Comparison of CRM systems: The 10 best in 2025

E-commerce today is a complex topic. You have to manage your customers, issue invoices, and send emails. You also need to be able to track your customers’ purchases and record all interactions with them, such as offers, inquiries, etc. Only if you organize your customer contacts well can you do business successfully and effectively. The solution is an all-in-one CRM system for customer relationship management.

There are many CRM systems on the market. These differ both in their functions, as well as in price and potential areas of application. Not every CRM is necessarily suitable for every e-commerce business. In the following, we not only present the 15 best CRM systems in Germany, but also explain everything you need to know about CRM. This way, you learn everything required to choose the right CRM system.

What is a CRM system?

CRM stands for Customer Relationship Management. It is software that allows you to manage your customers. With a CRM system, you can create quotes and invoices, track payments, and document other customer activities. You can often see what your customers have purchased and which emails were sent, etc. In short: a CRM system enables you to manage your customers, review everything about them and their history with your business, and carry out many important actions.

A CRM system usually combines many individual programs into one single platform. Invoicing, quote creation, and communication are just a few examples. With a good CRM platform, you may save money on additional programs. A good CRM can also be integrated into your existing e-commerce and take over further functions, such as tracking order status. Today, a CRM is a must for every e-commerce business. Otherwise, customer management can quickly become complicated, confusing, and time-consuming.

How does a CRM system work?

A CRM system is used for customer management. Here, you can create both individual customers and B2B customers. You can send emails, invoices, and quotes directly from the CRM and also track their status. For example, you can see whether a customer paid an invoice, is in payment delay, or has accepted a quote. Emails can also be sent from here, and with some CRMs you can even plan and log calls and manage customer support.

The CRM tool can function as a standalone system—for example, if you do not sell your services or products online. However, it can also be integrated into well-known shop software and retrieve the necessary data directly from your online shop. If a customer registers in your shop, they are automatically created in the CRM. When a purchase is made, the invoice is generated automatically through the CRM, and so on.

The advantages of a CRM

As you have already seen, a CRM has numerous advantages. It makes customer management significantly easier by automating many processes and providing you with all important information about your customers. Today, a good CRM system is essential in every company and should not be missing.

Many start-ups and small businesses make the mistake of avoiding CRM systems due to additional costs. However, CRM tools offer a wide range of features that greatly simplify the management of customer relationships. While invoices and communication can still be handled manually in the early stages, once the number of customers increases, important tasks are often forgotten and managing orders, invoices, and communication becomes increasingly complicated and time-consuming.

What should CRM systems be able to do?

The functions and capabilities of a CRM depend on your company and its size. However, there are basic features that every CRM should fulfil. For example, every CRM should be able to store customers, companies, and suppliers. The CRM should also list the order value of customers, so you can see how much revenue a customer has generated. Most CRM systems also allow the creation of quotes and invoices and support email communication directly within the system. In addition, a CRM provides extensive history logs, such as when the customer made purchases and for what amount, which emails were sent, etc. A comprehensive reporting system that informs you about all important data, figures, and statistics should also be included.

Depending on the CRM software, additional features can be available or added via paid modules. For example, inventory management, returns management, phone support, or helpdesks can be integrated into the CRM. A good CRM should also integrate with your existing e-commerce system to make your work easier.

How much does a CRM system cost?

The cost of a CRM system cannot be answered in general terms. The cost depends on which system you choose and which features you need. Some CRM systems offer basic functions for free. Free CRM software usually has limited features or requires an upgrade for full access. You can typically expand the software via different subscription levels. Other CRM systems, however, require payment and can be quite expensive—yet they offer extensive features and many possibilities. Only by carefully comparing different systems can you find a CRM that is affordable and still meets your needs.

There are also differences in payment structure. Many CRM systems are offered as SaaS. In this case, you pay a monthly fee to use the service. Other CRMs can be hosted in-house, where you typically pay a one-time license fee. And some systems are completely free and can optionally be expanded through paid modules and features.

What should you consider when purchasing a CRM system?

You have many options when choosing a CRM system. For this reason, it is important to compare the different providers. You should look not only at price but also at features and customer support. If certain features are especially important for you, check at the beginning whether the CRM supports them. This is particularly crucial if you need to integrate the software with an e-commerce shop. In this case, the CRM must be compatible with the shop platform you use. Otherwise, integration will not be possible.

It also makes sense to test several CRM platforms that are on your shortlist. Most providers offer between seven and 30 days of full-feature free trials. This allows you to determine whether the CRM is suitable for your business. Another advantage is that during the trial period, you usually receive full premium support. This means you can ask all questions and address any issues that arise. Often, you will even be assigned your own support representative.

The best 15 CRM systems in Germany

Now that you know what a CRM is, what it costs, what it can do, and what to consider when choosing one, we now introduce you to the 15 top CRM systems in Germany. Of course, the selection is far larger, but we have chosen to focus on these 15 systems and provide a short description and key facts.

If you have questions about choosing a CRM, Shopboostr is happy to offer non-binding advice. We will gladly help you find a suitable CRM and assist with setup and integration into your e-commerce business.

About the provider

Pipedrive is primarily a CRM tool for sales. It clearly displays all the activities required for sales and is also very easy to use, meaning that virtually no training time is required. The range of functions is rather modest, but you get a comprehensive reporting function with lots of useful information.

In addition, Pipedrive has its own app for both Android and iOS, so you can easily use the system on the go. The data is stored online, so you can access it from anywhere. An API also allows integration with other systems. The price of around $12 per month per user is comparable to other systems. To help you familiarize yourself with Pipedrive before you buy, there is a 30-day trial version that gives you full access to the system free of charge.

TARGET AUDIENCE

Companies in sales

2. InfusionSoft

About the provider

Another CRM provider specializing in small businesses is InfusionSoft. This CRM platform offers a central hub for customer data and business analytics. Although the provider is not one of the best-known CRM software manufacturers, InfusionSoft offers excellent value for money. With nearly 30,000 customers worldwide and a wide selection of APIs for connecting to various systems, InfusionSoft offers a high degree of flexibility and expertise.

InfusionSoft’s strengths lie primarily in its excellent usability, which makes automating important processes and managing the system child’s play. This not only saves time, but also reduces the cost of training specialists and leads to a fast and efficient way of working.

InfusionSoft continues to offer excellent support with an online chat feature—the staff are always available and will work diligently to resolve any issues as quickly as possible. InfusionSoft responds to criticism and suggestions for improvement from the community—the software has been updated and improved several times in recent years. The rising ratings and large number of loyal customers are clear proof of this.

The CRM software enables the tracking and analysis of customer data from multiple sources in a centralized system, as well as the creation of email campaigns, landing pages, customer segmentation, and marketing automation.

Our recommendation – InfusionSoft is very likely the best provider on our list for small businesses – even if they are on the borderline of being medium-sized.

3. NinjaOutreach

About the provider

NinjaOutreach is an excellent software for influencer marketing, including CRM functionality. As one of the most versatile CRM tools, the software allows you to search for bloggers and influencers in any field, who can then be sorted into groups. With NinjaOutreach, you can also create email campaigns for which customizable templates can be created quickly and easily.

NinjaOutreach is an excellent software for new, small businesses that do not yet rank particularly high on Google and need to popularize their content. Blog and influencer outreach is currently one of the best ways to acquire strong, organic backlinks that have a lasting positive and scaling impact on the domain’s Google rankings. The tool is particularly well suited for small agencies, bloggers, and online shops that run a blog in addition to selling their products.

The software is affordable and also offers a free trial period. In addition, the tool is quite easy to use. The tutorial database offers numerous free guides and videos for working efficiently with NinjaOutreach. Furthermore, the database has grown quite large. In total, there are more than 25 million active influencers and bloggers.

We highly recommend NinjaOutreach to anyone looking for an easy way to promote content and maintain strong Google rankings in the long term.

4. Zoho – well-known CRM with many options

About the provider

If you are looking for a CRM, you will most likely come across the name Zoho. Zoho CRM is one of the best-known CRM software programs worldwide and is already used regularly by a large number of customers.

Zoho is comparable to an office suite, such as Google Docs, but is much more comprehensive and comes with its own CRM module. In the free version, Zoho CRM is completely free for up to 10 users. In addition, there is a Standard and a Professional Edition, which allow you to unlock additional features such as social CRM, etc. The paid packages come with a 15-day trial period during which you can try Zoho for free.

Zoho CRM is a SaaS product. All data is stored on Zoho’s servers and can be accessed there as needed. Zoho CRM is ready to use right away, offers a high level of security, and is also very reliable in operation.

TARGET AUDIENCE

Companies of all sizes

5. Salesforce – market leader among CRM systems

About the provider

Whenever you look into CRM systems, you can’t ignore the market leader Salesforce CRM with its blue cloud. Salesforce has won multiple awards and is the CRM of choice, especially for large and medium-sized companies.

The CRM system is characterized by its particularly high functionality. It is cloud-based and can be used from anywhere, has ISO interfaces, and offers extremely high security. In addition, you have the option of managing sales and distribution via Salesforce. The ability to access social media and networks directly from the CRM system is a nice bonus.

Salesforce is a paid service, but uses a pay-as-you-go model. This means that you only pay for what you actually use. You also have the option of testing Salesforce extensively for 30 days. This is an opportunity you should definitely take advantage of, as the CRM offers numerous functions, yet is very easy and intuitive to use.

TARGET AUDIENCE

Large and medium-sized enterprises

6. SugarCRM – well-known provider with many functions

About the provider

SugarCRM is also a big name when it comes to functional and successful CRM platforms. The software stands out above all for its particularly wide range of functions and many possibilities. In addition to managing purchasing, sales, and distribution, it also offers a range of other tools, for example for marketing. There are also a large number of Office plug-ins.

SugarCRM works with Oracle and stores data online. This gives you access to your customer information from anywhere. SugarCRM is also available free of charge in a Community Edition. This is limited to the most important functions, but offers you everything you would expect from a CRM system. The paid Professional Edition, on the other hand, unlocks all the features of the CRM. You can test these extensively in a demo version before purchasing to see if the CRM meets your expectations. The price, which starts at 40 euros per month, is slightly more expensive than the competition. However, you get a comprehensive CRM with many features and professional support.

TARGET AUDIENCE

7. Highrise – simple CRM with basic functions

About the provider

Highrise is a CRM tool that is primarily aimed at small businesses. The software is very limited in its range of functions, but offers everything you would expect from a simple CRM. It also features a task manager that allows you to easily organize simple workflows.

Highrise has its own API for integration with other software and offers a function for easy import and export. Prices start at $29 for the single-user version. To allow you to test Highrise thoroughly, you can try out the full range of CRM features free of charge for 30 days.

TARGET AUDIENCE

Small to medium-sized enterprises

8. Close.io – CRM for sales

About the provider

Close.io is an American CRM that is primarily aimed at sales staff and offers a wide range of CRM tools. The software allows you to send emails and assign filters, and you can track the status of an email or contact at any time. Follow-up and marketing emails such as newsletters can also be organized from here. If you are looking for a functional CRM for sales, then Close.io is the right choice for you.

Unfortunately, the price for the CRM is very high, especially if you want to use the system with multiple users. However, the demo version allows you to test Close.io extensively before purchasing.

TARGET AUDIENCE

9. Batchbook – CRM for small businesses

Batchbook is a simple CRM platform primarily aimed at small businesses. The paid basic version includes all the essential features you would expect from a CRM. In addition, you can choose a more expensive plan that unlocks several additional functions.

One particularly practical aspect is that Batchbook offers many different interfaces for integration. It also allows Gmail connectivity for sending emails, and you can check your customers’ Twitter status directly from within the software. A clear and well-organized design also makes the system very easy to use. Before purchasing, Batchbook offers you the option to test the CRM for 30 days free of charge.

TARGET AUDIENCE

Small businesses

10. Teamleader – modular CRM with many functions

About the provider

Teamleader is a modular CRM that you can customize to suit your needs and preferences. As one of the most flexible CRM platforms, it stands out thanks to its clear design and high user-friendliness. Country-specific adjustments are also possible, meaning you can use Teamleader for international trade too.

You can try out the software in a free trial period with no obligation. After that, the cheapest version costs 25 euros per month. One drawback is that Teamleader is very standardized. There is no option for integration with social networks, nor is there a social CRM function. However, Teamleader can be used to its full potential, especially in smaller companies.

TARGET AUDIENCE

Companies of all sizes

11. Centralstation CRM – practical for smaller companies

About the provider

Centralstation CRM is another CRM tool and customer management system that is primarily aimed at small businesses. The software takes a more practical approach to direct work rather than the analytical functions often found elsewhere. All the important features you would expect from a CRM are included. Multiple interfaces allow integration with other software, and there is even a mobile app for Centralstation CRM.

The CRM, which is free in its basic version, shines with excellent customer service, which has been unanimously rated as very good by users. If the basic version is not enough for you, you have the option of upgrading to a paid version.

TARGET AUDIENCE

Smaller companies

12. Nimble – social CRM with many functions

About the provider

CRM Nimble is a customer management system that clearly focuses on social media. For this reason, Nimble is primarily a social CRM. The design is clear and there are many automation options for small and medium-sized businesses. However, the range of functions is usually not sufficient for larger companies.

Nimble also impresses in terms of security and with its Chrome and Firefox plug-in. The price of $15 per month is comparable to other providers. During the 15-day trial period, you have the opportunity to test the system extensively to see if Nimble meets your expectations.

TARGET AUDIENCE

Companies of all sizes

13. Streak – a Gmail extension with great potential

About the provider

Streak is not a standalone software but an extension for the email provider Gmail. As part of the CRM tools, the extension allows you to sort and manage customer data and emails clearly. There are also some additional features that help you keep track of everything.

If you use Gmail for your customer emails, Streak is an interesting option. Although it is only an improved management tool for emails and contacts, it makes Gmail much clearer and more useful. What’s more, you can’t go wrong with the extension, because Streak is completely free. The extension is also constantly being developed and improved. Overall, Streak has so much potential and is such a handy little tool that it makes perfect sense to use it as an add-on.

TARGET AUDIENCE

Businesses of all sizes using Gmail or Google Apps

14. Insightly – CRM for small businesses with social media functionality

About the provider

Insightly is an elegant CRM solution for small businesses. The CRM offers excellent customer and lead management as well as sophisticated project and contact management. The many social media functions that are directly integrated into the CRM are also particularly interesting, as they make interaction with social networks much easier. Despite its functionality, Insightly is easy to use and clearly laid out.

The software can also be integrated with many other programs. For example, it can be connected to Evernote, Dropbox, or Office 365. Integration with Outlook, MailChimp, and Google Apps is also possible. In addition, there are a variety of other options. This makes the CRM particularly interesting and offers you many options. A dedicated app for both Android and iOS rounds out the offering.

You can use Insightly for free with up to two users. In addition, there is a Basic, Plus, and Professional plan. Paid plans are available starting at $12 USD. You have the option to try Insightly free for 14 days before purchasing.

TARGET AUDIENCE

Small business companies

15. Podio – a CRM that is enjoyable to use

About the provider

Customer management is a demanding and dry task. Podio, a Citrix-based CRM tool, has set out to change this. The company has made it its goal to make customer management easy and fun. For this reason, Podio does not offer many features; instead, the CRM is limited to lead and sales management. However, these two modules are very well designed. Working with Podio is easy and actually even fun. It also offers collaboration features and a simple way to manage tasks and projects. Overall, Podio has a very appealing and intuitive design, which underscores its goal of ease of use.

A particularly interesting feature is that Podio enables real-time communication. It also has its own API and can be integrated with all major tools, such as Google Apps, Evernote, Hangouts, Dropbox, OneDrive, and Google Drive, to name just a few. Podio is available free of charge for up to two users. There is also a Basic and an Enterprise version for larger and medium-sized companies. Prices start at USD 12 per month, payable annually. Before purchasing, you can book a demo to familiarize yourself with Podio CRM.

TARGET AUDIENCE

Companies with extensive customer management needs

16. VTiger – an open-source CRM

About the provider

VTiger is a relatively well-known name for CRM solutions and a versatile CRM platform. What is particularly interesting about this CRM is that VTiger is a modular system. This means that you can not only configure the CRM according to your needs, but also start small and then expand the CRM with the necessary functions as required.

VTiger is completely web-based and allows you to access it from anywhere with internet access. It is open-source and comes with a variety of professional features, such as case management and inventory for products, payments, and services. When choosing VTiger, you have the option of selecting between three versions. The software is available as a Sales Edition, Customer Service Edition, or Ultimate Edition. The latter combines all editions in one complete package.

To help you get started with VTiger quickly, there is a kickstart feature that allows you to configure the most important settings in a short amount of time. In addition, various integrations are possible via the proprietary API to connect the CRM to other programs and software. The price for VTiger depends on the version and ranges from $10 per month to $30 per month. Before purchasing, you have the option to test VTiger for 15 days free of charge in its entirety (Ultimate Edition).

TARGET AUDIENCE

Companies of all sizes

17. Bitrix24 – CRM, accounting, and marketing in one

About the provider

Bitrix24 is one of the leading CRM platforms and the cloud-based version of the Russian Bitrix CRM. Bitrix24 is completely web-based and offers numerous features. The program enables goods, inventory, and invoice management and allows your customers to create quotes. When connecting email and social media accounts, incoming inquiries are automatically converted into leads.

You can also call customers, send emails, or chat with customers and employees directly from the software. All activities are stored in a register. Comprehensive task management and extensive social media features, the ability to create and integrate chatbots, comprehensive project management, a cloud drive, and a calendar for scheduling appointments and meetings round out the offering.

Bitrix24 is available free of charge in a basic version. In addition, there are various premium packages for more features. These start at 30 euros and are slightly more expensive than other providers. However, they offer many features in return. Even in the basic version, you can create your own documents and invoices, set country-specific taxes, currencies, and prices, etc. You can test the paid versions of Bitrix24 free of charge for 30 days.

TARGET AUDIENCE

Medium-sized and large companies

Our conclusion