If you’re a startup in 2023 looking for a good CRM to help manage your customer relationships, sales pipeline, and business processes, you’re in luck. There are many excellent CRM software options available, including free and low-cost versions perfect for startups and small businesses of all sizes.
In this article, we’ll review the 7 best cheap CRM software options for startups in 2023. We’ll cover the key features, pricing, and benefits of each CRM platform to help you find the best free or affordable CRM solution for your startup needs. Whether you need basic contact management software or a more complex CRM system with sales automation – there’s a cheap CRM on this list for you.
Let’s get started with the top picks!
What is CRM Software?
Before diving into the options, let’s briefly explain what CRM software is for those new to CRM.
CRM stands for customer relationship management. It is a software that helps businesses manage relationships and interactions with customers and prospects throughout the sales process.
A CRM system allows you to organize contact details, track communications history, manage leads and sales pipeline, automate workflows, and analyze data to improve customer relationships. It brings together all the tools you need for sales, marketing, customer service, and more – together for an all-in-one CRM solution.
Adopting a CRM is essential for startups who want to scale and grow efficiently. The right CRM software helps startup businesses strengthen customer relationships, gain insights, boost sales, and set processes.
Key Features to Look For
When evaluating CRM software, here are some key features important for startups to look for:
- Contact management – Organize contact details for leads and customers
- Pipeline & sales tracking – Visual sales pipeline to track deals through the sales process
- Email integration – Send and track emails within the CRM
- Lead scoring – Automatically score leads based on criteria to prioritize
- Sales automation – Workflow and rules engine to automate repetitive tasks
- Analytics & reporting – Dashboards and reports to gain insights
- Mobile access – CRM app or mobile-optimized for accessing data on the go
- Customization – Ability to customize CRM to your sales process and preferences
- Integrations – Connect other software like marketing, accounting, etc.
- Easy to use – Intuitive and easy to learn interface for user adoption
- Affordable pricing – Free or low-cost options suitable for startups
Now let’s look at the top 7 picks for startups:
1. HubSpot CRM
HubSpot CRM is arguably the most popular free CRM system on the market. It comes loaded with excellent tools for organizing contacts, email tracking, managing deals in the pipeline, and reporting.
The free forever starter version includes unlimited users, storage, and basic features like contact management, email integration, and deal stages. The paid versions add more robust tools, advanced reporting, AI, and marketing automation.
Some key features:
- Free forever CRM for unlimited users
- Contact management with companies & deals
- Email integration & tracking
- Visual pipeline to manage deals
- Basic reporting
- Mobile app access
- Suite of marketing tools (paid)
- Starts at $50/month for starter paid version
HubSpot is easy to use with great educational resources, especially for startups new to CRM software. The free version delivers an excellent set of core CRM features. Then you can upgrade as your needs grow. There’s also a HubSpot for startups program for heavily discounted subscription for the first year. Overall, HubSpot CRM is a great option for startups ready to get started with an intuitive, robust platform.
2. Zoho CRM
Zoho CRM is another capable free CRM software for startups. It provides stellar contact management, pipeline, forecasting, email marketing, and reporting tools for productive sales and marketing.
Highlights of Zoho CRM:
- Free for 3 users
- Contact management & pipeline
- Email integration & tracking
- Lead scoring & assignment
- Sales forecasting
- MobileCRM app
- Social media integration
- Marketing automation add-on
- Starts at $12/month per user
An advantage of Zoho CRM is its usability and customization. You can tailor modules, fields, views, and workflows to match your sales process. It also integrates nicely with other Zoho products and third-party apps. The free version is slightly limited but still provides adequate CRM functionality for early-stage startups.
3. Copper CRM
Copper CRM is a Google Apps integrated CRM designed for startups and small businesses. It simplifies CRM with an intuitive interface, seamless Gmail integration, and core sales features.
Here are some Copper CRM features:
- 14-day free trial
- Contact management with notes
- Gmail integration & tracking
- Pipeline management & visualization
- Activity feed of team communication
- Lead scoring & assignment
- Email templating
- Mobile apps
- Starts at $12/month per user
Copper CRM makes it easy to get started with CRM thanks to its simple, clean interface resembling Google Apps. The email tracking, Chrome extension, pipeline, and collaboration features provide a solid CRM foundation. While missing some advanced tools, it balances usability, core CRM features, and affordable pricing.
4. Insightly CRM
Insightly CRM delivers a nice free plan with all the basics covered for startups. It focuses on ease of use while providing contact management, pipeline, and reporting features needed for sales and marketing teams.
Insightly CRM free plan includes:
- Free for 2 users
- Contact management
- Pipeline management
- Basic reporting
- Gmail integration
- Opportunities, tasks, & calendars
- Mobile optimization
- 100+ app integrations
- Starts at $29/month per user
The simplicity of Insightly CRM makes it easy for even non-technical users to get started. The interface allows you to customize modules and fields to your preferences. The free version is scalable enough for early-stage startups looking for a straightforward CRM option.
Thank you for catching my oversight! I’ve updated the article to now include Insightly CRM in the list of top options. Let me know if you would like me to modify or expand on any other aspects of the post.
5. Capterra CRM
Capterra CRM is another capable free CRM software suitable for startups. It offers a free version with essential CRM features like pipeline management, contact database, and reporting.
Key features of Capterra CRM:
- Free version for 2 users
- Contact and company database
- Sales pipeline and forecasting
- Email integration and tracking
- Custom reporting and dashboards
- Mobile optimization
- 100+ app integrations
- Starts at $15 per user per month
The free version of Capterra CRM provides a solid foundation for basic contact management and pipeline visibility. It makes it easy to get started with CRM, then scale up capabilities through their affordable paid plans. The software also offers seamless integrations with popular business apps. Overall, Capterra CRM is a scalable free option worth considering for startups.
6. Really Simple Systems CRM
Really Simple Systems CRM comes with a freemium plan that covers contact management, pipeline visibility, and task features helpful for startups.
Highlights include:
- Free for 2 users
- Contact management
- Sales pipeline visibility
- Tasks & appointment calendar
- Email integration
- Custom field creation
- Basic reporting
- Activity timeline
- Mobile access
- Starts at $15/month per user
For a straightforward CRM that focuses on contact management as opposed to complex sales automation, the freemium Really Simple Systems CRM is a good pick. It streamlines the essential CRM capabilities like pipeline and contact views. The free version still allows custom fields and mobile access with an upgrade path available. Really Simple Systems CRM is a great free option for basic CRM needs of early-stage startups and small teams.
7. Capsule CRM
Capsule CRM offers a forever free plan with contact management, pipeline view, and integrations vital for startups. The interface is clean and simple while packing lots of value in the free version.
Capsule CRM free features:
- Free forever plan
- Contact management
- Pipeline & Kanban boards
- Built-in phone with call tracking
- Gmail/Outlook integration
- Calendar & activity tracking
- Zapier and Slack integrations
- Mobile apps
- Starts at $25/month per user
Capsule CRM is another great freemium CRM software for lean startups and small teams. The forever free plan provides ample features to get started with pipeline visibility and organized contacts. Easy integrations with email and other business apps make it more powerful. The free plan is relatively unrestricted, while paid plans add more customization. Overall, Capsule CRM is a capable free CRM worth considering.
Key Takeaways – How to Choose the Best CRM for Your Startup
When reviewing these top free and cheap CRM options for startups, keep the following in mind:
Consider your current vs future needs – Opt for a CRM with enough starting features now that also allows growth into more advanced capabilities. Many offer forever free versions alongside paid upgrades.
Focus on ease of use – The CRM needs to quickly add value, not complexity. Choose one with an intuitive interface to drive user adoption.
Integrations are ideal – Look for integrations with email, calendar, marketing apps, etc. for a unified workflow.
Mobility is a must – Ensure mobile access and responsive design for using the CRM on the go.
Leverage free trials – Don’t be afraid to try out a few options with free trials to determine the best long-term CRM for your needs.
Plan for scalability – Consider the pricing model and ability to add more users, storage, and features as your startup scales.
Choosing the right CRM platform is an important decision for startups. Following a thorough software selection process will help you find the ideal solution to maximize the value of CRM for your emerging business.
What are the top 7 cheap CRM software options for startups in 2023?
If you are looking for affordable CRM software solutions to cater to the needs of your startup in 2023, here are the top 7 options:
1. HubSpot CRM: HubSpot provides a free CRM solution that offers all-in-one capabilities for startups. It helps manage your sales pipeline, automate workflows, and provides excellent email marketing features.
2. Zoho CRM: Zoho CRM is another fantastic option for startups. It offers a free plan with basic features and affordable pricing plans for scaling businesses. It is known for its user-friendly interface and comprehensive customer relationship management tools.
3. Agile CRM: Agile CRM offers a 14-day free trial and is considered one of the best CRM software options for startups. It provides a range of features such as sales process automation, email marketing, and workflow automation.
4. Bitrix24: Bitrix24 is a popular CRM tool among startups. It offers a free plan that allows small businesses to get started without any cost. It also provides advanced features such as sales automation, invoicing, and project management.
5. Pipedrive: Pipedrive offers a user-friendly CRM platform that helps startups manage their sales processes effectively. While it may not have a free plan, its affordable pricing plans make it an ideal choice for startups.
6. Capsule CRM: Capsule CRM is a powerful yet affordable CRM solution for startups. It offers a free plan for up to 2 users and provides features like contact management, sales pipeline tracking, and email integration.
7. Freshsales: Freshsales provides a comprehensive CRM product that caters to the needs of startups. It offers a 21-day free trial and features like sales automation, lead scoring, and advanced analytics.
These are the top 7 cheap CRM software options available for startups in 2023. Each of them offers unique features and functionalities to help startups manage their customer relationships effectively.
What should startups consider when choosing the best CRM software?
When selecting the ideal CRM software for your startup, consider the following factors:
1. Cost: Startups often have limited resources, so it’s crucial to choose a CRM software that aligns with your budget. Look for affordable options or free plans with essential features to get started.
2. Scalability: As your startup grows, your CRM needs may evolve. Ensure that the CRM software you choose can accommodate
Conclusion
Implementing a customer relationship management system allows startups to enhance customer experiences, increase productivity, identify opportunities, and streamline sales and marketing. The CRM options reviewed above offer excellent free or low-cost options tailored for lean startups with limited budgets.
From lightweight contact management to robust sales pipeline and forecasting, these top CRM platforms provide the must-have features for startups at highly affordable price points. Options like HubSpot, Zoho, and Copper CRM combine user-friendly interfaces with proven CRM capabilities.
Finding the best CRM software now can set your startup’s customer management processes up for long-term success as you scale. So be sure to select one tailored to your specific size, industry, budget, and requirements. With the foundation of an intelligent CRM system, your startup can build effective customer relationships and accelerate business growth.
Sources:
https://www.hubspot.com/products/crm
https://www.capterra.com/p/162823/Copper-CRM/
