Side by side
Freshdesk vs Zammad
Both stand on customer service - enterprise software. Which one you can start free with, which one lets you read the code, and what each costs once you pay.
Free plan API
Freshdesk combines multichannel ticket handling with automation, customer self-service, and language support. Teams should account for the six-month Free program limit and the separate charge for AI sessions beyond the included allowance.
Visit Freshdesk Free plan Open source APILinuxMac+3
Zammad combines ticket management, automation, and a knowledge base, with hosted and self-hosted options. Compare agent limits, storage, channels, support, and annual-billing prices across plans before choosing.
Visit ZammadThe facts
| Freshdesk | Zammad | |
|---|---|---|
| Free plan | Yes | Yes |
| Open source | Not published | Yes |
| Runs on | API | API, Linux, Mac, Self-hosted, Web, Windows |
| Lowest paid plan | Growth: $19 a month | Starter v2: €9 per agent a month |
| Plans published | 4 | 6 |
| Maker | Freshdesk | Not published |
| Website | freshworks.com | zammad.com |
| On customer service - enterprise software | #2 of 27 | #1 of 27 |
Freshdesk: what it does well
- Shared inbox and ticket automation
- Customer portal and help center included
- Freddy AI Copilot translates in 60+ languages
- Role-based permissions and API access
- Free program covers 1–2 agents for six months
What to know first
- Free program is limited to six months
- Paid plans start at $19 per agent monthly, billed annually
- Extra AI Agent sessions cost $49 per 100
Zammad: what it does well
- Tickets can be assigned, prioritized, and annotated internally.
- Automation, templates, and bulk actions support repetitive work.
- Web app supports over 40 languages.
- Free plan and 30-day trial are listed.
- REST API and integrations with named services are available.
What to know first
- Self-hosted customers handle updates, backups, and availability.
- Optional AI features cost €0.03 per AI call.
- Hosted support coverage is 8x5 CET.
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