ActiveCampaign vs Close: Which Should You Choose in 2026?
Choosing between ActiveCampaign and Close comes down to understanding what each tool does best. This comparison breaks down the key differences so you can make an informed decision based on your specific needs, not marketing claims.
By Toolradar Team · Last updated February 28, 2026 · Methodology
Short on time? Here's the quick answer
We've tested both tools. Here's who should pick what:
ActiveCampaign
Email marketing, automation & CRM
Best for you if:
- • You want the higher-rated option (8.7/10 vs 8.5/10)
- • You need email marketing features specifically
- • ActiveCampaign is a marketing automation platform combining email, CRM, and sales automation
- • It enables sophisticated customer journeys, lead scoring, and personalized messaging at scale
Close
Sales CRM for closers
Best for you if:
- • You need crm features specifically
- • CRM built for inside sales teams
- • Built-in calling, SMS, and email
| At a Glance |  ActiveCampaign |  Close |
|---|---|---|
Price | Paid | Paid |
Best For | Email Marketing | CRM |
Rating | 87/100 | 85/100 |
| Feature | ActiveCampaign | Close |
|---|---|---|
| Pricing Model | Paid | Paid |
| Editorial Score | 87 | 85 |
| Community Rating | No ratings yet | No ratings yet |
| Total Reviews | 0 | 0 |
| Community Upvotes | 0 | 0 |
| Categories | Email MarketingMarketing Automation | CRMSales Engagement |
How ActiveCampaign and Close Compare
ActiveCampaign
Email marketing, automation & CRM
Paid · 87/100 score
Close
Sales CRM for closers
Paid · 85/100 score
ActiveCampaign is a email marketing tool. Close is in crm.
Who Should Use What?
On a budget?
Both are paid. Compare plans on their websites.
Go with: ActiveCampaign
Want the highest-rated option?
ActiveCampaign: 87/100. Close: 85/100.
Go with: ActiveCampaign
Value user reviews?
Neither has user reviews yet.
Go with: ActiveCampaign
3 Questions to Help You Decide
What's your budget?
Both are paid. Pricing won't help you decide here.
What's your use case?
ActiveCampaign is a email marketing tool. Close is in crm. Pick the category that matches your needs.
How important are ratings?
ActiveCampaign scores higher: 87/100 vs 85/100.
Key Takeaways
ActiveCampaign
- Higher score: 87/100 vs 85
- Our pick for this comparison
Close
- Better fit for crm
The Bottom Line
ActiveCampaign (87/100) is our pick.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is ActiveCampaign or Close better?
ActiveCampaign scores 87/100 in our evaluation. Both are paid.
What are ActiveCampaign and Close used for?
ActiveCampaign: Email marketing, automation & CRM. Close: Sales CRM for closers.
What does ActiveCampaign cost vs Close?
ActiveCampaign is a paid tool. Close is a paid tool. Visit their websites for detailed pricing.