Solo Biz Soft Editorial Team HubSpot and Zoho CRM both offer a free plan, and both scale up to much larger teams. For a solo consultant the question is which free plan fits how you work, and how much it costs when you outgrow it. This guide compares them using each company’s own pricing pages.
Details were checked on 19 September 2026. Zoho’s page showed prices in Indian rupees when we checked, so we have not converted them; check the page for your country.
Quick comparison
| HubSpot | Zoho CRM | |
|---|---|---|
| Free plan | Free tools, $0, no time limit | Free edition |
| Free users | Up to 2 | Up to 3 |
| Automation on free | Limited email automation (1 action) | Workflow automation |
| Gmail, G Suite and Outlook integration | Up to 10 custom email templates | |
| Paid entry | Starter platform from $7/seat/month | Standard edition (priced in rupees on our check) |
HubSpot
HubSpot’s free tools include smart CRM functionality, email integration with Gmail and Outlook, live chat with HubSpot branding and basic conversational bots. Its Starter platform is shown from $7 a month per seat, with monthly and annual billing options.
Pros
- Free with no time limit listed
- Email integration with Gmail and Outlook
- Broad platform if you grow
Cons
- Free tools limited to 2 users
- Automation on the free tier is limited
- Costs rise as you add features
Visit HubSpotFree CRM
Zoho CRM
Zoho CRM’s free edition lists contact management, workflow automation, custom email templates (up to ten), tasks, meetings and calls, standard reports, mobile apps and API access. The Standard edition adds email integration and mass emails, multiple sales pipelines, calendar integration and sales forecasting.
Pros
- Up to 3 users free
- Workflow automation on the free edition
- Multiple sales pipelines on Standard
Cons
- Prices vary by country
- More settings to configure
- Advanced features need higher editions
Visit Zoho CRMFree edition
How to choose
If you want a simple, familiar interface and a clear upgrade path: try HubSpot’s free tools.
If you want workflow automation without paying: try Zoho CRM’s free edition.
If you work with a partner or assistant: note that Zoho’s free edition allows up to 3 users against HubSpot’s 2.
Frequently asked questions
Which is better for a solo consultant?
Both work. HubSpot is simpler to start; Zoho lists more automation on its free edition.
Are both really free?
Yes, each lists a free plan with limits. Paid plans are optional.
What will I pay when I outgrow the free plan?
Check each company’s current pricing for your country. HubSpot’s Starter is shown from $7 per seat a month.
Related reading: Best Free CRM for Freelancers in 2026
Prices and features were checked on 19 September 2026 and can change. Always confirm on the company’s website.