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Is Zoho free to use — What will you get in the free version?

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As the demand for CRM increases, businesses big and small are turning to platforms like Zoho CRM.

But in a market where every penny counts, one question stands out: is Zoho free to use? This is key if you’re a small business looking to maximize efficiency without overspending.

In this blog, you’ll compare Zoho’s key features across its pricing tiers and find out: is Zoho free to use in the most basic plan?

Let’s get started! 

What is Zoho?

Image credit: Discover CRM

Zoho CRM is a cloud-based platform that helps your business convert leads and engage with customers. The CRM software simplifies workflows by centralizing: 

Additionally, Zoho CRM enhances operational efficiency with: 

Is Zoho free to use?

Now that you know more about Zoho CRM, let’s answer the big question: is Zoho free to use? 

Yes, Zoho CRM offers a freemium version! This plan affords free access to basic features and lets you manage workflows without any bills. 

You can also integrate Zoho’s freemium model with your: 

And it doesn’t just stop there. Zoho also has a trial period for all editions, which grants unrestricted access for a limited time. 

While Zoho doesn’t require upfront costs for sign-up, it’s important to note that fees will apply after a certain period. 

But what exactly do you get with Zoho’s free CRM?

What will you get in the Zoho free version?

Still wondering, “Is Zoho free to use?” If so, you’re probably eager to know about the features included in the free version. 

Whether you’re at your desk or on the move, Zoho’s free CRM caters to the dynamic needs of sales reps and other professionals.

Contact book

Zoho’s free CRM makes managing your company contacts a breeze. It comes with a user-friendly contact book that organizes your:

However, it’s important to note that Zoho contact book has its limitations, particularly with its lack of custom fields. This could be a significant drawback if you need to store specific contact information. 

Email marketing

Zoho’s free CRM gives you limited tools to craft custom emails. Zoho also permits you to: 

Lead generation

Need to generate leads? Zoho’s free CRM has your back. It simplifies lead management by helping you: 

Automation

Zoho simplifies your workload by automating custom workflows in just a few clicks. 

Imagine effortlessly sorting emails and organizing information. Zoho takes care of these routine tasks and lets you focus on the bigger picture! 

However, the free version of Zoho has limited automation capabilities, and users may find it challenging to trigger workflows. 

Analytics and reporting

With Zoho’s analytics and reporting capabilities, you can examine your information using: 

Plus, Zoho lets you segment customers for better-targeted strategies. 

While Zoho’s analytics are comprehensive, fully leveraging its capabilities often requires training and practice. This might be a challenge for users lacking technical expertise or dedicated analytics teams.

Customization

Zoho CRM faces certain customization constraints, such as limits on the number and size of custom fields.

Despite these limitations, Zoho’s free CRM still offers a great deal of adaptability.

For example, you can create custom list views and even access branding in the free version, making it uniquely yours. 

Storage

With Zoho’s web-based CRM, everything is securely stored in the cloud. This includes:

However, Zoho’s free version has storage limitations, allowing only up to 10 MB of storage capacity.

So, is Zoho free to use? Absolutely. It supplies a variety of powerful tools at no cost. But, the free version is not without its limitations.

Zoho CRM plans and pricing

In addition to the question, “Is Zoho free to use?” you may want to explore the complete range of Zoho’s plans and pricing.

Zoho comes with a subscription model that has tiered pricing based on features. Plus, each plan includes access to customer service and essential security features.

Here’s a detailed look at Zoho’s CRM plans and pricing: 

Free plan

Zoho’s free plan provides free access to basic features. It’s perfect for small businesses that want a simple CRM at no cost. It offers essential CRM functions like: 

Unlike a standard CRM that includes ads in the free version, Zoho CRM provides an ad-free interface. 

However, it’s important to note the limited features of Zoho’s free plan: 

Standard plan

Priced at $14 per user each month, Zoho’s Standard plan furnishes businesses with the tools they need to simplify workflows. It values simplicity and caters to the demands of modern sales management.

The Standard plan includes: 

Plus, the Standard plan includes additional features such as: 

Professional plan

Priced at $23 per user each month, the Professional plan entitles businesses to a suite of elevated CRM features, including:

In terms of data management, the plan offers:

Enterprise plan

At $40 per user each month, Zoho CRM’s Enterprise plan is ideal for large companies looking for advanced CRM features and customization. As the most popular choice, it includes:

The Enterprise plan also provides greater capacity with: 

Ultimate plan

Priced at $52 per user each month, the Ultimate plan is Zoho CRM’s largest offering. It grants access to everything in the Enterprise plan, plus: 

This plan is ideal for large businesses that want top-tier CRM functionality without worrying about hidden charges or rates.

So, is Zoho free to use? Yes, but that might not be your best option 

Zoho free vs. paid: what is the difference?

When asking, “Is Zoho free to use?” it’s key to know the differences between Zoho’s free and paid versions.

Zoho’s free CRM is great for small businesses, as it allows limited usage without cost. It focuses on essential CRM activities, such as:

However, it does come with user and record limitations. 

In contrast, the paid version is great for those who need more. It requires payment for advanced functionalities that include: 

Ideal for growing businesses, the paid version supports a larger number of employees and records and offers a complete set of CRM tools. 

Plus, it includes in-app purchases for added features.

Zoho’s paid CRM upgrades to premium after the trial ends, but offers discounts for annual commitments.

To sum up, the free version of Zoho CRM is ideal for small teams, while growing businesses benefit more from the feature-rich paid version.

The best Zoho alternative for QuickBooks and Xero users

Method is the #1 CRM for QuickBooks and Xero users. Its native, two-way sync with these platforms provides a significant advantage over Zoho, particularly for businesses that prioritize financial management in their CRM processes. 

With its web and mobile app availability, you can track leads in real time from anywhere. You also get a suite of automation tools that rival other sales and marketing automation platforms like Zoho. 

What’s more is that the solution scales with your business, which makes it a top choice for businesses of all sizes. 

Frequently asked questions (FAQs)

Is Zoho cheaper than Google?

A cost comparison between Zoho and Google is tricky, as they both offer a range of products and services at various prices.

Zoho focuses on specific business tools like CRM, while Google provides a broader range of software like Google Workspace. Pricing depends on your unique business processes and needs. 

Who is Zoho CRM best for?

Zoho CRM is ideal for businesses across various fields, from small startups to large organizations. However, many businesses quickly outgrow Zoho’s less expensive plans and end up paying more than they budgeted.

Can Zoho be used offline?

Yes, Zoho offers offline access. Several Zoho apps provide enhanced mobile accessibility, which lets users perform tasks without an internet connection. For example, if you modify something offline, your changes automatically sync once you reconnect. 

However, the extent of offline access varies between different Zoho applications and may depend on your specific plan or subscription level.

Unlock seamless customer relationship management with Method. Start your free trial today.

Image credit: Yan Krukau via Pexels 

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