The Best CRM For Small Business – 10 CRMs Compared And Tested

You’re running a small business and ready to take it to the next level. The secret to scaling your operations without losing your personal touch? It’s all about customer relationship management (CRM).

In 2023, the choice of CRM systems for small businesses is more varied than ever. With the right one, you’ll unlock powerful tools to manage customer interactions, streamline processes, and boost sales. But with so many on the market, how do you choose the one that’s right for you?

That’s where we come in. This article guides you through the ten best CRM systems for small businesses in 2023, helping you pick the perfect tool to fuel your growth.

Let’s get started.

What Is The Best CRM For Small Business?

In the UK, small businesses like yours have a variety of CRM systems that can help you manage your customer relationships seamlessly.

With its easy-to-use interface and robust features, HubSpot CRM is a top choice, while monday.com stands out for its project management capabilities.

But don’t stop there; consider Zoho CRM for its comprehensive tools, Zendesk for its strong customer support functions, and Salesforce for its scalability and in-depth analytics.

1. HubSpot

Are you wondering what type of small business HubSpot is best suited for? As a small business owner, it’s essential to know that HubSpot’s CRM solution is designed to fit various industries. This includes marketing, sales, customer service, and operations.

HubSpot’s CRM solution is versatile and can be customised to meet the specific needs of your business. It offers a range of plans that can cater to your budget, scaling as your business grows.

With HubSpot, you can streamline your sales process, track customer interactions, and manage your pipeline effectively. It also provides robust reporting and analytics tools to help you make data-driven decisions.

Additionally, HubSpot CRM integrates seamlessly with other HubSpot tools, such as marketing automation and customer service software, creating a unified platform for all your business needs.

In conclusion, HubSpot is a great choice for small businesses in various industries. Its flexibility, affordability, and comprehensive features make it a valuable asset for any growing business.

Who is HubSpot best suited for?

HubSpot’s CRM system is ideally suited for small businesses focusing on inbound marketing strategies. This makes it a top choice for companies looking to streamline their sales and marketing efforts. Whether you’re a startup, a growing e-commerce brand, or a service-based business, HubSpot’s comprehensive features can help you manage customer relationships, track leads, and analyse data effectively.

It’s a great choice if you’re serious about boosting your marketing game.

Pricing

Navigating the world of HubSpot pricing feels like unearthing a treasure chest of cost-effective solutions. These solutions are designed to elevate your marketing endeavours without breaking the bank.

HubSpot offers plans starting at £17 per month for the Starter Growth Suite. This ensures that you’re covered on all fronts of CRM.

You can easily upgrade to their Professional or Enterprise suites as your business grows. These suites are tailored to your evolving needs.

2. Monday

Are you running a project-based small business and searching for a suitable CRM?

Then Monday.com might be just the ticket for you. This platform offers tiered pricing to suit businesses of various sizes, ensuring you only pay for the features you need.

Who is Monday best suited for?

Imagine the growth and success your small business could achieve with monday.com. This CRM system is designed to streamline communication and collaboration, making it perfect for businesses prioritising task management and team collaboration. It’s particularly well-suited for project-based or team-oriented businesses. Whether you’re in marketing, software development, or any industry requiring efficient project management, monday.com’s intuitive interface and powerful features can significantly boost your team’s productivity.

Pricing

Let’s dive into the cost aspect, shall we?

monday.com’s pricing is diverse, offering various plans to fit different needs and budgets. This makes it a flexible and affordable solution for businesses of all sizes.

Monthly plans start at €30 per user, scaling to more tailored enterprise-grade solutions.

So, whether you’re a startup or an expanding venture, monday.com has got you covered.

3. Zoho CRM

Are you running a small to midsize business looking for an affordable yet power-packed CRM system? Zoho CRM could be the perfect fit for you.

Not only is it known for its competitive pricing, but it’s also designed with diverse features that cater to businesses like yours, making it a worthwhile investment.

Who is Zoho best suited for?

Zoho CRM could be your dream partner for a tech-savvy, customer-focused small business. It offers an intuitive interface and powerful features that can revolutionise customer management.

Zoho CRM is especially well-suited for tech, retail, and service businesses.

With its robust analytics and automation capabilities, Zoho CRM can help you streamline your operations, boost sales productivity, and enhance customer satisfaction.

Zoho pricing

Having explored which businesses benefit most from Zoho CRM, let’s delve into its pricing.

Zoho CRM offers varied plans to fit your budget. The free version supports up to three users, perfect for micro businesses.

For more features, consider the Standard, Professional, or Enterprise plans, ranging from €14 to €40 per user monthly.

There’s also an Ultimate plan at €52 per user, loaded with advanced features.

4. Zendesk

Are you wondering if Zendesk Service is the right fit for your small business?

This platform best suits businesses needing a robust customer service solution that can streamline communication and improve customer engagement.

When considering Zendesk, you’ll find various pricing options designed to accommodate varying business sizes and needs, ensuring you get the functionality you require without breaking the bank.

Who is Zendesk best suited for?

You’ll find that Zendesk Service shines brightest for small businesses in the tech industry, where customer support is key to maintaining a devoted client base.

It’s also an excellent fit for any business prioritising online sales and customer service.

With its robust ticketing system and efficient communication channels, Zendesk aids in delivering top-notch service, boosting customer satisfaction and driving business growth.

Zendesk pricing

Investing in Zendesk might seem overwhelming initially, but it’s important to remember that its value lies in the time and hassle it saves you.

Pricing depends on your chosen plan and starts at £45 per agent per month. There are options to suit everyone, from startups to large corporations.

Research and pick the right one for your business size and needs.

5. Salesforce

Are you considering Salesforce for your small business? It’s a top-notch choice for businesses focusing on e-commerce, sales, service, and marketing.

Don’t worry about the cost – Salesforce pricing is flexible, with various plans to suit different budgets, ensuring you get real value.

Who is Salesforce best suited for?

Salesforce’s versatility makes it a fantastic choice for various small businesses. Particularly those that prioritise customer relationship management and require robust analytics. If your company needs a CRM that can grow with you, offer sophisticated reporting, and integrate with countless apps, Salesforce is ideal.

It’s particularly well-suited for service-based or tech-centric businesses seeking to improve customer engagement.

Salesforce pricing

Now that we’ve determined Salesforce is a suitable CRM for various small businesses let’s talk about cost.

Salesforce offers different packages tailored to meet diverse needs. The Essentials plan starts at £20/user/month, billed annually.

The Professional plan costs £60/user/month for more advanced features.

Remember, the right CRM isn’t just about price but also about the value it brings to your business.

6. Freshsales

Are you running a small business that requires a strong B2B customer relationship management system? Freshsales Suite might be your best option.

It’s affordable, with plans starting at just $15 per user per month, but it’s also ideal for businesses that rely heavily on email and phone communication. Freshsales Suite offers built-in phone and email features, AI-based lead scoring, and visual deal pipelines.

Who is Freshsales best suited for?

If you’re running a small business that heavily relies on email marketing and lead management, then Freshsales Suite is your optimal choice.

This CRM system is ideal for small to medium-sized businesses with a sales-driven focus.

Its powerful AI-based lead scoring, email tracking, and comprehensive analytics make it a great fit for businesses seeking to streamline their sales processes and enhance customer relationships.

Pricing

You’re probably wondering about the cost of Freshsales. They offer four plans: Growth, Pro, Enterprise, and a free version.

The Growth plan is $15/user/month, Pro is $39/user/month, and Enterprise is $69/user/month. Each comes with varying features, so you can choose what’s right for your business.

And if you’re not sure, take advantage of their 21-day free trial to test the waters.

7. Pipedrive

Are you looking for a CRM that caters to your sales-driven small business? Pipedrive could be your top pick.

With a pricing model that’s friendly to small businesses, it’s designed to streamline your sales processes, helping you to drive more conversions without breaking the bank.

Who is Pipedrive best suited for?

Are you looking to streamline your sales process and customer relationship management? Pipedrive might be the perfect fit if your small business operates in sales, real estate, or any field that relies heavily on lead generation and follow-ups.

It’s especially useful if you’re dealing with complex sales processes. This CRM system lets you easily track and manage leads, ensuring no potential sale slips through the cracks.

Pipedrive pricing

Are you wondering about the cost? Let’s dive into the different pricing tiers Pipedrive offers to fit your budget and needs.

They offer four plans: Essential, Advanced, Professional, and Enterprise. Prices range from €14.90 to € 99.00 per user per month.

Each plan includes unique features tailored to different business needs. You can try any plan free for 14 days, so you’re sure to find one that works for you.

8. Microsoft Dynamics 365

Are you running a small business that requires a strong integration with other Microsoft products? If so, Dynamics 365 might be an ideal fit for your business.

This CRM system is not only highly customisable to suit your specific needs, but it also offers various pricing options. This makes it a cost-effective solution for managing your customer relationships.

Who is MS Dynamic 365 best suited for?

If you’re running a service-based or sales-driven small business, MS Dynamics 365 could be your game-changer. It effortlessly streamlines your tasks and drives your sales through the roof.

It’s ideal for businesses that must manage customer relationships and track sales leads.

The system’s versatility also suits those seeking to integrate operations across multiple departments. This gives you a holistic view of your business.

Microsoft Dynamics 365 pricing

Ready to invest in Dynamics 365 but need to know the financial implications? Let’s dive into the pricing details to help you make an informed decision.

The cost depends on the specific modules and the number of users you need. For small businesses, the price starts at £53.40 per user per month for the basics, but it can increase significantly with additional features.

9. Insightly

Are you looking to supercharge your small business operations with a robust CRM system? Insightly might be the perfect fit, especially if you’re running a B2B or B2C business in sales, marketing, manufacturing, or non-profit sectors.

With its competitive pricing, Insightly offers an excellent balance of cost and functionality. I am making it a worthy contender for the best CRM systems for small businesses in 2023.

Who is Insightly best suited for?

You’ll love Insightly if you’re running a small to mid-sized business that relies heavily on relationship management, project management, and detailed reporting. It’s perfect if your venture involves sales, customer service, or marketing.

Insightly’s robust features, like contact management, pipeline management, and advanced analytics, make it an excellent choice for businesses that must keep close tabs on client interactions and project progress.

Insightly pricing

Navigating Insightly’s pricing structure is like exploring a well-designed roadmap with clear paths for businesses of varying sizes and budgets.

You’ll find plans starting from $29 per user per month, going up to $99 for more advanced features.

There’s even a free plan for startups.

You can adjust your plan as your business grows, ensuring you always get the best value.

10. Streak

Are you running a small business heavily reliant on Gmail for your day-to-day communications? Streak could be the CRM system for you.

It’s directly integrated into Gmail, and its pricing is flexible, with a free basic plan and more comprehensive tiers available, making it a cost-effective choice for businesses of any size.

Who is Streak best suited for?

Streak could be your dream CRM system if you’re running a startup or a small business primarily using Gmail. It brings all your workflow into your inbox, making it ideal for businesses relying heavily on email communication.

Streak is perfect for freelancers, small marketing agencies, and sales teams. Its integration with Gmail makes it a powerful tool for managing customer relationships and tracking sales leads.

Streak pricing

Understanding Streak’s pricing structure is crucial for budget-conscious entrepreneurs who want to optimise every dollar spent on email management tools.

You’ll be happy to know that Streak offers a free basic plan. Its paid plans start from $15 per user/month, going up to $129 for its enterprise package.

Each tier offers more features, but assess which ones are necessary for your business’s success.

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the benefits of using a CRM for a small business?

A CRM system doesn’t just help manage customer relationships; it’s a game-changer. It helps you keep track of customer interactions and transactions, providing valuable insights into customer preferences.

With a CRM, you can personalise your offerings and marketing strategies, making your customers feel valued. It can also automate tedious tasks, freeing up your time for what truly matters – growing your business. Plus, it provides robust data analytics to help you make informed decisions.

Remember, a happy customer is loyal, and CRM helps you foster that loyalty. So, don’t delay; invest in a CRM system and see your business flourish.

Factors to Consider

When choosing the right Customer Relationship Management (CRM) system for your business, it’s vital to consider a few key factors.

Think about the price and fees, the system’s user-friendliness, ability to integrate with third-party apps, security features, and any Artificial Intelligence (AI) features it may offer.

These aspects will help you invest in a CRM system that fits your business needs and budget.

Price and Fees

You’re probably wondering about the cost of these CRM systems for your small business, aren’t you?

It’s crucial to understand that the price range can vary significantly. Some providers offer basic packages for as low as $10 per user per month, while others may charge hundreds of dollars for more advanced features.

Don’t forget to consider the hidden fees too. Some CRM systems might have setup fees, data migration costs, or charges for extra storage. You should also check if the cost grows as you add more users or if there’s a discount for yearly payments.

Remember, it’s not about finding the cheapest CRM but offering the best value for your investment. Don’t compromise functionality for cost.

User-Friendliness & Interface

When considering a solution, it is important to prioritise user-friendliness. An intuitive interface and easy-to-use features can significantly reduce the time and effort needed to train your team.

You would want a CRM system with straightforward navigation, clear instructions, and simple data entry. It should also provide easy access to customer information and a smooth process for tracking interactions and following up on leads.

Look for a CRM that integrates well with your existing software, like email and calendar apps, to streamline your workflow. A CRM with robust customer support can also be a lifesaver when facing technical issues.

Remember, user-friendliness can directly impact productivity, so choose wisely. Your small business can’t afford to waste time on a complicated CRM.

Integrations with Third-Party Apps

Seamless integration with third-party applications is like a superhighway, speeding up the flow of information and improving the efficiency of your daily operations. When choosing a CRM system for your small business in 2023, consider how well it integrates with the apps you use daily.

The best CRM systems should effortlessly sync with your email marketing software, accounting tools, project management apps, and social media platforms.

Imagine having customer data from your email campaigns automatically updated in your CRM or invoices generated in your accounting software reflecting in the customer’s profile. This level of integration saves you time and ensures the accuracy and consistency of data across all platforms.

So, don’t overlook third-party integrations when picking your CRM tool.

Security Features

When choosing a customer relationship management tool, it is crucial to prioritise robust security features. As a small business owner, you protect sensitive customer data. In 2023, top CRM systems will offer advanced security measures to ensure the safety of your data.

Look for key security features such as data encryption, two-factor authentication, and user access controls. Data encryption ensures that unauthorised users cannot read the information stored in your CRM system. Two-factor authentication adds an extra layer of security by requiring users to provide two forms of identification before gaining access to the system. This reduces the risk of data breaches. User access controls allow you to assign specific roles and permissions, limiting access to certain data.

When selecting a CRM system in 2023, prioritise these security measures. They will help safeguard your sensitive customer data and provide peace of mind for your business.

Artificial Intelligence (AI) Features

In 2023, AI features are becoming increasingly indispensable in customer relationship management tools. They act like tireless, intelligent assistants that never sleep. They can analyse vast amounts of data, forecast trends, and personalise customer interactions to a degree you can’t achieve manually.

AI in CRM can help automate repetitive tasks, freeing up your time to focus on strategic initiatives. For instance, AI can handle customer inquiries, schedule follow-ups, and predict customer behaviour.

And if you think AI is only for big corporations, think again. Small business CRM systems now offer AI features that are affordable and easy to use.

So, don’t be left behind. Embrace AI and let it transform how you manage customer relationships in your small business.

Scalability and Flexibility Options

As your venture grows and evolves, you’ll appreciate the importance of having scalability and flexibility options at your fingertips. For your small business to thrive in 2023, you need a CRM system that can easily adapt to your changing needs. You don’t want to be stuck with a system that can’t keep up with your growth.

Look for CRM systems that offer scalable plans and flexible features. These systems can expand their capacity as your customer base grows and adjust their functionality to match your evolving business processes. They’ll also allow you to integrate with other software as your tech stack expands easily.

Choosing a scalable and flexible CRM’ll set your small business up for success. With the right system, you’ll be ready to take on whatever 2023 throws at you.

Support Services Offered by the Provider

Choosing the right platform for your venture isn’t just about the features it offers but also about the level of support, you can expect from the provider. Top-tier CRM providers for small businesses in 2023 should offer comprehensive support services.

These support services should include reliable customer service, easy-to-access tutorials, and a robust knowledge base. Imagine facing a technical issue or unsure how to use a specific feature. Prompt and effective support can be a lifesaver.

CRM providers should offer various support channels like email, live chat, or phone. They should also provide resources for self-help, like FAQs, video tutorials, and user guides. This way, you can easily resolve minor issues independently, saving time and hassle.

Always consider the support services when choosing a CRM for your small business.

Why is CRM important for small businesses?

A CRM system can be a game-changer for your small business. It helps you maintain customer relationships, streamline processes, and improve profitability. It’s more than just a tool; it’s a strategic element that can help you stay ahead of the competition and grow your business.

A CRM system helps you manage customer data effectively. You can track interactions, sales, and other important metrics to understand your customer’s journey clearly. This information can be used to improve customer service, make informed decisions, and plan future marketing strategies.

Moreover, a CRM system can help improve team collaboration. All customer-related information is stored in one place, making it easier for everyone in your business to access and use. This can increase efficiency and ensure that everyone is on the same page.

Most importantly, a CRM system can help you build stronger customer relationships. By understanding their needs and preferences, you can tailor your products and services to meet their expectations, increasing customer satisfaction and loyalty. So, a CRM system is not just a tool; it’s an investment in your business’s future success.

Final Words

In conclusion, it’s undeniable that leveraging a customer relationship management tool can revolutionise the way you interact with customers, manage leads, and streamline your sales process, thereby propelling your venture toward greater success.

As a small business owner, the right CRM system can be a game-changer. It not only enhances your customer service, but it also drives strategic decisions, increases revenue, and saves time and resources.

Remember, the needs of every small business vary. So, choose a CRM system that suits your business needs and budget. Whether it’s Salesforce for its comprehensive offerings, Zoho for its affordability, or HubSpot for its user-friendly interface, there’s a CRM system that’s perfect for your business.

The future of small businesses in 2023 looks bright with the right CRM system in place. You’ll have a clearer view of your customers, better control over your sales process, and more time to focus on growth strategies.

So take the leap into the digital age of customer management and experience the transformative difference it can make for your business.

Now, you’ve explored the best CRM systems for your small business. Remember, the right CRM tool can be a game-changer. It can streamline your operations, improve customer relations, and boost your bottom line.

But choose wisely, considering your unique needs. With the right CRM, your small business can soar to new heights.

Now, it’s your turn to make the move and harness the power of CRM. Let’s get your business booming!