.” If you automate 50% of your tickets, your bill might double.
- Feature Gating:“Enterprise” features like SLA management, custom roles, or removing branding are often locked behind the most expensive tiers.