Insightly vs Zoho CRM: Which Should You Choose in 2026?
Choosing between Insightly and Zoho 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:
Zoho CRM
CRM for sales and marketing teams
Best for you if:
- • You want the higher-rated option (8.6/10 vs 8.5/10)
| At a Glance |  Insightly | |
|---|---|---|
Price | Free + Paid | Free + Paid |
Best For | Sales | Sales |
Rating | 85/100 | 86/100 |
| Feature | Insightly | Zoho CRM |
|---|---|---|
| Pricing Model | Freemium | Freemium |
| Editorial Score | 85 | 86 |
| Community Rating | No ratings yet | No ratings yet |
| Total Reviews | 0 | 0 |
| Community Upvotes | 0 | 0 |
| Categories | SalesProject Management | Sales |
Understanding the Differences
Both Insightly and Zoho 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 Zoho CRMfocuses on "crm for sales and marketing teams". 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.
When to Choose Zoho CRM
Zoho CRM is worth considering if you need a flexible option with both free and paid tiers tool. Scoring 86/100, it edges ahead in our evaluation.
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. Zoho CRM is built for teams that are leveling up.
We'd pick: Zoho CRM
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: Zoho CRM
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 Zoho CRM higher (86/100). But the community has upvoted Zoho CRM more (0 votes). Pick your source of truth.
Key Takeaways
What Zoho CRM Does Better
- Higher overall score (86/100)
- Our recommendation for most use cases
Consider Insightly 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 Zoho CRM (86/100). But the honest answer is that "better" depends on your situation. Zoho CRM scores higher in our analysis, but Insightly 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 Zoho CRM better?
Based on our analysis, Zoho CRM scores higher with 86/100. Insightly isfreemium while Zoho 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 Zoho 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 Zoho CRM offer free trials?
Most software in this category offers free trials or free tiers. Insightly is freemium with a free tier.Zoho CRM is freemium with a free tier. Visit their websites for current trial offers.