Looking for the best CRM software for small business with free plan? You’re not alone. Thousands of entrepreneurs want powerful tools without breaking the bank — and yes, they exist.
Why the Best CRM Software for Small Business with Free Plan Matters
For small businesses, every dollar counts. Investing in customer relationship management (CRM) software can seem like a luxury, but it’s actually a necessity for growth. The right CRM helps you track leads, manage customer interactions, and streamline sales processes — all critical for scaling efficiently.
But here’s the good news: you don’t need a big budget to get started. Many top-tier CRM platforms offer robust free plans that are more than capable of handling the needs of startups and small teams. These aren’t watered-down versions; they’re full-featured systems designed to grow with your business.
According to Salesforce’s State of Sales Report, high-performing sales teams are 2.2x more likely to use CRM tools. That’s not a coincidence — it’s proof that automation and organization lead to results.
What Is a CRM and Why Do You Need One?
A CRM (Customer Relationship Management) system is software that helps businesses manage all interactions with current and potential customers. It acts as a centralized hub for contact information, sales data, communication history, and customer support tickets.
best CRM software for small business with free plan – Best CRM software for small business with free plan menjadi aspek penting yang dibahas di sini.
For small businesses, a CRM eliminates the chaos of scattered spreadsheets, lost emails, and forgotten follow-ups. It gives you visibility into your sales pipeline, improves team collaboration, and enhances customer service.
- Tracks every customer interaction across email, phone, and social media
- Automates repetitive tasks like follow-up emails and data entry
- Provides insights through reports and dashboards
- Helps forecast sales and set realistic goals
“A CRM isn’t just a tool — it’s a strategy for building stronger customer relationships.” — HubSpot Blog
Benefits of Using Free CRM Software for Small Businesses
Free CRM software isn’t just about saving money. It’s about accessibility, scalability, and testing before committing.
Many free plans come with core features that are sufficient for solopreneurs or teams under 10 people. You can onboard your team, import contacts, and start automating workflows without spending a dime.
- Zero upfront cost: Test the platform risk-free before upgrading
- Easy onboarding: Most free CRMs have intuitive interfaces and quick setup
- Scalability: Start free, then upgrade when your team or data grows
- Integration readiness: Many free CRMs connect with email, calendars, and marketing tools
Platforms like Zoho CRM, HubSpot CRM, and Freshsales offer free tiers that include lead and deal management, contact databases, and basic automation — everything a small business needs to get organized.
Top 7 Best CRM Software for Small Business with Free Plan
After extensive research, testing, and user feedback analysis, we’ve compiled a list of the 7 best CRM software for small business with free plan. These platforms stand out for their usability, feature depth, integration options, and long-term value.
best CRM software for small business with free plan – Best CRM software for small business with free plan menjadi aspek penting yang dibahas di sini.
Each tool on this list has been evaluated based on:
- Feature set in the free plan
- User interface and ease of use
- Mobile accessibility
- Integration with other business tools
- Customer support and documentation
- Upgrade path and pricing transparency
Let’s dive into the top contenders.
1. HubSpot CRM
HubSpot CRM is widely regarded as the gold standard for free CRM software. It’s not just free — it’s powerful, intuitive, and packed with features that rival paid platforms.
The free plan includes unlimited contacts, deals, and users, making it ideal for growing teams. You also get email tracking, meeting scheduling, live chat, and a deals pipeline. Plus, HubSpot integrates seamlessly with Gmail and Outlook, so you can manage everything from your inbox.
- Unlimited users, contacts, and deals
- Email tracking and templates
- Meeting scheduler and live chat
- Mobile app for iOS and Android
- Integration with Gmail, Outlook, Slack, and more
One standout feature is the HubSpot Sales Hub Free, which allows you to track email opens, automate follow-ups, and log calls directly from your browser. This level of functionality for $0 is unmatched.
best CRM software for small business with free plan – Best CRM software for small business with free plan menjadi aspek penting yang dibahas di sini.
According to HubSpot’s official site, over 165,000 companies use their free CRM, proving its reliability and scalability.
“HubSpot CRM is the only free tool I’ve seen that doesn’t feel limited. It’s like getting a premium product for free.” — Small Business Owner, Tech Startup
2. Zoho CRM
Zoho CRM offers one of the most comprehensive free plans for small businesses. The Free edition supports up to 3 users and includes essential features like lead and contact management, deal tracking, task automation, and email integration.
What sets Zoho apart is its AI-powered assistant, Zia. Even in the free plan, you get basic AI insights like lead scoring and follow-up reminders. While advanced AI features require a paid plan, the foundation is there.
- Up to 3 users free
- Lead, contact, and deal management
- Workflow automation (limited to 3 rules)
- Gmail and Outlook integration
- Mobile apps with offline access
Zoho also offers a vast ecosystem of apps — Zoho Books, Zoho Campaigns, Zoho Desk — which can be integrated as your business grows. This makes Zoho a future-proof choice.
For businesses planning to scale, Zoho’s upgrade path is smooth and cost-effective. You can move to the Standard plan for $14/user/month and unlock advanced automation, webforms, and reporting.
best CRM software for small business with free plan – Best CRM software for small business with free plan menjadi aspek penting yang dibahas di sini.
Learn more at Zoho CRM’s official website.
3. Freshsales (by Freshworks)
Freshsales is a user-friendly CRM designed for sales teams that want speed and simplicity. Its free plan, called Freshsales Free, supports up to 10 users and includes unlimited contacts, deals, and phone calls.
One of the biggest advantages of Freshsales is its built-in phone system. You can make and receive calls directly from the CRM, and it automatically logs call details and durations. This is a rare feature in free CRMs.
- Up to 10 users free
- Unlimited contacts and deals
- Free phone calling (VoIP) within the US and Canada
- Email tracking and cadences
- Visual deal pipeline and task management
Freshsales also offers AI-based lead scoring and activity capture, helping you prioritize high-value prospects. The interface is clean and modern, making it easy for new users to adopt.
As your business grows, you can upgrade to the Growth plan ($15/user/month) for advanced automation, custom modules, and reporting.
best CRM software for small business with free plan – Best CRM software for small business with free plan menjadi aspek penting yang dibahas di sini.
Visit Freshsales CRM to explore its full capabilities.
Best CRM Software for Small Business with Free Plan: Hidden Gems
Beyond the well-known names, there are several underrated CRM platforms that offer exceptional value for small businesses. These tools may not have the biggest marketing budgets, but they deliver where it counts: functionality, ease of use, and long-term support.
Let’s explore three lesser-known but highly effective options.
4. Bitrix24
Bitrix24 is a full-suite collaboration platform that includes CRM, project management, communication tools, and file storage. Its free plan supports up to 12 users and is one of the most feature-rich options available at no cost.
The CRM module includes lead and deal tracking, contact management, task automation, and a visual pipeline. You also get telephony, email integration, and a built-in calendar.
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- Up to 12 users free
- Unlimited contacts and deals
- Free VoIP calls (within the network)
- Task and project management
- Document storage (5 GB)
- Live chat and customer support tools
What makes Bitrix24 unique is its all-in-one approach. You don’t need separate tools for CRM, team chat, and task management — it’s all in one place. This reduces app fatigue and improves productivity.
However, the interface can feel cluttered at first. It takes time to navigate all the features, but once set up, it’s incredibly powerful.
Explore Bitrix24 at bitrix24.com.
“Bitrix24 is like getting a full office suite for free. It’s not just a CRM — it’s a business operating system.” — Remote Team Manager
5. Agile CRM
Agile CRM combines CRM, marketing automation, and helpdesk functionality in a single platform. The free plan supports up to 10 users and includes a robust set of tools for small businesses.
You get contact management, deal tracking, task automation, email marketing, and even a website visitor tracker. The visitor tracker shows you which companies are visiting your site — a powerful tool for lead generation.
best CRM software for small business with free plan – Best CRM software for small business with free plan menjadi aspek penting yang dibahas di sini.
- Up to 10 users free
- 1,000+ contacts
- Email marketing and campaigns
- Website visitor tracking
- Call and email logging
- Mobile apps for iOS and Android
Agile CRM also offers workflow automation, allowing you to set up rules like “Send a follow-up email 2 days after a call.” While the free plan limits automation to 3 workflows, it’s still a strong starting point.
One downside: Agile CRM has faced criticism in the past for aggressive upselling. However, the core free features remain solid and reliable.
Check out Agile CRM for more details.
Best CRM Software for Small Business with Free Plan: Niche Players
Not all CRMs are built for everyone. Some platforms specialize in specific industries or workflows. If your business has unique needs — like field service, real estate, or e-commerce — a niche CRM might be the perfect fit.
Let’s look at two specialized tools that offer free plans.
best CRM software for small business with free plan – Best CRM software for small business with free plan menjadi aspek penting yang dibahas di sini.
6. Really Simple Systems
As the name suggests, Really Simple Systems is all about simplicity. It’s a UK-based CRM designed for small businesses that want a no-fuss, easy-to-use system.
The free plan supports one user and includes core CRM features: contact management, lead tracking, task scheduling, and email integration. It’s ideal for solopreneurs, consultants, or small service providers.
- 1 user free
- Unlimited contacts
- Email and calendar sync
- Basic reporting
- Mobile app
What makes it stand out is its clean interface and excellent customer support. The team offers free onboarding and training, which is rare for a free tool.
While it lacks advanced automation, it’s perfect for businesses that don’t need complexity. If you want a CRM that “just works,” this is a great choice.
Learn more at Really Simple Systems.
best CRM software for small business with free plan – Best CRM software for small business with free plan menjadi aspek penting yang dibahas di sini.
7. Capsule CRM
Capsule CRM is a minimalist CRM focused on relationship management. It’s ideal for small businesses that prioritize personal connections over aggressive sales tactics.
The free plan supports up to 250 contacts and includes contact management, task tracking, calendar sync, and integration with Gmail and Outlook. It also connects with Mailchimp and Xero for marketing and accounting.
- Up to 250 contacts free
- Task and opportunity tracking
- Email and calendar integration
- Mobile apps
- Simple, clean interface
Capsule excels in usability. It’s one of the easiest CRMs to set up and use. There’s no steep learning curve — just a straightforward system for managing customer relationships.
If your business is relationship-driven — like consulting, coaching, or creative services — Capsule is a fantastic fit.
Visit Capsule CRM to get started.
best CRM software for small business with free plan – Best CRM software for small business with free plan menjadi aspek penting yang dibahas di sini.
How to Choose the Best CRM Software for Small Business with Free Plan
With so many options, choosing the right CRM can feel overwhelming. Here’s a step-by-step guide to help you make the best decision for your business.
Step 1: Define Your Business Needs
Start by asking: What problems are you trying to solve? Are you struggling with lead tracking? Missed follow-ups? Poor team collaboration?
- If you need sales automation → Look at HubSpot or Freshsales
- If you want all-in-one tools → Consider Bitrix24
- If you prioritize simplicity → Try Really Simple Systems or Capsule
- If you plan to scale quickly → Zoho CRM offers the best upgrade path
Be honest about your team size, workflow, and long-term goals.
Step 2: Test the Free Plan
Don’t just read reviews — use the software. Sign up for the free plan and spend at least a week testing it.
- Import your contacts
- Create a sample sales pipeline
- Test email tracking and automation
- Try the mobile app
- Check integration with your existing tools
See how intuitive it feels. If it takes more than 30 minutes to set up basic functions, it might not be the right fit.
best CRM software for small business with free plan – Best CRM software for small business with free plan menjadi aspek penting yang dibahas di sini.
“The best CRM is the one your team will actually use.” — Sales Manager, SaaS Company
Step 3: Evaluate Scalability and Upgrade Costs
Ask yourself: Will this CRM grow with me? What happens when I hit the user or contact limit?
Compare upgrade paths:
- HubSpot: Free → Starter ($50/month for 2 users)
- Zoho CRM: Free → Standard ($14/user/month)
- Freshsales: Free → Growth ($15/user/month)
- Bitrix24: Free → Basic ($4.20/user/month)
Choose a platform with transparent pricing and no hidden fees.
Key Features to Look for in the Best CRM Software for Small Business with Free Plan
Not all free CRMs are created equal. Some offer more value than others. Here are the must-have features to look for:
Contact and Lead Management
The foundation of any CRM is organizing your contacts. Look for:
best CRM software for small business with free plan – Best CRM software for small business with free plan menjadi aspek penting yang dibahas di sini.
- Unlimited or high contact limits
- Custom fields for tagging and segmentation
- Duplicate detection
- Bulk import/export
HubSpot and Freshsales lead here with unlimited contacts in their free plans.
Sales Pipeline and Deal Tracking
You need visibility into your sales process. A visual pipeline helps you track where each deal stands — from lead to close.
- Drag-and-drop deal stages
- Deal value and probability tracking
- Forecasting tools
Zoho CRM and Agile CRM offer strong pipeline management even in free tiers.
Automation and Workflow Tools
Automation saves time and reduces human error. Even basic automation is valuable.
- Email follow-up sequences
- Task assignment rules
- Lead scoring and routing
While free plans limit automation, HubSpot and Zoho offer the most flexibility.
best CRM software for small business with free plan – Best CRM software for small business with free plan menjadi aspek penting yang dibahas di sini.
Integration and Mobile Access: Non-Negotiables
Your CRM shouldn’t exist in a vacuum. It needs to connect with the tools you already use.
Email and Calendar Integration
The best CRM software for small business with free plan should sync with Gmail and Outlook. This allows you to log emails, schedule meetings, and track opens without leaving your inbox.
- HubSpot, Zoho, and Freshsales all offer deep email integration
- Look for one-click logging and email templates
According to Gartner, seamless integration increases CRM adoption by 40%.
Mobile App Availability
Business doesn’t stop at the office. A mobile CRM lets you update deals, log calls, and respond to leads on the go.
- All top CRMs offer iOS and Android apps
- Look for offline access and push notifications
- Test the app’s usability before committing
Bitrix24 and HubSpot have particularly strong mobile experiences.
best CRM software for small business with free plan – Best CRM software for small business with free plan menjadi aspek penting yang dibahas di sini.
Common Mistakes to Avoid When Choosing a Free CRM
Even with the best intentions, businesses make mistakes when selecting a CRM. Here are the most common pitfalls — and how to avoid them.
Mistake 1: Prioritizing Features Over Usability
It’s tempting to choose a CRM with 100 features. But if your team won’t use it, it’s useless.
Focus on ease of use. A simple CRM that’s adopted by your team is better than a complex one that sits idle.
“We chose a powerful CRM, but no one used it. We switched to HubSpot Free and adoption jumped to 100%.” — Marketing Director
Mistake 2: Ignoring Data Migration
What happens when you want to switch CRMs? Can you export your data easily?
Before signing up, check:
best CRM software for small business with free plan – Best CRM software for small business with free plan menjadi aspek penting yang dibahas di sini.
- Can you export contacts in CSV format?
- Is there a data portability policy?
- Are there fees for data extraction?
Most reputable CRMs, like Zoho and HubSpot, allow free data export.
Mistake 3: Not Planning for Growth
A free CRM is great today, but what about in 6 months?
Ask:
- What happens when you exceed user limits?
- Are upgrade costs predictable?
- Does the platform support advanced features you’ll need later?
Choose a CRM with a clear, scalable roadmap.
What is the best CRM software for small business with free plan?
best CRM software for small business with free plan – Best CRM software for small business with free plan menjadi aspek penting yang dibahas di sini.
The best CRM software for small business with free plan is HubSpot CRM. It offers unlimited users, contacts, and deals, along with powerful features like email tracking, meeting scheduling, and seamless integration with Gmail and Outlook. Its user-friendly interface and scalability make it the top choice for startups and growing businesses.
Is free CRM software safe for business use?
Yes, free CRM software from reputable providers like HubSpot, Zoho, and Freshworks is safe for business use. These platforms use enterprise-grade security, including data encryption, regular backups, and compliance with GDPR and other privacy regulations. Always review the provider’s security policy before importing sensitive data.
Can I upgrade from a free CRM plan later?
Yes, all the CRMs listed in this article offer clear upgrade paths. You can typically upgrade with a few clicks, retaining all your data and contacts. Most platforms offer tiered pricing based on users, features, or contact volume, allowing you to scale as your business grows.
Do free CRM plans include customer support?
Support varies by provider. HubSpot offers free email support and a comprehensive knowledge base. Zoho provides community forums and ticket-based support. Some platforms, like Really Simple Systems, even offer free onboarding. However, phone support is usually reserved for paid plans.
How many users can use a free CRM?
User limits vary. HubSpot CRM allows unlimited users on its free plan, while Zoho CRM supports up to 3 users, and Freshsales supports up to 10. Bitrix24 allows 12 users, making it one of the most generous. Always check the user limit before onboarding your team.
Choosing the best CRM software for small business with free plan doesn’t have to be complicated. The key is to start simple, test thoroughly, and pick a tool that aligns with your workflow and growth goals. Whether you go with HubSpot’s unmatched free tier, Zoho’s scalability, or Bitrix24’s all-in-one suite, you’re already ahead of the curve. The right CRM will save time, boost sales, and help you build stronger customer relationships — all without spending a dime.
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