Let's be honest: while you're reading comparison charts, your competitors are already answering customer questions on WhatsApp at 11 PM and closing sales you didn't know you lost. The real question isn't whether you need better customer service tools, it's whether you're ready to stop losing customers to businesses that already figured this out.

Olark is a straightforward customer service tool with robust features. Cue is AI-powered automation across every channel your customers use. Think reliable hatchback versus self-driving Tesla. Let's cut the jargon and figure out which one actually fits your business—before you're stuck manually answering "What are your opening hours?" at 2 AM on a Saturday.

Comparison table

Feature Comparison

Platform overview

Olark

Olark gives you a straightforward live chat platform. You can add it to your website and start chatting with visitors in minutes. The interface is clean and easy to use. You can customise greetings and chat windows to match your brand.

Olark suits businesses that want to improve customer support without a complex setup. E-commerce sites often choose Olark because it helps answer product, order, and delivery questions in real time. You can use Olark to boost engagement and help customers make decisions quickly. The platform focuses on live chat, enabling direct communication with customers. Olark does not offer advanced automation or multichannel support, but it excels at simple, effective live chat for small teams.

Cue

Cue takes customer service to the next level. You get an AI-powered platform that automates over 80% of routine queries. Cue connects with customers on WhatsApp, Messenger, and web chat, giving you true multichannel support.

The platform blends AI Agents with human support, so you resolve issues fast and keep conversations personal. Cue’s mission is to make customer service proactive, personal, and perfectly timed. You can handle high volumes of inquiries without increasing your team size.

Cue’s brand values focus on innovation, efficiency, and customer-centricity. You can trust Cue to keep your conversations, data, and workflows in sync. The product suite includes:

• Live chat: Engage customers instantly and resolve issues in real time.

• Messenger: Automate replies and support customers 24/7, even after hours.

• Webchat: Provide instant help on your website, reduce cart abandonment, and capture leads.

Automation & AI

Olark

Olark gives you basic automation tools to improve your customer service workflow. You can set up automated greetings and canned responses, which help your team reply faster to common questions. The platform allows you to customise chat windows and tailor the experience for your visitors. You can use chat analytics to monitor performance and understand how customers interact with your team.

Olark’s automation helps you manage simple queries and maintain a consistent tone. You can trigger messages based on visitor behaviour, such as time spent on a page or specific actions.

These features suit small teams that want to save time and keep conversations organised. However, Olark does not offer advanced AI or machine learning capabilities. You rely on manual setup for most automation tasks, which may limit your ability to scale during busy periods.

Cue

With Cue, you get AI Agents that resolve over 80% of routine queries instantly. The platform uses advanced natural language processing to understand customer intent and deliver accurate answers. You can automate conversations across WhatsApp, Messenger, and web chat, ensuring customers receive help wherever they reach out.

You can set up automated workflows for FAQs, bookings, and outbound campaigns. The system handles high volumes of queries without slowing down, even during peak seasons. Your team can focus on complex issues while Cue manages repetitive tasks.

Key benefits of Cue’s automation and AI:

• Instant query resolution: Customers get answers in seconds, reducing wait times and boosting satisfaction.

• Multichannel automation: You engage customers on their preferred platforms, including WhatsApp and Messenger.

• Proactive support: Cue sends personalised follow-ups and re-engages leads automatically.

• Scalable AI: Unlimited users and high chat volumes do not increase your costs.

Ticketing

Olark

Olark provides a simple approach to ticketing. You can manage customer conversations in real time, which suits small and medium-sized businesses. The platform focuses on live chat, so you interact directly with customers and resolve issues quickly. Olark’s ticketing system works best when you need basic support and want to keep things straightforward.

You get automatic messages and a customisable chat widget. These features help you respond to common questions and keep your support process organised. Olark integrates with CRM and help desk tools, so you can link chats to other systems. The design is minimalist, which means you do not get distracted by unnecessary features.

Cue

Cue offers a comprehensive ticketing solution designed for businesses that want to automate and streamline customer support. You can manage bookings, appointments, and queries from a single platform. Cue’s booking system automates scheduling, so you do not need to rely on manual processes. This reduces errors and saves time for your team.

The platform prevents double bookings and reduces no-shows. You get a user-friendly interface, which means you do not need specialised help to manage operations. Cue’s ticketing features help you deliver reliable support and keep customers satisfied.

Multichannel

Olark

Olark gives you a live chat tool that sits on your website. You can speak with visitors in real time and answer their questions as they browse. The platform keeps things simple. You manage all conversations from one dashboard. Olark does not support other channels such as WhatsApp, Messenger, or email. You rely on live chat alone to engage your customers.

You can customise your chat window and set up automated greetings. Olark lets you trigger messages based on visitor behaviour. This helps you start conversations at the right moment. The platform suits businesses that want direct, web-based support. If your customers prefer to reach out through social media or messaging apps, Olark may not meet your needs.

Cue

Cue gives you true multichannel support. You connect with customers on WhatsApp, Messenger, and web chat. The platform brings all conversations into one inbox, so you never miss a message. You can switch between channels without losing context. This seamless experience builds trust and keeps customers engaged.

Cue’s multichannel approach offers several benefits:

• Multichannel support creates a smooth experience across all communication channels. You engage customers wherever they prefer to chat.

• Customers switch between live chat, email, social media, and phone. Cue keeps the conversation history intact, so you always know what has been discussed.

• Integrated channels ensure consistent, high-quality service. You deliver the same level of support on every platform, strengthening customer relationships.

You can automate replies and send personalised messages on each channel. Cue’s AI Agents handle routine queries instantly, freeing your team to focus on complex issues. The platform scales with your business, supporting unlimited users and high chat volumes.

Analytics & reporting

Olark

You want to measure your customer service performance with clear, actionable data. Olark gives you a set of analytics tools that help you understand how your team interacts with customers.

You can access predefined reports that show key metrics such as Average Handle Time (AHT) and First Contact Resolution (FCR). These reports allow you to see how quickly your team resolves queries and how often customers get answers on their first attempt.

Cue

Cue gives you an analytics suite designed for data-driven decision-making. You can track every customer interaction across WhatsApp, Messenger, and web chat. This insight allows you to identify opportunities and improve your team’s approach.

If you want to move beyond basic reporting and unlock the full potential of your customer service data, Cue gives you the tools to succeed. You can see the bigger picture, act on trends, and deliver proactive support that keeps customers coming back.

Customisation

Olark

Olark gives you a straightforward way to customise your live chat experience. You can change the look and feel of the chat window to match your brand colours and style. The platform lets you set up custom greetings and automated messages, so you can welcome visitors or offer help at the right moment. You can also add your company logo and adjust the chat widget’s position on your website.

Olark allows you to create pre-written responses for common questions. This feature helps your team reply quickly and maintain a consistent tone. You can set up rules to trigger messages based on visitor behaviour, such as time spent on a page or specific actions. These options make it easy to tailor the chat experience for your customers.

Cue

Cue gives you powerful customisation options that go far beyond basic chat design. You can personalise every part of the customer journey, from the first message to the final resolution, across WhatsApp, Messenger, and web chat. The platform lets you build custom workflows, automate responses, and design chatbots that reflect your brand’s voice.

You can use Cue to:

• Customise chat widgets with your brand colours, logos, and style.

• Build automated workflows for FAQs, bookings, and outbound campaigns.

• Personalise messages based on customer data and previous interactions.

• Set up proactive engagement rules to reach out to high-intent visitors.

Cue integrates with your CRM and customer data platforms, giving you a complete view of each customer. This means you can deliver real-time personalisation across all channels. The AI analyses customer data and adapts responses to individual needs. Real-time data synchronisation ensures that every update appears instantly, so your customers always get a consistent experience.

Security & compliance

Olark

You want your customer data to stay safe. Olark provides standard security features that protect your information during live chat sessions. The platform uses encryption to secure messages between your website and its servers.

You can trust Olark to follow GDPR guidelines, which means your business meets European data protection standards. Olark stores chat transcripts securely and allows you to control access for your team. You can set permissions so only authorised staff can view sensitive conversations.

Cue

You need robust security and full compliance when handling customer data. Cue gives you enterprise-grade protection across every channel. The platform uses advanced safeguards to keep personal information secure. You benefit from administrative, technical, and physical controls that prevent unauthorised access.

Cue’s compliance goes beyond basic standards. The platform meets GDPR and UK data privacy laws, so you can transfer personal information outside the EEA with confidence. You stay protected from legal risks and maintain customer trust. Cue also complies with tax regulations and law enforcement requests, ensuring your business meets all legal obligations.

You control who accesses customer data. Cue lets you set permissions for agents and managers, so only the right people see sensitive information. The platform encrypts data at rest and in transit, reducing the risk of breaches. You receive regular updates about compliance changes, keeping your business aligned with the latest standards.

Scalability

Olark

You want your customer service platform to grow with your business. Olark suits small and medium-sized teams that need a simple live chat solution. You can add agents as your team expands, but each new user increases your costs. The platform works well for businesses with steady chat volumes and predictable support needs.

Olark allows you to customise chat windows and automate greetings. You can set up proactive messages based on visitor behaviour. These features help you manage conversations efficiently. However, Olark relies on manual scaling. You must monitor chat volumes and add agents when demand rises. This approach works for businesses with modest growth plans.

Cue

Cue gives you a scalable platform designed for growth. You can support unlimited users without extra costs. The system handles high chat volumes, even during peak seasons. Cue’s AI Agents automate over 80% of routine queries, so your team focuses on complex issues.

You manage all customer conversations from a single inbox. Cue connects WhatsApp, Messenger, and web chat, keeping every interaction in sync. The platform adapts to your business needs. You can add new channels, automate workflows, and customise support as you expand.

Cue’s pricing model supports growth. You pay per resolution, not per agent. This means you can scale your team and customer service without worrying about rising costs. The platform integrates with your existing systems, so you keep data and workflows connected.

Cue Scalability Highlights

• Unlimited users at no extra cost

• Handles high volumes across multiple channels

• AI-driven automation reduces manual workload

• Seamless integration with CRM, e-commerce, and more

• Flexible workflows for changing business needs

Integrations

Olark

Olark offers a straightforward approach to integrations. You can connect the platform with popular CRM systems, helpdesk tools, and e-commerce platforms. This allows you to link live chat conversations with customer records and support tickets. You can use integrations to automate workflows, such as sending chat transcripts to your CRM or triggering follow-up emails after a conversation.

Olark supports integrations with tools like Salesforce, Zendesk, and Mailchimp. You can also use webhooks to connect with other applications. The setup process is simple, so you can get started quickly. Olark provides documentation and support to help you manage integrations.

Cue

Cue gives you advanced integration capabilities designed for modern businesses. You can connect Cue with your CRM, e-commerce platform, and marketing tools. The platform supports deep integrations, so you keep conversations, data, and workflows in sync across every channel.

You can use Cue to automate customer journeys. The system links WhatsApp, Messenger, and web chat with your existing tools. This means you manage all customer interactions from a single inbox. Cue’s integrations help you personalise support, automate outbound campaigns, and track every touchpoint.

Key integration features include:

• CRM integration: Sync customer profiles, chat history, and sales data.

• E-commerce integration: Automate order updates, returns, and product recommendations.

• Marketing automation: Send targeted messages and follow-ups based on customer behaviour.

• API access: Build custom workflows and connect with any business system.

Cue’s integration suite supports platforms like Salesforce, Shopify, WooCommerce, and more. You can set up automated triggers, so your team responds faster and more accurately. The platform provides real-time data synchronisation, ensuring every update appears instantly.

Pricing

Olark

Olark uses a per-agent pricing model. You pay a fixed fee for each user who manages live chat. The platform offers a basic package, but you must pay extra for advanced features such as detailed analytics, integrations, or automation.

Cue

Cue offers a transparent, scalable pricing model. You pay per resolution, not per user. This means you can add unlimited agents without increasing your costs. The platform includes advanced AI automation, multichannel support, and detailed analytics as standard. You do not need to worry about hidden fees or expensive add-ons.

Why choose Cue

You want a customer service platform that delivers measurable results. Cue stands out because you see real improvements in response times, customer satisfaction, and operational efficiency. Businesses across retail, automotive, travel, and real estate have adopted Cue to solve industry-specific challenges and drive growth.

You gain more control over your processes. Cue’s platform automates over 80% of routine queries, freeing your agents to focus on complex issues. You manage conversations across WhatsApp, Messenger, and web chat from a single inbox. You customise workflows and branding, ensuring every interaction matches your business style.

You benefit from Cue’s industry solutions:

• Retail: You answer pre-checkout questions instantly, reduce cart abandonment, and send personalised offers through WhatsApp.

• Automotive: You automate lead qualification, book service appointments, and send reminders, keeping your lanes full.

• Travel: You provide 24/7 support for bookings, cancellations, and guest queries, improving satisfaction and loyalty.

• Real Estate: You automate initial inquiries, pre-qualify leads, and keep agents focused on serious buyers.

Get a free demo

You now see the strengths of each platform. Olark works best for small teams that want a simple live chat. Cue suits businesses aiming for growth, automation, and multichannel support.

If you want a customer service software comparison that helps you scale and improve efficiency, Cue stands out. Book a free demo to discover how Cue can transform your support.

Frequently asked questions

Does Cue support unlimited users?

Cue allows unlimited users without extra cost. You pay per resolution, not per agent. This model helps you scale your support team as your business grows, keeping costs predictable.

Is Cue secure and compliant with data protection laws?

Cue provides enterprise-grade security. You meet GDPR and UK privacy standards. The platform encrypts data and lets you control access for agents and managers. You protect customer information and maintain compliance.

Can I customise Cue to match my brand?

You personalise chat widgets, workflows, and messages. Cue lets you use your brand colours, logos, and style. You design automated journeys that reflect your business identity and customer needs.

What support does Cue offer during onboarding?

Cue gives you dedicated onboarding, live support, and training resources. You receive guidance at every step. The team helps you set up integrations, customise workflows, and optimise your customer service.