Feature Comparison
| Feature | Apollo.io | Close CRM |
|---|---|---|
| AI features | ✓ | ✗ |
| API access | ✓ | ✓ |
| Built-in calling | ✓ | ✓ |
| Contact management | ✓ | ✓ |
| Email integration | ✓ | ✓ |
| Free plan | ✓ | ✗ |
| Lead scoring | ✓ | ✗ |
| Mobile app | ✗ | ✗ |
| Pipeline management | ✓ | ✓ |
| Reporting & analytics | ✓ | ✓ |
| Third-party integrations | ✓ | ✓ |
| Workflow automation | ✓ | ✓ |
Apollo.io Pricing
Free
75 credits/month, 2 sequences, basic filters, 250 daily emails
Free
Basic
Unlimited sequences, advanced filters, 1 mailbox/user, 5 workflows/team, CRM integrations
$59.00/mo
Professional
Unlimited mailboxes (Gmail/Microsoft +5 SMTP), unlimited daily emails, US dialer, 50 workflows/team, call recordings (4000 mins)
$99.00/mo
Organization
Unlimited mailboxes (Gmail/Microsoft +15 SMTP), international dialer, SSO, customizable reports, 500 workflows/team, min 3 users recommended
$149.00/mo
Close CRM Pricing
Solo
$9.00/mo
Essentials
$35.00/mo
Growth
$99.00/mo
Scale
$139.00/mo
Apollo.io
Pros
- Access to verified emails and direct dials from 275M+ contacts reduces manual research by 60%
- Advanced filters like tech stack and hiring signals enable laser-targeted lists
- Seamless Salesforce integration keeps data synced automatically
- Combines prospecting, outreach, and automation in one platform saving stack costs
- Intent data and AI recommendations improve targeting effectiveness
Cons
- Data accuracy inconsistent for international contacts and outdated info leads to bounces
- Steep learning curve with overwhelming options for new users
- Credit system hard to predict leading to unexpected overage costs
- Bulk operations like imports alter job titles or limit to 25 at a time
- Performance slows during peak hours or on lower-end devices
Close CRM
Pros
- Built-in communication tools reduce app switching
- Strong customer support
- Intuitive interface & fast setup
- Excellent for outbound sales teams
Cons
- Limited customization in lower tiers
- Advanced reporting requires higher plans
- Higher pricing than entry-level CRMs
- No free plan, only trial
The Verdict
Apollo.io and Close CRM are neck and neck — both score within a fraction of each other on our DuelStack rating. Apollo.io stands out for access to verified emails and direct dials from 275M+ contacts reduces, while Close CRM edges ahead on intuitive interface & fast setup. On budget alone, Apollo.io wins (starts at $59/mo). Either is a solid choice — pick the one that fits your workflow.