Fathom vs Otter.ai
Side-by-side comparison of features, pricing, and ratings
At a glance
| Dimension | Fathom | Otter.ai |
|---|---|---|
| Pricing | Free (unlimited recordings); Pro $29/user/mo; Enterprise custom | Free (300 min/mo); Pro $19.99/user/mo; Business $33.99/user/mo |
| Meeting Capture | Bot-free (native Zoom/Meet/Teams integration), desktop app, no file import | Bot-based (Zoom, Meet, Teams), desktop/mobile app, file import |
| AI Summaries | Instant AI summaries, action items, Ask Fathom query, real-time alerts | Automated summaries with action items, speaker labels, AI Chat |
| CRM Integration | Salesforce, HubSpot (automatic CRM updates) | Salesforce, HubSpot (automated sync) |
| AI Agents | AI Scorecards for coaching | SDR Agent, Recruiting Agent |
| Public API | Yes (Public API and MCP support) | Not highlighted |
If you want a free unlimited AI notetaker with strong CRM and Slack integrations, Fathom is the better value. But if you need AI agents for sales or recruiting, file import, or multilingual transcription, Otter.ai’s Pro plan is worth the monthly limit. For most teams, Fathom’s free tier plus Ask Fathom and API access offers more flexibility.
Free AI meeting notetaker that records, transcribes, and summarizes calls so you never take notes again.
Visit WebsiteAI meeting notetaker and conversational knowledge engine that transcribes, summarizes, and turns calls into searchable knowledge.
Visit WebsiteWho should pick which
- Solo founder on a budgetPick: Fathom
Fathom's free tier has no usage limits, includes CRM sync and Slack/Asana integrations, so a founder can get unlimited meeting records without paying.
- Sales team with lead qualification needsPick: Otter.ai
Otter.ai's SDR Agent automates lead qualification and triggers live demos, plus CRM sync, directly boosting sales pipeline.
- Developer needing API accessPick: Fathom
Fathom offers a public API and MCP support, enabling custom workflows and app integration, which Otter.ai does not highlight.
- Educational institution recording lecturesPick: Otter.ai
Otter.ai supports multiple languages and file import (dropbox), so educators can transcribe and search recorded lectures with speaker labels.
- Operations team minimizing meeting overheadPick: Fathom
Fathom's unlimited free tier with automated summaries and action items reduces manual follow-up, and saves up to 6 hours/week per user.
Frequently Asked Questions
Fathom vs Otter.ai: which should you choose?
If you want a free unlimited AI notetaker with strong CRM and Slack integrations, Fathom is the better value. But if you need AI agents for sales or recruiting, file import, or multilingual transcription, Otter.ai’s Pro plan is worth the monthly limit. For most teams, Fathom’s free tier plus Ask Fathom and API access offers more flexibility.
Which tool offers a free tier with unlimited usage?
Fathom offers unlimited recordings and summaries on its free tier, while Otter.ai's free tier caps at 300 minutes per month.
Can I import audio files into these tools?
Yes, Otter.ai allows file import from Dropbox. Fathom does not support file import; it only captures real-time meetings.
Do both tools integrate with Salesforce and HubSpot?
Yes, both Otter.ai and Fathom provide automatic CRM updates to Salesforce and HubSpot.
Which tool has AI agents for sales and recruiting?
Otter.ai offers SDR Agent for lead qualification and Recruiting Agent for candidate insights. Fathom does not have such agents.
Is there a public API available?
Fathom offers a public API and MCP support. Otter.ai does not highlight a public API.
Which tool supports multiple languages?
Otter.ai provides live transcription in multiple languages. Fathom is primarily designed for English.
How do Fathom's AI Scorecards compare to Otter's agents?
Fathom's AI Scorecards are for coaching and performance review, while Otter's agents automate specific workflows (lead qualification, recruiting).
Can I use these tools without a meeting bot?
Yes, both offer bot-free capture via desktop app (Otter.ai also has desktop app, but bot is optional). Fathom is primarily bot-free.
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Last reviewed: May 12, 2026