Comparison of CRM Systems: The 10 Best in 2025

E-commerce today is a complex topic. You need to manage your customers, issue invoices, and send emails. Additionally, you must be able to track your customers’ purchases and record all interactions with them, such as quotes, inquiries, etc. Only when you organize your customer contacts well can you conduct business successfully and efficiently. The solution is an all-in-one CRM system for Customer Relationship Management.

There are many CRM systems on the market. They differ both in features, pricing, and possible areas of application. Not every CRM is necessarily suited 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 will learn all you should know to decide on a suitable CRM system.

What is a CRM System?

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

A CRM system typically integrates many individual programs into one application. Invoicing, quote creation, and communication are just a few examples. With a good CRM platform, you might save on many other programs that cost money. A good CRM can also be integrated into your existing e-commerce system and take on a range of additional functions, such as monitoring order status, etc. Today, a CRM is a must-have for every e-commerce business. Otherwise, the task of customer management can quickly become very complicated, confusing, and time-consuming.

How Does a CRM System Work?

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

The CRM tool can either function as an independent system, for example, if you do not sell your products and services online, or it can be integrated into well-known shop software to automatically retrieve the necessary data from your online store. For instance, if a customer registers on your shop, their information is automatically created in the CRM. When a purchase is made, the invoice is automatically generated by the CRM, and so on.

The Advantages of a CRM

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

Many start-ups and small companies often make the mistake of forgoing a CRM system due to additional costs. However, CRM tools offer versatile applications that significantly simplify the management of customer relationships. Although it is true that in the early stages invoices and communications can be handled manually without any issues, once the number of customers increases, important matters may be overlooked, and managing customers with their orders, invoices, and correspondence becomes increasingly difficult 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 some basic features that every CRM should provide. For example, every CRM should have the ability to record customers, companies, and suppliers. Additionally, the CRM should list the customers’ order values so you can see the monetary value of their purchases. Most CRM systems also allow for the creation of quotes and invoices and support email correspondence directly through the system. Moreover, a CRM offers an extensive history, for example, showing when a customer made a purchase, what value it was, which emails were sent, etc. An extensive reporting system that informs you about all important data, figures, and statistics should also be included.

Depending on the CRM software, additional features may be available or can be expanded through paid modules. For example, inventory management, returns management, telephone support, or helpdesk functions can be integrated into the CRM. Furthermore, a good CRM should be able to integrate into your existing e-commerce system to make your work easier.

What Does a CRM System Cost?

The question of how much a CRM system costs cannot be answered universally. Rather, it depends on which system you choose and which functions you need. There are indeed some CRM systems that offer you the most important basic functions for free. Free CRM software usually has a limited feature set or requires an upgrade to access all features fully. In most cases, you can expand the software’s capabilities through various subscriptions. For other CRM systems, you have to pay and sometimes spend a significant amount of money. However, these systems offer extensive features and many possibilities. Only by making a detailed comparison and reviewing the different offers is it possible to find a CRM that is affordable yet meets your requirements.

There are further differences regarding the form of payment. A large part of CRM systems is offered as SaaS. In this case, you must pay a monthly fee for usage. Other CRM systems can be hosted in-house, in which case you usually only pay a one-time license fee. Yet other systems are completely free and, as mentioned above, can be expanded with additional modules and features at a cost.

What Should You Consider When Buying a CRM System?

When purchasing a CRM system, you have many options. For this reason alone, it is important to compare the various providers. You should not only consider the price but also the features and support. If certain functions are particularly important to you, then you should check from the beginning which CRM supports these functions. This is especially true 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 is not possible.

When choosing a CRM, it is also worthwhile to test several CRM platforms that are under consideration. Most providers offer between seven and 30 days during which you can try out the software in full for free. This is the best way to determine whether the CRM in question is right for you. An added bonus is that during the trial period you usually not only get to test the best product but also receive full premium support. This means you have the opportunity to ask all your questions and address any issues that arise during the trial period. Additionally, you are typically assigned a personal contact who is there to help you.

The 15 Best CRM Systems in Germany

Now that you know what a CRM is, what it should cost and do, and what to consider when choosing one, we will now introduce you to 15 top CRM systems. Of course, there are many more options available, but we have limited our presentation to the 15 best systems in Germany, along with a brief description and the most important facts.

If you have any questions when choosing a CRM, Shopboostr is happy to provide you with a non-binding consultation. We are happy to help you find a suitable CRM and with the subsequent setup and integration into your e-commerce business.

1. Pipedrive – Perfect for Sales

To Provider

Pipedrive is primarily a CRM tool for sales. It presents all the activities required for sales in a clear manner and is very easy to use, so almost no training is required. The range of functions is rather modest, but you receive extensive reporting functions with many useful insights.

Additionally, 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, making it accessible from anywhere. An API also allows integration with other systems. The price of about 12 euros per month per user is comparable to other systems. To get acquainted with Pipedrive before purchasing, there is a 30-day trial version that gives you full access to the system for free.

Target Audience

Sales Companies

2. InfusionSoft

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Another CRM provider that specializes in small businesses is InfusionSoft. This CRM platform offers a central hub for customer data and business analytics. Although the provider is not among the most well-known CRM software manufacturers, InfusionSoft offers an excellent price-performance ratio. With nearly 30,000 customers worldwide and a rich selection of APIs for integration with various systems, InfusionSoft provides high flexibility and expertise.

The strengths of InfusionSoft lie primarily in its excellent usability, which makes the automation of important processes and system management extremely simple. This not only saves time but also reduces training costs, leading to fast and efficient operations.

InfusionSoft also offers outstanding support with an online chat – the staff is always available and works diligently to resolve issues as quickly as possible. The company responds to criticism and suggestions from the community – over the past few years, the software has been updated and improved several times. The rising reviews and the large number of loyal customers are clear evidence of this.

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

Our recommendation – InfusionSoft is most likely the best provider on our list for small businesses – even if they are on the borderline of the mid-market.

3. NinjaOutreach

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

NinjaOutreach is an outstanding software for new, small companies that do not yet rank strongly on Google and need to promote their content. Blog and influencer outreach is currently one of the best ways to acquire strong, organic backlinks that have a long-term positive and scalable impact on your domain’s Google rankings. The tool is particularly well-suited for small agencies, bloggers, and online shops that run a blog alongside their products.

The software is affordable and also offers a free trial phase. Moreover, the tool is very easy to use. The tutorial database provides numerous free guides and videos for efficient work with NinjaOutreach. Furthermore, the database has grown considerably. In total, there are more than 25 million active influencers and bloggers.

We can highly recommend NinjaOutreach to anyone looking for a simple way to promote content and achieve consistently strong Google rankings.

4. Zoho – A Well-Known CRM with Many Possibilities

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If you are looking for a CRM, you can hardly avoid the name Zoho. Zoho CRM is one of the best-known CRM software worldwide and is regularly used by a multitude of customers.

Zoho is comparable to an office suite, similar to Google Docs, but much more extensive and comes with its own CRM module. In the free version, Zoho CRM is completely free for up to 10 users. Additionally, there is a Standard and a Professional Edition, which allow you to unlock further features, such as Social CRM, etc. For the paid packages, there is 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 retrieved from there when needed. Zoho CRM is ready to use immediately, offers high security, and is extremely reliable in operation.

Target Audience

Companies of All Sizes

5. Salesforce – The Market Leader in CRM Systems

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Whenever you engage with a CRM system, you cannot avoid the market leader Salesforce CRM with its blue cloud. Salesforce has been awarded several times and is the first choice for CRM, especially among large and medium-sized companies.

Salesforce is characterized by its particularly high functionality. It is cloud-based and can be used from anywhere, features ISO interfaces, and offers extremely high security. Furthermore, you have the option to manage both sales and distribution through Salesforce. The ability to also access social media and networks directly from the CRM is a nice bonus.

Salesforce is a paid system but uses a pay-as-you-go model. This means you only pay for what you actually use. In addition, you have the opportunity to test Salesforce in full for 30 days. This is an opportunity you should definitely take advantage of, as the CRM offers numerous functions while still being very simple and intuitive to use.

Target Audience

Large and Medium-Sized Companies

Target Audience

Medium and Large-Sized Companies

• Many Features
• Many Interfaces
• Available as Open-Source

Disadvantages

• High Price
• Minimum Contract Duration of 1 Year

To Provider

Highrise is a CRM tool that is primarily aimed at small companies. The software has a very limited range of functions, but it still offers everything you would expect from a simple CRM. In addition, there is a task manager that allows you to organize simple workflows in an uncomplicated manner.

Highrise features its own API for integration with other software and provides a function for simple import and export. Prices start at 29 US dollars for the single-user version. To thoroughly test Highrise, you have the option to try the CRM free for 30 days in its entirety.

Small to Medium-Sized Companies

• Easy to Use
• Many Interfaces
• Very Affordable

Disadvantages

• No Social CRM Functions
• Limited Feature Set
• Available Only in English

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Close.io is an American CRM that is primarily aimed at sales professionals and offers a variety of CRM tools. The software allows you to send emails, assign filters, and 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, Close.io is your choice.

Unfortunately, the price for this 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 in detail before purchasing.

Target Audience

Sales Companies

• Sophisticated Email Functions
• Email Marketing
• Pre-Made Templates

Disadvantages

• Very Expensive
• Apart from Email, Limited CRM Functions

To Provider

Batchbook is a simple CRM platform that is primarily aimed at small businesses. In the paid basic version, all the important features you expect from a CRM are available. Additionally, you can opt for a more expensive plan that unlocks some further functions.

It is particularly practical that Batchbook offers many different interfaces for integration. Furthermore, integration with Gmail for sending emails is possible, and you can even retrieve your customers’ Twitter status directly from the software. A clear design also makes it very easy to use. Before purchase, Batchbook offers you the possibility to test the CRM free for 30 days.

Small Businesses

• Good Integration
• Many Interfaces
• All Necessary Functions for Small Businesses

Disadvantages

• Paid Only – No Free Account

To Provider

Teamleader is a modular CRM that you can customize entirely to your needs and wishes. As one of the flexible CRM platforms, it is characterized by a clear design and high user-friendliness. In addition, country-specific adaptations are possible so that you can also use Teamleader for international trade.

You can try out the software in a free trial phase without obligation. After that, the cheapest version costs 25 euros per month. One downside is that Teamleader is very standardized. There is no option for integration with social networks, nor is there a social CRM function. However, in smaller companies, Teamleader can be used to its full potential.

Companies of All Sizes

• Modular Structure
• Multi-Country Support
• User-Friendly

Disadvantages

• No Social CRM
• Limited Sales Functions

To Provider

Centralstation CRM is another CRM tool and customer management system that is primarily aimed at small companies. The software takes a rather practical approach for direct work rather than the often found analytical functions. All the important features you expect from a CRM are available. 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, unanimously rated as very good by users. If the basic version is not enough for you, you have the option to upgrade to a paid version.

Smaller Companies

• Easy to Use
• Free of Charge

Disadvantages

• Few Interfaces
• Lack of Marketing Automations

To Provider

Nimble is a customer management system that clearly focuses on the social aspect. For this reason, Nimble is primarily a Social CRM. The design is clear and there are many automation options for small and medium-sized companies. However, for larger companies, the range of features is usually insufficient.

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

Companies of All Sizes

• Social CRM
• Easy to Use
• Many Interfaces

Disadvantages

• Relatively Expensive
• Few Features
  

To Provider

Streak is not a standalone software but an extension for the email provider Gmail. As part of the CRM tools, the extension enables you to organize and manage customer data and emails in a clear manner. It also offers some additional features to help you stay organized.

If you use Gmail for your customer emails, then Streak is an interesting option. Although it is only an enhanced management system for emails and contacts, it makes Gmail significantly more organized and useful. Moreover, with the extension there is little you can go wrong, as Streak is completely free. Additionally, the extension is constantly being developed and improved. Overall, Streak has a lot of potential and is a practical little tool that makes a sensible complement.

Companies of All Sizes Using Gmail or Google Apps

• Free of Charge
• Easy Installation and Use
• Works Directly in Gmail or Google Apps

Disadvantages

• Limited to Emails

To Provider

Insightly is an elegant CRM solution for the small business sector. The CRM offers excellent management of customers and leads as well as sophisticated project and contact management. Particularly interesting are the many social media features that are directly integrated into the CRM, making interaction with social networks significantly easier. Despite its functionality, Insightly is simple to use and clearly designed.

The software can also be integrated with many different other programs. For example, integration with Evernote, Dropbox, or Office 365 is possible. Integration with Outlook, MailChimp, and Google Apps is also possible. In addition, there are many other options available. This makes the CRM particularly interesting and offers you many possibilities. An app for both Android and iOS rounds out the offer.

You can use Insightly for free with up to two users. Beyond that, there are Basic, Plus, and Professional plans. Paid tariffs start at 12 USD. Before purchase, you have the option to test Insightly free for 14 days.

Small Business Companies

• Many Functions
• Integrated Project Management
• Good Support

Disadvantages

• Occasionally Somewhat Superficial

To Provider

Customer management is a demanding and dry task. Podio, a CRM tool based on Citrix, set out to change that. The company’s goal is to make customer management simple and even fun. For this reason, Podio does not have many functions; instead, the CRM focuses on lead and sales management. Both of these modules have been very well executed. Working with Podio is simple and, in fact, even enjoyable. In addition, there are functions for collaboration as well as an easy way to manage tasks and projects. Overall, Podio is also very appealing and intuitive in design, which underscores its aim for ease of use.

Particularly interesting is the fact that Podio enables real-time communication. In addition, it offers its own API and the possibility to integrate with all major tools, such as Google Apps, Evernote, Hangouts, Dropbox, OneDrive, or Google Drive, to name just a few. Podio is available free for up to two users. Beyond that, there are Basic and Enterprise versions for larger and medium-sized companies. The cost starts at 12 USD per month, billed annually. Before purchase, you have the option to book a demo to get acquainted with the Podio CRM.

Companies Needing Extensive Customer Management

• Real-Time Communication
• Task and Project Management
• Many Interfaces

Disadvantages

• Limited to Customer Management

To Provider

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

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

To help you get started quickly with VTiger, there is a kickstart function that allows you to set up the most important settings in a short time. Additionally, various integrations are possible via its own API to connect the CRM with other programs and software. The price for VTiger depends on the version and starts at 10 USD per month up to 30 USD. Before purchase, you have the option to test the Ultimate Edition of VTiger free for 15 days.

Companies of All Sizes

• Many Functions and Interfaces Even in the Basic Version
• Free Basic Version
• Creation and Integration of Chatbots
• Support for Multiple Countries and Languages

Disadvantages

• Premium Packages Are Very Expensive