Best CRM Alternatives to HubSpot and Zoho in 2025
When evaluating CRM alternatives to HubSpot and Zoho, businesses in 2025 are seeking cost-efficiency, ease of use, and better customization. With the growing demand for more streamlined, affordable, and specialized CRM platforms, several alternatives have emerged to challenge the dominance of traditional players like HubSpot and Zoho. These options cater to freelancers, startups, and growing teams who value intuitive features without the hefty price tag or unnecessary complexity.
For instance, platforms highlighted in our guide on the best CRM software for small businesses showcase scalable and cost-effective options tailored to unique needs. Likewise, those aiming to boost solo or remote workflows can benefit from our list of top freelancer productivity tools for 2025.
This article uncovers the best CRM platforms to consider in 2025 that balance affordability with functionality. Before exploring the options, it’s helpful to understand why small businesses need CRM in the first place, so you can align your choice with real business needs.
Why Look Beyond HubSpot and Zoho?
While HubSpot and Zoho are dominant players in the CRM market, they may not be the best fit for every business. Some companies find them too expensive, overly complex, or lacking essential features. Fortunately, several powerful CRM platforms are gaining ground in 2025. Even top resources like G2 and Forbes recognize the growing trend toward specialized CRM systems.
CRM Alternatives Comparison Table
| CRM Platform | Price | Pros | Cons |
|---|---|---|---|
| Taskip | From $12/month/user | – Tailored for freelancers & agencies- Task-based CRM- Integrated client communication | – Limited enterprise features |
| Monday Sales CRM | From $10/month/user | – Visual workflows- Project + CRM in one- Automation recipes | – Learning curve for beginners |
| Freshsales | Free tier, paid from $15/month/user | – AI insights- Built-in phone/email- Lead scoring | – Some features only in higher plans |
| Pipedrive | From $14.90/month/user | – Sales-focused UI- Efficient automation- Great integrations | – Not ideal for service workflows |
| Insightly | From $29/month/user | – CRM + Project tools- Good Gmail/Outlook sync- Custom workflows | – Interface feels dated |
Explore the Top 5 CRM Alternatives to HubSpot and Zoho
Choosing the right CRM for your business is critical, especially as your operations grow in 2025. If you’re searching for platforms that deliver robust CRM features without the cost and complexity of HubSpot or Zoho, you’re in the right place. Below, we explore five of the best alternatives, each offering a unique blend of usability, features, and affordability tailored to different business needs.
1. Taskip
Taskip emerges as a robust, modern CRM designed specifically for freelancers, agencies, and small teams. It simplifies task management and client communication, offering intuitive dashboards and automation tools.
Pros:
- Tailored for freelancers & agencies
- Task-based CRM functionality
- Integrated client communication
- Affordable and scalable pricing
Cons:
- Lacks advanced features for large enterprises
- Limited third-party integrations (as of now)
Discover how Taskip boosts freelancer productivity
2. Monday Sales CRM
Monday.com has transformed its project management roots into a customizable CRM platform. It’s especially useful for teams who want visual workflows and deep integration with tools like Slack and Gmail.
Pros:
- Drag-and-drop pipelines
- Automation recipes
- Native project + CRM blend
- Customizable dashboards
Cons:
- Learning curve for beginners
- Some advanced CRM features require higher-tier plans
Learn more on Monday’s official website
3. Freshsales by Freshworks
Freshsales offers a strong CRM alternative to Zoho and HubSpot with its AI-powered insights, built-in phone/email system, and customizable dashboards. It suits both small businesses and scaling startups.
Pros:
- AI-based lead scoring
- Workflow automation
- Built-in phone and email communication
- Free plan available
Cons:
- Limited customization in lower tiers
- Best features locked in premium plans
4. Pipedrive
Pipedrive continues to be a top contender thanks to its sales-first approach. It provides clarity into deal stages and integrates with popular tools like Trello, Asana, and more.
Pros:
- Sales-focused UI
- Easy-to-use visual pipeline
- Efficient automation options
- Solid third-party integrations
Cons:
- Not ideal for project management or service businesses
- Reporting features require paid add-ons
See how it compares to task-based CRMs
5. Insightly
Insightly offers a hybrid of CRM and project management, making it a great fit for service-driven businesses. It’s well-suited for companies that need relationship tracking and task visibility in one place.
Pros:
- CRM and project tools in one
- Google and Outlook integration
- Custom workflows
- Decent scalability
Cons:
- Outdated user interface
- Can feel clunky compared to newer tools
Visit the Insightly CRM overview
Final Thoughts
As CRM needs evolve, the demand for agile and affordable platforms is increasing. Whether you’re seeking a CRM alternative to Zoho or a CRM alternative to HubSpot, solutions like Taskip, Freshsales, and Monday Sales CRM provide compelling benefits in 2025. Choose one that aligns with your team’s workflow, scalability goals, and budget.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Is HubSpot CRM really free?
Yes, but essential features like automation and advanced reporting are locked behind expensive paid tiers starting at $50/month.
What’s the best alternative to Zoho for a small business?
Taskip CRM offers all the core CRM features for small businesses, including automation, pipelines, and invoicing with a cleaner UI and flat pricing.
Can I switch from HubSpot or Zoho easily?
Yes. Most CRMs let you export contacts and import them into a new system (CSV format). Just make sure to map custom fields and tags.
Which CRM is easiest for non-technical users?
Taskip CRM and Capsule CRM are very beginner-friendly, requiring little to no setup time.
Which CRM alternative to HubSpot is most affordable?
For smaller teams, Taskip and Pipedrive offer competitive pricing with essential pipeline and contact management features, making them strong CRM alternatives to HubSpot options.
Can these alternatives handle marketing automation?
Yes, Agile CRM and Freshsales both include marketing workflows, lead scoring, and email automation comparable to HubSpot’s offerings.
Get Summary On: