What is the difference between Apollo.io and Close CRM?

Apollo.io focuses on Contact database and is freemium, while Close CRM specializes in Built-in calling and is paid. Both are AI Sales tools.

Is Apollo.io or Close CRM better?

It depends on your needs. Apollo.io excels at Massive contact database, while Close CRM is known for All-in-one communication. Compare their features above to decide which fits your workflow.

Apollo.io vs Close CRM

AI Sales tools comparison · Updated 2026

Choosing between Apollo.io and Close CRM? Both are popular AI Sales tools. Apollo.io starts at Freemium and focuses on Contact database. Close CRM starts at From $49/mo and specializes in Built-in calling. Here's a detailed side-by-side comparison to help you decide.

At a Glance

	Apollo.io	Close CRM
Category	AI Sales	AI Sales
Pricing	freemium	paid
Starting Price	Freemium	From $49/mo
Best For	sales, prospecting, lead-generation	crm, inside-sales, calling
Features	7 listed	6 listed

Apollo.io

AI sales intelligence platform with 270M+ contacts and automated outreach.

AI Sales freemium

Visit Apollo.io → Alternatives

Close CRM

Inside sales CRM with built-in calling, SMS, email, and AI workflows.

AI Sales paid

Visit Close CRM → Alternatives

Feature Comparison

Apollo.io	Close CRM
✓ Contact database	✓ Built-in calling
✓ AI lead scoring	✓ SMS messaging
✓ Email sequences	✓ Email sequences
✓ LinkedIn integration	✓ Pipeline automation
✓ Conversation intelligence	✓ Power dialer
✓ CRM sync	✓ Smart views
✓ Intent data	—

Pricing Comparison

Apollo.io

freemium

Free with 600 email credits/yr. Basic $49/user/mo. Professional $79/user/mo.

Close CRM

paid

Starting at $49/mo

Startup at $49/user/mo. Professional at $99/user/mo. Enterprise at $139/user/mo.

Pros & Cons

Apollo.io

Pros

+ Massive contact database
+ AI prospecting
+ Affordable
+ All-in-one platform

Cons

− Data accuracy varies
− Can be overwhelming
− Email deliverability issues

Close CRM

Pros

+ All-in-one communication
+ Fast setup
+ Great for startups
+ Powerful search

Cons

− Limited marketing features
− No free plan
− Fewer integrations than competitors

The Verdict

Both Apollo.io and Close CRM are strong AI Sales tools. Apollo.io stands out for Massive contact database, making it ideal if that's your priority. Close CRM excels at All-in-one communication, which may be more important for your workflow. Price-wise, Apollo.io is freemium while Close CRM is paid, so budget may also factor in.