17hats vs Dubsado: Which CRM Is Best For Your Business?

Picking the right business management tool can feel like a big decision—because it is. The system you choose is what keeps your projects, clients, and finances organized. For solopreneurs and small business owners, the choice often comes down to 17hats vs Dubsado.

Both platforms promise to save you time and simplify your client process. But they go about it in very different ways. Let’s walk through what each one offers so you can decide which feels like the best fit for you and your business.

Overview: 17hats vs Dubsado for Project Management

17hats and Dubsado are all-in-one CRMs designed for small businesses and freelancers. Both handle project management, client communication, invoicing, and lead management in one place—but they shine in different areas.

• 17hats: Built for simplicity. It’s quick to set up and easy to use.
  
• Dubsado: Built for customization. It gives you flexibility to tailor the client experience and automate your workflows.
  

17hats Features for Business Owners

17hats is all about keeping things simple. The interface is clean and easy to learn, making it a great choice if you’re brand new to CRMs.

Key features include:

• Project and client management
  
• Invoicing and online payments
  
• Contracts and questionnaires
  
• Scheduling that syncs with Google Calendar
  
• A mobile app so you can manage on the go
  

Integrations include: QuickBooks, Google Calendar, and Mailchimp.

If you’re looking for a straightforward, affordable option that you can start using right away, 17hats delivers.

Dubsado Features for Client Communication and Workflows

Dubsado is known for its flexibility. It’s the system for you if you want to put your brand front and center while automating behind the scenes.

Key features include:

• Customizable proposals, contracts, and forms
  
• Branded client portals for client communication
  
• Automated workflows with conditional logic
  
• Flexible invoicing and payment plans
  
• Unlimited clients and projects on every plan
  

Integrations include: Stripe, PayPal, Square, Gmail/Outlook, plus extended connections through Zapier.

If you’re ready to dig in and design a system that reflects your brand and processes, Dubsado is the powerhouse tool for you. (Use code: SISAVINGS)

Comparing User Experience

• 17hats: Super simple to set up and use. Great if you want to start managing clients today without a steep learning curve.
  
• Dubsado: Takes more time to learn, but you get a fully branded, customizable client experience in return.
  

Comparing Integrations for Project Management Tools

• 17hats: Covers the basics with QuickBooks, Google Calendar, and Mailchimp.
  
• Dubsado: Offers Zapier support, which means you can connect with hundreds of apps to build out more complex workflows.
  

Customization and Lead Management

• 17hats: Limited customization, but intentionally so—it’s designed to be simple and clear.
  
• Dubsado: Highly customizable. From branded client portals to lead management workflows, you can tailor just about everything.
  

Pricing Comparison

• 17hats: Lower starting point with flexible plans. Accessible for those just getting started.
  
• Dubsado: Flat-rate pricing. All features are included, which means no tiered plans—but it’s a bigger upfront investment.
  

17hats Pros and Cons

Pros

• Easy to use with little setup required
  
• Affordable entry price
  
• Strong all-in-one features for everyday business needs
  
• Mobile app included
  

Cons

• Limited customization
  
• Fewer integrations (no Zapier)
  
• Best for simpler workflows
  

Dubsado Pros and Cons

Pros

• Deep customization for branding and client experience
  
• Robust automations with workflows and conditional logic
  
• Unlimited clients and projects included in every plan
  
• Broad integrations through Zapier
  

Cons

• Steeper learning curve, especially during setup
  
• Higher upfront cost
  
• Can feel overwhelming if you just want something simple
  

Best Use Cases

Best for Creative Professionals

If you’re a photographer, designer, coach, or other creative service provider, Dubsado is probably your better match. It lets you brand every client touchpoint, automate repetitive tasks, and design a seamless client experience from start to finish. (Use code: SISAVINGS)

Best for Small Business Owners

If you’re a solopreneur or small team juggling clients and projects, 17hats is likely the better fit. It’s simple, efficient, and covers all the essentials without extra complexity.

Final Thoughts: Making the Choice Between 17hats and Dubsado

Both 17hats and Dubsado are strong CRM options—they just serve different types of businesses.

• Choose 17hats if you want a tool that’s straightforward, budget-friendly, and quick to start using.
  
• Choose Dubsado if you’re ready to invest in customization, automation, and branded client experiences.
  

The “best” CRM is the one you’ll actually use consistently.

Meet Ashley from Solution Integrators

Hi, I’m Ashley—founder of Solution Integrators. I help solopreneurs and agency owners simplify and scale their businesses with systems that actually work for the way you operate.

Whether you choose 17hats, Dubsado, ClickUp, or Airtable, I’ll help you design and implement the right setup so you can stop feeling bogged down by admin and start running your business with confidence.

✨ Ready to figure out which CRM is right for you—and get it set up without the overwhelm? Work with me here.