Comparison
AI SDR vs human SDR: an honest comparison
A human SDR is better at judgement, rapport and live conversations. An AI SDR is better at tireless research, drafting and follow-up at low cost. Most small businesses do best combining them: the AI finds and drafts, and a person approves and has the conversations.
Last updated 22 October 2026
Where is a human SDR stronger?
- Reading a situation and knowing when not to push.
- Building trust on a call.
- Handling unusual questions and objections.
- Knowing your market and its politics.
Where is an AI SDR stronger?
- Watching many sources at once without tiring.
- Drafting a tailored first message quickly.
- Following up on time, every time.
- Costing a fraction of a salary, and scaling up or down.
What does each cost?
A salaried human SDR has a salary, tax, tools and management time. An AI tool varies from pay-as-you-go credits to annual contracts. Compare the cost per conversation you actually have, not the headline price. Opptix charges in credits, with no annual contract.
How do you combine them?
- Let the AI find signals, screen them and draft messages.
- Have a person approve, and take every real conversation.
- Review what worked each month and adjust your profile.
How Opptix helps
Opptix is built for the combined approach: agents do the legwork, you approve and talk to people. See AI SDR UK, AI agent crews and pricing.
Frequently asked questions
Do AI SDRs work?
They can, especially when they work from real signals and a person approves the messages. Generic, fully automatic outreach does less well.
Will an AI SDR replace my sales team?
Opptix does not replace a sales team. It speeds up finding, screening and drafting, while people decide and build relationships.
Which is cheaper?
An AI tool is usually cheaper per task. Compare the cost per real conversation.
See it on your own market
Create a free account, describe what you sell, and use your £20 of free credit.