Top 10 Best Live Chat Apps for Shopify to Boost Customer Engagement

Among the many tools you need to run a successful e-commerce business, live chat software has become essential for Shopify store owners who want to increase their customer engagement, reduce cart abandonment, and boost sales with real-time support. 

In this guide, we’ll explore the 10 best live chat apps for Shopify and compare their features, like AI chatbots, multi-channel messaging, and integrations, to help you decide which app is right for you. 

Whether you're looking for the best live chat system for your e-commerce or a scalable chat tool for business, this article will help you find the right tool that aligns with your goals and budget.

How to Choose Your Shopify Live Chat App

Key Features to Consider:

• Real-time messaging and multi-channel support (e.g., Messenger, WhatsApp, Instagram)
• AI chatbots and automation for 24/7 support
• Abandoned cart recovery
• Customizable chat widgets and branding
• Analytics and reporting tools
• Seamless Shopify integration
• Mobile compatibility
• Security and GDPR compliance

Business Needs:

• Size of your support team
• Expected chat volume
• Required integrations (e.g., CRM, email marketing)
• Budget and pricing flexibility

Comparison Table

Individual App Details

1. LiveChat

Overview: 

LiveChat is a leading AI-powered live chat software designed to help Shopify merchants provide instant and personalized customer support. With deep Shopify integration and real-time automation tools, LiveChat enables you to drive conversions, reduce cart abandonment, and engage website visitors effectively.

Key Features:

• AI chatbots and automation
• Product card recommendations in chat
• Real-time visitor monitoring
• Customizable chat widgets and mobile apps
• Integration with 200+ third-party tools

Pricing:

• Plans start at $20/month per agent
• 14-day free trial available

Best For:
E-commerce and B2B businesses looking for scalable, feature-rich live chat software with advanced automation and analytics.

Notable Integrations:

• Shopify
• Zendesk, Salesforce, Slack
• Various CRM and marketing tools

User Feedback:
LiveChat stands out among the top live chat systems for Shopify. Merchants praise it for improving their customer satisfaction and boosting agent efficiency, making it one of the best live chat solutions for Shopify stores.

2. Tidio

Overview:
Tidio is a versatile live chat software for Shopify that combines real-time messaging, AI-powered chatbots, and email marketing tools into a single platform. Designed to help e-commerce brands boost sales, reduce cart abandonment, and improve support efficiency, Tidio allows Shopify merchants to connect with customers across multiple channels, including Facebook Messenger and Instagram, through a unified inbox.

Key Features:

• Live chat and AI-powered chatbots
• Unified inbox for Messenger, Instagram, and email
• Visual chatbot editor for easy automation setup
• Real-time visitor data and live typing preview
• Multilingual support and mobile-friendly
• Integration with Google Analytics and Shopify

Pricing:

• Free plan available (up to 50 conversations/month)
• Paid plans start at $29/month for 3 seats and advanced features
• 7-day free trial on premium plans

Best For:
Small to medium Shopify stores looking for an intuitive, all-in-one AI live chat system that blends automation, chat support, and email marketing into a single customer communication hub.

Notable Integrations:

• Shopify
• Messenger, Instagram
• Google Analytics

User Feedback:
Shopify merchants appreciate Tidio for its quick setup, responsive interface, and seamless chatbot automation. Many call it one of the top live chat tools for Shopify, especially for teams aiming to streamline customer support and drive conversions with minimal complexity.

3. Chatra

Overview:
Chatra is a cloud-based live chat software for Shopify designed to help merchants engage visitors and reduce cart abandonment. With features like real-time visitor tracking, live typing previews, and chatbot automation, Chatra empowers Shopify stores to deliver personalized customer service across multiple channels, including Facebook Messenger and Instagram.

Key Features:

• Real-time visitor list and typing preview
• Chatbots and automation for FAQs
• Integration with Facebook and Instagram chat
• Multilingual support and file transfer
• Saved replies and chat notes for agents

Pricing:

• Free plan available with limited features
• Essential plan at $17/agent/month (billed annually)
• Pro plan at $23/agent/month (billed annually)
• 10-day free trial

Best For:
Growing Shopify stores that want to leverage real-time live chat tools and proactive messaging to create a smoother, more engaging customer experience.

Notable Integrations:

• Shopify
• Facebook Messenger, Instagram
• Email

User Feedback:
Users value Chatra’s real-time visitor insights and intuitive interface, often calling it one of the best live chat apps for Shopify when it comes to proactive support.

4. ZB: WhatsApp & Messenger Chat

Overview:
ZB: WhatsApp & Messenger Chat is a lightweight yet powerful live chat app for Shopify that integrates directly with Facebook Messenger and WhatsApp. Designed for social-first engagement, it enables real-time communication through customers’ preferred messaging platforms, without the need for coding or complex setup.

Key Features:

• Seamless integration of Facebook Messenger and WhatsApp chat
• Real-time messaging with quick setup and no coding required
• Customizable chat box design to match your brand’s look and feel
• Supports multiple chat channels with up to 15 chat channels on higher plans
• Analytics to measure chat effectiveness and engagement
• Works directly within the Shopify admin and is compatible with the latest Shopify themes

Pricing:

• Free plan available (up to 5,000 monthly visits, 2 chat channels)
• Starter plan at $4.99/month (up to 5 chat channels)
• Growth plan at $9.99/month (up to 10 chat channels)
• Pro plan at $19.99/month (up to 15 chat channels)
• All plans include a 14-day free trial

Best For:
Shopify merchants who want a cost-effective live chat solution focused on Messenger and WhatsApp, offering real-time customer support with a quick setup and minimal overhead.

Notable Integrations:

• Facebook Messenger
• WhatsApp
• Shopify

User Feedback:
Users praise ZB for its simple integration with social messaging channels and ease of use. For businesses aiming to build stronger connections and provide fast support through WhatsApp or Facebook Messenger, it's seen as one of the most accessible live chat tools for Shopify.

5. Smartsupp

Overview:
Smartsupp is a feature-rich live chat software for Shopify that blends real-time messaging, visitor session recordings, and in-depth analytics to help merchants deliver more personalized customer experiences. With support for multiple languages and customizable chat widgets, it’s particularly well-suited for international ecommerce brands aiming to improve engagement and gain deeper insight into customer behaviour.

Key Features:

• Real-time chat with mobile app support
• Video recordings of visitor sessions
• Multilingual chat widget
• Chatbots and canned responses
• Integration with Google Analytics and Shopify

Pricing:

• Free plan available
• Paid plans start at $19/month
• Free trial available

Best For:
Global or multilingual Shopify stores seeking a conversion-focused live chat solution with detailed visitor analytics and cross-border communication features.

Notable Integrations:

• Shopify
• Google Analytics

User Feedback:
Merchants value Smartsupp for its unique combination of session replays, live chat tools, and multilingual support. It’s often recommended as one of the best Shopify live chat apps for understanding how users navigate your store and tailoring support accordingly.

6. Willdesk

Overview:
Willdesk is an affordable and easy-to-use live chat and ticketing software for Shopify that helps smaller merchants deliver responsive customer support. With built-in AI-generated product suggestions, emotion detection, and Shopify order integration, it provides powerful functionality on a budget. Its free live chat plan makes it especially attractive for startups and growing ecommerce stores looking to build strong customer relationships without high upfront costs.

Key Features:

• Live chat with AI chatbots
• Ticket management system
• Integration with Shopify orders and FAQs
• Emotion detection and product recommendations
• Inbox ticketing from multiple sources

Pricing:

• Free plan available
• Paid plans with advanced features (pricing varies)
• Free trial available

Best For:
Budget-conscious Shopify merchants who need a free or low-cost live chat system that also offers ticketing, AI features, and seamless order integration.

Notable Integrations:

• Shopify
• Email

User Feedback:
Willdesk is frequently praised for its great value, ease of use, and accessible setup. For smaller Shopify stores, it’s considered one of the top entry-level live chat tools.

7. Olark

Overview:
Olark is a clean, reliable live chat software for Shopify that focuses on simplicity and usability. With features like customizable pre-chat forms, triggered messages, and offline support, Olark helps Shopify merchants capture leads and assist shoppers without overwhelming them.

Key Features:

• Pre-chat forms and offline messaging
• Triggered chat invitations
• Customizable chat widget
• Integration with Shopify and Zapier
• Reporting and analytics

Pricing:

• Plans start at $29/month per agent
• Free trial available

Best For:
Shopify stores that prefer a simple live chat tool with essential features. Ideal for teams that want easy customization without the need for advanced automation or integrations.

Notable Integrations:

• Shopify
• Zapier

User Feedback:
Olark is praised for its straightforward setup and no-fuss functionality. Many merchants consider it one of the best lightweight live chat apps for Shopify, especially when simplicity, clarity, and reliability are top priorities.

8. Flowio

Overview:
Flowio is a powerful multi-channel messaging and live chat software for Shopify that unifies live chat, SMS, and email marketing automation in one easy-to-use dashboard. Designed to streamline customer journeys, it helps merchants recover abandoned carts, send personalized offers, and deliver timely messages across multiple channels, making it an ideal solution for those aiming to boost engagement and revenue through automation.

Key Features:

• Live chat combined with SMS and email marketing
• Automated workflows and targeted campaigns
• Analytics and performance tracking
• Integration with Shopify and multiple marketing channels

Pricing:

• Plans start at $9/month
• Free trial available

Best For:
Shopify merchants looking for an all-in-one live chat and marketing automation tool to manage chat, email, and SMS communications from a single platform.

Notable Integrations:

• Shopify
• Email marketing platforms
• SMS gateways

User Feedback:
Users appreciate Flowio for its versatility, ease of use, and ability to automate messaging workflows. It’s often recommended as one of the best Shopify live chat apps for marketing-driven stores.

9. Freshchat

Overview:
Freshchat is a modern, AI-powered live chat software for Shopify that enables merchants to deliver real-time and personalized support across websites, mobile apps, and popular social platforms like WhatsApp, Facebook Messenger, and Instagram. With chatbots powered by Freddy AI, and a unified inbox, Freshchat helps businesses manage high volumes of customer inquiries while improving response times and boosting engagement.

Key Features:

• Real-time chat and omnichannel messaging (web, mobile, WhatsApp, Facebook, Instagram)
• AI-powered chatbots (Freddy AI) for automated responses
• Unified inbox and conversation routing
• Advanced analytics and reporting
• Mobile apps for iOS and Android
• Integration with Shopify and 400+ other apps

Pricing:

• Free plan for up to 10 agents
• Paid plans start at $19/agent/month
• 14-day free trial

Best For:
Scalable Shopify businesses that need a flexible, omnichannel live chat solution with built-in AI automation and deep integration with Freshworks’ suite of tools.

Notable Integrations:

• Shopify
• WhatsApp, Facebook Messenger, Instagram
• Freshdesk and 400+ apps

User Feedback:
Freshchat is widely praised for its intuitive interface, multichannel flexibility, and automation tools. It is often considered one of the best live chat apps for high-growth e-commerce stores that need efficient team collaboration.

10. Crisp

Overview:
Crisp is a dynamic, AI-powered live chat software for Shopify that helps merchants deliver fast, personalized, and engaging customer experiences. With features like AI chatbots, customizable chat widgets, GIF support, and file sharing, Crisp enables ecommerce brands to offer interactive support that feels human, without sacrificing speed or scalability. It's ideal for stores that want to build stronger relationships through modern, multimedia chat tools.

Key Features:

• AI chatbots and automation workflows
• Customizable chat widgets with GIFs and file sharing
• Integration with Shopify, Slack, Messenger
• Real-time analytics and visitor tracking
• Mobile apps for support on the go

Pricing:

• Free plan available (2 seats)
• Paid plans start at $25/month
• Free trial available

Best For:
Shopify stores aiming to scale customer support with automation while creating a branded, interactive live chat experience that feels personal and visually engaging.

Notable Integrations:

• Shopify
• Slack
• Facebook Messenger

User Feedback:
Merchants praise Crisp for its automation workflows, creative chat widget features, and ease of use. It’s often highlighted as one of the best live chat solutions for Shopify when looking to balance efficient support with a friendly, customer-first tone.

Summary

It’s worth diving deep into the details when choosing the right live chat software for your Shopify store. The right tool can transform how you engage with customers and boost satisfaction, conversions, and long-term loyalty. Focus on your business needs, preferred integrations (like email marketing or CRM), and your support volume. LiveChat remains one of the best choices for Shopify merchants, offering a clean interface, strong automation features, and seamless integrations that scale with your store. Most of the top live chat tools also offer free trials, so take advantage of this to test features like AI automation, chat analytics, and multi-channel messaging before committing to a plan that fits your goals.

FAQ

What is a live chat app for Shopify?

It’s a tool integrated into your Shopify store that allows you to communicate with visitors and customers in real time. It helps answer questions instantly, provides support, and guides shoppers through the buying process, improving engagement and sales.

Why should I use a live chat app on my Shopify store?

It will boost customer satisfaction by offering immediate assistance, reduce cart abandonment by addressing concerns on the spot, and increase conversion rates by engaging visitors proactively.

How do live chat apps integrate with Shopify?

Most live chat apps connect directly to your Shopify admin and sync with your store data, such as orders, carts, and customer info. This integration allows agents to see customer purchase history and offer personalized support or targeted offers.

Can I use one live chat app for multiple Shopify stores?

Yes, some apps support managing multiple stores from a single account, allowing you to handle customer conversations across all your Shopify stores in one place.

Are live chat apps secure and GDPR compliant?

Reputable live chat apps follow industry-standard security protocols, including data encryption and compliance with regulations like GDPR, ensuring your customers’ information is protected.

Do live chat apps support mobile devices?

Yes, many live chat apps offer mobile apps for iOS and Android, enabling you and your support team to respond to customers anytime, anywhere.

What features should I look for in a Shopify live chat app?

Look for the following ones when choosing your live chat app:

• Real-time messaging with multi-channel support (e.g., Messenger, WhatsApp)
• AI chatbots for 24/7 automated responses
• Integration with Shopify cart and order data
• Customizable chat widgets matching your brand
• Analytics and reporting dashboards
• Support for canned responses and FAQs
• Mobile app availability

Can live chat apps help reduce customer support workload?

Absolutely! Features like AI chatbots, canned responses, and integrated FAQs help answer common questions automatically, reducing the number of repetitive inquiries your team must handle.

How much do Shopify live chat apps cost?

Pricing varies widely. Some apps offer free plans with basic features, while premium plans range from around $6 to $30+ per month depending on features, user seats, and integrations.

Do these apps offer free trials?

Yes! Most leading Shopify live chat apps provide free trials or free plans so you can test their features and usability before getting a paid subscription.

How do I install a live chat app on Shopify?

You can install your live chat apps directly from the Shopify App Store. After installation, you typically add the chat widget to your store with minimal setup, often requiring no coding.

Can I customize the chat widget to match my store’s branding?

Yes, you can! Most apps allow you to customize colours, greetings, and widget placement to ensure the chat experience aligns with your store’s design and brand tone.

Can live chat apps integrate with social messaging platforms?

Yes! Many live chat apps support integration with popular platforms like Facebook Messenger, WhatsApp, Instagram, Telegram, and more, enabling customers to reach you on their preferred channels.

How do live chat apps help with abandoned carts?

Some apps will proactively message customers who leave items in their carts, offering assistance or incentives to complete their purchase.

Can I assign multiple agents to handle live chat?

Yes. Most live chat solutions support multiple agents and allow you to assign conversations, monitor chats, and collaborate to provide timely support.

How can I measure the effectiveness of my live chat?

You can use built-in analytics to track metrics such as response time, chat volume, customer satisfaction ratings, and conversion rates to optimize your support strategy.

What if I want to provide support outside business hours?

AI-powered chatbots can handle common questions 24/7, capture leads, and provide basic assistance when your team is offline.

Are there live chat apps that include FAQs and help centres?

Yes. Apps like Chatty and HelpCenter combine live chat with FAQ management and helpdesk features, reducing support tickets by enabling customers to self-serve.

Can I use live chat to send promotional offers?

Yes! Some apps allow you to send targeted offers or messages based on customer behaviour or past conversations to increase engagement and sales.

What support is available if I have issues with my live chat app?

Most apps provide customer support via email, chat, or help centres. Some also offer onboarding assistance to help you set up and optimize the app.