Best Salesforce Alternatives (2026)
Salesforce is the world's #1 crm platform, starting at $25/mo. Here are the best alternatives — whether you need something cheaper, simpler, or with different features.
Why people switch from Salesforce
- →Very expensive
- →Steep learning curve
- →Requires dedicated admin
- →Implementation costs are high
All-in-one CRM, marketing, and sales platform
HubSpot
All-in-one CRM, marketing, and sales platform
HubSpot is a cloud-based CRM platform that helps businesses grow by aligning sales, marketing, and customer service teams. It offers a free CRM with optional paid hubs for Marketing, Sales, Service, and Operations.
Pipedrive
Sales CRM built by salespeople, for salespeople
Pipedrive is a sales-focused CRM designed to give sales teams clear visibility over their pipeline. Known for its intuitive drag-and-drop interface, activity-based selling methodology, and strong automation features.
Zoho CRM
Affordable CRM with deep customisation for growing businesses
Zoho CRM is a feature-rich, budget-friendly CRM platform that rivals Salesforce at a fraction of the cost. Part of the broader Zoho suite, it offers deep customisation, AI-powered insights, and tight integration with 40+ Zoho apps.
Close
CRM built for inside sales teams that call and email
Close is a sales CRM designed specifically for inside sales teams who rely on phone and email outreach. It has built-in calling, SMS, email sequences, and power dialler — no integrations required.
Salesforce vs alternatives: quick comparison
How to switch from Salesforce
- 1. Export your data first
Before cancelling, export everything from Salesforce — contacts, projects, records, or reports. Most tools offer a CSV export under Settings → Data Export. Download and store it as a backup even if you don't need it immediately.
- 2. Trial the alternative with a real project
HubSpot and Zoho CRM both offer free plans — sign up and run a live project in parallel before committing. Most paid alternatives also offer 14–30 day trials.
- 3. Import and run both tools briefly
Use the import wizard in your chosen alternative to bring across your exported data. Run both tools in parallel for 2–4 weeks so your team can adapt without losing continuity. Most migrations take less than a day for small teams.
- 4. Cancel before the next billing cycle
Cancel Salesforce before renewal to avoid being charged for another month or year. Check whether you're on a monthly or annual plan — annual plans often have no mid-cycle refunds. Keep your final data export on file.
Our verdict
If you are switching from Salesforce, HubSpot is our top pick — all-in-one crm, marketing, and sales platform, with a G2 score of 4.4/5. For a free option, HubSpot is worth considering. Use the comparison links above to do a side-by-side before committing.
Salesforce alternatives: frequently asked questions
What is the best alternative to Salesforce?
HubSpot is our top-ranked alternative. It starts at $15/mo with a free plan and scores 4.4/5 on G2.
Is there a free alternative to Salesforce?
Yes — HubSpot, Zoho CRM all offer free plans.
What is the cheapest alternative to Salesforce?
Pipedrive is among the most affordable at $14/mo.
Not sure which tool to pick?
See a detailed breakdown of Salesforce pricing before you decide.
See Salesforce pricing →