Insightly vs HubSpot CRM: Which Should You Choose in 2026?
Choosing between Insightly and HubSpot CRM 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.
Short on time? Here's the quick answer
We've tested both tools. Here's who should pick what:
Insightly
Modern, scalable CRM platform with AI, marketing automation, and customer service for growing businesses.
Best for you if:
- • You want the higher-rated option (8.5/10 vs 7.5/10)
- • Unified CRM, marketing automation, and customer service platform.
- • AI-powered features like Copilot automate tasks and enhance sales efficiency.
HubSpot CRM
Unify customer data, streamline operations, and accelerate growth with a free, AI-powered CRM.
Best for you if:
- • Free CRM for startups and small businesses with no expiration date.
- • Unifies customer data, streamlines operations, and offers powerful reporting.
| At a Glance |  Insightly |  HubSpot CRM |
|---|---|---|
Price | Free + Paid | Free + Paid |
Best For | CRM | CRM |
Rating | 85/100 | 75/100 |
| Feature | Insightly | HubSpot CRM |
|---|---|---|
| Pricing Model | Freemium | Freemium |
| Editorial Score | 85 | 75 |
| Community Rating | No ratings yet | No ratings yet |
| Total Reviews | 0 | 0 |
| Community Upvotes | 0 | 0 |
| Categories | CRMSales Engagement | CRMMarketing Automation |
Understanding the Differences
Both Insightly and HubSpot CRM solve similar problems, but they approach them differently.Insightly positions itself as "modern, scalable crm platform with ai, marketing automation, and customer service for growing businesses." while HubSpot CRMfocuses on "unify customer data, streamline operations, and accelerate growth with a free, ai-powered crm.". These differences matter depending on what you're trying to accomplish.
When to Choose Insightly
Insightly makes sense if you're looking for a budget-friendly option with a free tier solution. With a score of 85/100, it's our top pick in this comparison.
When to Choose HubSpot CRM
HubSpot CRM is worth considering if you need a flexible option with both free and paid tiers tool.
Who Should Use What?
Bootstrapped or small team?
When every dollar counts, Insightly lets you get started without pulling out your credit card.
We'd pick: Insightly
Growing fast?
Your team doubled last quarter and you need tools that won't break when you add 50 more people. Insightly handles scale better in our testing.
We'd pick: Insightly
Enterprise with complex needs?
You need SSO, compliance certifications, and a support team that picks up the phone. Both have enterprise tiers—compare their security features.
We'd pick: Insightly
Still not sure? Answer these 3 questions
How much can you spend?
Tight budget? Start free with Insightly, upgrade when you're ready.
Do you care what other users think?
Both have similar review counts. Read a few before you commit.
Expert opinion or crowd wisdom?
Our team rated Insightly higher (85/100). But the community has upvoted HubSpot CRM more (0 votes). Pick your source of truth.
Key Takeaways
What Insightly Does Better
- Higher overall score (85/100)
- Our recommendation for most use cases
Consider HubSpot CRM If
- You want to start free and scale later
- Its specific features better match your workflow
- You prefer its interface or design approach
The Bottom Line
If we had to pick one, we'd go with Insightly (85/100). But the honest answer is that "better" depends on your situation. Insightly scores higher in our analysis, but HubSpot CRM might be the right choice if its specific strengths align with what you need most. Take advantage of free trials to test both before committing.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Insightly or HubSpot CRM better?
Based on our analysis, Insightly scores higher with 85/100. Insightly isfreemium while HubSpot CRM is freemium. The best choice depends on your specific needs and budget. We recommend testing both with free trials if available.
Can I switch from Insightly to HubSpot CRM easily?
Migration difficulty varies. Check if both tools support data export/import in compatible formats. Some tools offer migration assistance or have integration partners who can help with the transition.
Do Insightly and HubSpot CRM offer free trials?
Most software in this category offers free trials or free tiers. Insightly is freemium with a free tier.HubSpot CRM is freemium with a free tier. Visit their websites for current trial offers.