# The Best CRM Software We've Tested for 2026

> PCMag tests top CRM software for 2026, naming Apptivo, Bigin by Zoho, and Freshsales as Editors' Choice.
- Title: The Best CRM Software We've Tested for 2026 · PCMAG | Shortify
- Summary: PCMag tests top CRM software for 2026, naming Apptivo, Bigin by Zoho, and Freshsales as Editors' Choice. PCMag's Editors' Choice for 2026 CRM software…
- Keywords: crm, apptivo, zoho, freshsales, hubspot, insightly, monday, salesforce, pipedrive, best crm, technology, Best
- Source: PCMAG — https://pcmag.com/picks/the-best-crm-software
- Author: Ben Moore
- Published: 2026-09-23T14:02:40+00:00
- Read time: 2 min
- Topics: crm, apptivo, zoho, freshsales, hubspot, insightly, monday, salesforce, pipedrive, best crm, technology
## What CRM Systems Do
Customer relationship management systems automate tasks, centralize customer data, improve collaboration, and provide insights for targeted email marketing.
## Why Choosing a CRM Is Hard
Selecting the right CRM from many options can be daunting as some systems suit small businesses while others meet large enterprise demands.
## PCMag's Testing Approach
PCMag has reviewed CRMs for over a decade, rigorously testing aspects from importing contacts to generating reports.
## Editors' Choice Winners
Apptivo, Bigin by Zoho CRM, and Freshsales are PCMag's Editors' Choice winners for 2026 CRM software.
## Most Flexible CRM
Apptivo CRM offers a highly customizable, feature-rich experience with all tools small businesses need.
## Most Affordable CRM
Bigin by Zoho CRM provides affordable pricing for small businesses with high-quality contact management tools and robust automation features.
## Best for Larger Small Businesses
HubSpot Smart CRM offers excellent tools for nurturing customer relationships, leads, and deals with high-quality AI features.
## Best Setup Process
Insightly CRM provides an intuitive interface, fast setup, and excellent workflow automation tools for businesses.
## Best for AI Features
Monday CRM offers step-by-step onboarding, intuitive interfaces, simple automation tools, and full AI features.
## Best for Salesforce Users
Salesforce Starter Suite provides a highly customizable CRM solution for small businesses planning to upgrade to more feature-rich tiers.
## Best for Free Users
Zoho CRM is a powerful, affordable platform with extensive customization options for businesses willing to invest time learning its features.
## Best for Start-Ups
Less Annoying CRM offers a simple, intuitive interface and robust mobile apps for small businesses with single pricing tiers.
## Best Self-Help Resources
Pipedrive CRM provides all necessary tools for customer relationship management with guided setup processes and high-quality tutorial videos.
## Why We Picked Apptivo
Apptivo splits its feature set into modules for customization, supports accounting and invoicing, and includes 24/7 customer support.
## Why We Picked Bigin by Zoho
Bigin by Zoho targets start-ups and SMBs with affordable pricing, integrates with other Zoho software, and adds AI-powered appointment tools.
## Why We Picked HubSpot Smart CRM
HubSpot Smart CRM includes contact enrichment, custom reporting dashboards, and AI agent hubs with integrations to Slack and Salesforce.
## Key takeaway

PCMag's Editors' Choice for 2026 CRM software includes Apptivo, Bigin by Zoho CRM, and Freshsales based on testing.