In this post we are going to compare Salesforce for small businesses and Zoho CRM. These are two of the best CRM apps out there, so we will compare them in 4 different categories to see which one is the right for you and your business:
- User interface and ease of use
- Top features
- Integrations
- Pricing
User interface & Ease of use
- Outdated interface.
- Modules like campaigns, cases and quotes.
- Customizable home screen.
- The search bar is always visible.
- The Opportunities module is organized in a kanban view, and easy to use.
- The record page shows basic information, related record, activities.
- The settings page has more options than Zoho. But if you are not sure what you are looking for, it will take you some time to find the setting.
- Modern user interface in comparison with Salesforce.
- There are a lot of modules available besides the basics.
- Customizable home screen.
- Hidden search bar (when you start typing, the results start showing up).
- The Deals module looks very similar to the one in Salesforce.
- The record page has a super customizable layout.
- The settings menu has many options (you can always use the search bar to find what you are looking for).
Top features
- Has a lot of useful features.
- Automations.
- Customizable fields in the layout.
- Gmail add is available.
- Service console module (tickets management).
- Email marketing campaigns.
- Has a lot of good features out of the box.
- Customizable fields in the layout.
- Customizable modules through Canvas.
- Advanced workflows and automations. It is possible to trigger custom functions which expands your possibilities.
- Blueprints are available (to make sure your employees follow their process)
- The sandbox allows you to test your changes before deploying them to your live CRM.
Integrations
Salesforce AppExchange (with integrations and add-ons)
Integrates with Google Workspaces, Docusing, Asana, Formstac, Linkedin.
Most of the useful apps are paid (for example, Zapier).
Integrations or add-ons made by Salesforce.
- Marketplace available (with integrations and extensions).
- Integrates with Google or Microsoft Email, Calendar and Contacts, Zapier, Voice over IP phone systems.
- Most of the useful apps are free.
- Zoho products (Zoho Projects, Survey, Desk, Analytics, Webinar, Sign, Campaigns, Contracts).
Pricing
Salesforce
(Min 5 users)
Free version
Zoho CRM
Free version
Zoho One
+40 apps (Zoho CRM included)
$37/user/month
So, I recommend Zoho CRM if you need a high level of customization, and you have the time and resources to set up the customizations and automations. The support team is ok, but most of the time you will have to do the work by yourself. Also if you are on a budget, Zoho is the best option. And keep in mind that Zoho CRM is included in the Zoho One suite, with other 40 apps to run your business, so if you are interested I'll leave a link in the description.
