Quick comparison
Shortlist first, details second. Always double-check current pricing and plan limits on the vendor site.
| Tool | Best for | Setup time | Pricing | Why it’s here | Watch-out |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Close Top pick | Outbound + follow‑ups | 1–2 hours | Paid | Keeps deals moving with less admin | Less “marketing suite” than HubSpot |
| Pipedrive | Pipeline clarity | 1–2 hours | Paid | Easy adoption for small teams | Needs add-ons for heavier automation |
| HubSpot | CRM + marketing | Half day | Free + paid | Good if marketing ops live in HubSpot | Can get expensive with seats/features |
How we picked
- Optimized for agency workflows: delivery visibility, client collaboration, and handoffs.
- Prioritized low-friction setup and sane permissions (so you actually adopt it).
- Checked reporting and “share with clients” realism (not just feature checkboxes).
- Included a clear watch-out for each option to avoid bad fits.
We refresh guides when pricing/features shift. Always verify current terms on the vendor site.
Close
Best for: sales teams that win by speed
Choose Close if your deals are won by responsiveness and consistent follow-up.
- Great for outbound agencies and founder-led sales.
- Encourages tight, repeatable sales habits.
- Lower setup friction: start selling quickly.
Pipedrive
Best for: small teams that want a simple pipeline
Choose Pipedrive when you want the pipeline visible and predictable without a ton of setup.
- Easy to learn and keep tidy.
- Strong baseline for “we just need a CRM”.
- Add automation later as needed.
Bottom line
Start with the Top pick if it matches your workflow. Then sanity-check the watch-outs (permissions, reporting, plan limits) before you commit.
FAQ
Which one is faster to adopt?
Both are relatively quick. Close is fastest if your main need is follow-up and outbound motion; Pipedrive is fastest if you just want stages and deals.
Which one is better for reporting?
Both can report pipeline basics. For client-facing reporting, you’ll often use a separate reporting layer.
Can I migrate later?
Yes. Keep stages simple and export regularly; migrations are easier when your process is clean.