Zoho CRM is a cloud-based platform that helps businesses manage their sales pipeline, automate routine tasks, and engage customers across every channel. With a generous free tier and deep customisation options, it is a popular choice for SMBs and growing teams looking for a cost-effective Salesforce alternative.
Product Overview
Zoho CRM brings together contact management, pipeline tracking, marketing automation, and analytics in a single platform. Its AI assistant, Zia, surfaces deal insights, predicts win probability, and recommends the best time to contact a lead. Native integrations with the broader Zoho suite — including Zoho Desk, Zoho Campaigns, and Zoho Analytics — make it especially attractive for companies already invested in that ecosystem.
Key Features
- Zia AI Assistant: Predicts deal closure probability, flags anomalies, and suggests the optimal contact time.
- Omnichannel Engagement: Manage email, phone, live chat, social media, and web forms from one inbox.
- Pipeline Management: Multiple sales pipelines with drag-and-drop deal cards and customisable stages.
- Workflow Automation: Rule-based triggers automate follow-ups, field updates, and task assignments.
- Canvas Design Studio: Drag-and-drop CRM view builder — no code needed to reshape the UI.
Best For
SMBs and mid-market teams that want a feature-rich CRM at a lower price point than Salesforce or HubSpot, and companies already using other Zoho products.
Pricing
Free plan for up to 3 users. Paid plans start at $14/user/month (Standard) up to $52/user/month (Ultimate). Annual billing saves around 20 %.
Key Integrations
G Suite, Microsoft 365, Slack, Mailchimp, Zapier, Shopify, Zoho suite
Pros
- Very competitive pricing
- Highly customisable
- Strong mobile apps
- Broad Zoho ecosystem
Cons
- UI feels dated compared to modern CRMs
- Customer support response times can be slow
- Complex setup for advanced workflows
