Zoho CRM Review
Affordable, scalable CRM with AI assistant Zia and a generous free tier.
Key Features
- Sales automation
- Marketing automation
- AI assistant (Zia)
- Customization
- Analytics & reporting
- Mobile app
Pros
- Free plan for three users plus 5 000 records - Forbes Advisor
- AI assistant Zia surfaces deal insights and next-best actions - Forbes Advisor
- Strong value-for-money rating on Capterra Shortlist 2025 - Capterra
Cons
- UI feels dated compared with HubSpot or Pipedrive - Forbes Advisor
- Advanced process automation locked behind Professional tier - Forbes Advisor
- Integration depth still lags Salesforce for complex stacks - Capterra
Full Review
Zoho CRM hits the sweet spot for SMBs: a free tier to start, low-cost paid seats, and surprisingly deep customization once you graduate to Professional Forbes Advisor.
Zia AI now predicts win probability and auto-fills fields, helping lean sales teams focus on hot deals Forbes Advisor.
Power users still report UI clutter and limited third-party extensions versus Salesforce, but Capterra's 2025 Shortlist ranks Zoho second overall for bang-for-buck Capterra.
Frequently Asked Questions
How do you select the best software tools?
We evaluate tools based on user reviews, feature sets, pricing, ease of use, and real-world performance. Our team of experts tests each tool thoroughly and considers feedback from thousands of users.
Are these tools suitable for small businesses?
Yes, we include tools that work well for businesses of all sizes. Each review includes information about pricing tiers and scalability to help you find the right fit for your business needs.
How often is this list updated?
We update our top software list quarterly to ensure we're recommending the most current and effective tools. We also monitor major updates and changes to keep our recommendations relevant.
Why are your reviews so short?
Because your time is valuable. No one wants to scroll through a novel just to figure out if a tool is worth it. We give you the key facts fast—then the choice is yours.
Can I trust a short review?
Absolutely. Every word in our reviews is there for a reason. We test the tools, cut the fluff, and give you clear pros, cons, and what matters most so you can decide quickly and confidently.
How do you test the tools?
We test the tools ourselves by using them in real-world scenarios. We also look at user reviews, ratings, and feedback to get a comprehensive understanding of the tool.