Kayako vs Plain
Updated June 2026 · A structured head-to-head comparison.
The verdict
Both Kayako and Plain are credible helpdesk tools, and the right pick comes down to your priorities.
Choose Kayako if you want a longer free trial (14 days) and broader platform coverage. Unified help desk software.
Choose Plain if you'd rather have a lower starting price (free – $39/agent/mo), a free plan to start on and a higher overall rating (4.7/5). Customer support for modern teams.
Kayako vs Plain: side by side
| Dimension | Kayako | Plain |
|---|---|---|
| Starting price | From $30/agent/mo | Free – $39/agent/moWinner |
| Free plan | No | YesWinner |
| Free trial | 14 daysWinner | — |
| Pricing model | Subscription | Freemium |
| Best for | Smb, Mid Market | Saas, Startups |
| Platforms | Web, Ios, Android, ApiWinner | Web, Api |
| Rating | 4.0/5 | 4.7/5Winner |
Kayako key facts
- Vendor
- Kayako
- Pricing
- Subscription — From $30/agent/mo
- Free tier
- Free trial (14 days)
- Platforms
- Web, Ios, Android, Api
- Best for
- Smb, Mid Market
- Editor rating
- 4.0 / 5
- Founded
- 2001
- Headquarters
- Singapore
Plain key facts
- Vendor
- Plain
- Pricing
- Freemium — Free – $39/agent/mo
- Free tier
- Yes
- Platforms
- Web, Api
- Best for
- Saas, Startups
- Editor rating
- 4.7 / 5
- Founded
- 2020
- Headquarters
- London, UK
Frequently asked questions
Is Kayako better than Plain?
Neither is universally better — Plain edges ahead on overall rating, but the best choice depends on price, platforms, and your use case. See the side-by-side table above.
Is Kayako or Plain cheaper?
Plain is the more affordable of the two to get started, at free – $39/agent/mo. Kayako starts at from $30/agent/mo; Plain starts at free – $39/agent/mo.
Can Kayako replace Plain?
Yes for most teams — both are helpdesk tools with heavily overlapping features. The main trade-offs are pricing and platform support, covered in the comparison above.