What is the difference between an Inline Widget and an Embed Widget?

When adding a widget to your site using tawk.to, you’ll need to choose between two types:

  • Inline Widget

  • Embed Widget


Each widget type behaves differently and is designed for specific use cases. Choosing the right one depends on how you want the widget to appear and function on your website.

Inline Widget

The Inline Widget is the most common option—and it’s also the default when setting up a widget.


Key features:

  • Floats on top of your website, usually in the bottom-right corner of the screen.

  • Always visible as visitors scroll or navigate through different pages.

  • Ensures continuous access to live chat, even during active conversations.

  • Familiar placement and design that most users recognize and know how to use.


This widget is ideal if you want the chat to always be available, regardless of what page your visitors are on.


Example: The tawk.to homepage uses the Inline Widget to provide constant support availability.

Embed Widget

The Embed Widget works more like a static element on your website.


Key features:

  • Sits inside the content of a page, like an image or a form.

  • Does not float—it stays in the exact position where it’s placed in your layout.

  • Disappears when the visitor leaves the page, meaning they’ll lose access to the chat unless they return.


The Embed Widget is great for specific sections of a site, such as:

  • Landing pages

  • Contact pages

  • Blog posts

  • Help or FAQ sections


The Embed Widget is best used when you want to keep the chat in a fixed spot as part of your page design, rather than floating across the site.

Direct Chat Link

If you don’t have a website, or if you’d prefer to link directly to the chat, you can use a Direct Chat Link.


Key features:

  • Opens your chat widget in a separate browser window or tab.

  • Can be shared via email, social media, buttons, or anywhere a link is supported.

  • Allows visitors to chat with you or browse your Knowledge Base without visiting your actual website.


Learn more about the Direct Chat Link with these guides:

Using the Direct Chat Link

Using a text link or button to open the widget

Quick comparison

Adding a widget

Follow these steps to add a new widget:


1. Log in to your tawk.to account.

2. Select the correct property.

3. Click Administration in the top menu.

4. Click Chat Widget under Channels in the left menu.

5. Click Add Widget in the top-right corner.

6. Enter the Widget Name and select Inline or Embed. Then, click Next.

7. Copy the widget code and paste it before the </body> tag of your website. Then, click Done.

Important considerations

  • If your visitors often navigate between pages, the Inline Widget is usually the better choice.

  • Use the Embed Widget when you want to control exactly where the chat appears within your content layout.

  • No website? Use the Direct Chat Link to offer support through social media, email, or other platforms.



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