William Baxter, Author at The Tech Report Tech Explored Tue, 06 Feb 2024 16:02:24 +0000 en-US hourly 1 https://wordpress.org/?v=6.4.2 https://techreport.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/06/cropped-techreport-logo-1-32x32.png William Baxter, Author at The Tech Report 32 32 Warning Signs Your Spouse is Snapchat Cheating & What You Can Do About It https://techreport.com/spy/snapchat-cheating/ Wed, 24 Jan 2024 08:36:37 +0000 https://techreport.com/?page_id=3535392 Snapchat Interface | Credit, Snapchat

At a time when smartphones and social media companies dictate our lives, instant communication has never been more accessible. However, with this increased ability to communicate comes new challenges for...

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Snapchat Interface | Credit, Snapchat

At a time when smartphones and social media companies dictate our lives, instant communication has never been more accessible. However, with this increased ability to communicate comes new challenges for relationships, like Snapchat cheating.

Popular apps like Snapchat allow you to send photos and videos that you can only view once, which is why so many people are now using it to have illicit affairs with others. The trouble comes when looking for evidence of cheating, as Snapchat leaves behind no trail.

In this article, we’re going to delve into the brutal reality that is Snapchat cheating, shedding light on tell-tale signs your partner is being unfaithful, what to look out for, and most importantly, how you can prove it.

What Exactly Is Snapchat Cheating?

Snapchat cheating is essentially using the global social media app to share explicit pictures, videos, or messages with someone other than your partner. Since the app only allows you to view sent media once, cheaters commonly use it to hide their activity.

Snapchat cheating is precisely what the phrase entails – using the global social media app to sext or communicate with others in a harmful way to your partner. Examples of this can include things like sharing nude images and videos, flirting, and much more.

In a report by The Sun Newspaper via Illicit Encounters, a survey found that 23% of serial cheaters preferred to use Snapchat when having an affair with someone else. While it placed second behind Kik Messenger, the number is still incredibly high, and the overall secretive nature of the platform is partly to blame.

This shouldn’t be too surprising, as another study by a panel of experts found that “23% of men and 20% of women report engaging in extra-partner sexual intercourse at some point during a relationship.”
With images and videos disappearing without a trace after they’re viewed, many adults opt for Snapchat for cheating as there’s no evidence of wrongdoing. All that’s left behind is proof a ‘Snap’ was opened and viewed, but no more.

Even the messaging within the app deletes as default, so you can’t just unlock their phone and demand to see the messages – as the chances are they’re long gone.

Thankfully, there are excellent spy apps, like mSpy, you can use to view any incoming Snapchat messages. You will need to install this on your partner’s device, which can prove tricky, but it allows you to monitor all social media platforms, calls, and texts.

Key Warning Signs of Snapchat Cheating

You should be aware of a wide range of red flags to spot if your other half is cheating on you using Snapchat. Being aware of these warning signs is essential, as you can then bring up the topic or look for evidence – we’ve listed some of the most common signs below.

Increased Secrecy & Being Protective Over A Device

Man being secretive over his phoneOne of the most obvious signs someone is cheating is a sudden increase in the secrecy and protection of their device. For example, doing things like turning their phone so the screen faces down and you don’t see who the notification is from.

Or it might be that they leave the room for phone calls they would otherwise gladly take in front of you – the list is endless. Both of these are clear signs that something is being hidden from you, and it’s a typical move by cheaters to avoid detection.

Whatever it is, be mindful of how protective they are of their devices, whether it be a laptop, phone, or tablet. Plus, if they start not sharing things with you like before, this could all point to something illicit.

Excessive Use of Snapchat

Since we know Snapchat is the second most commonly used app for cheaters, increased usage could be a sign something is going on. That’s why it’s worth knowing whether your partner is using it more than before or if they’ve recently downloaded Snapchat and are now fixated – as these could be a sign of cheating.

The secretive nature of Snapchat makes it incredibly hard to find any evidence of cheating, and bringing it up is likely to lead to a confrontation. If you’re intent on discovering the truth, you could try using one of the best Snapchat spy apps to catch your partner out.

The tricky part is getting it on their device, but once you figure that out, the app runs in the background without them being any wiser. All communications can then be monitored, and some things even be controlled from your device, including messages, browser history, GPS location, etc.

Changes in Behaviour

This one is tricky, as only you know your partner like you do, so advising on this can be challenging without prior knowledge. But it could be a warning sign if you start to notice that they get nervous when using Snapchat or they seem distracted by something on their phone.

Most people feel some form of remorse or guilt from their actions, which might be evident as they could start arguing with you more, acting suspiciously, or doing things that are not really in their nature.

Rely on your gut instinct as a tell-tale sign that something is off, especially if you’ve known them for some time, but don’t make accusations without concrete proof.

Either way, it doesn’t mean they’re definitely cheating, but for some, a significant change of behavior shows that something might be on their mind or that they feel guilty.

You can also try discussing this with them to see what they have to say. Professionals recommend honesty and communication by default for couples.

Unknown Snapchat Friends

If you’ve been with your partner for a long time, it’s likely that you’ll know many of their friends, family, and so on. But if you see that they’re texting someone new and haven’t felt the need to share it with you, you might want to ask questions.

Snapchat Interface
Credit: Snapchat

Sharing messages and memories with your partner, like work and social life updates, is common in relationships. But if they have a ‘friend’ that they’re not disclosing, it’s likely because they don’t want you to know.

Using a spy app will allow you to monitor who they’re speaking with, what apps they’re using, and even view a live screen recording of what they’re doing on their device. This makes it helpful in gathering any evidence of wrongdoing.

Avoidance of Sharing Snapchat Activity

The avoidance of sharing social media activity ties into the point we made above – if they’re using Snapchat to talk to people, whether you know them or not, they’d usually share friendly updates. It’s pretty standard for couples to express interest or to share what’s going on with friends.

But if you ask them about it and they dismiss you, or they simply just send messages, leave the room, and don’t say a word, this is a problem. Don’t get me wrong, not every aspect of personal life needs sharing with a loved one, but all partners tend to discuss these things casually.

So if you ask them who they’re speaking to or what’s going on, and they are quick to change the subject, you could be seeing early warning signs that your partner is cheating.

A sudden change in behavior, such as agitation, anger, or frustration, with your line of questions, is another sign that ties in with this. Watch carefully to see how they act when you try to discuss their actions on Snapchat or who they’re talking to.

Gets Defensive When Questioned Over Snapchat

If your partner starts getting defensive, if you ask a question like ‘Who are you speaking to?’ it may be that they’re hiding something. There shouldn’t be secrets like that in a relationship; something like who you’re talking with on Snapchat is hardly a big deal.

So if they make a fuss, telling you it doesn’t matter or it’s none of your business, this is another big red flag. Again, having a private life is vital in a relationship, and you shouldn’t harass or demand to know who your other half is speaking to at all times.

But if you just ask to show an interest and they get overly dismissive or start a fight over it, you could have a cheating partner on your hands.

False Flags

Lastly, and perhaps the most complex and odd scenario of them all, is potential false flags, and they work like this: a person sets up Snapchat notifications to go off at random times, and when quizzed on the subject, puts it down to some sort of tech glitch.

This means that if you ask who’s constantly messaging, they can dismiss it as a Snapchat notification glitch. So don’t be fooled if your partner’s phone keeps dingning without aunty messages appearing, as it’s likely been set up to trick you.

There are multiple reports about this online, but if you have any doubts, search the internet for things like ‘Snapchat notification problems’, as this can help you confirm if it’s a common issue or something they’ve made up.

How to Address Snapchat Cheating

Knowing how to approach a partner you suspect is Snapchat cheating can be a minefield of tricky conversations, wild accusations, and potential drama. Therefore, it’s essential to have an idea or plan in mind on what to do if you want to reach a useful resolution.

We aren’t relationship therapists or marriage counselors, and you should always seek expert help from a certified professional if you feel like something is wrong.

However, there are some key methods on how to go about addressing your concerns. Below are a few tips on how you can approach a loved one in a safe and fair manner.

Take A Moment to Think

Let’s face it – if you believe that your partner is cheating via Snapchat or any other way, it’s going to be a tough pill to swallow. But you must also consider your next steps and approach the situation respectably and sensibly.

If you don’t have any evidence to support your claims, and it’s just your word against theirs, anything you might say is likely to never be forgotten. So don’t go in yelling or throwing around wild accusations, think carefully about your actions and gather any evidence you can that you can use to push the conversation further when having that chat.

One of the best ways to gather evidence is using a Snapchat spy app, such as the excellent EyeZy. Once installed on your partner’s device, you can monitor all incoming and outgoing communications, so it’s a great way to support your claims.

EyeZy Dashboard

These apps allow you to keep an eye on all social media channels, as well as other messages and calls. Everything can be monitored from a simple dashboard on your device once you’ve installed it on the target user’s phone.

Express Your Thoughts

When you’ve decided to bring it up, you must share your thoughts openly and honestly. Tell them why you think they’re cheating, show them any evidence you have, and make your feelings known.

It’s best to do this in a private setting away from prying eyes, as things might get upsetting for the both of you. Doing this lets you have a more open and honest discussion without worrying about others hearing.

When explaining your thoughts, it’s imperative to be fair, open, and as polite as possible, despite any mounting tensions. If you lose your cool, it could result in irreversible damage, especially if your claims are proven to be nothing more than lovers’ jealousy.

The wording of your statements is also important, as you want them to know you hear their thoughts and concerns – but you also want to be heard.

For further advice, Everyday Health put together a useful list of steps to take when addressing a cheating partner that covers the tone, language, and other useful support options.

Whatever happens, being respectful gives you the opportunity to build bridges and potentially overcome what’s bound to be an uncomfortable situation for you both.

Show Any Evidence of Cheating or Specific Concerns

This is arguably the most important step to achieving your desired outcome. It’s very easy to let jealousy overcome you, and just because you think or it looks like they’re cheating, it doesn’t mean they actually are. That’s why evidence is so important in these tense situations.

If you’re using a top app like mSpy, you may have messages or pictures you can show your partner to prove what you’re saying is real. This means they’ll have no choice but to admit any wrongdoing.

Having no evidence is likely to just lead to an argument or breakup, as they can put it down to a lack of trust or, worse, resort to gaslighting. If you suspect it to be a certain person or on a certain day, explain that to them, as body language can sometimes be a clear sign of someone cheating.

Encourage an Open Chat

Couple having an open conversationGiven the distressing nature of the talk, it’s important to allow both sides to tell their story, as this isn’t an interrogation. Simply hurling accusation after accusation isn’t going to help anyone and will likely result in you both just getting upset.

Allow them time to explain themselves, take their thoughts into consideration, and don’t lose your temper, no matter how upsetting it is.

Having an open dialogue can be a great way to reconnect, and share any deeper feelings, and potentially lead to fixing a broken relationship or taking the first steps in parting ways in a safe and respectable manner.

Ask Any Burning Questions

Depending on the outcome of your chat, now is the time to ask any questions you might have for your partner. Is this something we can move past? Why did you do it? Many concerns will come to mind but still remain respectful throughout.

This could be your one opportunity to find some common ground and potentially move to a place where someone can be forgiven, and the relationship can continue. If you’re unsure of what to do as a couple after this, it’s best to speak to an expert like a trained therapist or couples counselor.

Try and Earn Back Trust

The final step, once all the above have been exhausted, is to reevaluate your current situation and decide whether you want to move forward with your relationship or if it’s time to go your separate ways.

For some couples, irreversible damage has been done, and it’s time to move on. With that being said, a study by Allo Health discovered that “up to 70% of couples are able to move past the infidelity and rebuild their relationship.”

For others, it can bring you closer together. This is usually due to open and honest conversations and setting future boundaries.

mSpy Location Tracker

Using one of these apps will give you both total confidence that your significant other is faithful, as you can easily monitor their device’s activity from your own phone. This includes live location, social media channels, and much more.

As always, consult a trained professional to help guide you on the next steps, as it will differ greatly from couple to couple.

Can Spying Apps Help with Snapchat Cheating?

We’ve touched upon it a few times within this article, but top spying apps can be hugely beneficial if you suspect your partner of cheating. They allow you to gather evidence, often the deal breaker from hearsay claims of a partner being unfaithful.

While it’s illegal in many countries and states to install spy software on a person’s device unbeknownst to them, you could strike an agreement, and both use them to avoid ending up in this situation altogether.

However you decide to do it, there are a few great options out there. To help you understand them more, and what they can offer, we’ve created a useful table below that outlines some of the key features and more.

Best SPY App Top Choice For Starting Price Standout Features
mSpy Spying Undetected $16.66/month billed annually A – Custom Keylogger Keywords
B – View Call Logs
C – Store Incoming Media
EyeZy Spying on Social Media Channels $9.99/month billed annually A – GPS Tracker
B – New Social Media App Alerts
C – Monitor & Store Sent and Received Media
uMobix Monitoring Someone’s Location $11.66/month billed annually A – Social Media Monitoring
B – Live Screen Recording
C – Restrict Calls and Messages
Cocospy Spying on Android Devices $8.33/month billed annually (Android)
$10.83/month billed annually (iOS)
A – Android Keylogger
B – View Notes and Calendar Entries
C – Save all Media Files

Snapchat Cheating Takeaways

Finding yourself in a situation where you believe your loved one is Snapchat cheating can be difficult to come to terms with. The secret nature of the popular social media app already seems suspicious, and proving your case can be damn near impossible.

Thankfully, there is a good range of apps available, such as mSpy, which allows you to monitor not only Snapchat but also other social media apps, call logs, messages, and live locations.

This can help you gather evidence and take the guesswork out of knowing if your partner is cheating – you’ll just need access to their device in order to install a spy app.

If you do suspect your partner is cheating, this article serves as a good reference guide to both identifying and knowing how to approach the subject. But for serious help that’s likely to help your relationship move forward, it’s always best to consult a trained professional, such as a therapist or couples counselor.

FAQs

How do I know if my partner is cheating on Snapchat?

How can I see who my boyfriend is Snapchatting?

How do you know if someone is talking to someone else on Snapchat?

How do I know if my husband has Snapchat?

References

The post Warning Signs Your Spouse is Snapchat Cheating & What You Can Do About It appeared first on The Tech Report.

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TunnelBear Review — Performance & Security Deep Dive in 2024 https://techreport.com/vpn/tunnelbear-review/ Wed, 03 Jan 2024 10:55:55 +0000 https://techreport.com/?page_id=3532092 TunnelBear Website

Virtual Private Networks, or VPNs for short, are becoming a vital part of everyday life for millions of people worldwide. This is partly due to the increased internet surveillance, meaning...

The post TunnelBear Review — Performance & Security Deep Dive in 2024 appeared first on The Tech Report.

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TunnelBear Website

Virtual Private Networks, or VPNs for short, are becoming a vital part of everyday life for millions of people worldwide. This is partly due to the increased internet surveillance, meaning your online activities are now being used to feed the likes of advertisers our data.

There’s also a steady increase in cyberattacks, which can lead to financial fraud, identity theft, and much more. These are a real cause for concern, and top VPNs like TunnelBear aim to keep you safe online.

In this TunnelBear review, we explore how this provider secures you against increased surveillance and cyberattacks. We also review TunnelBear’s best features, pricing, and other vital areas.

TunnelBear Pros and Cons

Before we delve into the key features of TunnelBear

Pros

  • Offers a free plan for those of you who want to try before you buy
  • Very user-friendly apps for all devices, ideal for beginners
  • Decent security features, including AES-256 encryption
  • Adheres to a no-logs policy, so none of your data is stored by the provider

Cons

  • It doesn’t unblock many streaming services
  • Unreliable connections
  • No live chat option

Is TunnelBear Good?

TunnelBear is an exciting entry into an already crowded market space. It looks good, and the user-friendly interface deserves recognition as it’s suitable for beginners. TunnelBear also has enough advanced features to make it enjoyable for more experienced users.

It offers robust security features, including AES-256 encryption plus a SHA-256 hash for further authentication. While this isn’t groundbreaking, it’s enough to keep you safe and secure online, away from most prying eyes.

The provider also has undergone multiple third-party audits to back up its security measures, with the latest report from Cure53 providing a solid overview of the steps TunnelBear has in place to ensure you’re secure when using the VPN.

The US is not a great jurisdiction for VPNs.

Sadly, this is where the plaudits end, and we’ll explain why. Firstly, back in 2018, TunnelBear was purchased by McAfee, so it’s now under the jurisdiction of the US – this is bad news for any VPN, given the poor privacy laws.

Furthermore, it struggles to bypass geo-blocks on popular streaming services like Netflix, Disney Plus, and Amazon Prime Video. Even if you do, the connections are often unreliable; at times, we were disconnected or couldn’t connect to a server.

You do get Wireguard support, so when the connection does decide to kick in, the speeds on offer are decent for watching videos. But if you want to use a VPN to torrent, we wouldn’t recommend TunnelBear, as torrenting very rarely works on its servers.

Is TunnelBear Safe?

Overall, TunnelBear is safe to use and hasn’t ever been caught up in any data breaches at the time of writing. It also runs independent audits on its service, ensuring their no-logs claims and others are held up.

The provider offers features like an effective kill switch and leak protection to further ensure your safety, which is the hallmark of any good VPN. Following our tests, we found that both worked incredibly well and as advertised.

There are also no reports to suggest that TunnelBear has fulfilled any demands made by law enforcement regarding a person’s data, which is always great to see.

As this is a US-based VPN, there is always a risk of law enforcement pressuring a VPN provider into handing over data to support court cases – but we found no evidence of this from TunnelBear.

Best Use Case for TunnelBear – What Does It Excel At?

While TunnelBear struggles to unblock many major streaming platforms like Netflix and Hulu, it excels in one area – user-friendliness.

As we’ve touched upon previously, TunnelBear certainly won’t be winning any awards for its streaming or torrenting performance, and those are best left to one of the top VPNs for streaming, like Nord or ExpressVPN.

It’s one of the easiest VPNs to get started with, as there’s a helpful free plan, and the setup procedure is a piece of cake. Once the setup is complete, you’re greeted by an attractive interface and the famous TunnelBear mascot, all of which provide an experience that is both intuitive and easy on the eye.

Being user-friendly might not seem like a standout feature compared to security or speed, and let’s be honest – for good reason. But there is a market for VPNs that aren’t aimed at the most tech-savvy individuals or those who just want an easy way of staying safe online.

TunnelBear fills this gap nicely, offering decent speeds for everyday use, a large server base spread across the globe (3000 in 48 countries), and easy-to-use apps for iOS, Android, and desktops.

For some of you, that’s all you’ll need, and TunnelBear will work just fine for your daily browsing and watching YouTube videos.

TunnelBear Features

It’s time to dive into TunnelBear’s key features to see how it’s made strides to stand out amongst other top competitors. We vigorously tested this VPN and ran it through several scenarios to come to these conclusions, so stay tuned to find out what we thought.

User-Friendly Interface

TunnelBear VPN prides itself on offering a remarkably user-friendly interface, and it lived up to this reputation in our hands-on testing. The application’s design is visually appealing and intuitive, making it easy for users of all technical levels to navigate.

The bear-themed graphics and animations add a touch of charm and contribute to the overall simplicity of the user experience.

TunnelBear interface on mobile

The interface remains consistent across various platforms, including Windows, macOS, Android, and iOS, ensuring a seamless and enjoyable user experience.

The core features, such as the server list, settings, etc., can be accessed from the central hub. This means you don’t need to spend hours and hours trying to figure out where everything is,

Robust Security and Encryption

The service employs AES-256-bit encryption, a gold standard in the industry, ensuring that your data remains highly secure.

We also tested the VigilantBear feature, the built-in kill switch, and found it effective in preventing data leaks by cutting off internet access when the VPN connection was lost.

However, this feature isn’t currently available on iOS, which is in line with an annoying quirk we see with a lot of popular providers like Windscribe and ProtonVPN – they offer watered-down versions with far fewer features for iPhone users, so keep that in mind if you’re an iPhone user who values privacy.

Strict No-Logging Policy

TunnelBear states that it doesn’t log any activities, which means that whatever you do while connected to the VPN won’t be recognizable. They won’t gather any information on your behavior.

However, they collect personal data like the cardholder’s last name, device OS, and data usage.

TunnelBear No-logs Policy

Additionally, it has access to the information kept by Stripe and PayPal, their third-party payment providers, which often contain the billing address for your card.

There’s also a distinct lack of cryptocurrency payments on offer, as at the time of writing, TunnelBear accepts zero crypto payment methods.

When you consider the lack of anonymous payment methods, coupled with the fact that they are headquartered in a country under the Five-Eyes Alliance, we’re not too confident about the overall privacy of your data.

If you’re looking to make totally anonymous payments, we’d suggest trying either NordVPN or CyberGhost – both of which allow you to pay using various cryptocurrencies, such as Ethereum and Bitcoin.

Good Server Network

TunnelBear map of servers on desktop

TunnelBear’s server network is crucial in determining its performance and accessibility. We explored the service’s presence, which currently sits at 3000 servers in over 40 countries.

This solid global network allows you to access content from different countries, even though we found it frequently struggled to bypass geo-blocks when we were testing on popular streaming services like Netflix and BBC iPlayer.

VigilantBear

TunnealBear Kill Switch Feature

VigilantBear is TunnelBear’s answer to a kill switch – one of the most essential areas of any VPN. Our testing confirmed its effectiveness in preventing data leaks in the event of a connection loss.

The VigilantBear feature adds an extra layer of security, ensuring that your online activities remain private even during unexpected interruptions.

TunnelBear Blocker

In essence, TunnelBear Blocker is an ad blocker. You can use this tool without a TunnelBear account by simply adding it to your browser (Chrome is the only supported browser currently).

The number of web trackers Blocker has stopped will be displayed once you install this to your Chrome browser.

TunnelBear Blocker Feature

This feature also blocks ads, Flash scripts, pixel tracking, microphone access, social media buttons, and WebRTC. Additional blocklists containing websites suspected to contain malware are also included.

GhostBear

Some countries are always looking to restrict the use of VPNs. They may be able to tell from your traffic patterns that you’re using a VPN in certain situations.

Because of this, Tunnelbear offers a feature aptly named GhostBear, where the servers have been disguised using unique algorithms to make your traffic appear like regular non-VPN traffic.

TunnelBear GhostBear Feature

Unfortunately, this feature is also not available to iOS users, which is quite common for many advanced VPN features.

However, if you’re looking for one of the best VPNs for iPhones that don’t skimp out on features, we’d recommend trying NordVPN.

TunnelBear Speed and Performance

For all its potential strengths and weaknesses, TunnelBear’s speeds are one area that does impress, at least for our testing locations.

For optimum performance, the added WireGuard support is a big plus and something we look for in any VPN service.

In our hands-on performance testing of TunnelBear, we assessed its speed and reliability for various online activities. While it may not be the fastest VPN on the market, TunnelBear demonstrated reliable performance for everyday tasks.

Streaming, browsing, and general internet usage were seamless, with acceptable speeds for most.

However, don’t get your hopes up if you’re hoping to torrent on TunnelBear. We couldn’t torrent on any of the servers, which was disappointing. If you’re looking for one of the best torrenting VPNs, we’d suggest you try ExpressVPN. But its speeds are top-notch for every use, mainly thanks to the WireGuard.

You won’t notice a massive drop in speed for watching videos, gaming, and other daily activities, or at least not more than you would with any other VPN.

It doesn’t quite reach the dizzying performance of ExpressVPN’s Lightway protocol or NordVPN’s NordLynx – but there’s more than enough to be impressed by here.

The only real downside was the need for more support for torrenting. Unlike some top providers like CyberGhost, there are no optimized servers for torrenting, and we couldn’t manage it on any of the ones we tried.

But this won’t be a problem for many people, and as we said earlier, TunnelBear is best suited for those who don’t demand the latest and greatest features. If you want to stream videos, play games, or browse the net,TunnelBear works perfectly well.

TunnelBear Pricing – Is It Worth Paying For?

TunnelBear pricing and plans

TunnelBear offers a decent free plan for those who want to try out the features before signing up for the paid plan. With it, you get 2GB of free data and access to a handful of servers – so while it isn’t the best free VPN on the market, it’s a good introduction.

In terms of premium plans, there’s only one aimed at personal usage: the Unlimited plan. It’ll cost you $3.33/month, so it’s right in the middle regarding pricing compared to other VPNs. It’s exactly half the cost of ExpressVPN, one of the leading providers, and matches NordVPN’s price.

It’s hard to argue that TunnelBear is good value for money, as you get so much more with a NordVPN premium plan than you do here.

There’s also no money-back guarantee on offer, as TunnelBear claims that each case will be determined on a case-by-case basis, so it’s up to customer support to decide whether you get your funds returned.

Overall, the feature-to-cost ratio here isn’t great when, for the same price, you can have all the excellent NordVPN offers. While it isn’t the most expensive VPN out there, it certainly isn’t the cheapest, and you’ll find better deals with more feature-rich VPNs.

TunnelBear Ease of Use

So far, we’ve been a bit critical of TunnelBear and what it offers, but in this section, we’re pleased to report that the provider is in our good books. That’s because we found it one of the easiest VPNs to set up, use, and maintain.

Whether you’re using the mobile apps for Android and iOS or the desktop versions for Windows and MacOS, each is a genuine pleasure. The cute bear animations that greet you make it feel like a fun experience rather than a lesson in advanced VPN technology.

Everything you need can be found from the main dashboard, which is helpful, as features like GhostBear are turned off by default (we have no idea why.) This certainly isn’t one for the die-hard VPN enthusiasts, as there’s very little in the way of top features.

Instead, it’s best for those who just want the basic levels of protection, good speeds, and apps that are easy to use.

The only real gripe comes with the lack of live chat support on any of the apps – at the time of writing, this isn’t something that TunnelBear offers. So, if you find yourself in a sticky situation, you’ll have to go through a slightly lengthier email support process.

TunnelBear vs Top VPN Apps

Now, we look at how TunnelBear squares off with some of the other leading VPN providers on the market. Below, we’ve created a helpful table that compares the key features, uses, and pricing.

VPN Top Choice For Starting Price Countries Supported Standout Features
TunnelBear VPN Newbies $3.33/month 49+ GhostBear, Wireguard, Security Audits, VigilantBear
ExpressVPN Super-Fast Streaming $6.67/month 105 Tracker Blocker, Lightway Protocol, Trusted Server Technology, Private DNS
NordVPN Overall Security $2.99/month 60 Dedicated IP, Meshnet, NordLynx, Double VPN, Onion-Over VPN, Split Tunnelling
Ivacy Multi-Device Coverage $1/month 68 IPv6 Leak Protection, Secure DNS, Dedicated IP, DDoS Protection, 10 Simultaneous Connections
PureVPN Media Consumption $2.08.month 65 PureKeep, One Click Protection, Hidden IP, Port Forwarding, Dedicated IP, Always-on-Audit

Other TunnelBear Reviews

To help back up some of the claims we make throughout our reviews, we like to explore what others say about TunnelBear or any product we review, which allows us to ascertain what real users are saying about a piece of software or hardware.

We use trusted sources like G2, Trustpilot, and Reddit to see what actual users have to say, as this helps us figure out if any issues are consistent or just one-off errors. Below, we’ve included some user feedback we’ve encountered when researching TunnelBear.

TunnelBear Good Review – Trustpilot

This person was quick to praise TunnelBear on how user-friendly it is, something we echoed throughout this review, so it’s good to see we’re not the only ones who think so. They also touched upon the free plan, another strong area amongst few for the provider.

TunnelBear Review, Reddit

Sadly, Reddit users were slightly more unkind, with many drawing upon that TunnelBear is based within the Five-Eyes Alliance. There is a brief mention of user-friendliness, which is good to see from an overall negative review.

However, many shared the privacy concerns and doubts over the provider no-logs policy in the comments.

Why You Can Trust Our TunnelBear Review

If you like what you’re reading but are perhaps unsure of our credentials – let us put your mind at ease. Anytime we write a review on a piece of software or hardware, we vigorously test it ourselves to draw on real-time experience with whatever we’re testing.

In the case of TunnelBear, we used it as our main VPN over a few weeks, as this helps us spot one-off issues and locate patterns of consistency or inconsistency. Doing this helps us provide a more accurate overview of the VPN over a longer period of time.

Also, this isn’t our first rodeo. We’ve tested hundreds of VPNs like Ivacy, CyberGhost, ExpressVPN, and other bits of tech over the years, so we’re well-versed in what to look out for.

We test average speeds, how well they fare at bypassing geo-blocks, explore the pricing, and much more.

To back up any of our claims, we always look for accounts from verified users, so for TunnelBear, we browsed trusted review sites like G2 and Trustpilot, as well as the know-it-alls over in the Subreddits.

These methods help us remain balanced and are another great way to see if fellow users shared areas we liked or disliked. Spotting consistencies in performance is a great way to verify that a feature works well and helps spot problem areas at scale.

Guide: How to Use TunnelBear

TunnelBear is one of the simplest VPNs to start, but if this is your first time using a VPN, stay tuned. Below, we’ve run through the steps to download, install, and get up and running with this VPN provider.

1. Head to the TunnelBear Website

TunnelBear Website

First, go to the official TunnelBear website and click the ‘Plans’ button from the top menu. Please note the advertised plan was available at the time of writing, but may be time-sensitive.

2. Pick your Plan

TunnelBear Plans

From the ‘Plans’ tab, you get the option of the free tier, Unlimited, or Teams plan. zSelect whichever one suits your needs best. You need to get your card details ready if you opt for any of the paid plans.

3. Select your Desired Plan Period

TunnelBear Plan Length

Now that you’ve selected your desired plan, you’ll need to choose the time you want to commit yourself to. The options are 1-month, 1-year, or 3-years. Typically speaking, the longer you commit, the cheaper it will be.

Next, you need to enter your card details and some other basic info, then proceed to the next step.

4. Download and Install TunnelBear

Download TunnelBear, Google Play Store

Now, you can download TunnelBear on all of your devices.

Head to the Google Play Store on Android or the App Store on iOS, or click the ‘Download’ button on the TunnelBear website to download the app onto your Windows or Mac computer.

5. Sign in and Get Protected

The last step you need to take is to launch your newly downloaded TunnelBear app on your chosen devices and log in using the information you supplied in step 3.

TunnelBear Server List

Once complete, simply connect to one of the TunnelBear servers to secure your internet connection immediately.

TunnelBear Verdict

TunnelBear might not be the most feature-rich VPN on the market, but there is still a market for a VPN like this. Its pleasant user interface and ease of use make it a good choice for those new to VPNs who aren’t up for a steep learning curve.

It offers enough encryption and security to keep you safe, and the connection speeds on Wireguard are pretty strong. However, for those who demand the best from their VPNs, it’s clear that this isn’t a suitable choice.

The provider struggles to bypass geo-blocks on websites like Netflix and Amazon Prime Video, and the torrenting performance is non-existent. So, if that’s your primary use for a VPN, you’ll be better suited with ExpressVPN or Nord.

FAQs

Is TunnelBear trustworthy?

Is TunnelBear 100% free?

Which VPN is better than TunnelBear?

What happened to TunnelBear?

References

The post TunnelBear Review — Performance & Security Deep Dive in 2024 appeared first on The Tech Report.

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The Best Android Password Managers in 2024 — Top 10 Compared https://techreport.com/password-managers/best-android-password-managers/ Thu, 21 Dec 2023 08:33:24 +0000 https://techreport.com/?page_id=3531219 NordPass Exposes Alarming Trends in Password Habits

We currently live in a world where online privacy is becoming a paramount concern for millions of individuals. With the huge amount of private data our smartphones hold, many are...

The post The Best Android Password Managers in 2024 — Top 10 Compared appeared first on The Tech Report.

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NordPass Exposes Alarming Trends in Password Habits

We currently live in a world where online privacy is becoming a paramount concern for millions of individuals. With the huge amount of private data our smartphones hold, many are looking for the best Android password managers to keep their credentials safe.

Gone are the days when you could have your beloved pet’s name as your password, as hackers and software can crack these in a matter of seconds. But coming up with unique and tough-to-crack passwords you can remember is tricky, and the last thing you want is to lose access to important accounts.

That’s where the best Android password managers come in. Instead of remembering dozens of different login details for a host of sites and apps, you just need a master password or your biometrics to securely access your login credentials.

In this article, we look at the best Android password managers by comparing their features, ease of use, cost, and much more.

Do You Need an Android Password Manager?

You might be thinking, ‘Do I really need a password manager?’ The short answer is yes, you do need one if you have online accounts with banks, government authorities, social media, or anything in between. Don’t believe us? We’ve listed some of the key reasons why password managers are essential in your day-to-day life:

  • Increased Security – Password managers use advanced encryption methods and various 2FA to store and protect your passwords from prying eyes. This shield your sensitive information from potential breaches and unauthorized access.
  • Making Life Easier – With the majority of online accounts requiring some form of password or login details, it’s easy to fall into the trap of using simple, easy-to-guess passwords or, worse, reusing them. A password manager streamlines this process by generating and storing complex, unique passwords for each account, meaning you don’t need to remember them all individually.
  • Works Across Multiple Devices – Android password managers provide easy synchronization across multiple devices. Whether you’re using your smartphone, tablet, or even a computer, your passwords are safe and readily available.
  • Password Creation – The ability to generate strong and random passwords is a key feature of password managers. This ensures that your passwords meet the highest security standards, reducing the risk of unauthorized access due to weak or easily guessable combinations. .
  • Biometric Login – Most popular Android password managers support biometric authentication methods such as fingerprint or facial recognition. This adds an extra layer of security while making it more convenient for you to access your accounts.
  • Secure Sharing – When collaboration requires sharing passwords or sensitive information, password managers often include secure sharing features. These tools ensure that shared data is encrypted and can be accessed only by authorized individuals. This is particularly useful for businesses who may need to frequently share passwords to access company apps and data.

Shortlist: The Best Password Apps for Android (2024)

Below is a quick glance at our picks for the best password apps for Android right now, with NordPass taking our number one spot. We’re about to jump into the full and detailed reviews of each provider, so stay tuned to find out how we ranked them.

  1. NordPass – Overall, the best password manager app for Android, thanks to its next-gen XChaCha20 encryption and affordable price tag.
  2. 1Password – Best option for remote workers thanks to the heightened security and useful travel mode feature.
  3. Dashlane – The best Android password manager for evaluating and mass-updating weak passwords with one click.
  4. Keeper – The best password manager for Android for secure messaging with KeeperChat.
  5. Roboform – One of the most feature-rich free Android password managers
  6. Enpass – Robust Android password manager that can be used as an authenticator for other apps and websites
  7. Password Boss – Great choice for businesses who use Android devices thanks to features like the secure browser.
  8. Total Password – A highly user-friendly password manager for Android.
  9. Norton – A 100% free Android password manager.
  10. Kaspersky – Good password manager that can also store photos, videos, and documents.

Top 8 Best Android Password Managers Reviewed

We’ll kick things off with NordPass, our top pick for the best Android Password manager right now. In these reviews, we’ll test each product hands-on as we look to find out each of their strengths and weaknesses.

1. NordPass – Overall, The Best Password Manager for Android

NordPass Logo

NordPass is an excellent password manager for Android created by the same brains behind the ever-popular VPN and file security provider. This user-friendly app for Android boasts some cutting-edge features, like automatic backups if your device is lost or stolen and the latest XChaCha20 encryption for the ultimate security experience.

NordPass offers all the features you’d want to find in a password manager, including an excellent data breach scanner.

Nord’s data breach scanner scans the internet to find out if any of your passwords have been involved in a leak.

This means you can rapidly change any compromised password and avoid the loss of personal information.

When updating your passwords, there isn’t a one-click solution to mass update as you get with Dashlane. Still, the outstanding password generator can curate totally unique passwords that would take even the most advanced supercomputer millions of years to crack.

Alongside this, the Password Health Checker will scan all of your current passwords to ensure they’re up to scratch, not recycled, or easy to guess.

NordPass Android Interface

Best For Price Free version/trial?
Cutting-Edge Encryption Starting from $1.24/month Free Plan for 1 Device

Additional Features

We’re also delighted to see that the excellent mobile apps are a mirror image of their desktop counterparts. This is something other providers often compromise on, giving you a watered-down experience of excellent software in place of a basic mobile offering. Not Nord – the app for Android includes all the features you’ll find on the PC apps.

You can scan credit cards and files and securely lock them in your password vault, which can only be accessed using either your master password or biometrics. NordPass allows you to use your fingerprint or Face ID to unlock or autofill your login details, plus there’s an additional 2FA option via text or email.

Better still, with one Premium subscription to NordPass, you can stay logged in on as many devices as you want, so all of them benefit from heightened security. Should you ever need to share any log in details with others, you can use the Secure Share setting to allow them access to certain credentials.

All of this is wrapped up in a highly user-friendly interface for Android, where all the features and settings are neatly laid out and easy to find, even for the least tech-savvy of you. Plus, if something should happen to you, you can set up the Emergency Access feature on Android to allow secure access for a chosen family member or friend.

So NordPass is the provider to beat, and we can’t rate it highly enough, but neither can its actual customers, as it ranked number one on our list of the best password managers according to Reddit users – and they know their stuff, too.

Pricing

NordPass Pricing

We’re thrilled to see a decent free plan on offer from NordPass that offers a great way for those new to password managers to test the service and features without having to spend a single cent – but you will be limited to just one device.

For access to extra features like the data breach scanner and multiple devices, we’d recommend upgrading to the Premium or Family Plans, with the latter providing security for up to 6 devices of your choosing.

Pros

  • Features industry-leading XChaCha20 encryption for the best security
  • User-friendly and feature-packed Android app
  • Offers biometric authentication via Face ID or fingerprint
  • Allows you to scan documents and credit cards and then store them securely
  • Useful free plan to test the service on one device

Cons

  • The free version limits you to just one device

2. 1Password – Best for Remote Workers

1Password Logo

1Password is another one of the major password manager providers out there, and for good reason. The popular app offers excellent overall security for all of your personal information, fair pricing, and an easy-to-use Android client.

But the security is where this top Android password manager truly shines. 1Password employs industry-leading encryption, much like NordPass, but instead of XChaCha20, it secures your account with a 34-character security code that scrambles your stored data.

You’re also protected by a zero-knowledge architecture, so not even 1Password can see your personal files or stored credentials.

We also enjoyed the excellent Travel Mode feature, which is a great addition for remote workers or frequent flyers. It allows you to remove certain personal vaults from the app when crossing borders in case your phone gets inspected by security services. This stops them from seeing anything too private and puts you in total control of your data.

1Password Android App

Best For Price Free version/trial?
Travel Mode for Working Remotely Starting from $2.99/month 14-Day Free Trial

Additional Features

There’s a useful Watchtower feature that spots any weak or compromised passwords. Part of the reason why 1Password is so reliable is that it gets the basics spot on.

But it also has a few tricks up its sleeves with its own unique offerings, including the excellent Privacy Cards.

Each card is locked to one merchant, and you decide how much you want to spend and how often. We found this to be incredibly useful and easy to use, plus it adds an extra layer of security with vital transactions.

Of course, you’ll get the usual suite of password manager features, including a reliable password generator, password sharing, and multiple vaults – all of which work exactly as you’d expect, and we ran into no issues with any of them.

All of these features extend from the mobile apps to the desktop ones, so there are no Lite versions or missing features to worry about.

Pricing

1Password Pricing

Price-wise, 1Password impresses with an affordable $2.99/month price tag. Sure, this isn’t as cheap as NordPass, but it’s still a fair price for a great Android password manager.

Sadly, there’s no free plan or money-back guarantee, which is a big loss. But you can try the Premium version for 14 days thanks to a free trial, so it’s not all bad.

Pros

  • Excellent Travel Mode feature for remote workers or frequent flyers
  • Includes 1GB of encrypted style storage on all plans
  • Privacy Cards are a great way to prevent financial fraud
  • User-friendly Android app
  • Offers a 14-day free trial

Cons

  • No free plan or money-back guarantee, only a free trial

3. Dashlane – Great for Mass-Updating Weak Passwords

Dashlane Password Manager Logo

Dashlane is a well-known password manager that offers dependable security features and solutions, like a built-in VPN and AES encryption to protect your credentials. Whilst it isn’t the cheapest password manager on the market, it also won’t break the bank.

Because this service uses a zero-trust architecture strategy, you can only access your data using a master password or your biometric data via Face ID or fingerprint. Plus, 2FA and 256-bit AES encryption make sure that nobody outside of your vault has even a remote possibility of decrypting it.

Security aside, Dashlane comes with some pretty impressive benefits to add value to the current deal, including a unique feature that allows you to mass update any passwords judged to be weak or compromised.

The Dashlane password changer offers to instantly enhance all of your passwords by ranking them from worst to best. A bit judgemental, but it does mean you don’t have to waste valuable time manually updating all your old passwords.

Dashlane Android App

Best For Price Free version/trial?
Mass Changing Weak Passwords Starting from $3.75/month Yes, Free Plan

Additional Features

We were really impressed with how fast and reliable the mass updater tool was on the Android app, and we’re amazed that not all password managers offer this. It’s a great way to regularly update your passwords to reduce the risk of any data breaches.

Dashlane’s generated passwords can be customized to meet certain requirements, but they will always feature a range of letters, numbers, and special characters.

Alongside this, there are features for taking secure notes where you can safely store cards, memberships, legal documents, medical files, and much more.

The downside is that you’re limited to 1GB of secure storage, as opposed to NordPass, which offers 3GB. This may seem like a lot, but if you use this feature for business and personal use, it can quickly add up.

The last standout feature we felt deserved a mention was the built-in VPN. Sure, it’s not as advanced as NordVPN, but as a built-in feature to a password manager, it’s reliable and gets the job done.

1Password’s VPN gives you access to around 20 different servers, some of which can be used for streaming and bypassing geo-locks, and of course, the improved security of your internet connection.

Pricing

Dashlane Pricing

In terms of pricing, we’re happy to report that Dashlane offers a free plan, but what you get access to is pretty limited. You can only store 25 passwords and use them on one device, but you can access the password generator and forms of 2FA.

However, if you want access to the built-in VPN, dark web monitoring, and encrypted file storage, you’ll have to upgrade to the Premium plan.

Pros

  • Excellent password changer that can mass update any weak passwords
  • Useful dark web monitoring feature for identifying leaks
  • Offers a built-in VPN for extra protection
  • Supports biometric authentication via fingerprint or Face ID

Cons

  • No emergency access features
  • Above-average pricing for the premium plan

4. Keeper – The Best Choice for Secure Messaging

Keeper Password Manager Logo

Keeper is one of the safest, most reliable password managers on the market, and it helps you create and save login credentials for all of your accounts. With perks like strong multi-factor authentication, a password review tool, a data breach scanner, and more, it delivers an excellent set of features.

It doesn’t skimp on security and offers a great experience across various platforms. All stored data is locked behind military-grade AES-256 encryption.

There’s even a slightly radical Self Destruct feature that, if turned on, will delete your entire vault of stored data after 5 incorrect password attempts.

Radical features aside, Keeper keeps things interesting with a range of unique offerings, including the fantastic secure messaging service KeeperChat. This allows you to easily share sensitive information in a secure manner with other Keeper users and works well on both Android and iOS devices – no more green/blue bubble drama.

Keeper Android App

Best For Price Free version/trial?
Secure Messaging Starting from $1.46/month 30-Day Free Trial

Additional Features

Other notable features include the usual password generation tools, emergency access for a trusted person should something happen to you, plus the Trash Bin option, which allows you to recover previously deleted records.

The Android app delivers all of these features, as well as one called BreachWatch, which is basically their own take on a dark web monitor for compromised passwords. This feature will notify you as soon as one of your passwords or login details appears in a data breach, allowing you to update them accordingly.

Pricing

Keeper Pricing

Keeper does offer a free plan, but it’s a pretty basic offering for just one device. There’s also a 30-day free trial to the Keeper Unlimited plan, where you can test out more premium features.

With prices starting from just $1.46/month and all the features mentioned above included, this is a great value-for-money Android password manager.

Pros

  • Brilliant KeeperChat feature for secure password and file sharing
  • Supports multiple 2FA methods like email and text codes, as well as biometrics
  • Trash Bin feature means no login credentials are lost forever
  • Offers a 30-day free trial to the Unlimited plan

Cons

  • Poor free plan
  • Some advanced features incur additional costs

5. RoboForm – The Best Free Password Manager

RoboForm Password Manager Logo

RoboForm has been around for a long time, yet it’s still consistently one of the top password managers for Android, even to this day. That says a lot about this provider and its ability to keep up-to-date with the crowd.

From offering unlimited logins to running password assessments, RoboForm can do it all.

However, the storage of unlimited passwords and login credentials is one area that caught our eye, which makes it a great choice for businesses that have a ton of different accounts that need to be kept secure.

For everyday users, the usual limits of around 10,000-25,000 passwords are more than enough, but it’s certainly a nice touch.

It’s got a useful Security Centre that houses the Password Assessment feature and a few other helpful options. From here, you can see a brief overview of your password statuses, informing you of any that need changing. Sadly, there’s no option to mass update the weak passwords like you get with Dashlane.

RoboForm Android App

Best For Price Free version/trial?
Unlimited Passwords on the Free Plan Starting from $1.39/month Yes, Free Plan

Additional Features

Aside from password assessment, there aren’t any other features that make this truly stand out amongst the crowd, and RoboForm is more ideally positioned for businesses or those of you who use Android devices.

The app is incredibly user-friendly and makes it easy to update passwords, generate unique ones, and store any cards, files, or login details securely.

You’ll also be able to scan the dark web to see if your details have appeared in data breaches, grant emergency access to a trusted person if something happens to you, and accurately autofill your details using biometrics on any website you want.

We found that autofill to be a huge time saver, and it worked pretty much every time we tried it out, so it’s incredibly reliable.

Pricing

Roboform Pricing

The other area where RoboForm stakes its claim on our list is with its generous free plan. With it, you can store an unlimited number of passwords, which is fantastic when compared with the 25 you get with Dashlane.

You can even access the Form filling, multiple 2FA methods like email or biometrics, password assessment, emergency access, and much more – all without having to spend anything. .

If you upgrade to the RoboForm Premium plan, you can access Cloud Backup and Password Sync across any device you use this app on, but for many, the free tier is likely to be enough.

Pros

  • Industry-leading free plan that allows for unlimited password storage
  • Excellent Android app with a good range of features and an intuitive interface
  • Accurate and reliable autofill feature saves a lot of time
  • Seamless password syncing across all devices

Cons

  • Not as feature-packed as the likes of NordPass or Keeper
  • No live chat support on the free plan

6. Enpass – Useful Password Manager with a Built-in Authenticator

Enpass Logo

Enpass is another of the top password managers for Android, famed for its reliability and strong security. Whilst it doesn’t blow you away with a suite of advanced features, it gets the basics spot on and wraps it up in a user-friendly package suitable for all.

The ease of use is perhaps our favorite thing about Enpass, as it’s the perfect choice for those new to password managers. On the Android app, everything is neatly laid out and easy to find, and even the least tech-savvy of you will find it easy to navigate.

But part of the reason why it’s so user-friendly is down to the features on offer.

There isn’t really anything that stands out, like the secure messaging service Keeper offers or the XChaCha20 encryption you get with NordPass. Instead, you get a reliable autofill feature that works without any hiccups.

Enpass Android Dashboard

Best For Price Free version/trial?
Using as an Authenticator for Other Apps Starting from $1.99/month Yes, Free Plan

Additional Features

Perhaps the most unique of all features is the Authenticator, which can be used in tandem with Google or Microsoft Authentication to access your vault or it can work as an authenticator for other important apps or websites you use.

This feature works really well on Android, and you’ll receive a prompt to approve a login via the Enpass app. It’s a quirk feature that you might not use often, but it’s certainly nice to have.

Alongside this, there’s the usual lineup of password manager-related features. There’s a decent password generator that lets you add a custom rule for passwords, such as a desired length – but this is more useful for businesses than anything else and can be used by IT departments to ensure good password security is being used.

Passwords will sync across any device you install Enpass on, so you can keep all your gadgets protected. Plus, you get a tool that tells you how strong or weak your passwords are, as is accustomed to most of these tools.

Pricing

Enpass Pricing

Enpass does offer a free plan, but just as you get with NordPass, you’re limited to just 25 stored passwords, which is likely not enough. I tend to use a minimum of 40-50 passwords on a regular basis, some may use more, others less – but 25 is likely not to be enough.

Thankfully, the Individual plan costs just $1.99/month and lets you store an unlimited number if as you’re happy to stick to just one device.

Pros

  • Low-cost plans and a decent free tier
  • User-friendly mobile apps
  • Reliable password generator
  • Can be used as an authenticator for other apps and websites

Cons

  • No 2FA options, which is a big loss
  • You can’t import passwords directly from your web browser

7. Password Boss – Best for Businesses

Password Boss Logo

Password Boss is perhaps a lesser-known brand in the personal password manager world, as its primary focus does seem to be business-centric. But there’s a lot to like here, including a good range of features, strong security, and a powerful Android app.

It’s got a useful Secure Browser, which forms a safe space blocking any potential malware, plugins, or phishing scams for safe browsing on any website. This ensures that your sensitive online transactions, such as banking, stay private and reduces the risk of attacks.

Should you be subject to any attacks, you can wipe your database remotely, ensuring that snoopers can’t access your private data or stored login credentials.

Other security features include 2FA via email, text, or biometrics, emergency contacts for trusted people who can access your vault in an emergency, and 256-bit AES encryption.

Password Boss Dashboard

Best For Price Free version/trial?
Making Safer Payments via Secure Browser Starting from $29.99/year No

Additional Features

Security aside, the Android app allows for vast customization that can make finding specific login details a breeze. You can create multiple folders for work, business, or personal passwords, all from the intuitive dashboard. You’ll also be able to easily create unique passwords from here with the password generator, which allows for custom rules.

There are the typical password-sharing options, autofill to save time, cloud-sync across multiple devices, and a ton of valuable features for business – for more on that, check out our list of the best password managers for business.

Pricing

Password Boss doesn’t actively display prices on their website. Instead, it makes you download the software and then tells you it’s $29.99/year.

We’re not huge fans of this method, as it makes testing it out for a few weeks/months quite difficult, but at the end of the day, this is an excellent yearly price for a top password manager.

Pros

  • User-friendly apps for all devices
  • Secure Browser makes online transactions much safer
  • Supports multiple methods of 2FA

Cons

  • Makes you download the app before telling you how much it costs
  • There’s a lack of import options, meaning many passwords will have to be added manually

8. Total Password – User-Friendly Password Manager for Android

TotalPassword Logo

Total Password is a relatively new offering from a company famed for its mobile security suite, TotalAV. It started as a browser-based extension but has since branched out into Android and iOS devices.

It offers a clean user interface, seamlessly syncing across all devices, and an excellent range of security features.

With Total Password, you can store an unlimited number of passwords and notes on your device, which is great for those of you with a ton of different accounts.

These then sync across to your other devices where the app is installed.

It’s got a great password generator tool that lets you create unique passwords up to 32 characters long, far more than any other provider we’ve tested on this list. The longer and more complex the password, the harder it is to crack, so we’re pleased to see this.

Total Password Android App

Best For Price Free version/trial?
Syncing Passwords Across Devices Starting from $1.99/month No

Additional Features

Most of the features you get with Total Password are the basics of any good password manager, but the app feels incredibly quick and snappy especially the autofill. Whether it’s Facebook, your online banking, or anything else, it’s quick to prompt you and fill in where needed without any issues.

This is a testament to Total Password, as it finds itself on our list without offering anything out of the ordinary. Instead, it just cracks on with the basics and does them all without fuss.

Sure, you can choose which websites you want it to work with, receive breach alerts for compromised passwords, and remotely log out of your device – but these are all pretty standard.

But the mobile apps are a genuine delight to use, and you can tell that TotalAV has put a lot of thought and effort into making them as user-friendly as possible rather than just basic extensions of desktop clients.

We should also give an honorary mention to the customer support team, as the response times are fantastic, whether through live chat or tickets via email. There’s even a knowledge bank that contains useful guides for those who like to self-diagnose and fix things themselves.

Pricing

Total Password Pricing

There’s no free plan or trial option for Total Password, and the best you get is a 30-day money-back guarantee once you sign up for the premium plan.

You can get Total Password as a standalone product for just $1.99/month, or you can opt for TotalAV Total Security and have it bundled in with a VPN, Ad Blocker, and much more, all for $49/year.

Pros

  • Can be purchased in a bundle with Total Security, a VPN, Ad Blocker, and more
  • One of the most user-friendly Android password managers we’ve tested
  • Syncs password seamlessly across all of your devices

Cons

  • No password sharing feature as of now
  • No an independent audit as of yet

9. Norton – 100% Free Android Password Manager

Noton Logo

Norton is one of the biggest names in the cybersecurity world, known for their excellent antivirus, VPN, and, now, password manager. Better still, you can get your hands on this excellent password manager for Android in the Norton 360 security package, saving you a ton of money.

However, it’s worth noting that, as a standalone product, it doesn’t have a huge amount of advanced features to shout about.

You do get a useful password generator that can craft unique login credentials up to 64 characters long – which is slightly better than most.

Aside from this, you get access to Norton’s security dashboard, a fancy name for the central hub that shows you important details like when a password was last changed, the safety score for each password, and so on. It’s simple to understand and looks great on the intuitive Android app.

Norton Password Manager For Android

Best For Price Free version/trial?
Unlimited Syncing Across Devices Free 100% Free App

Additional Features

There’s also a Password Manager Wallet, which is exactly what it seems – a safe place to store any card details and then autofill them when you’re shopping online. It didn’t always prompt us to autofill, which meant occasionally adding them in manually. Not a huge issue, but a bit of a pain when it’s one of the few features on offer.

Overall, Norton finds itself on this list partly thanks to the excellent security you get with any Norton product and mainly because this is an entirely free password manager. So any downsides we identify should be taken with a pinch of salt, as it’s a great deal, however you look at it.

If you’re looking for an aesthetically pleasing, user-friendly password manager that will store all your login details safely, this is a great option for you. Even more so if you’re using any of the other Norton apps.

Pros

  • Doesn’t cost anything, completely free to download and use
  • Can generate passwords up to 64 characters in length
  • Great Android app that’s very user-friendly
  • Reliable 256-bit AES encryption

Cons

  • Lacks any advanced or unique features like secure share

10. Kaspersky – Great for Storing Passwords and Photos

Kaspersky Password Manager Logo

Kaspersky is another well-established player in the online security world, also known for its antivirus, VPN, and password management solutions. While their password manager for Android is pretty basic, there are enough features here to offer it a place on our list.

Most other password managers offer space for documents and cards, so the bonus of being able to secure videos and photos is great for most privacy-concerned individuals.

Notable features include the ability to not only safely secure any passwords in your vault, but also the safe storage of photos, cards, and documents.

There’s also a useful password audit tool that checks your current login details and identifies any weak passwords. It can’t mass update them like Dashlane, but it’s usually quite accurate. We found that it could easily identify passwords we’d doubled up on, and then you can use the password generator to create unique new ones.

Kaspersky Android Password Manager

Best For Price Free version/trial?
Customized Folders $12.99/year Free Plan

Additional Features

To secure these new passwords, you’ll be able to use multiple methods of 2FA, including getting a code sent to a registered email or phone or using your device biometrics. These biometrics work fantastically as an extra layer of security for autofill, similar to using a Mac.

The Android app is really simple to use, although it’s not as easy on the eye as the likes of Total Password or NordPass. Even still, navigating it is easy enough, and you can access all of the main tools from the central dashboard.

There are even custom folders that allow you to arrange your passwords accordingly, making finding them at a later date nice and efficient.

Pricing

Kaspersky Pricing

Pricewise, Kaspersky offers a free plan for all devices, including Android, so you can test it out before committing long-term. The downside – you can only store a maximum of 5 passwords.

If you need more, which you inevitably will, you can upgrade to remove any limits for just $15.99/year, which is excellent value for money, regardless of the number of features.

Pros

  • Affordable plans for all budgets
  • Basic but reliable features
  • Easy to navigate Android App

Cons

  • Limited options for sharing passwords
  • Fewer premium features than other budget-friendly options like NordPass

How We Ranked the Best Android Password Storage Apps

To give a fair account of each provider, we ranked the best password managers for Android using strict criteria. We’ve outlined our methodology below so you can see how we picked up the top 10 list:

  • Features – We looked for password managers that go above and beyond the usual password generating and data breach scanning features, as most on this list offer this in some way. Instead, we gave top marks to those that had their own unique features, like KeeperChat or Dashlane’s mass password updating.
  • Price – One of the most important factors we consider is the price. We don’t just go for the cheapest, as these don’t tend to be the best. Rather, we look for password managers that offer good value.
  • Free Plan – We like to see some sort of free plan for password managers, as this offers a good way for you to test the service out before committing. This also extends to any free trials or money-back guarantees that you can take advantage of.
  • Security – Perhaps the most important of them all is the security measures in place by each password manager like NordPass offering the latest XChaCha20 encryption. Extra points for those that offer 2FA or biometrics sign-in.
  • User-Friendly – Password managers that offer user-friendly apps for Android, iOS, and desktop clients score high in our books. It’s likely that some of you may never have used a password manager before, so having easy-to-use apps with features at your fingertips is a huge plus for us.

Are Free Password Managers Safe & Worth Using?

As tempting as it may seem, free password managers, are likely to be too limited for you to use on a daily basis, mostly because it lets you store very few passwords. However, this isn’t the case for all of them, and some, like Norton, are entirely free to use without any such limitations.

Sure, it isn’t the most feature-packed password manager out there, but when you’re not spending a single cent on it – can you really complain?

There are some genuinely good free plans on offer, like those from NordPass or 1Password, but for everyday use, it may not be enough to get the job done.

That’s why we’d always recommend using a premium password manager from a reputable provider on this list, like NordPass. With them, you can store as many passwords, credit cards, and files as you wish. It can also help you stay informed of any potential leaks involving your credentials.

Best Android Password Apps – Takeaways

The best password managers for Android can help you take a big step towards securing your personal details online. Gone are the days when you needed to worry about compromised passwords due to them being weak – with the password managers on this list, that’s all taken care of.

Our top provider right now for the best Android password manager is NordPass. With it, you can use your biometrics to safely autofill any login details on websites or apps., Plus, you’re protected by the industry-leading XChaCha20 encryption.

You can try the free plan from NordPass today to get familiar with all of the features and how it works. From there, if you’re satisfied, the Premium plan costs just $1.24/month.

FAQs

Does Android have a built-in password manager?

What is the best password manager for Android?

How do I find a password manager on Android?

Are password managers safe for Android?

References

The post The Best Android Password Managers in 2024 — Top 10 Compared appeared first on The Tech Report.

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VPN vs Proxy vs Tor – Key Differences and Use Cases https://techreport.com/vpn/vpn-vs-proxy-vs-tor/ Wed, 13 Dec 2023 13:25:11 +0000 https://techreport.com/?page_id=3530925 Dial switch VPN vs proxy

In a world where online security is becoming increasingly prevalent, the clash of VPN vs Proxy vs Tor pops up in several scenarios. While many will know these terms, others...

The post VPN vs Proxy vs Tor – Key Differences and Use Cases appeared first on The Tech Report.

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Dial switch VPN vs proxy

In a world where online security is becoming increasingly prevalent, the clash of VPN vs Proxy vs Tor pops up in several scenarios. While many will know these terms, others are left in the dark about their differences, what they do, and how you best use them.

If you’re one of those people, then worry not – you’re in the right place. In this article, we’ll be exploring and defining each of these terms, shedding light on what they mean, how they work, and how you can use them to better protect yourself online.

So, whether your aim is to keep your browsing anonymous, access geo-blocked content, or simply learn about the basics of online security – stick around, and we’ll explain each step for you.

Definitions for VPN, Proxy, and Tor

You’ve likely stumbled across VPNs (virtual private networks) before, whether it be at work, for home use, or even just by browsing the internet. They’re everywhere and for good reason. They’re a great way to protect your online activities and are also a popular tool for those who want to stream new content on platforms like Netflix.

However, it’s less likely that you’ll be familiar with the terms proxy and Tor (the onion router), as they’re a little more advanced, but they’re not overly complex to understand. Each of them also has its own primary use or an area in which it excels more than the other. So, below, we’ve created a table with a brief definition and the primary use case of each.

Definition Best Use Case
VPN Encrypts and protects your internet connection through one server (or more if multi-hop is available), increasing privacy and security online. Securing your internet connection and bypassing geo-blocks.
Proxy Connects through one server and acts as an intermediary between your device and the internet. There’s no encryption, but it masks your IP for certain online activities. Masking your IP Address.
Tor A privacy-driven network that encrypts your connection through volunteer-managed nodes, allowing you to hide your online presence and increase your protection against surveillance. Concealing your online activities and accessing the Tor network.

That’s VPN vs proxy vs Tor in a nutshell. But if you’re still a little uncertain, below is a more detailed description of each method:

VPN

A VPN establishes a secure and encrypted connection to the internet. It allows you to browse the internet near-anonymously, protecting any personal data, as well as allowing you to bypass geo-blocked content by routing your traffic through one of its many servers.

Infographic of how a VPN works.
Image credit: NordVPN

Proxy

A proxy acts as a middleman between you and the internet without encrypting your traffic. It masks your IP address, allowing for safer web browsing and access to restricted content. Proxies enhance privacy and security and can be used for a range of online activities, from web scraping to accessing geo-restricted content.

Visualization of how a proxy works
Image credit: UpGuard

Tor

Tor is a privacy-focused network that directs internet traffic through a series of volunteer-operated nodes, encrypting your data at each step. This multi-layered encryption enhances your privacy, making it difficult to trace online activities.

Visual schema of how Tor works
Image credit: Tor Network

VPN vs Proxy vs Tor – Full Pros and Cons

Each of these methods comes with its own set of pros and cons, and to help you understand what they are, we’ve listed the most crucial points below. This should help you determine which of these methods is best suited for your needs.

VPNs – The Pros and Cons

Pros

  • Secures your data from multiple online threats
  • Allows you to bypass geo-locked content on streaming sites (usually) and much more
  • Keeps you protected from any potential DDoS attacks
  • Hides your personal browsing data from your ISP
  • Can be used to prevent content-based bandwidth throttling

Cons

  • Slows down your internet speed
  • Incompatible with some devices
  • Premium VPNs will cost you money

Proxy – The Pros and Cons

Pros

  • You can access geo-blocked websites (usually)
  • Masks your IP address and some personal data
  • Can be used by businesses or parents to restrict certain content
  • Can sometimes be faster than VPNs, and are much faster than Tor

Cons

  • No encryption or weaker encryption than a VPN
  • Can get quite expensive, especially for business users
  • Can be difficult to configure

Tor – The Pros and Cons

Pros

  • Completely free to use, unlike VPNs and proxy servers
  • Offers decent anonymity
  • Can be used to access the dark web
  • Operates on a decentralized, open-source network with no central monitoring and little surveillance

Cons

  • Much slower speeds than a VPN or proxy, as your traffic is relayed several times
  • Can be pretty complex to set for less tech-savvy individuals
  • Network administrators often block Tor, which means you sometimes need a VPN to access it

Speed, Security, and Ease of Use Showdown – VPN, Proxy, and Tor

Each of these methods can be an effective way to protect yourself online, but some are more useful than others, especially in core areas like speed, ease of use, and security. To help you understand which of these methods is most effective for your needs, we’ve compared them in the key areas below.

Speed – Which is the Fastest?

VPNs are well-known for their ability to create secure data tunnels, and they also excel in optimizing speed while ensuring high levels of security.

With smartly positioned high-speed servers spread across different countries and cities across the world, as well as advanced encryption protocols like OpenVPN and WireGuard, VPNs offer a smooth user experience, overcoming bandwidth throttling and allowing for excellent streaming and gaming speeds.

The best VPNs, like NordVPN pictured below, also have their own proprietary protocol called NordLynx, which is essentially the company’s own take on Wireguard. It offers faster and more reliable connection speeds for everyday browsing, streaming, and much more.

NordVPN server list

On the other hand, proxies, acting as intermediaries, find a middle ground with speed. While they can deliver reliable speeds (for activities like routine web browsing and accessing geo-restricted content on streaming platforms), their limitations become overly apparent in bandwidth-intensive tasks. At times, proxies can be on par with the speeds offered by VPNs, but this isn’t always the case.

VPNs, proxies, and Tor all have their pros and cons, but VPNs offer a good balance of speed and security.

Proxies provide a trade-off, offering moderate speed gains for specific tasks while maintaining some level of privacy.

Why Is Tor so Slow?

On the other end of the spectrum, the Tor network, designed for heightened privacy, introduces a deliberate and significant trade-off with speed.

The multi-layered encryption in Tor’s onion routing process results in a noticeable slowdown, making it less suitable for bandwidth-intensive activities. So, while Tor is quite good at preserving user privacy, it provides barely acceptable speeds for basic web browsing within the network.

Overall, VPNs lead in delivering a balanced blend of speed and security, proxies offer a compromise suitable for certain tasks, and Tor prioritizes privacy at the expense of speed, so the optimal choice really depends on the desired use case. But if you’re only interested in opting for the fastest method in most situations, then VPNs are the way to go.

Security – Which is the Safest?

VPNs, known for their no-nonsense approach to security, offer a substantial defense against potential threats like snoopers or hackers, and they do this by employing advanced encryption protocols.

They ensure the protection of user data, making them a solid choice for those prioritizing a secure online experience. Top providers like NordVPN also have a vast suite of security-driven features, including the XChaCha20 protocol and an AES-256-CBC cipher. This means you’ll be well looked after and ultra-secure online.

Proxies lack the comprehensive encryption of VPNs and are more suitable for scenarios where online security is not paramount, but you want some degree of protection.

One of the main things to consider if you’re opting for proxies is the level of security they provide. Proxies come in various types, with distinctions in how they handle and encrypt user data.

HTTPS proxies, for instance, use the Secure Sockets Layer (SSL) or Transport Layer Security (TLS) protocols to encrypt the data transmitted between the user and the proxy server.
This encryption adds a layer of security, safeguarding the information exchanged from potential prying eyes.

However, the Tor network, designed with a primary focus on privacy, introduces multiple layers of encryption and routing. While quite effective in hiding the user’s identity, Tor’s security approach differs from that of VPNs, and the content being transmitted isn’t as secure – mostly because intelligence agencies around the world can also hop on.

How Tor Delivers Online Safety

The fundamental security feature of Tor is its onion-routing process. In this process, data packets are encrypted in layers (hence the name). Each node in the Tor network decrypts one layer, revealing the instructions for the next hop in the transmission.

Graphic of how Tor works

This multi-layered encryption ensures that no single node along the route has complete visibility into both the source and destination of the data, enhancing user privacy – but heavily compromising on speed, as we mentioned above. However, if you can theoretically take control of an exit node, then you might be able to at least partially trace some of the connections.

Overall, for the best all-around security option, we’re going with Tor if you’re willing to make those compromises on speed and ease of use, as it truly offers the best secure experience on paper.

Ease of Use – Which is the Most User-Friendly?

It’s safe to say that VPNs have made significant strides to enhance the overall user experience, and they do this by offering streamlined interfaces and simple one-click connectivity features.

Most VPN providers prioritize user-friendliness, especially when it comes to mobile apps, as you can see in the image below. This allows even the least tech-savvy individual to navigate the apps easily.

NordVPN's Android interface
Image credit: NordVPN

With user-friendly applications and straightforward setup processes, VPNs are ideal for people seeking a secure online experience without grappling with complex setup procedures and confusing technical settings.

They also come with next-level customer service, including live chat options for those who get stuck or email ticketing systems for complex issues. There are also deep knowledge banks with tons of user feedback and guides on how to get the most out of your VPN subscription – so top marks all around for VPNs.

Proxies, in comparison, generally offer a simpler setup. Users often only need to input server details into their browser or device settings to start using a proxy. However, this simplicity comes with certain considerations, as proxies may encounter compatibility issues with specific applications, requiring manual configurations to get the best results.

While proxies are user-friendly for basic tasks like web browsing, their simplicity can present challenges when troubleshooting or adapting to diverse online activities. Additionally, the lack of comprehensive encryption settings in many proxies limits customization options for users seeking a tailored online experience.

How Complex is Tor?

Tor, on the other hand, introduces a level of complexity that sets it apart from VPNs and proxies. The installation and configuration process can be more involved, requiring users to download and set up dedicated Tor-compatible browsers.

The unique architecture of Tor, including its multi-node routing system, adds an extra layer of security.

While the Tor Project continually works to enhance user experience and privacy, you should be aware of the ubiquitous presence of surveillance agencies, mainly due to the sheer volume of illicit activities that can be accessed only via the Tor browser.

Tor remains a tool more suited for those willing to invest time in understanding all of its complexities.

The huge contrast between privacy and speed introduces certain issues that make it less suitable for those used to the simple experience provided by VPNs and proxies.

For example, forget trying to stream anything on Tor, as the performance won’t allow it – unlike VPNs, where streaming is very much paramount to the service.

To summarize, VPNs are again at the forefront, as most reputable providers offer excellent, easy-on-the-eye apps that are both simple to use and effective all around. Proxies are a good option for those more in the know or tech-savvy individuals or even for IT departments looking to implement security measures, and Tor is best left to the most tech-savvy individuals.

So the final scores are two points for VPNs, one point for Tor, and zero for proxies – but we’d still recommend that you do your own research to find out which is most suitable for you.

Which One Is Best for You?

Ultimately, the best tool out of a VPN vs proxy vs Tor depends on your specific needs. For everyday tasks with a focus on seamless security and ease of use, a VPN is the preferred choice.

If bypassing geo-blocks for particular activities is your priority, and you are comfortable with potential limitations on speed, a proxy might suit your needs. Meanwhile, if enhanced privacy is non-negotiable, and you want to access the Tor network and don’t mind the extra hassle, Tor stands as the tool of choice.

In practice, many users find a combination of these tools beneficial. For example, using a VPN for general security and a proxy or Tor for specific tasks requires improved privacy. That’s why we recommend NordVPN as a great option, as it offers an Onion Over VPN feature, as shown below, that gives you all the security of the Tor network with the added bonus of a VPN tunnel.

NordVPN's Onion Over VPN feature

You can even set up a proxy with NordVPN, so if you can’t decide between the three options, it’s a great place to get optimal speed, ease of use, and next-level security all in one affordable subscription.

Bonus: Are Free VPNs and Proxies Safe?

As tempting as it may be to opt for an entirely free VPN or proxy, we suggest you avoid doing so. Sure, there are some VPNs that offer reliable but limited free plans with good data allowances, but more often than not, they’re too good to be true.

Because they’re completely free, you’re usually met with a plethora of pop-up ads, as this is a way that a provider can make money without charging you. There have also been several reports of free VPNs and proxies selling customer data to third-party advertisers – the polar opposite of what you’re supposed to get.

There’s also the problem of data breaches, which have ravaged and ruined the reputations of many free VPN providers, like SuperVPN.

In SuperVPN’s case, over 360 million user records were exposed. This was despite the popular provider claiming that it had a strict no-logs policy.

You’re also not likely to get the same range of features, and in fact, they may not be secure options at all. Free VPNs often impose tiny data caps and keep premium features hidden behind a paywall, much like proxies. So, you get barely enough to stream an episode of a show if you can even unlock the streaming service you crave with one of their limited servers.

Instead, we’d suggest opting for a paid service from one of the top providers, such as NordVPN. With one of these options, you can be guaranteed reliable speeds, no data caps, and unrivaled security to keep your online activities safe.

Know What to Choose Between VPN vs Proxy vs Tor

As we’ve touched upon throughout this comparison article, knowing which method of routing your internet traffic of the three is best for you is probably the most important factor when making your decision.

For everyday use, there’s no doubt in our minds that a VPN is the best overall option, as they offer the best speeds, are incredibly easy to use, and are backed up by bank-level encryption and security protocols.

Sure, for browsing the dark web for research purposes, Tor is a great option. The page load times and overall speeds can be incredibly frustrating, so this is only advised for the more tech-savvy individuals who want to stay totally anonymous.

Proxies offer a decent middle ground and are frequently used in business to provide better security, but more and more businesses are turning to VPNs to keep their remote workforce safe. Therefore, we’d recommend using a reliable VPN for business or home use, as they deliver the best all-round experience for most use cases.

FAQs

What is the difference between Tor and VPN and proxy?

Is Tor better than a VPN?

Is a VPN better than a proxy?

Do I still need a VPN if I use Tor?

References

The post VPN vs Proxy vs Tor – Key Differences and Use Cases appeared first on The Tech Report.

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How Does GamStop Self-Exclusion Work? A Technical Insight https://techreport.com/how-does-gamstop-self-exclusion-work/ Fri, 08 Dec 2023 11:30:55 +0000 https://techreport.com/?page_id=3530355 GamStop’s homepage has all the info you need.

Gambling addiction is steeply on the rise in the UK and in many places across the world. Because of this, governments are establishing dozens of independent authorities to help the...

The post How Does GamStop Self-Exclusion Work? A Technical Insight appeared first on The Tech Report.

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GamStop’s homepage has all the info you need.

Gambling addiction is steeply on the rise in the UK and in many places across the world. Because of this, governments are establishing dozens of independent authorities to help the people who find it difficult to control their online gambling on their own.

One of these providers is GamStop, an independent self-exclusion scheme for gamblers in the UK who fear their addiction may be getting the better of them. GamStop isn’t just for those struggling to limit their online gambling — it can be used by anyone who’s tired of losing to the house.

In this article, we explore GamStop and their self-exclusion scheme. We look to answer all of the burning questions related to the system and discuss how this independent provider came to be. Stay tuned to find out more.

What is GamStop?

GamStop is a free and independent gambling self-exclusion scheme for those who might be worried about a possible addiction to online gambling, as well as for people who simply don’t want to gamble anymore.

Founded in 2018, GamStop aims to help people by blocking their access to any registered UK gambling sites for a predetermined period.

As of March 2020, any registered UK gambling provider must adhere to GamStops bans. If you choose to self-exclude for any reason, you won’t be able to access any of the major licensed UK betting websites for however long you decide to self-exclude.

There’s also no way of undoing your GamStop self-exclusion, which, while frustrating for avid gamblers, is in place for a specific reason, namely to combat the worrying rise in gambling addiction. According to a detailed report from GambleAware, there are 1.44 million adults addicted to gambling in Great Britain alone, so the problem is getting significantly worse.

Not everyone who gambles or places bets is addicted, and many enjoy placing bets or using online casinos without betting more than they can afford. Yet, should anyone want to stop at any point, they can sign up without any issues.

How Does GamStop Work?

Although it might seem complex, using GamStop is incredibly easy and can be completed in just a few steps. We explain exactly how you use it with a step-by-step guide later further in this article. For now, let’s take a look at how it operates.

For GamStop to work you have to sign up for the program.

GamStop only works if the person affected visits the GamStop website and registers their details with the provider. You need to fill out your details, including your current address, postcode, date of birth, email addresses, phone numbers, and upload images of your ID.

The more you include, the better success you have from being excluded on all accounts.

Many avid gamblers will look to create new accounts under different email addresses and contact details, so the more honest and thorough you are, the better the results will be. Once complete, you won’t be able to access any of GamStop’s participating companies and place any bets.

If you have any funds in your account, you’ll need to contact the betting provider separately to have them withdrawn to your account – we’d advise doing this first yourself, as they’re much slower to reply when they know you’re looking to leave.

It’s up to you to decide how long you want to be excluded, and GamStop currently offers three different time periods: 6 months, 1 year, and 5 years.

All registered UK advertisers have to abide by the GamStop ban list. If you try to sign up for a betting account during the self-exclusion period, the KYC process should flag that you’re on the list, and you won’t be allowed access.

It’s important to note that there is no way of reversing this exclusion, and to start gambling again, you’ll need to wait for the allocated time to end and then contact GamStop to remove the ban, which takes around 24 hours to complete.

What Other Help Can You Get?

If you’re struggling with your gambling, but perhaps you don’t want to sign up with GamStop, there are other ways that you can get help in the UK.

Given the rise of gambling addiction in the country, there are now multiple charities and organizations that help those in need. We’ve listed some of the best ones below:

  • The National Gambling Helpline – GamCare runs this service, and they offer strictly private and confidential advice, support, and important information on gambling addictions. They’re available 24 hours a day, 365 days a year, via either live chat or phone. This is an entirely free service for anyone to use.
  • The NHS Help for Problem Gambling – The NHS is the cornerstone of British healthcare, and they offer exceptional advice and help on their website. They also have links and contacts for those whose mental health has been affected by gambling.
  • Debt Advice Service – While this service isn’t just for gamblers, they often deal with them due to financial losses following betting. They offer private support for people who are experiencing major financial issues that may or may not be gambling-related. It’s free to call for anyone and at any time.
  • Counselling Directory – If you want to speak to an expert or therapist regarding your situation, the Counselling Directory is a valuable tool that helps you find a therapist close to you, with the option of in-person or online appointments.
  • Samaritans – If you’re struggling with your mental health and have thought about taking your own life following a gambling addiction or anything else, the Samaritans are on hand to help 24/7, 365 days a year.

These are just a handful of the organizations that will be by your side to help you following gambling addiction or any other struggles you’re going through, but don’t be afraid to research for yourself and find support near you.

How to Limit Your Exposure to Gambling Advertising

The only way to limit betting ads is if you take individual action for yourself.

When you consider that there were around 496 gambling-related suicides in the UK last year, it does beg the question as to why gambling advertisements are still so prevalent.

Despite constant new regulations coming into force, betting sites are still an everyday presence on our TVs, the internet, and elsewhere.

Unlike access to betting websites, there’s no independent authority that can remove all gambling advertisements for you at present, as ads are divided upon by the companies who wish to run them. But there are some ways to help, and we’ve listed steps you can take to limit the number of gambling ads you see online on major platforms.

Google

Google prohibits advertisers in the gaming industry from remarketing to consumers based on any gambling-related interest, such as poker, sports betting, and more:

  • Users can block specific advertisers – When logged into your Google account, you can access this feature on Gmail, YouTube, Maps, and Google Search. Instructions for every product on the external website above. Thanks to this, users will be able to block sponsors like Bet365, 888, and Paddy Power.
  • Mute similar ads – Customers can “mute the ad” for other display advertising that shows up when they visit other websites. This will prevent the same advertiser from purchasing any more of its highly comparable advertisements or ads from the same advertiser using the same site URL.

Twitter

  • You can block Tweets from specific gaming companies. Navigate using the down arrow to find the “Block @…” option.
  • If the tweet is an advertisement, you can choose “I don’t like this ad” from the same option.
  • Alternatively, you can choose “Why am I seeing this ad” and click on these two pages from this page’s links.
  • You can uncheck interests via your profile that may lead to more gambling-related content, such as “gambling,” but you can also uncheck interests connected to sports, such “football,” which may also be helpful.
  • You can also hide content you don’t want to see by muting specific words, phrases, usernames, or hashtags. Here is further information about how to accomplish this.

Facebook

You can’t remove ads on the platform and in apps. However, you can hide them by clicking the ‘x’ or down arrow menu in the upper right corner of the sponsored article.

To see advertisements that are more relevant to you, you can also change the advertising that you see. Please read this post from their Help Center to learn more about Facebook’s “How can I adjust my ad preferences” and “Can I block ads.”

How to Register with GamStop – A Step-by-Step Guide

Signing up and registering with GamStop is incredibly easy, and doing so could be the difference between a normal life and one controlled by a gambling addiction. When you’re ready to take the plunge, just follow these simple steps:

1. Get Started on the GamStop Website

The first thing you need to do is head to the GamStop website and click the ‘Get Started button at the bottom of the page. You can sign in if you have already registered with the platform before and change any personal information.

GamStop’s homepage has all the info you need.
2. Gather your Personal Information

GamStop will need a lot of personal data for you to get the best results. This includes your current UK address, any email addresses you have, and any phone numbers.

You must give them any alternative contact details you may have created for different gambling platforms, as this helps you stay excluded across them all.

GamStop’s how to register information.

3. Verify your Email

You’ll need to enter your current email address and verify this with the code sent to your email. Once this is done, you can move on to the next step.

GamStop’s email input for the signup.

4. Add your Personal Details

Next, you’ll need to fill out your personal information, including your legal name, current address, email address, and phone number. Give any extra contact details you have, like work emails or numbers, as this will help you avoid temptation in the future.

The personal details GamStop needs to work.

5. Pick your Self-Exclusion Period

Next, and perhaps most importantly, you need to select the minimum period of time for which you’d like to be excluded – the current options are 6 months, 1 year, or 5 years. Once selected and complete, you won’t be able to access any betting platforms until the minimum time has elapsed, so bear that in mind.

GamStop offers three self-exclusion periods.

 

6. Verify with your ID

To ensure the information you’ve provided is your own, GamStop will ask you to scan or photograph the front and back sides of your Identity Document.

This is because all regulated gambling platforms require a copy of your ID to open and deposit into your account, which helps ensure you don’t open any new ones.

Is There a Way to Get Around GamStop Self-Exclusion?

Although it isn’t advisable, there are a few ways you can get around the GamStop self-exclusion, but it won’t be with any UK-regulated gambling institutions. Instead, you’ll have to find companies that are included in GamStop’s list of authorized partners that we listed previously.

With these other providers, you don’t need to upload any ID or verify details before you start betting with them, and therefore, GamStop won’t know what you’re doing. They offer a similar experience, with various types of games – but we won’t advertise them here.

It’s important to remember that if you’ve actively registered yourself with GamStop and are within your self-exclusion period, avoiding any form of betting is likely to be your best course of action.

If you’re struggling, we’d recommend reaching out to one of the registered charities or independent support systems we listed earlier in this article.

GamStop – Is it Worthwhile?

GamStop is a good way for gamblers to give themselves some time away from chasing that dream of the next big win. Whether you’re a casual bettor or someone who thinks they may have a problem, GamStop doesn’t discriminate, it’s open for everyone.

The ability to recognize that you may have an issue is the first step, and you’ll need to sign yourself up for GamStop, rather than have someone else do it for you. You can select how long you want to self-exclude yourself, putting you in complete control of your gambling.

FAQ

What is the self-exclusion period for GAMSTOP?

What does GAMSTOP exclude you from?

How do I remove self-exclusion on GAMSTOP?

Does GAMSTOP stop you going to casinos?

References

The post How Does GamStop Self-Exclusion Work? A Technical Insight appeared first on The Tech Report.

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Hide.me Review — What Our Testing Shows in 2024 https://techreport.com/vpn/hideme-review/ Mon, 04 Dec 2023 11:25:25 +0000 https://techreport.com/?page_id=3529843 Smartphone with VPN app turned on

In this comprehensive hide.me review, we’re going to be taking a close look at one of the market’s lesser-known VPN brands to see how they compare in a crowded industry....

The post Hide.me Review — What Our Testing Shows in 2024 appeared first on The Tech Report.

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Smartphone with VPN app turned on

In this comprehensive hide.me review, we’re going to be taking a close look at one of the market’s lesser-known VPN brands to see how they compare in a crowded industry.

Hide.me has attracted a lot of attention in the past year or so for its robust VPN that delivers good speeds, unblocks a host of streaming services, and adheres to strict privacy settings.

We review the core features of the VPN, as well as testing how well it performs, identifying any unique features, exploring the server count, and much more.

Keep on reading to see how to hide.me fares following our hands-on testing and wherever it can match the industry giants like NordVPN and ExpressVPN.

Hide.me Pros and Cons

In a hurry? If you’re looking for some quick advantages and disadvantages of Hide.me, we’ve listed some of the most relevant pros and cons below for you.

Pros

  • Offers a decent free version for those who want to try before they buy
  • Can unblock most of the popular streaming services like Netflix and BBC iPlayer
  • Allows up to 10 simultaneous connections on one subscription
  • Solid range of servers in multiple countries across the globe
  • Supports cryptocurrency payments for total anonymity

Cons

  • Premium plans are quite expensive when compared with other leading providers
  • Mobile app performance leaves little to be desired

What Is Hide.me?

Hide.me is a top VPN service that offers reliable speeds, a solid range of servers around the world, and a no-nonsense approach to security and privacy. However, it’s perhaps not as well-known as some of the contenders on our list of the top VPNs on the market.

Easily unblocks Netflix, which is what most people are looking for.

But that’s not to say that it isn’t excellent in its own right – it can easily bypass geo-restrictions put in place by streaming services, meaning you can watch as much content on websites like Netflix, Amazon Prime Video, and Hulu without any fuss.

More importantly, you can enjoy your favorite streaming platforms without any annoying buffering, as the speeds on offer are very good.

We found it to be one of the more user-friendly VPNs out there, especially on the desktop clients for Windows and MacOS. This, along with the robust security and privacy features on offer, makes Hide.me an interesting choice for those looking for a new VPN to take into the New Year and stay safe online.

Is Hide.me Safe – Can You Trust It?

For all intents and purposes, hide.me is as safe as they come. The company has no history of any data breaches, leaks of personal information, or anything of note that could lead us to not trust them.

They back this up with their no-logs policy as a strict approach to anonymity. This means that they don’t keep any of your personal data on file, so there’s no risk of it being sold to third-party advertisers or being leaked in a data breach.

Hide.me allows you to sign up for an account and pay with cryptocurrency, meaning that you can stay totally anonymous throughout the whole signup process, just as long as you use a generic email that doesn’t include your name and date of birth.

All-in-all, our Hide.me review shows that you can certainly be trusted as your next VPN provider.

Best Use Case for Hide.me – What Does It Excel At?

Hide.me is a solid all-round option for a variety of uses, but there are perhaps one or two areas where it stands out best – streaming and privacy.

Now, these are both useful features for a VPN to offer, as one of the most popular uses of VPNs as a whole is to unblock new content, and for others, it’s all about privacy.

Thankfully, Hide.me can satisfy both needs. Firstly, we found that it was able to unblock pretty much any streaming service we threw at it, including Netflix, BBC iPlayer, Max, Hulu, Amazon Prime Video, and Disney Plus. This means you can enjoy brand-new content on all of these platforms from wherever you’re located.

Secondly, it actually excels with its favorable privacy features, including anonymous payments via crypto, a strict zero-logs policy, and an independent third-party audit to back this up. This is reassuring for people who want to remain anonymous online, and we hope to see more providers offering crypto payments in the future.

Top Hide.me Features – What Works and What Doesn’t

Hide.me has a lot of great features that truly make it stand out, but some are much more unique than others. To help you understand exactly what’s on offer, we’ve listed some of the key features below and how well they work following our vigorous testing.

SmartGuard

SmartGuard is a clever feature that essentially blocks any annoying ads when you’re browsing on the internet, as well as keeping you safe from any potential viruses and malware. This useful feature is turned on by default, and we found that its ad-blocking skills were excellent.

Hide.me VPN dashboard

It even includes a parental control setting, which allows you to restrict the type of content your child can see online by hiding explicit images and websites.

As good as this is, we wish it allowed for more manual configuration, as it can sometimes block websites that aren’t harmful, so being able to customize this would be a welcome addition to an already great feature.

StealthGuard

Another top feature on offer with Hide.me is StealthGuard, which is a combination of a kill switch and split tunneling, two VPN essentials.

With this, you can select which apps you want to be protected by the VPN, for example, you can use a different Netflix library in another country using the VPN but opt for your banking app not to be connected, as this can sometimes cause issues – or anything along those lines.

Hide.me VPN Stealth Guard feature
Split tunneling and kill switches aren’t exactly groundbreaking VPN technology and have been around for a number of years, but packaged up together like this, they work seamlessly. While testing the feature for this Hide.me review, were able to stream content from a variety of different services on the VPN connection whilst still being able to read local news and more.

VPN Cascading

This is another fancy-sounding name for a typical VPN feature, in this instance, multi-hop or double VPN, connecting to two or even more VPN servers rather than just the standard one.

Hide.me’s Cascading works like this: a secure tunnel is established between you and the VPN server when you connect to it, and it shields your confidential information from third parties. You then build another secure tunnel inside the existing secure tunnel to connect to a second VPN server. 

It’s not necessary to stop at two, and you can theoretically connect to as many as you like but don’t count on your connection being fast enough to browse the web. The benefit of this is essentially a more secure connection and less chance of your browsing data being stolen or seen by external sources.

Port Forwarding

By using port forwarding, also known as port mapping, you can provide remote servers and internet-connected devices can access to your private local area network (LAN) and vice versa. When port forwarding is enabled, any device connected to the internal network can communicate with any other device.

Port forwarding is a useful way to access software running on your computer remotely, whether you’re hosting a small website for a business or simply enabling your friends to play a game of Minecraft – the possibilities are endless.

Hide.me VPN in-app port forwarding Hide.me decided against using static port forwarding in favor of the safer Universal Plug and Play since port forwarding can be potentially dangerous.

Better yet, instead of mapping a network port constantly, it does so only upon request from an app. Plus, it won’t ask for a specific IP address, which can be problematic if you use a VPN to maintain your anonymity.

Fixed IP

A Fixed IP isn’t the same as the usual static IP you pay extra for with most VPN services, allowing you to have your own unique IP address. A fixed IP address is more like reserving a space on an open VPN server.

This means that every time you connect to the same server on the VPN, you’ll get the exact same IP address. It’s worth noting that Hide.me states that if a server is overcrowded, they may assign your IP address to someone else – so bear this in mind.

Hide.me online account settings for fixed IPWe never ran into this issue ourselves, and we were able to connect to our designated IP address without any hassle on the multiple times we tested this feature out.

Optimized Streaming Servers

As we mentioned above in the ‘best use case’ section, Hide.me is a great choice for casual VPN users to watch content from a ton of different streaming services. Not only can it bypass geo-locked content easily, but it even offers servers optimized for streaming.

We put them to the test and were really impressed with the overall experience. Some slower VPNs that don’t use the Wireguard protocol can often struggle with streaming, as the speeds on offer are poor, and you’re met with the annoying wheel of buffering content.

Thankfully, there were no such issues with Hide.me, partly due to what the provider calls ‘Bolt Technology’, which offers lightning-fast streaming on Windows. They also use the Wireguard protocol for mobile and MacOS devices, so you can safely and speedily stream on all devices.

Hide.me Pricing – Is It a Good Value Purchase

Like all great VPNs, Hide.me goes the extra mile by offering a free plan for everyone to use before they potentially decide to upgrade. We’re always thrilled to see VPN providers off these types of plans, as the market is so crowded you don’t always want to spend your hard-earned money on a service that may not be for you.

Hide.me has a generous free plan.

With the free plan, you’ll get a generous 10GB of data every month, which is much more than some of its competitors, like TunnelBear, which only offers 2GB.

Sure, you’re likely to burn through this in a few days if you use it heavily, but considering it’s free, it’s not a bad deal.

Our review of Hide.me revealed that it does include some limitations, which is not uncommon. For example, only one connection and five locations are available to free users. Other restrictions include the absence of the Fixed IP feature, port forwarding, and streaming-optimized servers.

Moving on to the paid plans, Hide.me does come with a pretty big price tag when compared with some of the leading competitors like Surfshark (when paying on a monthly basis.). However, you can bag yourself a deal by opting for the 3-year plan, which only costs $2.22/month.

Hide.me pricing plansThis unlocks the whole fleet of servers and gives you access to the VPN on up to 10 devices, introduces port forwarding and other premium features, and much more. You’re also protected by a 30-day money-back guarantee on all of these plans, so if you decide it’s not the VPN for you, canceling is easy.

Hide.me Interface – Is It User-Friendly?

Hide.me has apps for all major devices, and each of them looks and operates in a different way, so to help you understand what you’re getting on each platform, we’ve created a useful guide to all the major ones below.

Windows

The Windows app for Hide.me is highly customizable but perhaps more for tech-savvy individuals. Most of the important features, like the kill switch and leak protection, are all turned on as standard, so most can start using the VPN straightaway without any changes.

Some uncommon but helpful features exist, such as the option to activate automated protocol switching. You can even choose which protocols this function is permitted to use in case you are having trouble connecting.

Hide.me VPN in-app account information
It has something called Stealth Guard, which we touched upon earlier. It’s essentially an app-specific kill switch that can also work in tandem with the system-wide kill switch. You can use it to initiate personalized scripts when the kill switch is activated – again, this might be for the more advanced user.

We really like that you can search for a location of your choice instead of having to scroll through all of the countries and cities on offer. This may seem minimal, but we can’t think of many other VPNs that allow you to find your desired server so effortlessly.

macOS

The Mac app is almost identical to the Windows app in terms of features and layout, both of which make them easy to use for beginners and fun to customize for more advanced users. We were also delighted to see that Mac users can benefit from Wireguard support, something that is often cut for macOS apps from other VPNs.

Android and iOS

The Hide.me VPN app for Android provides a simple user interface that’s easy to both navigate and customize to your liking. It may be argued that it’s a little too straightforward because the majority of prompts use stock Android features.

The app disconnects when you close it, and the settings are less extensive than on desktop clients, as you’d expect. The notification bar doesn’t have a symbol that shows you are connected, which we found to be a little annoying. It’s a little frustrating that you have to launch and dismiss the app each time in order to see the status of your connection.

Hide.me VPN mobile app
The Hide.me VPN iOS app makes use of the standard iOS app template, much like the Android version does. It’s not really eye-catching, but if you need to locate anything fast, it’s fairly intuitive. You can also alternate between the light and dark modes, which is a nice touch.

There’s even access to the Wireguard tunneling protocol on both the iOS and Android apps, something that is again often overlooked by other top VPNs – so speed and streaming won’t be an issue for those on the move. Plus, both apps offer a kill switch, which is even more unusual – so top marks for the mobile versions.

What Security Does Hide.me Offer?

One of (if not the) most important aspects of a VPN is the security features that come included, as they’re ultimately designed to keep you safe. Below, we take a dive into the security measures in place on Hide.me and evaluate their usefulness.

Encryption

As previously stated, your connection is encrypted when you connect to Hide.me VPN servers, and all that will be visible to someone who chooses to monitor your network is incomprehensible nonsense. Hide.me ensures this by using the AES-256-CBC cipher.

Both your username and password are randomly generated during the authentication process, along with your connection. The SHA-256 cryptography is employed by the service for this reason. Therefore, the only versions of your credentials that are stored on their systems are hashed versions, making them hard to decipher.

Self-Managed DNS

If you rely on third-party DNS servers, then this means that they have access to your connection logs. So, if you’re using DNS addresses assigned by your Internet Service Provider, every accessed domain can be easily retrieved.

Thankfully, Hide.me makes use of its own exclusive DNS servers. Therefore, the same level of encryption that protects your VPN connection will protect your DNS requests when you connect to their network. This helps prevent DNS poisoning situations from spreading and also increases the privacy of your internet history.

Hide.me Compared With Other VPNs

Now you know a good amount about what Hide.me VPN offers, we feel it’s time to see how it fairs against its rivals. To help with this, we’ve created a useful table that compares all the vital elements of a top VPN, like price, features, and much more.

VPN Top Choice For Starting Price Countries Supported Standout Features
Hide.me Streaming $2.22/month 60+ Streaming optimized servers, SmartGuard, StealthGuard, Fixed IP
ExpressVPN Overall Security $6.67/month 105 Lightway Protocol, RAM-Only Servers, Network Lock, Media Streamer, Router Applet, Aircove Router, Stealth Servers
NordVPN Bypassing Geo-locked Content $2.99/month 60 Nordlynx Protocol, Nord Threat Protection, Colocated Servers, Dark Web Monitor, Meshnet
Ivacy Budget-Friendly $1/month 68 Low-Cost Plans, Dedicated IP, Secure Download, Leak Protection
PureVPN Torrenting $2.08.month 65 Split Tunnelling, Port Forwarding, Obfuscation, PureKeep, Always-On-Audit
Surfshark Unlimited Simultaneous Connection £1.99/month 100 Unlimited Simultaneous Connections, Camouflage Mode, MultiHop, Nexus, CleanWeb, No Boarders, Bypasser, GPS Spoofing

As is apparent in the data above, Hide.me doesn’t quite offer the same level of unique or advanced features as the likes of ExpressVPN, Nord, and Surfshark. However, as it’s incredibly easy to use and great for streaming, so there’s still definitely a market for it.

What Do Hide.me Reviews Say?

If you’re still not entirely convinced or put off by Hide.me at this stage, then let’s explore what actual users of this VPN are saying. To do this, we scrolled through page after page on reputable review sites like Trustpilot, G2, and even Reddit.

Trustpilot review for Hide.me

In this review, the user praises the generous free trial on offer from Hide.me, something we alluded to earlier in this review. There’s the added bonus of not needing a credit card to sign up for the free trial, a huge plus in our books.

Truspilot Hide.me review

Another review was quick to sing the praises of the IPv6 support offered by Hide.me, as well as another tick for the excellent free trial. They do mention a brief issue with streaming on certain unspecified platforms, but servers can sometimes be blocked via a streaming provider, so connecting to another should fix this.

Overall, the reviews for Hide.me from real users are very good, with the free plan and streaming capabilities, in particular, impressing many customers.

We mostly agree with them as well, as we mentioned that Hide.me is excellent for streaming, and the free plan is one of the best we’ve tested with that generous 10GB monthly data allowance.

Good Hide.me Alternatives

If Hide.me still really isn’t for you at this point, then don’t panic! We’ve tested dozens of the leading VPN providers on the market in the same way – by testing them hands-on and looking at what real-life users have to say. We’ve listed some of our top VPN reviews below:

Why You Can Trust Our Review of Hide.me

Now, you might be thinking that Hide.me sounds pretty good – but can you trust our opinions on it, and if so, then why? In short, we put each VPN through a series of vigorous tests that include trying at the core features like the server speeds, as well as seeing if it can unblock any of the popular streaming services.

We look for any unique features that a VPN offers, like SmartGuard for Hide.me. To back up any claims we make, we also explore the depths of the internet for real user reviews using popular websites like Trustpilot and G2. We even look for feedback from the harshest of critics – Reddit, or more explicitly, the Subreddit R/VPNs.

Lastly, we’re able to fall back onto a wealth of knowledge and expertise in the VPN market, as we’ve previously tested hundreds of different VPNs and put them through their paces in the same way. So overall, we think we’re in a solid position to cast assertions on what we think are good VPNs and which are weaker than others.

How to Use Hide.me Step-By-Step

Getting set up and running with Hide.me is an absolute breeze, and it took us just a matter of minutes to have everything ready to go on all major devices. Here’s how we did it:

1. Go to the Hide.me Website

Hide.me offer

Head over to the official Hide.me website and click the ‘Get Hide.me’ button in the top right-hand corner of the page.

2. Pick Your Plan

Hide.me pricing

Next, you’ll need to pick your plan from one of the three available: monthly, 6-monthly, or 27-month plan (with 3 months free.) Be aware this is a current deal available on the Hide.me website and may no longer be available.

3. Create an Account

Next, you’ll need to create an account using your email and password. You’ll use this to sign in to your account on each device you want Hide.me to secure – you can protect up to 8 devices with one subscription.

4. Download and Install Hide.me

Hide.me download page for macOS

The last step is to download Hide.me onto your devices – as it can be used on 8 devices at once, you can protect your phones, tablet, or PC with one subscription.

5. Connect to a Server

In-app server list for the Hide.me VPN

Lastly, test out your new VPN by connecting to a server. You can use it to bypass geo-restricted content on popular streaming services like Netflix and BBC iPlayer.

Should You Use Hide.me?

Hide.me is a great VPN for casual users looking to do some streaming and bypassing of geo-locked content on major streaming platforms like Netflix. During our hands-on testing, we found that it was more than capable of unlocking a ton of content, and thanks to the Wireguard support and streaming-optimized servers, its performance is top-notch.

Sure, it doesn’t have quite the depth of features we’ve seen with some of the top providers, like Nord, ExpressVPN, and Surfshark – but for the everyday person, just having a user-friendly VPN that can excel at the basics is more than enough.

You can even use the service totally free thanks to the generous free plan Hide.me offers. With it, you get 10GB of data each month and access to a handful of servers that can be used to unblock a few Netflix content libraries.

FAQs

Does Hide Me really work?

Is it safe to use hide.me VPN?

Does Hide Me sell data?

Is hide.me VPN completely free?

References

The post Hide.me Review — What Our Testing Shows in 2024 appeared first on The Tech Report.

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Why Are Instagram Story Viewers on the Rise? https://techreport.com/spy/instagram-story-viewers-rising/ Tue, 21 Nov 2023 10:58:00 +0000 https://techreport.com/?page_id=3528204 Business Instagram Stories

In this article, we delve into the underlying reasons fueling the major rise in Instagram Story views and explore the implications of this trend for both everyday people and businesses...

The post Why Are Instagram Story Viewers on the Rise? appeared first on The Tech Report.

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Business Instagram Stories

In this article, we delve into the underlying reasons fueling the major rise in Instagram Story views and explore the implications of this trend for both everyday people and businesses leveraging the platform.

Social media continues to evolve and shape the way we communicate and interact with others online, and one feature in particular that has captured the attention of Instagram lovers and digital marketers alike is the rapid surge in Instagram Story viewers.

We’ll unravel all the important details of Instagram Story views and look to shed light on the factors contributing to the huge rise of this feature.

From a user perspective, we explore how this trend reflects a shift in how we consume content, with attention spans becoming more attuned to bite-sized, visually stimulating narratives.

Why Are Instagram Story Views on the Rise?

Instagram Story views are the number of times users view content shared by a person or brand through the Stories feature on Instagram. These short-lived visual snippets, lasting just 24 hours, have become a vital component of digital communication, allowing users to share important milestones, promotions, and updates in next to no time.

There are several factors that contribute to the rise in Instagram Story views. Notably, Instagram content embedded in Facebook has played an important role. In 2020-21, Instagram posts began appearing on Facebook, increasing the reach and visibility of these posts on both platforms.

Creating a post on Instagram

This cross-platform exposure, often referred to as ‘Cross-Posting’, is one of the key reasons that contributed to the increase in views as users interact with Stories on their favorite social media platforms.

Another important factor is the huge growth in Instagram’s user base, which currently sits at a whopping 2 Billion monthly active users. In 2023, Instagram will have nearly 300 million more users than it did in 2020. This increase in the number of users creates a larger audience for content, which can increase views accordingly.

Several strategies are helping to increase Instagram Story views on a platform-specific level. These include the strategic use of hashtags, the creation of exciting new content, the best time to post to maximize exposure, and the potential impact of any bot views.

Why Are Instagram Story Views Important?

The importance of viewing an Instagram Story has become a crucial metric for individuals and businesses looking to measure their success on the platform. As a dynamic feature that allows users to share content, Instagram Stories has evolved into a powerful tool for communication, exposure, and sales.

Instagram Story impression offers a great way to measure social engagement and a potential connection to an audience. This is crucial in a world where communication is often determined by the number of interactions we have on a Post, Story, or some other form of digital content.

The number of views on a story therefore serves as quick feedback on the popularity of any content that’s shared. But it’s also more than that: for some people, it offers a glimpse into everyday life and promotes a ‘community’ style feeling.

On the other side of the coin, you have businesses. With Instagram Stories, they can offer a peak behind the brand and offer valuable insights to loyal followers. This is also a great way for marketing teams to target a different niche of audiences and can be used to promote products, services, and much more.

Instagram story stats

The number of views a Story gets is invaluable insight, and they serve as real-time indicators of the popularity and engagement a business is getting. This allows them to adapt strategies, refine their tone and messaging, as well as gauging the success of campaigns to appeal more to those who frequently use Stories as a way of staying updated and informed.

Plus, there is so much more to Instagram stories than just views, and businesses are now more aware of how they can use them to improve engagement.

For example, brands can use relevant hashtags to appeal to more people beyond their followers, or they can use location tags for area-specific content – the list is endless, but it all drives valuable traffic back to the main page.

It goes beyond just likes, views, and comments – in fact, businesses can now create customized polls or ask questions to their audience. There are even features where products and links can be placed within Stories, meaning faster access for potential customers.

Do Some Instagram Stories Get More Views?

Yes, some Instagram Stories are bound to get more views than others, with perhaps the core reason being the sheer number of followers an account has. For example, a large business with millions of followers is always going to have more story views than a smaller business.

However, this isn’t the only factor determining why one account may receive more Instagram Story views, and to help you understand further, we’ve listed some key reasons why some receive more views than others:

  • More Followers – The most obvious reason some accounts receive more Story views than others is due to the number of followers. The more genuine accounts followers you have, the higher the likelihood of receiving more Story views.
  • Ghost Followers – If your views or engagement are low, but you have loads of followers, it could be that many of them are ‘Ghost Followers’ or accounts with no activity. If Instagram is pushing your Stories to these accounts and they’re not engaging, they may limit how much they push them out in the future.
  • Quality Content – Some of the leading accounts will push out top-notch content that encourages followers to interact, react, or engage, and this is great for Stories. Quality over quantity is a bit of a cliche, but it’s very much true in this regard. Pumping out large volumes of average quality isn’t going to improve your views.
  • Timing – If an Instagram account has done its research, then it will understand that there are simply better times and days to post on Instagram to receive better engagement, so their Stories will reach more people.
  • Use Tools – Lastly, another important factor linked to the quality of content is the use of tools provided by Instagram. Accounts that feature polls, questions, or other features that people can engage with are likely to get better views. On the flip side, those who just post images are likely to receive less engagement and views.

How to Get More Instagram Story Views

As Instagram Story views have become such a key metric for online brands, businesses, and individuals, the common question of how to get more views on your Stories is bound to come up. It offers a unique way to interact and engage your audience, which can be vital for growing your online presence.

To help you build your own platform and boost your Instagram Story views, we’ve created a list of some of the key ways you can do this, starting with the quality of your content.

1. Create Engaging Content

Perhaps the most important aspect of Instagram Stories and increasing your views is the quality of the content you’re putting out. You need to ensure that it captures the attention of your audience, so just photos and some basic text aren’t going to cut it anymore.

For starters, you should be using high-quality imagery and videos, and using a good camera or visual equipment can really help replace the basic smartphone content. It’s also recommended that you use vibrant colors that grab the attention of your followers.

Lastly, your content needs to be relevant to your audience and in line with the usual content you create. Having consistency within your content (as long as it’s good quality) can go a long way to keeping your audience entertained and wanting to leave them coming back for more every time.

2. Use Location Tags and Hashtags

Hashtags and Location Tags are a great way to improve your discoverability and online presence, as people can find your content even if they don’t follow you. As Instagram allows you to search for hashtags and then shows the posts that use them, you can use this to improve your chances of being noticed.

Similarly, Location Tags allow people to search for posts that fall under a specific location, and even if they don’t follow your account, as long as it’s open, they can find and view your content which increases the likelihood of them following you in the future.

Location tag on Instagram

However, you shouldn’t overdo it, as using too many Hashtags in your Stories may look like you’re spamming or trying a little too hard to draw people in. Finding the right balance with them is key.

With Location tags, it doesn’t hurt to include them on every Story, but mix it up a little, so if you’re traveling or at an important event, add a Location Tag to let people know where you are.

3. Post at Optimal Times

The timing of your posts is another important and easy way to improve your chances of getting more views on your Stories. If you’re using a business account, you can analyze important metrics about your audience and discover their activity patterns. Then, you can post at these times to ensure maximum visibility.

This method can be used by all types of accounts, regardless of whether you’re a business or not. Some of it is just common sense – for example, posting in the early hours of the morning or very late at night will limit the number of people who will see it.

Instagram optimal engagement times

Instead, aim for lunch times when people are on their phones, or try and line it up with people who might be on their way home from work and checking their phone for the first time in a while after a hard day’s work.

Research is key here, so be sure to check for any patterns within your audience to maximize success.

4. Use Interactive Features

Instagram Stories can be and should be so much more than generic photos and videos of everyday activities, as this isn’t really going to captivate your audience unless you’re a global megastar, so you have to use all the tools at your disposal.

Instagram quiz

Thankfully, Instagram offers features like polls, questions, quizzes, and countdowns that allow your follow base to interact with your stories.

Not only do these features make your Story more enjoyable, but they encourage people to spend time engaging with your content, which is likely to mean it’s pushed to them more and boosts your visibility in the process.

5. Collaborate with Others

Collaborating with other accounts is a powerful way to increase your social media presence, and it can open the door to a whole new follower base. One easy way to do this is with the Tagging feature, where you can mention an account or business within your post.

The benefit of Tagging is increased visibility, especially if the account you tagging is popular, as it may open up a brand new clientele for your account or business profile. Alternatively, collaborating with another account works well too.

Collaborations offer you unique and engaging content that can attract a new audience from the account you’re working in tandem with.

It’s a great way to spread your name about and might not even cost you anything if the other account is on board. For larger accounts or influencers with lots of followers, you may find that you have to pay money to work with them.

If this is the case, then make sure that their audience is similar to yours and not completely niche, as this wouldn’t be a wise investment. If they’re a business, make sure they’re aligned with your principals and in a similar industry.

6. Promote Yourself on Other Platforms

Another easy way to ensure your Stories and content in general are viewed by more people is to use the whole network of social media, not just Instagram. A good starting place would be Facebook, as both are owned by Meta.

You can reshare content from your Stories on other social media platforms, too, like TikTok, X (formerly Twitter), Pinterest, Snapchat, and any others you choose. This can be hugely beneficial, as the audience is likely to be different on each of these platforms.

It’s very likely that a more mature audience will be using Facebook, whereas younger generations tend to be more active on TikTok. Either way, all of these platforms have hundreds of millions of views every single day, so using them to your advantage is highly recommended.

7. Instagram Advertising

Methods 1 to 6 on our list fall under Organic, as you don’t usually have to pay for them. But one final way you can increase your account’s visibility is using paid advertising.

Instagram has a good range of ad formats to suit different businesses or individuals looking to grow.

Instagram ad tutorial

Story ads are one of those, and they can be used to target certain demographics, which increases the chances of finding the right audience. By spending a few dollars or so every day, you can increase your account’s discoverability.

Hacks for Getting More Instagram Story Views

Disclaimer: The use of certain methods to increase Instagram Story views may violate Instagram’s terms of service. It’s crucial to prioritize ethical and legitimate strategies to avoid potential consequences such as account suspension or banning.

There are a few other methods that would allow you to gain more Instagram Story views, but they may go against the Terms of Service laid out by Instagram, so be sure to air on the side of caution. With that being said, below are a few hacks that can be useful.

1. Changing Your Location by Using a VPN

It’s possible to improve your viability in certain areas by using a Virtual Private Network (VPN) as these allow you to mimic your location and IP address as being somewhere else. This can be particularly useful if you’re a business or individual located in a smaller country.

Instead, you could use one of the top VPNs to pretend you’re located in the US or UK, where the potential audience is much higher and may result in your account receiving more views and better engagement.

NordVPN interface connected to New York server

As we mentioned before, this may go against Instagram’s Terms of Use, and it could even lead to your account being banned. So, if you choose to use this method, don’t overdo it, and keep the consequences in mind, as you could lose all of your followers.

2. Bot Farming

Bot farms work by running automated scripts or programs that mimic how users actually interact. Metrics such as views, likes, and comments can be artificially manipulated, creating the illusion of popularity and influence.

While the instant gratification and attraction of intense online activity are tempting, the risks associated with bot farming far outweigh the short-term benefits, and you should read the Terms of Service before proceeding with such steps.

Engaging in bot farming goes completely against the principles of ethics and authenticity that Instagram and other platforms aim to uphold. Instagram’s Terms of Service explicitly prohibit the use of third-party tools or services to perform actions that work on the platform, emphasizing real user interaction and content.

The consequences of participating in bot farming can be severe, with the most important risk being the suspension or ban of the Instagram account involved. Instagram uses sophisticated algorithms and search techniques to detect and combat artificial engagement.

If discovered, action will be taken to maintain platform integrity and fairness for high-user accounts involved in such activities – mainly banning the account and any future accounts that are made in the future.

3. Buy Followers

Similarly to the above method, buying followers has been around for a while and just creates the illusion of popularity. Nowadays, you can buy Active Account Followers, which claim to engage with your content, but they will cost much more.

The other alternative is just fake followers with profiles that don’t actually engage, so these aren’t going to increase your Instagram Story views and are instead more of a vanity feature for users who want to appear more popular than they are, so we’d advise you avoid this at all costs.

Do Anonymous Instagram Story Views Count?

Such has been the rise in popularity of Instagram Stories, it’s no surprise to see new tools emerging that allow others to view them under the blanket of anonymity. Popular apps such as Glassagram have emerged and offer you the chance to download stories to your device, as well as viewing other stories without the account knowing.

However, it’s important to note that anonymous story views won’t count towards your typical view count, so they can’t be exploited by accounts to give themselves more views on a certain Story or post.

Order of Instagram Story Views – What Does It Mean?

Your Instagram Story views can be found at the bottom of the Story screen, and it holds significant insights into how well your story is doing in terms of engagement and how interested your audience is in the content you’re putting out.

Understanding the order in which Instagram orders your views can offer valuable information you can then leverage to further increase your reach.

First Few Viewers: Close Connections and Active Followers

The people who appear at the very beginning of the list are typically those with whom you have close connections or those who are actively engaging with your content. This often includes any close friends, family members, or followers who frequently interact with your posts.

Randomized Order: The Algorithm Display

Instagram employs a clever and complex algorithm to determine the order of Story views. While the first few viewers are often your close connections, the viewers after your first few views are often randomized, at least to some extent.

This is heavily influenced by Instagram’s algorithm, which considers factors like your interactions with specific users, mutual engagements, and the timing of the Story post. Instagram doesn’t specifically lay out this information for you, which can make analyzing it difficult.

Grey Circles: Private Accounts or Ghost Followers

Grey circles often appear within your Story viewers, and this often indicates people with private accounts or those who follow you but haven’t posted any content themselves (commonly known as “ghost followers“). These accounts often engage very little or not at all and are often left unmanned or unattended.

Viewers Over Time: Story Progression

As your Story progresses, you’ll likely notice changes in the order of viewers. Instagram aims to show your content to users who are most likely to engage with it, that’s why having captivating content is so important in today’s online world.

Viewers who engage early in your Story will appear in different positions as the Story unfolds, sometimes within the first few viewers or sometimes elsewhere entirely.

Engagement Signals: Who’s Most Interested

The order of Story views can serve as an important gauge of the interest of your audience.

People who regularly appear at the top of your story views are more likely those who have engaged with your content.

Monitoring this order over time can help you tailor your content to the preferences of your most active followers, which leads to better interactions and more engagement over time.

Relevance to Content: Tailoring Your Approach

Pay attention to the viewers’ order and its relevance to the type of content you’re sharing. If certain people are consistently appearing at the top, it clearly shows a strong interest in your content.

Therefore, you should try to tailor your approach based on this insight, creating content that resonates with your most engaged audience. Understanding the order of Instagram Story views is an ever-changing process influenced by user interactions, algorithmic considerations, and the evolving nature of your content.

While it’s not an exact science, this order provides valuable cues to enhance your understanding of your audience, allowing you to refine your content strategy for increased engagement and connection.

Should You Worry About Your Instagram Story Views?

Keeping an eye on your Instagram Story views can offer valuable insights into how interesting and engaging your content is, which is essential for long-term growth. Fluctuations in views are a natural part of the social media landscape and can be influenced by various factors.

Instead of allowing concerns about view counts to dominate your perspective, use them as a guide for refining your content strategy and enhancing audience engagement. For individuals, maintaining authenticity and creating content that resonates with your audience should take precedence over obsessing about any Instagram metrics.

Ultimately, Instagram Story views are a means to an end, not the end itself. Prioritizing meaningful connections, genuine interactions, and content quality will contribute more profoundly to your online presence and satisfaction than fixating solely on the rise and fall of view counts.

FAQ

Why did my Instagram story viewers suddenly increase?

Do anonymous story views count on Instagram?

How does Instagram rank your story viewers?

How do you view Instagram stories anonymously?

References

The post Why Are Instagram Story Viewers on the Rise? appeared first on The Tech Report.

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Glassagram Review: How Good Is This Anonymous Instagram Story Downloader? https://techreport.com/spy/glassagram-review/ Fri, 17 Nov 2023 12:08:37 +0000 https://techreport.com/?page_id=3525866 Smartphone with Instagram app

In this Glassagram review, we’ll be taking a look at the current social media phenomenon. After exploring its key features, we find out how well it works, and take a...

The post Glassagram Review: How Good Is This Anonymous Instagram Story Downloader? appeared first on The Tech Report.

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Smartphone with Instagram app

In this Glassagram review, we’ll be taking a look at the current social media phenomenon. After exploring its key features, we find out how well it works, and take a closer look how much money it will set you back. Stay tuned to learn more about Glassagram.

As one of the largest social media platforms out there, it comes as no surprise that Instagram stories have become one of the most popular ways for people to document the ins and outs of their lives on a daily basis.

With this comes the need to save these stories or view them, sometimes whilst flying under the radar. But with Meta’s privacy policies and the strictness that comes with them, viewing stories for people whose accounts are private is near-impossible.

Well, not anymore. Enter Glassagram, an intuitive platform that lets you view and download stories of private accounts without them knowing. This tool has been garnering a lot of attention from avid social media users, but what we want to know is – how does it work? And is it any good?

Glassagram Pros and Cons

Like any tech-based product, there are bound to be some key strengths, as well as some obvious downsides, and this can certainly be said for Glassagram. To help you make an informed decision, we’ve compiled a list of each below:

Pros

  • There’s a free version available to test out the service
  • Let’s you download Instagram stories of people you follow anonymously
  • Useful and user-friendly apps for iOS, Android, and Desktop
  • Parents can monitor which reels and stories their child is viewing

Cons

  • Doesn’t let you see any private Instagram accounts, despite its claims
  • Might be considered a breach of privacy if you’re found out

What is Glassagram?

Glassagram is an online tool that claims it allows you to view private Instagram accounts and their stories, which usually disappear within 24 hours. But with Glassagram, you can choose to save these stories to your devices and view them whenever and wherever you want.

As Instagram doesn’t include a built-in feature where you can save stories, Glassagram sets about filling this gap. Here’s how it works: simply head to the Glassagram website, enter the username, paste the URL of the account you want, and the tool will provide you with a download link.

It’s as simple as that, but also important to note that this isn’t a free service, and you’ll need to create an account and pay a fee for this – more on that later. The best part is that the person whose story you’re downloading won’t be any the wiser, and there’s no record of your name or details being linked to this anyway.

Does Glassagram Work?

In short, yes, Glassagram does work exactly as you would expect. You enter the target account details, and from there, you can view any stories, download them, and look at the posts they share with their audience – but only if the account is open or you follow it.

So whether you’re looking to keep an eye on a loved one, spouse, or friend – this is the perfect tool for you.

But don’t expect any standout features like location tracking, access to private accounts, or the ability to read messages like you can with the other leading spy apps. This is very much a tailored solution for viewing and saving Instagram stories on accounts you follow or those that are open anonymously.

Can You Access Private Profiles Using Glassagram?

This is a slightly trickier one to answer, as Glassagram has been reported to be able to access private profiles, but it can take up to 7 days to be able to view this data. Profiles that are set to private on Instagram are protected by privacy settings that only allow followers to view their content, so unless you’re granted access, you won’t be able to see it.

However, during our tests, we found that Glassagram wasn’t able to access the private profiles of the accounts we entered. It’s possible that the users who reported that they were able to access this information are incentivized by Glassagram.

But it’s crucial to note that all of these spy apps have to follow the privacy settings and guidance rules set by Instagram.

Privacy is a huge point of concern with the rise of the social media giants, and vital measures are in place to ensure such practices can’t happen – that goes for all providers who say they can access private profiles.

Does Glassagram Notify Private Instagram Account Owners Their Stories Were Viewed?

No, Glassagram won’t notify Instagram account owners that their stories have been viewed. Like other Instagram story downloaders, these apps work by capturing content from public accounts or profiles of people you actually follow, so there’s no magic at work here.

We ran through some tests of colleagues whose accounts we follow, and there was no evidence that we’d downloaded a story using the Glassagram app. However, you could quite easily do this with the screen recording feature built-in on many mobile devices.

How Much Is Glassagram – Glassagram Pricing

In terms of pricing, Glassagram offers 3 main plans, each offering the same features but for different lengths of time: monthly ($49.99), quarterly ($29.99), and yearly ($12.99.)

For this price, you’ll get access to all Glassagram has to offer, like new post alerts, stories saved for 3 months, new follower notifications, and much more. But for $49.99/month, we think this is seriously overpriced.

Glassagram pricing options

When you consider that the very best spy apps or location trackers like Eyezy cost $8.56/month for a yearly subscription and offer features that let you view messages, track the exact location, and monitor the camera and microphone remotely – you can see why we think this.

Sure, you could use Glassagram as a parent and use the dashboard to monitor your child, but you’d need to be following the account to actually have this work – so good luck getting your child to accept you as one of their followers.

Plus, seeing as it failed in our tests to access private accounts on Instagram, we were a little surprised to see just how much they charge. All things considered, you’re paying that money for saving stories and receiving alerts for new followers and posts for an account you already follow – features Instagram already has active.

There is no longer a free version you can use to try out the service, and no mention of a money-back guarantee in any of the terms of service, so to get started, you’ll need to fork out some of your hard-earned money.

Glassagram Features – What Can Glassagram Do?

Now it’s time to take a look at the core features that make up Glassagram. Here, we’ll explore what each feature does and how well it works and report on our own test findings to determine just how good this provider is.

Instagram Story Downloader

This is the main selling point as far as we’re concerned, and the Instagram story downloader does work, no doubt about it. We were able to download stories from accounts we followed and store them in the built-in dashboard or our devices.

Glassagram dashboard activity

At no point was the targeted account notified that their story had been viewed or saved, so in this area, it works pretty well. However, you could theoretically do the same thing with a screen recorder, but it will show that you’ve viewed the story.

However, as this works for accounts you follow only, we don’t really see the value-to-money here that you’d get, especially when a free screen recorder can do the same thing, just not on an anonymous basis.

Anonymity

As touched on above, Glassagram operates under a blanket of anonymity, so none of the target account users will know you’re tracking their profiles. We’re still not sure about the overall perks this brings, as if you’re following the account, viewing a story shouldn’t ever be an issue.

But if you really don’t want the person to know you’re viewing or saving their stories, then Glassagram does tick all those boxes and won’t alert the target account to your activity.

Monitor Multiple Accounts

With Glassagram, you have the option to monitor multiple accounts at one time through the easy-to-use dashboard. Once you’ve entered the URL or Username of your desired account (as long as it’s not private), you can track likes, posts, and stories from the main hub.

Glassagram dashboard

This is useful if you’re tracking multiple friends or your children, as you can access them without needing to leave the app. You won’t be able to see any messages or sensitive information, but posts, some likes, reels, and stories are all able to be monitored.

No Installation

Unlike other spy apps, there’s no need for you to install the software or app on a target’s device, you just enter the URL of the profile or Username. It’s worth noting that you don’t get location access, message access, or any real personal information that you’d get with one of the leading Instragam spy apps.

Even still, you don’t even need your own Instagram account to use the basic monitoring tools, so the setup is quick and easy, and you begin viewing stories and posts anonymously in no time.

User-Friendly

Although this isn’t a feature as such, we were delighted at just how easy Glassagram was to use across all platforms. Glassagram is also a cloud-based solution that makes monitoring on the go a breeze from either a phone, tablet, or laptop.

Regardless of how tech savvy you are, getting to grips with this tool is easy, so it’s a great choice for beginners to this type of software, as there’s no complex setup or remote installing required to get going.

Is Glassagram Easy to Use?

Yes, as we mentioned before, Glassagram is one of the most user-friendly Instagram tracking apps out there and requires minimal setup. Also, unlike other more advanced spy apps, you don’t need access to the target user’s device, only their Username or the profile URL.

This means that anyone can use the platform, as it’s perfectly suited to those who aren’t well-versed in all things tech and social media. We found it to be one of the biggest selling points, as the intuitive dashboard allows you to monitor multiple accounts, stories, and posts from the main hub.

Glassagram Comparison with Other Instagram Story Viewers

The market is awash with other top Instagram story viewers and spy apps, and it’s hard to know who to trust with your money. To help you understand the key features, pricing, and other important information, we’ve created a useful table below.

Best Instagram Viewer Starting Price Free Plan? Standout Features
Glassagram Monthly – $48.99/month
3 Months – $27.99/month
Annual – $12.49/month
No 1. Instagram Story Downloader
2. Monitor Multiple Accounts
3. View Hot Likes
mSpy Monthly – $49.99/month
3 Months – $29.99/month
Annual – $11.66/month
Yes 1. Keylogger
2. GPS Tracker
3. Social Media Monitoring
EyeZy Monthly – $47.99/month
3 Months – $29.99/month
Annual – $9.99/month
No 1. Browsing History Tracker
2. Phone Analyzer
3. Connection Blocker
uMobix Monthly – $24.96/month
3 Months – $29.99/month
Annual – $11.66/month
No 1. Video Call Tracking
2. WiFi Monitor
3. Keylogger
Hoverwatch Monthly – $49.99/month
3 Months – $19.99/month
Annual – $8.33/month
No 1. Snapchat Viewer
2. No Root Access
3. Call Recorder
xMobi Monthly – $49.99/month
3 Months – $29.99/month
Annual – $12.49/month
Yes 1. Social Media Tracking
2. Location Tracker
3. Call Recorder

How Good is Glassagram? What Other Glassagram Reviews Say

To give you an honest and fair assessment of Glassagram, we’ve explored what other real-life customers have to say. To do this, we use reputable review websites like Trustpilot. G2, and even the experts on everything in the corners of Reddit.

We believe it’s important to include a good balance of our own hands-on testing with outside sources from everyday users, and some things may differ. We’ve included some of our findings below.

Glassagram Trustpilot review

This reviewer touched upon a positive we mentioned previously – that you don’t need to be an Instagram user to use Glassagram. Lots of people may not want to sign up and create an account, handing in their personal details in the process.

Thankfully, you can download and view stories on Glassageam without a Facebook or Instagram account.

Glassagram negative Trustpilot review

However, we found a common tone for most of the reviews, all claiming that they paid Glassagram under the illusion they could view a private account, and then they waited for results, but those never came.

In our understanding and research, it’s very difficult to bypass the strict privacy surrounding private accounts, and without installing software on the target user’s device, being able to access this information is unlikely.

Instead, it’s much more likely that they are trying to gain access the the private account with a number of fake profiles, but if the target user doesn’t accept, then there’s no way for them to share their finding. Please, do err on the side of caution and consider using one of the leading spy apps like mSpy.

Our Reviews of Glassagram Alternatives

If you’re not convinced by Glassagram, or you simply want to try some alternative providers, then you can check out some of our other reviews of leading Glassagram alternatives:

Why You Can Trust Our Review of Glassagram

If you have any doubts about the authenticity or reliability of our Glassagram review, then let us put your mind at ease. See, not only did we test Glassagram hands-on, but we also have a wealth of knowledge from countless other reviews of similar products.

We’ve tested dozens of spy apps for all devices, so we know what to look out for, what’s good, what’s bad, and how each provider compares in what is a very competitive and tough market space to break into.

That aside, we also seek inspiration from third-party sources, mainly in the shape of real-life user reviews using trusted platforms like Trustpilot, G2, and Reddit. This allows us to give a balanced view of each tool, spot any similarities and differences, and give the best version of events to you, the reader.

How to Use Glassagram — A Step-By-Step Guide

Glassagram is incredibly easy to use, and it takes just a few minutes to get set up and running – below is a quick guide on how to do this.

Step 1: Visit the Glassagram Website

Start by opening your web browser and heading to the Glassagram website. From here, you’ll need to create an account and pay for a plan of your choice.

Glassagram homepage

Step 2: Enter the Instagram Username or URL

On the Glassagram website, you’ll see a text box where you can enter the Instagram username or URL of the account you want to track or download the story.

Glassagram monitor account

Step 3: Click on the “Watch” Button

After entering the username or URL, click on the “Watch” button to start tracking the profile of your choosing. It will be added to the main dashboard, and you can add multiple accounts.

Step 4: Download and View Stories

Now that you’ve added the profile to your main dashboard, you can start viewing stories anonymously for open accounts. You can also save stories by navigating to the ‘Stories’ section on the main dashboard.

Should You Use Glassagram?

Now the most important question of the lot: should you use Glassagram? Well, judging by our research, testing, and the reviews of real users, no. You’ll essentially be paying $50/month to download Instagram stories of accounts you already follow.

In our tests and from feedback online, it seems pretty clear that Glassagram can’t bypass the restrictions and privacy settings set in place by Instagram. And, if it can, it’s likely they just use fake profiles to try and follow these accounts.

So, instead, we’d recommend trying one of the top spy apps for Instagram, like uMobix. Here, you can monitor messages, check posts, and even track live locations. You just need to install the software on the target user’s device.

Lastly, you need to consider the legal implications of your actions, as tracking someone without their consent could lead you into a world of legal trouble.

FAQ

What does Glassagram do?

Is Glassagram a scam?

Is Glassagram Legit?

Can you access private profiles using Glassagram?

Does Glassagram Notify Private Instagram Account Owners Their Stories Were Viewed?

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Personal Cybersecurity Planning – A Complete Guide, Updated in 2024 https://techreport.com/vpn/personal-cybersecurity-planning/ Wed, 15 Nov 2023 12:52:53 +0000 https://techreport.com/?page_id=3525263 Cybersecurity Planning

Personal cybersecurity planning is more important than ever for businesses and individuals. With the increasing risk of hacks, scams, and online threats, it is important to have strong security measures...

The post Personal Cybersecurity Planning – A Complete Guide, Updated in 2024 appeared first on The Tech Report.

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Cybersecurity Planning

Personal cybersecurity planning is more important than ever for businesses and individuals. With the increasing risk of hacks, scams, and online threats, it is important to have strong security measures to protect your digital presence.

However, even starting your cybersecurity journey can be an overwhelming step, especially if you are not tech-savvy.

This comprehensive guide is here to help you through the basic steps to enhance your online safety and security. When it comes to choosing the right tools for your cybersecurity plan, a VPN is right up there at the top of the list with strong passwords and two-factor authentication, and two reliable options stand out: NordVPN and ExpressVPN.

In this article, we’ll take you through the process of creating your own personal cybersecurity plan to ensure that your online presence remains secure.

By the end of this guide, you will have not only the knowledge but also the tools you need to strengthen your online security. NordVPN and ExpressVPN will play an important role in your digital security strategy, protecting your online world.

What Does Personal Cybersecurity Mean?

Personal cybersecurity is the process of protecting our sensitive data, online activities, and digital identities from various threats and vulnerabilities.

We are constantly exposed to a variety of online threats, from cyberattacks and data breaches to identity theft and breaches of our privacy. It’s important to understand that personal cybersecurity is not a solution that suits everyone: it’s an intentional approach that you can leverage to protect your digital presence.

One effective way to develop a personal computer security strategy is to get some guidance from the National Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST). NIST has developed comprehensive policies and procedures that provide a reliable foundation for cybersecurity best practices.

These policy charts and policies provide a structured approach to addressing cybersecurity concerns, whether you are an individual, a small business owner, or part of a global enterprise.

NIST’s Cybersecurity Framework is an invaluable resource for personal cybersecurity planning. Built around the basic principles of detection, protection, detection, response, and recovery, it offers a comprehensive approach to managing cybersecurity risks.

This framework allows you to:

  • Identify all your digital assets.
  • Assess your vulnerabilities.
  • Implement protective measures.
  • Detect anomalies or threats.
  • Respond effectively to incidents.
  • Recover swiftly from any potential breaches or losses

By using NIST’s policy templates and framework in your own cybersecurity plan, you can build strong defenses against ever-changing cyber threats. It enables you to systematically manage risks and vulnerabilities and drastically increases the security of your online life.

Should You Take Cybersecurity Seriously?

Yes – you should take cybersecurity very seriously. Failing to prioritize cybersecurity can have huge consequences that, in some extreme cases, can severely affect your personal life and financial well-being. In some instances, personal breaches can even lead to national security concerns.

Let’s find out why you should make cybersafety one of your top priorities.

Think about how much personal information you share online – from your credit reports, medical records, emails, and social media activity, all of these are vulnerable to cyber threats. In 2017, the Equifax data breach exposed the personal data of 147 million people, which highlights the risk of your sensitive information being compromised.

Cyber ​​attacks can cost businesses or individuals significant financial losses. Ransomware attacks, where hackers encrypt your data and demand a ransom in order to release it, have become alarmingly common.

Baltimore experienced a ransomware attack in 2019 that cost the city more than $18 million in restoration and mitigation costs.

Plus, cybersecurity is not just a personal or professional issue but also a national security risk. In 2015, the U.S. Office of Personnel Management (OPM) suffered a massive data breach that exposed sensitive information about federal employees.

Such breaches can compromise the safety and security of a nation, necessitating taking cybersecurity seriously at the societal level.

While these are large-scale examples, even the everyday user is not completely safe. Frauds and hacks have reached an all-time high, what with cybercriminals constantly finding new ways to profit from their crimes. So it’s important that you take cybersecurity seriously, too.

How to Protect Yourself Against Cyberattacks

Protecting yourself against cyber threats is not just a matter of personal safety and personal data: your online identity is tied into your social connectivity, finances, and overall well-being.

The threat of cyberattacks looms larger than ever, making it crucial to prioritize your online security. Here are some of the key steps to consider when it comes to protecting yourself against cyberattacks.

How to Protect Your Devices From Cyberattacks

Because of our dependence on electronic devices, they have become essential parts of our lives. Devices like computers, tablets, smartphones, and even small smart devices can store large amounts of your personal information, making them an attractive target for cyber attacks.

1. Update Your Operating System and Software

One of the easiest and most effective ways to keep your devices safe from possible cyberattacks is to make sure your operating system and software are up to date, so double-check your iOS, Android, MacOS, and Windows versions are the latest.

Now, this may sound simple, but security patches are known to fix common vulnerabilities, and updates a regularly released to help keep your devices safe from these.

Update Your Device

Cybercriminals often use these vulnerabilities to gain unauthorized access to your device or steal your data. With regular updates, you ensure that your device is equipped with the latest security patches, making it more difficult for attackers to breach your security

2. Use Strong, Unique Passwords

Passwords are your first line of defense against unauthorized access to your devices and accounts. It’s important to create a strong, unique password for each account. Strong passwords generally consist of a combination of upper and lower-case letters, numbers, and special characters.

Avoid using easy-to-find information like your date of birth, family or pet names, and common words for your passwords. You should also consider using a popular password manager to manage more complex passwords – more on those later.

3. Use Two-Factor Authentication (2FA)

Two-factor authentication (2FA) is another form of security that requires you to provide two separate methods to access your accounts or devices. This usually includes something you know (your password) and something you have (a unique code sent to your mobile device or email account).

Enabling 2FA on your account adds a huge deterrent to potential attackers, even if they manage to steal your password, the chances of them being able to intercept a unique code are slim. Many major online services and apps offer 2FA as a way to increase security, including Gmail, Facebook, and many others.

4. Install Antivirus and Anti-Malware Software

Antivirus and anti-malware software are necessary to detect and remove malicious software such as viruses, Trojans, and spyware. When you install reliable security software, you create an additional layer of security that helps keep yourself and your devices protected at all times.

It’s important to update your security software regularly to ensure it can detect and neutralize the latest threats in real-time.

In fact, the best antivirus software can even protect companies from costly ransomware attacks, potentially saving them small fortunes. Whether you are a business or an individual, they are an essential component to ensuring the safety of your device.

5. Use a Virtual Private Network (VPN)

VPNs encrypt your internet traffic and send it through a secure server. This approach makes it very difficult for cybercriminals to intercept or monitor your data, increasing your online privacy and security. VPNs are especially useful when connecting to public Wi-Fi networks, which are generally insecure and vulnerable to theft.

The top VPNs on the market, such as NordVPN, are well known for their strong encryption, strict no-logs policy, and extensive server networks. Most people seem to use them for unlocking content via their huge array of servers, but they’re so much more than that and offer a good blanket of security on your network and devices.

6. Start Using a Password Manager

Password managers are another great way to ensure your online accounts are secure.

While we’re human, we all have limitations when it comes to memorizing complex and unique passwords for the growing number of online accounts we have. As a result, many individuals can easily rely on guesswork passwords or reuse the same password on multiple websites, which is a dangerous practice

Cybercriminals often target reused or weak passwords to gain unauthorized access to your account, often resulting in identity theft, loss of income, and breach of privacy. However, with one of the top password managers, you use just your master password, biometrics, and 2FA to ensure safety across all of your devices.

How to Protect Your Network From Cyberattacks

As with device security, the importance of network security cannot be overstated. Any breach can have major consequences for all the businesses and/or individuals connected to the network.

While businesses are bigger targets, the threat of cyberattacks is just as significant for private individuals. It’s crucial to secure your network, but don’t panic if you don’t know what steps to take to do so. We’ve created a useful list for you below, which explains some of the basic ways you can improve your network security.

Why Protect Your Network?

Networks enable data to flow and facilitate communication, data exchange, and internet access – they are fundamentally important in everyday life. However, they are also prime targets for cybercriminals looking to exploit vulnerabilities, which can lead to data breaches, financial loss, and damage to your reputation. Protecting your network is important for several reasons:

  • Data Protection – Networks house a wealth of sensitive and confidential information, and a breach can lead to the exposure of personal, financial, or proprietary data.
  • Business Continuity – For businesses, network security is essential for uninterrupted operations. A successful cyberattack can disrupt time-sensitive processes, lead to downtime, and result in significant financial losses.
  • Privacy Protection – Network security safeguards the privacy of individuals and organizations. Unauthorized access to network data can lead to privacy violations, personal information exposure, and potential identity theft.
  • Preventing Malware Spread – A secure network is less vulnerable to malware infections, minimizing the risk of malware spreading to connected devices and causing data loss or financial damage.

Strategies to Protect Your Network

Below are some of the key ways you can keep your network safe, including updating any old login details, enabling firewalls on your network, and much more.

1. Secure Your Router

Change Default WiFi Name
Routers come with preset WiFi names and random passwords, and sometimes the portal where you control your network has default passwords which can be found online via a quick Google search.

To avoid any unwanted intrusions, it’s best to update your WiFi name and password, as well as the login details to your router.
Turn on Network Encryption
The vast majority of wireless routers have some form of encryption capability built in. However, it’s usually turned off by default on routers. Encryption on your wireless router can help keep your network safe.

Make sure you switch this feature on as soon as your internet provider installs the router. The most widely used encryption method currently in use is WPA2.
Update your Router
Like any software, router firmware occasionally has bugs that, if left unchecked by their creators, might develop into serious security holes.

Download and install the most recent security updates as soon as possible, and always use the most recent software for your router. This will decrease the odds that your Wi-Fi network will be compromised by hackers.
Use a VPN
You can use a VPN to secure your router and any devices it’s connected to, but you have to make sure your router is compatible before doing so.

Alternatively, you could opt for an Aircove router from ExpressVPN – the finest router with built-in VPN protection.

2. Implement Access Control

Implement Strong Passwords
Strong, unique passwords are crucial for network access control. Update these passwords once in a while to minimize the risk of unauthorized access
Use Two-Factor Authentication
Use 2FA wherever possible for added security. 2FA requires you to provide two forms of identification, making it much trickier for attackers to breach your network
Limit Access
Only grant network access to specific devices or people based on their role and needs, reducing potential vulnerabilities further down the line.

3. Activate Firewalls

Use firewalls
Use firewalls at network entry points to filter and block any potentially harmful traffic. Firewalls act as a barrier between your network and the outside world, preventing malicious traffic from entering.

4. Use a VPN

Use a VPN
VPNs like NordVPN and ExpressVPN provide secure and encrypted connections, especially useful when accessing sensitive data over public networks. VPNs add an extra layer of protection for your network traffic.

5. Security Policies and Employee Training

Develop and Enforce Security Policies
Establish robust security policies outlining what is acceptable network usage and best practices for all network users – this helps staff stay on track and avoids potential breaches due to negligence.
Train Employees
It’s wise to provide cybersecurity awareness and best practices training to your employees and any users of a network to prevent insider threats and enhance overall network security.

Can You Protect Your Personal Information When You Go Online?

You can always protect your personal information online if you follow the right steps, but it’s becoming trickier than ever due to the advanced nature of hacks, scams, and other cyber threats. If you’re wondering how they do this, we’ve listed some of the more common ways scammers get hold of your personal information.

Common Scam Method Explanation
Cookies Marketers use cookies to track and monitor your online activity.

These snippets of data can include information on the websites you visit, the products you’re looking at, and your online preferences or habits. This allows them to create a profile based on this data, allowing them to use target advertising.

Social Media All of your social media profiles are full of information about you, your likes, interests, and much more.

They can view your interactions, what you like, share, and any comments – these provide valuable insight into your interest, which allows advertisers to tailor ads based on your online behavior.

Emails If you subscribe to any newsletters, content, or promotions, these may inadvertently expose your email address to tons of marketers.

This can lead to a bombardment of targeted marketing emails and even your data being shared amongst various third-party advertisers.

As much as the above are bothersome, they aren’t exactly illegal, and it’s commonplace in marketing and advertising to use this data to promote products to you. However, there are some more dangerous cyber threats out there that you need to be wary of, and we’ve listed some of the most common ones below.

  • Phishing Attacks – Perhaps the most common of all cyberattacks comes in the form of phishing, which is essentially cybercriminals using deceptive emails or messages that seem to be genuine, but their purpose is to trick you into sharing your personal data. They’re often made to look like legit websites like Facebook or your bank, and as a result, sharing any information can lead to serious financial loss or even identity theft.
  • Data Breaches – These are often more serious and involve targeting large businesses that store a wealth of customer data, like the Equifax issue we discussed earlier. Once cybercriminals infiltrate the databases of companies or organizations, they can steal vast amounts of customer data like usernames, passwords, card details, and much more.
  • Malware – This can be a little harder to spot, especially if you’re not using any form of antivirus software. Cybercriminals will try to disguise malware as a seemingly unharmful link, but when you click it, malicious software will infect your computer. Businesses often suffer ransomware attacks like this, where files can be locked and a fee demanded for their safe return. This can end up costing thousands of dollars and endless stress.

Now, all of this might sound a little scary, and it is. But that doesn’t mean you can defend yourself against these cyberthreats and keep your personal data safe. To help you, we’ve listed some basic steps you can take to keep yourself safe.

Step 1 – Use Strong Passwords

As simple as it may seem, having a strong and unique password can prevent many unnecessary cyberattacks, as brute-forcing your password becomes nearly impossible, even for the most advanced hacking tool, the more complex it is.

Hackers will use brute-force tools that test hundreds of thousands of passwords in a matter of minutes, so having a 12- to 16-character phrase that’s a combination of letters, numbers, and symbols is crucial, as it will take millions of years to crack.

NordPass Dashboard

As we touched upon earlier, using a password manager is an excellent and safe way to ensure all your passwords are secure. You can use a master password or your biometric data with the best password managers, so they’re near-impossible to crack.

Reputable solutions like NordPass can even suggest unique passwords, mass update any old ones, and detect if yours has been leaked in a data breach.

Step 2 – Be Cautious with Emails

This is another simple step but a vital one to avoid any potential phishing scams. Usually, your email account will flag suspicious messages and links, but this isn’t always 100% accurate, and some may slip through the cracks.

If there are ever links in your email, check the sender’s address before clicking them, as phishing links often come from emails that aren’t quite right.

It could be as simple as a missing letter in the company name or perhaps more hyphens or symbols than an official email address from a verified source.

If you’re in any doubt, just don’t click the link, and reach out or report the link the an official source. The same goes for any attachments, don’t automatically click them and download them, as they may contain malware that could infect your computer.

Instead, use an antivirus software to scan the link to ensure it’s safe or, better yet, ask your local IT support for help – they’ll appreciate you doing so.

Step 3 – Review Your Privacy Settings

Your social media accounts can be an easy place for hackers, marketers, and others to source valuable personal information about you, so it’s vital to check your privacy settings to prevent this.

Popular social media platforms like Facebook allow you to choose your audience, so it’s advisable to have it on friends only, as this stops strangers from viewing your information.

Facebook Privacy Settings

Of course, you can always be cautious about what you post online, but don’t let it get in the way of you enjoying social media.

Just make sure you’re happy with your privacy settings and what people can see, and don’t share anything too personal that a cybercriminal could use to exploit you in some way, like your full address, contact number, and so on.

Step 4 – Get a Reliable VPN

A VPN is one of the best tools you can use to keep yourself safe online, along with a good password manager and antivirus software – all apps we’d recommend installing.

With a VPN, you can safely use public Wi-Fi, something that hackers might usually target, as they often offer little in terms of network security.

NordVPN Review

ExpressVPN and NordVPN are two trusted sources we’d recommend, as they boast large server networks and have excellent security protocols. By using one of these providers, you can browse the internet more securely, with your personal data kept clear of any potential cybercrooks or snoopers.

Step 5  – Stay in the Know

Another great way to avoid any potential hacks or scams is to stay up to date with the world of cyberattacks. This can range from a simple Google search for common scams, or if you’re very serious about it, there are websites like Investopedia, where you can read about the most popular internet scams.

However you choose to do, it’s up to you. The simple step of starting to get info on cybersecurity planning will equip you with the knowledge of these scams and methods on how to avoid them. It may seem like a pain, but it can potentially save you a lot of hassle further down the line.

Personal Cybersecurity Planning – Is It Worth It?

Cybersecurity planning is 100% worthwhile. Your personal data should be yours and yours alone, and if it falls into the wrong hands, it could be a costly and stressful experience for you.

Thankfully, there are multiple ways to stay safe, as we’ve touched upon in this article, with one of the key ways to do so being VPNs. A top provider like NordVPN encrypts your data, meaning you can browse the internet from anywhere (even public Wi-Fi) with the safety of knowing your personal details are secure.

If you follow the instructions listed in this article, you’ll be well on your way to having your own dedicated cybersecurity plan. Be sure to stay informed on any of the latest hacks and scams going around online to further enhance your security. Stay safe!

FAQ

What is cyber security planning?

What should a cyber security plan include?

How can I achieve personal cybersecurity?

What are the five steps in the security planning process?

What are the cybersecurity best practices for individuals?

References

The post Personal Cybersecurity Planning – A Complete Guide, Updated in 2024 appeared first on The Tech Report.

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The Best VPN Deals for Black Friday 2024 — Top 10 Compared https://techreport.com/vpn/black-friday-vpn-deals/ Fri, 10 Nov 2023 14:29:01 +0000 https://techreport.com/?page_id=3526919 Black Friday sales

We scoured the internet for the best VPN deals for Black Friday, and in this article, we review the 10 best deals and providers so you don’t have to leave...

The post The Best VPN Deals for Black Friday 2024 — Top 10 Compared appeared first on The Tech Report.

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Black Friday sales

We scoured the internet for the best VPN deals for Black Friday, and in this article, we review the 10 best deals and providers so you don’t have to leave it to guesswork.

We run through all the important details for our top VPNs, including industry giants ExpressVPN and NordVPN – looking at key features, pricing, what deals are on offer, and much more.

What Deals Are VPNs Offering for Black Friday?

The holiday season is arguably the best time of year to shop for deals, and with Black Friday fast approaching, customers are yet again spoilt for choice when it comes to VPNs.

Whether taking your online privacy more seriously is part of your New Year’s resolution or you want to switch VPN providers for a better deal – there’s plenty here for everyone.

However, with this being such a crowded market space, it’s tricky for newcomers to the world of VPNs to know which deals are good and which are just average. To help, we’ve listed a few examples of what the leading providers are offering:

  • Long-term plans – Multi-year plans (up to 5 years) with great deals, meaning you pay just $1-2 a month, guaranteeing you a safe online experience for longer.
  • Free Extra Months – Free months on top of a yearly or 2-yearly plan, so you’re covered for a longer period without it costing you any money.
  • Add-ons – Add-ons like free Antivirus or Ad-blockers built-in for an extra layer of protection.

The Best Black Friday VPN Deals in 2024

Below is our list of the best Black Friday VPN deals, with ExpressVPN coming out on top. Later in this review, we’ll explore what offers each provider has and review their key features, pricing, and other vital details.

  1. ExpressVPN – The best Black Friday VPN deal with 49% off annual plans, which costs just $6.67/month + 3 months free of charge
  2. NordVPN – Great VPN deal that offers 69% off – yours for just $3.99/month with 3 extra months with no charge
  3. Ivacy – Budget-friendly VPN deal, with a whopping 5-year plan costing just $1/month – saving you 90%
  4. PureVPN – Get 83% off PureVPN this Black Friday, with prices starting from $2.03/month with some free extra months on every plan.
  5. Surfshark VPN – Top Black Friday VPN deal that offers 86% off the usual price, for a total of $2.99/month
  6. AtlasVPN – Huge 86% discount + 6 months extra with their Black Friday deal, yours for just $1.64/month for a 2-year plan
  7. CyberGhost VPN – 82% off their already low-cost VPN plans this Black Friday, get 26 months for just $2.19/month
  8. ProtonVPN – 50% off and bonus-free months on every plan, starting from as little as $3.99/month
  9. Norton Secure VPN – Low-cost VPN with prices starting from $3.30/month
  10. Strong VPN – Reliable VPN with prices starting at $3.97/month

Top 10 Best VPN Deals for Black Friday Reviewed

Now it’s time to take a look at each of the above providers in more detail, starting with the best VPN deal for Black Friday, ExpressVPN.

1. ExpressVPN – Get 49% Off and 3 Extra Months at No Charge

ExpressVPN finds itself at the top of our list for a number of reasons: it’s one of the fastest VPNs on the market thanks to the company’s own Lightway Protocol, it has a huge range of servers in countries all over the world for streaming, and it comes packed with a load of extra security features like a password manager.ExpressVPN

It’s got an excellent Black Friday deal that gives you an extra 3 months free on a yearly subscription – that’s 15 months for the price of 12. This is pretty good, going from the company known for having the most expensive VPN.

But you’re getting great value for money here, even at upwards of $6/month. Firstly, there’s the aforementioned Lightway Protocol that offers exceptional speeds for streaming, gaming, and torrenting.

ExpressVPN consistently ranks as one of the fastest VPNs in our testing, and their own Lighway protocol is the main reason. It’s the company’s variation of WireGuard, which in itself offers great speeds for most of the other top VPN providers. It means everyday tasks like streaming content, downloading files, and high-speed gaming are a breeze.

Best For Black Friday Deal Starting Price of Paid Plans
Lightning-fast server speeds 3 Extra Months Free $6.67/month

Secondly, ExpressVPN boasts servers in more than 105 countries, so a fast connection is assured from pretty much any corner of the globe. Having servers in multiple countries means you’re likely to be close to one, and this means better speeds for you.

You can unblock a world of new content on popular streaming services like Netflix, Amazon Prime Video, and Hulu – all of which ExpressVPN can unblock seamlessly. You can also enjoy the content in crisp HD or 4K for the best viewing experience.

Lastly, we have the security features on offer, and ExpressVPN has a few tricks up its sleeve here too. The deal includes Express Keys, the provider’s answer to a password manager. We found it to be incredibly easy to use, and the use of biometrics is a huge plus here.

Keys can even suggest new passwords for you, and coupled with the ultra-secure VPN – you know you’re in safe hands.

Aside from these main standout features, you get an automatic kill switch, an audited no-logs policy, as well as AES 256-GCM and ChaCha20/Poly1305 ciphers for encryption. So not only is ExpressVPN super-fast, but it’s also incredibly secure.

Pricing

As we touched upon earlier, ExpressVPN is one of the more expensive providers out there, but we think it has every right to be. At $6.67/month for a year, plus the bonus of 3 months in their Black Friday deal, you’re still getting a lot of value for your money.

There’s even a 30-day money-back guarantee for those who aren’t happy with the service they’re getting. We’d be surprised if that was the case, though

Things We Like

  • Lightning-fast connection speeds for streaming, torrenting, and gaming thanks to the Lightway Protocol
  • Includes Express Keys, an excellent password manager free of charge
  • Great Black Friday deal that gives you 15 months for the price of 12
  • Servers in over 105 countries around the world

Things We Don’t Like

  • Might be too expensive for some

2. NordVPN – 69% Off 2-Year Plans, Now Just $3.99/month

Nord is another well-known provider in the online security world, famed for their excellent VPN, secure password manager, and file storage system. It’s no surprise to see them ranking so highly on our list.NordVPN - top corporate vpn

Similarly to ExpressVPN, NordVPN boasts its own proprietary Nordlynx tunneling protocol, which means you’ll get some of the fastest speeds of any VPN server – this means excellent streaming and lightning-fast downloads across all of your devices.

Alongside the VPN, you get access to Nord’s Meshnet feature, which makes it possible to establish safe connections between you and other NordVPN subscribers. It can link up to 60 devices globally and is free for all users.

Now, that’s what we call value for money.

Best For Black Friday Deal Starting Price of Paid Plans
Ultimate Security 69% off & 3 Extra Months Free $3.99/month

All enabled devices are connected by private, secure connections that allow you to access files remotely and participate in secure virtual LAN parties or development sessions with other users.

But since file sharing has no limits, viewing remote files isn’t the end goal. It allows you to share up to 1000 files simultaneously and has no file size restrictions.

We were also delighted to see NordVPN team up with Incogni, an extra Nord Security privacy protection service. The service is directed towards a number of places that gather and retain user data, including location, phone number, email address, and names.

At your request, Incogni deletes all your data from the databases of the data brokers. It’s that easy.

It’s clear Nord has your privacy in mind at all times, and you are further protected by a dedicated kill switch, an audited no-logs policy, and even obfuscated servers for those in countries that enforce censorship.

Better still, Nord is offering a fantastic 69% off a two-year plan with their Black Friday offering, meaning this already well-priced VPN is available for even less. We’ll discuss the pricing in more detail below – but this is a fantastic offer to benefit from one of the leading VPNs for a long period at a great price.

Pricing

NordVPN’s excellent Black Friday offer of 69% off a 2-year plan is exceptional value for money. It even gives you an extra 3 months on the house, so you’re protected for 27 months at $3.99/month.

On top of this, you also get a 30-day money-back guarantee for extra peace of mind. If you want extra storage and the file encryption platform, you can always opt for the Complete plan for $4.99/month, still with 3 months free.

Things We Like

  • Ultra-fast speed for streaming and torrenting thanks to Nordlynx
  • Excellent Black Friday offer on two-year plans, with an extra 3 months free
  • Includes the brilliant Meshnet feature for secure file sharing
  • Unblocked every streaming service we threw at it

Things We Don’t Like

  • Only 6 simultaneous connections

3. IvacyVPN – Get a 5-Year Plan for Only $1/month

IvacyVPN may not be as well-established or popular as the leading contenders on this list, but it does offer a reliable, low-cost VPN service for those in the know. It offers a huge server network, fast speeds thanks to WireGuard support, and a fantastic Black Friday offer to close the deal.Ivacy Logo

The huge server count is what first drew us in, as it currently boasts more than 5700 servers in 68 countries – this means streaming and unblocking geo-locked content is easier than ever as you’re always close to one.

Plus, as this VPN runs on the Wireguard protocol, the speeds on offer a pretty strong. Sure, they’re not as fast as our leading two, but when you see the cost of this service, you’ll soon understand why this isn’t a major issue.

During our tests, Ivacy was able to unblock a lot of the major streaming services, including Netflix, BBC iPlayer, and Disney+. So, if you’re looking for a low-cost VPN for streaming, this might be a good option for you, especially as you can get a 5-year plan for just $1/month.

Best For Black Friday Deal Starting Price of Paid Plans
Budget-Conscious People 90% off the 5-year plan $1/month

That’s right, 5 years at $1/moth. It’s so good it’s worth mentioning again. This is by far one of the best deals you’re going to find, and if you’re happy with a VPN that has less advanced features than the likes of Nord or ExpressVPN, then Ivacy offers a reliable alternative.

Don’t be fooled by the drastically low price, there’s still a lot to unpack here. For starters, you get the usual kill switch and no-logs policy, coupled with split tunneling capabilities, military-grade AES 256-bit cipher encryption, and leak protection, all included.

It’s incredibly easy to use and can be installed on 10 devices at the same time, 4 more than our leading pair. The apps for Android, iOS, Windows, and MacOS are all great additions, and there’s even support for Smart TVs and routers for whole-house coverage.

Pricing

We couldn’t find a better VPN Black Friday deal than the whopping 90% of a 5-year plan from IvacyVPN. This means you can stay protected for years with a mere $1/month investment.

The fact you can protect up to 10 devices makes this even more promising, as the whole family can stay safe on one subscription for more savings. Plus, for those looking to stay anonymous, IvacyVPN accepts cryptocurrency payments.

Things we like

  • Incredible 5-year plan for just $1/month offers exceptional value
  • Protects up to 10 devices on one subscription, so the whole household can benefit
  • Reliable speeds thanks to the Wireguard protocol
  • Great range of servers for unblocking popular streaming services like Netflix

Things we don’t like

  • There’s no kill switch on any Apple devices (iOS and macOS)

4. PureVPN – Get 83% Off This Black Friday

PureVPN is an ever-improving provider that offers reliable speeds for streaming and torrenting, plenty of unblocking capabilities, and several excellent privacy-centric features like an always-on-audit – the first VPN to offer this feature.PureVPN Logo

Like Express, it has its own password manager, PureKeep, so you can stay on top of your online privacy in more than one way. It created strong passwords in our tests and even pointed out any weaknesses or compromised passwords.

We love a VPN that includes a password manager, as it really does feel like you’re getting two products for the price of one. We need to mention that this isn’t completely free, as you’ll have to pay an extra $1/month, but considering how much most standalone managers are worth, this is a steal.

Best For Black Friday Deal Starting Price of Paid Plans
Gamers 82% off the 2-year plan & 3 extra months free $1/month

Another part of PureVPN that we love is the sheer number of servers on offer – a staggering 6500+ servers in over 71 countries. This means that wherever you are in the world, you’re likely to find a server nearby for optimum speed and performance.

Talking of speed and performance, PureVPN operates on the Wireguard protocol, so streaming in HD or heavy gaming is made easy. Sure, it’s not quite as speedy as ExpressVPN, but as it’s nearly 50% cheaper, we think that’s okay.

With the current Black Friday deal on offer, you can get your hands on a PureVPN subscription for as little as $2.03/month for the standard plan. This only includes the VPN and all of its features, so for any extras, you’ll need to sign up for the Plus or Max Plans, more on those later.

But if you’re happy with the basic VPN functionalities like a kill switch, obfuscated servers, split tunneling, and a zero-logs policy, the Standard plan is a great entry point.

Pricing

PureVPN offers 3 main plans in their Black Friday deal, all of which are 2-years at 83% off the original asking price. The Max plan is great value for money as it includes end-to-end file encryption, a password manager, and a personal privacy manager – especially when you add in the 31-day money-back guarantee.

It’s also worth noting that you get an extra 3 months added on to your subscription free of charge, so you can stay protected with a top VPN, a password manager, and file encryption for 27 months, all at the low cost of $3.44/month.

Things we like

  • Great Black Friday deal on two-year plans, so you can save a massive 83%
  • Unblocks most popular streaming services like Netflix and Disney+
  • Decent speeds thanks to the Wireguard support
  • Max plan includes a password manager for extra security

Things we didn’t like

  • We ran into some connection issues with some servers, which can be annoying

5. SurfsharkVPN – 86% Off Usual Prices, Now Just $2.99/month

Surfshark is a fantastic and highly affordable VPN provider that’s made a name for itself in this market thanks to its reliable speeds, low-cost plans, and strong lineup of security features. It’s also offering a pretty attractive Black Friday deal to further entice people in.Surfshark Logo

Straight off the bat, there are some great unique features on offer with Surfshark that help it stand out, including Nexus. It’s a system that links the VPN servers into a single, unified network using Software Defined Networking (SDN).

By connecting all of the current VPN servers with Nexus technology, traffic is routed across a whole network of servers rather than just a single VPN encryption tunnel. This function can speed up VPN connections and increase overall performance in addition to hiding user traffic.

For further security, Surfshark offers a built-in search tool that doesn’t bother you with any annoying ads. It’s a safe place to browse the web or make secure card payments online without any compromise of your personal information.

Best For Black Friday Deal Starting Price of Paid Plans
Streaming 80% off a 2-year plan 5 extra months free $3.99/month

This aside, Surfshark consistently delivers excellent speeds that make simple tasks such as streaming, torrenting, and gaming easier and lag-free. In fact, during our tests, we found that Surfshark was about as fast as NordVPN and just a little slower than ExpressVPN. And when considering the cost, this is a great effort.

In terms of cost, this provider already offers a great deal on its VPN and other bundled-in services like Antivirus and a password manager. They sweeten the pot for 2-year VPN plans this Black Friday. You’ll get 3 extra free months on the Starter plan, 4 months free on the One plan, and 5 months free on the One+ plan.

We’ll dive more into the pricing shortly, but you get all of this for a real bargain, plus the usual kill switch, leak protection, and Camouflage Mode, which is Surfshark’s answer to obfuscated servers. There’s even access to Incogni to remove your personal data from brokers, but this is reserved for members of the One+ plan only.

Pricing

Surfshark is famed for its excellent prices throughout the year, so as you can imagine we were pretty excited to see what they had on offer for Black Friday. They’ve taken a similar approach to others and are offering free months on each tier.

If you opt for their most premium package, One+, you’ll get an extra 5 months free on a two-year plan, and that includes an ad blocker, Incogni, a safe search mode, and antivirus protection. So, you’re really getting your money’s worth here.

All of this is protected by a 30-day money-back guarantee, plus you can try all of this free for 7-days with the trial, and there’s no limit to the number of devices you can cover with one subscription – a huge plus.

Things we like

  • Well-priced plans with a ton of extra features like Incogni and antivirus
  • Top server speeds and excellent streaming performance thanks to Wireguard
  • Unlimited simultaneous connections, so you can protect all your devices
  • Offers a 7-day free trial to test out the service before buying

Things we don’t like

  • Based within the 5 Eyes Alliance, the Netherlands

6. AtlasVPN – An Entirely Free VPN

AtlasVPN has been making waves in the online security world thanks to its title as one of the best free VPNs. It also boasts some of the most affordable paid plans, and the Black Friday offer is top-notch. But there’s much more to AtlasVPN than just a low price.AtlasVPN logo

For starters, you’re getting good speeds due to the Wireguard support, and Atlas performed really well in our speed tests and was one of the fastest we tested overall. This means you’ll have no issues with downloading large files, streaming, gaming, or torrenting.

It’s also more than capable of unblocking multiple Netflix libraries, including the much-coveted Japanese library. Plus, we managed to get past blocks for BBC iPlayer, YouTube, Disney+, and much more – not bad for a cheap VPN.

Best For Black Friday Deal Starting Price of Paid Plans
Freemium Plan 6 extra months free $1.64/month

However, there are a few flaws that we feel it’s right to mention, including the small server fleet (even though it didn’t struggle to unblock most streaming sites). This still could be an issue, as the coverage isn’t as as wide as that of the top providers, ExpressVPN or NordVPN.

It’s headquartered in the United States, which means it has to adhere to some less-than-friendly privacy laws under the 5 Eyes Alliance. Now for most, this won’t be a huge issue, but if your online privacy means more to you, there may be better alternatives.

All that said, AtlasVPN is still an attractive offering, especially when you delve into the generous free plan on offer. You get 5GB of data each month, it can unblock the same streaming services as the paid plan, and access to servers in the Netherlands, USA (Los Angeles), and USA (New York.)

Pricing

Atlas VPN Black Friday deal

Alongside the great freemium plan, you’ll find a host of well-priced paid options from AtlasVPN, including this excellent Black Friday deal. It’s only available as a 2-year deal, but you get an extra 6 months completely free, all at the low cost of $1.64/month.

You’ll struggle to find better value for money than that, and coupled with unlimited simultaneous connections, good speeds, and reliable streaming – this is a bargain.

Things we like

  • Excellent freemium plan with a 5GB data allowance and reliable streaming performance
  • Amazing Black Friday deal on the 2-year plan, with 6 months included free
  • Fast speeds for streaming, torrenting, and gaming thanks to the Wireguard protocol

Things we don’t like

  • Based within the 5 Eyes Alliance, the United States
  • Relatively small fleet of servers

7. CyberGhostVPN – Affordable VPN Coverage for 26 Months for $2.19/month

CyberGhost is a popular VPN provider that boasts one of the largest collections of servers of any provider we’ve tested. It’s also a trusted source for torrenting and has dedicated servers to provide a reliable torrenting experience.CyberGhost Logo

More on those servers and the volume you have access to is massive, currently sitting at 10000+ in 100 countries. This means that wherever you are in the world, you’re likely to have a fast and secure connection for streaming and torrenting.

Plus, as CyberGhost offers Wireguard support, you’re able to stream and torrent with minimal fuss, and it even offers optimized servers for both activities. We found the P2P-optimized servers offered the most reliable torrenting performance out of any VPNs we tested.

Best For Black Friday Deal Starting Price of Paid Plans
Global Coverage 3 extra months free $2.11/month

You’re safe when torrenting or streaming with NoSpy servers, which are owned by CyberGhost and located in their HQ for maximum security. On the streaming servers, you’re able to unblock Netflix, Hulu, Amazon Prime Video, and other top streaming platforms.

We’re delighted to see a built-in ad blocker for keeping away any malicious or annoying pop-ups, as well as a dedicated IP, and Smart Rules, a feature that lets you save time by creating basic rules in relation to your VPN.

Smart Rules can be as simple as ‘turn on when booting up’ or ‘automatically connect to X server.’

Pricing

CyberGhost has consistently been one of the more affordable VPNs on the market and also offers a huge 45-day money-back guarantee on their plans. It even covers 7 devices, which is one more than both Nord and ExpressVPN, but less than the unlimited you get with Surfshark.

Their Black Friday deal offers 3 months free on top of the budget-friendly 2-year plan, and that will set you back just $2.11/month – one of the most affordable options out there.

Things we like

  • Huge range of servers all over the world, so you’re likely to have a good connection
  • Massive 45-day money-back guarantee on the yearly and two-yearly plans
  • Excellent torrenting performance thanks to the P2P-optimized servers

Things we don’t like

  • Split tunneling not available on all devices
  • Does not work in China

8. ProtonVPN – Get 50% Off and 6 Months Extra Free

Proton is a household name in the online security world, especially to those who know of ProtonMail, the company’s initial flagship product that offers a secure email account. Now, they’re a large player in the VPN world and have some top features to support this.ProtonVPN

To start, the provider offers 5,800+ servers in 60 countries, making it a great choice for streamers. It doesn’t offer the same kind of speeds as ExpressVPN, but there is Wireguard support, so you shouldn’t run into any issues.

In our dedicated streaming tests, we were able to unblock Netflix, HBO Max, and a few other services and enjoy HD content without any irritating buffering or performance issues. Plus, you can stream on up to 10 different devices with one subscription – ideal for households with a large range of gadgets.

 

Best For Black Friday Deal Starting Price of Paid Plans
Keeping Passwords Safe 50% off & 6 extra months free $3.99/month

Other notable features include Proton Pass, which, as the name suggests, is the company’s own take on a password manager. It’s great for storing personal information, can generate unique passwords, and supports 2FA for greater security.

There’s also a nifty VPN Accelerator whose goal is to increase overall performance and make VPN speeds noticeably faster. The feature is a great way to experience a quicker VPN and is always activated by default.

Pricing

We’re happy to see ProtonVPN offering a Black Friday deal on all of its plans, as many other providers only offer savings on long-term plans that essentially make them more money anyway.

But with Proton, each plan, whether it’s the yearly, 1-month, 12-month, or 24-month plan, you get a discount on the usual price, as well as extra months free. Sure, the savings increase with the length of the plan, but it’s a nice touch.

Each plan is protected by a 30-day money-back guarantee, and there’s a free tier for one device to trial the service. The password manager can be added on to the 12 & 24-month plans for an additional $1/month.

Things we like

  • Offers a Black Friday discount on all plans, not just the longer options
  • Useful free plan to trial the service on one device
  • Great streaming features and unblocks a ton of popular platforms

Things we don’t like

  • More expensive than other VPNs and has offers fewer features

9. Norton Secure VPN – Great Bundle Offers with Norton 360

Like Proton, Norton made its name in another area of online security, most notably for offering one of the best antivirus solutions available. Its foray into the world of VPNs is very welcome as it has some top features that make it an interesting choice.Norton Family Logo

One of Norton’s headline features is Ad Tracker Blocking, which filters several types of adverts and trackers that can be dangerous. This covers most ads that pop up, banners, and the ones that reroute you see when you browse the internet.

This useful feature reduces your chances of infecting your device with harmful malware or viruses, and it did a pretty good job of keeping the ads to a minimum, although it did allow some push notifications to creep through.

Best For Black Friday Deal Starting Price of Paid Plans
People Using Public WiFi No Deal $3.30/month

We also really liked the Wi-Fi Security feature, which keeps you safe even if your smartphone connects to an unsecured network. You can use it on your iOS or Android smartphone or tablet to stay safe on the go or when you work in public areas.

Put simply, Wi-Fi Security detects insecure networks and automatically establishes a connection to Norton VPN. You have the option to enable this function yourself or configure it to start automatically and receive warning notifications.

In order to prevent the VPN from starting when your device connects to certain networks, you can add networks you are confident are secure to the My Trusted Networks area.

Alongside this, you get reliable streaming and unblocking of popular websites like Netflix and Disney+, all backed up by reliable speeds. Now, the server speeds won’t blow you away and don’t come close to those on offer from the likes of NordVPN, but there’s more than enough for some binge-watching of your favorite shows without interruption.

Pricing

Maybe we’re too early to the party, but at the time of writing, Norton isn’t offering any VPN Black Friday deal. This could be due to the fact that it’s quite a new stand-alone product, and it can be included in many of their popular antivirus packages.

Even still, for one device, you’ll be set back $3.3/month or $6.65/month if you want to cover 10 devices. So it isn’t as cheap as Atlas or CyberGhost VPN, and has less advanced features on offer – so we can’t really place it any higher.

However, if you’re looking for an all-in-one security deal, Norton 360 includes the VPN and a password manager and offers better value for money.

Things we like

  • Has P2P-optimized servers for a reliable torrenting experience
  • Can unblock a large number of streaming services like Netflix and BBC iPlayer
  • Good value for money if you can get it in the Norton 360 bundle

Things we didn’t like

  • Fewer features are on offer than other top providers on this list
  • No Wireguard support

10. StrongVPN – Save 66% on Your First Year

StrongVPN is perhaps a lesser-known provider in the VPN world, but it shouldn’t be overlooked. With it, you get decent speeds for streaming, good encryption and security, 12 simultaneous connections, and some user-friendly apps for most devices.

The provider uses the Wireguard protocol, so the speeds are fast and consistent, allowing you to watch as much HD content as you desire.

strong vpn logo white
Plus, you’ll be able to unblock popular platforms like Netflix and BBC iPlayer, as it can get around most geo-restrictions without hassle.


Best For Black Friday Deal Starting Price of Paid Plans
Households with Multiple Devices No Deal $3.97/month

You also get a great torrenting experience, as torrenting and P2P connections are available on all of the servers. This partly makes up for the small fleet on offer, currently standing at 950 servers in 30 countries – not quite the same level as CyberGhost VPN.

Sadly, the company is headquartered in the US, which means it’s a part of the Five Eyes Alliance.

So, the authorities might obtain your information with a warrant – fine for most, but perhaps sketchy for others. With that being said, the company does state that it doesn’t collect any user data besides login information and adheres to a strict no-logs policy.

In better news, you can protect up to 12 devices with one subscription, which may or may not make up for the lack of offers for Black Friday. This is part of the reason why StrongVPN finds itself in last place on this list.

Pricing

Rather disappointingly, there is no Black Friday VPN deal at the moment from StrongVPN, and the actual price is about average.

Considering there’s no free trial and far fewer advanced features on offer, we can’t rank it any higher.

Things we like

  • Allows torrenting and P2P on all servers
  • You can protect up to 12 devices on one subscription
  • Unblocks a decent range of streaming sites, including Netflix and BBC iPlayer

Things we don’t like

  • Small server network
  • Based in the US, member of the 5 Eyes Alliance

How We Ranked the Best Black Friday VPN Deals

In order to ensure we only pick the very best VPNs out there, we adhere to strict criteria when we’re testing each one. To help you understand our process, we’ve listed some of the key aspects below:

  • Features – We don’t just mean the core ones like kill switches or leak protection. We look for unique offerings, like Incogni, which both Nord and Surfshark offer, or Lightway, ExpressVPN’s own Wireguard-based protocol for extra-fast server speeds.
  • Speed – We look for providers that consistently score highly on our speed tests, and that tends to be those that use Wireguard. Server speed is essential for downloading files, gaming, torrenting, and streaming.
  • Apps – We like to see providers who offer apps for all popular devices, as well as connections for more niche ones, like smart TVs, games consoles, and routers. This allows you to keep every device in your household protected.
  • Servers – Having a large number of servers increases your chances of a better connection, as the closer it is, the faster it’s likely to be.
  • Price – We look for VPNs that offer a good feature-to-value price so you can get more for your money. We also looked for the best savings for Black Friday.
  • User-Friendly – It’s important for a VPN to be user-friendly, as many might be using these tools for the first time.

Are Free VPNs Worth Using?

We’d never usually recommend using a free VPN, as they often come with some common limitations. For example, they often have small data caps – barely enough to watch a film or an episode of your favorite show.

They are also reported, in some cases, to have annoying pop-up ads to make some money, with others even suspected of selling user data to third parties – a big no-no.

However, there are some reliable free VPNs or those that offer ‘freemium’ plans. For example, AtlasVPN offers a free tier with a 5GB data cap, and it can unblock various streaming services as well. So this is an example of a good free VPN that’s worth using.

In the long term, we’d still suggest using a paid service like ExpressVPN, or if that’s a little too expensive, try NordVPN. With their current Black Friday deal, you get an extra 3 months at no charge, and it only costs $3.99/month.

Is It Worth Getting a Black Friday VPN Deal in 2024?

There are a lot of great Black Friday VPN deals on this list that mean you can stay safe online for years with a minimal impact on your wallet. Some of the top deals cost just $1/month, and you’re covered for a whopping 5 years.

It’s really a great time to shop around for VPNs, as many of the top providers will want to lock you down to a long-term subscription and will offer some great prices to do so.

Our top pick for a Black Friday VPN deal is ExpressVPN – a truly premium service with a hint of a premium price at $6.67/month, but you do get 3 months extra free of charge. It’s got some of fastest server speeds, so you can stay safe and stream as many Christmas movies as you want over the holiday season.

FAQs

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The 10 Best Paraphrasing Tools to Avoid Plagiarism in 2024 https://techreport.com/artificial-intelligence/best-paraphrasing-tool/ Tue, 07 Nov 2023 14:03:15 +0000 https://techreport.com/?page_id=3523959 Best AI Paraphrasing Tools

In the digital age, where the internet is already awash with nearly every form of content you can think of, content creators are constantly on the lookout for ways to...

The post The 10 Best Paraphrasing Tools to Avoid Plagiarism in 2024 appeared first on The Tech Report.

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Best AI Paraphrasing Tools

In the digital age, where the internet is already awash with nearly every form of content you can think of, content creators are constantly on the lookout for ways to produce fresh and original content. Paraphrasing, when done correctly, can be a powerful tool to reshape existing content without falling into the plagiarism trap.

However, manually rephrasing every sentence and paragraph can be tedious and error-prone. Enter paraphrasing tools: software designed to help you reword content efficiently while retaining its original meaning.

In this article, we’ll explore the 10 best paraphrasing tools, including well-renowned providers like JasperAI and Copy AI, that can be your ally in ensuring originality and avoiding unintentional plagiarism.

The 10 Best Rephrase AI Tools on the Market

Below is a very brief look at our top 10 best rephrasing tools, with JasperAI coming out on top. Later on in this article, we’ll be reviewing each of the providers rephrasing abilities, as well as looking at any additional features they offer, how much they cost, and other important aspects:

  1. JasperAI – The best AI paraphrasing tool right now, thanks to its multiple tones, creative outputs, and understanding of context.
  2. CopyAI – The best free rephrasing tool, with a solid free plan that offers access to the paraphrasing tool.
  3. Rytr – Top choice for e-commerce businesses thanks to its uncanny ability to rewrite product descriptions.
  4. Writesonic – A great rephrasing tool for SEO-optimized content that can suggest new keywords and runs on the latest GPT-4 model.
  5. AI Writer – Excellent option for academics as it can paraphrase and even cite references for you.
  6. ShortlyAI – Easy-to-use AI paraphrasing tool due to its multiples tones for paraphrasing.
  7. Word AI – Good AI text rewriter feature to change large volumes of text with excellent accuracy.
  8. Scalenut – Budget-friendly paraphrasing tool with plans to suit both business and individuals.
  9. Hypotenuse – Intuitive AI rephrasing app with a built-in plagiarism checker to ensure original content.
  10. Simplified – Free paraphrasing tool, ideal for those on a budget.

What Are Paraphrasing AI Tools?

AI paraphrasing tools aim to retain the original meaning of a text while altering its structure and wording to create a new, original piece.

Paraphrase AI tools are advanced software applications that use the powers of artificial intelligence to rephrase or reword written content.

This can be essential for multiple purposes, ranging from academic work, to content creation, and even SEO strategies where unique content is vital, and plagiarism is heavily warned off.

Traditional paraphrasing tools often relied on basic algorithms and word-swap techniques. In contrast, AI-driven paraphrasing tools use sophisticated machine learning models trained on vast datasets.

The sheer size of the training ground allows them to understand context, nuances, and even cultural subtleties within the text, resulting in outputs that are not only unique but also contextually accurate and coherent.

These AI tools can process and paraphrase large volumes of text fast.  They can handle paragraphs, articles, and sometimes even full-length papers, offering a quick solution for those looking to produce original content from existing sources.

However, while paraphrasing AI tools are impressive, they are not flawless. Depending on the complexity of the content and the specific tool in use, there might be occasional inconsistencies or loss of context. That’s why it’s always advisable for you to review and refine the output before finalizing it.

How Does an AI Paraphrasing Tool Work?

An AI paraphrasing tool is a useful piece of software that uses advanced machine learning to change the wording of a text while keeping its main idea intact.

When you put text into this one of these tools, it reads and understands the whole message, rather than just rejigging the words without any context. This is because of a feature called natural language processing, or NLP. It means that the AI somewhat understands the context of words and phrases.

After it understands the text, the AI tool then rewords it for you by either changing the order of sentences or picking different words that more or less mean the same thing – but the goal is to produce a new version of the text that says the same thing in a different way.

Lastly, the great thing about these tools is that they can learn from experience. So, the more they are used, the better they get at paraphrasing. Over time, this means they can give better and more natural-sounding results.

Comparison of the Best Sentence Rewriters

Before we jump into our in-depth reviews of the best sentence rewrites on the market, we’ve crafted a useful table that compares some of the key components of each, including the cost, key features, and whether they offer a free version.

Paraphrasing Tool
Starting Price Standout Features Free Version
JasperAI $39/month 1. Sentance Rephraser
2. Multiple Tones of Voice
3. Built-in Plagiarism Tool
7-Day Free Trial
CopyAI $49/month 1. Text Expander
2. Multi-Language Supported
3. Free Plan
Yes
Rytr $9/month 1. Product Descriptions Rewriter
2. Suggested Keyword
3. Multiple Languages
Yes
Writesonic $16/month 1. Runs on GPT-4
2. Summarizer Tool
3. Referencing & Citations
Yes, 10k Words
AI Writer $49/month 1. Suggested Topics
2. Referencing Tool
3. Built-in Paraphrasing Tool
No
ShortlyAI $65/month 1. Summarizing Text
2. User-Friendly Interface
3. Multiple Output Modes
Yes
WordAI $65/month 1. Built-in Paraphraser
2. Low-Cost Plans
3. Beats AI Detectors
Yes
Scalenut $65/month 1. Multiple Tones
2. Budget-Friendly
3. Tons of Templates
7 Day Free Trial
Hypotenuse $12/month 1. Product Descriptions Rewriter
2. Built-in Plagiarism Tool
3. Multiple Tones
Yes
Simplified $12/month 1. 100% Free Paraphrasing Tool
2. AI Chatbot
3. Multiple Custom Templates
Yes

Top Rephrase AI Solutions Reviewed

Now it’s time to take a closer look at each of the top AI rephrasing solutions. In these reviews, we’re using a combination of hands-on testing and user feedback to ensure we offer a fair assessment of each tool. Read on to find out why we rate these providers on this list so highly.

1. JasperAI – Overall, The Best AI Paraphrasing Tool

JasperAI is a fantastic paraphrasing tool that we had the opportunity to test hands-on. From our testing experience, we have no doubts about placing it in first place on this list.

It combines excellent paraphrasing features, like multiple tones and outputs, with market-leading content creation settings. JasperAI Logo

During our experience with JasperAI, we found it to be highly efficient at both creating new text, as well as taking already generated copy and turning it into something new and fresh.

It excels in reducing the time required to rephrase content, making it a valuable tool for professionals working under tight deadlines and students managing multiple assignments.

One of the most important aspects of any paraphrasing tool is the quality of the output, and JasperAI really impressed us in this regard. It doesn’t just simply produce grammatically correct content but also ensures that the paraphrased text is coherent and easily readable.

It managed to effectively maintain the clarity and context of the original text, often surpassing our expectations.

JasperAI Dashboard

Starting Price Standout Features Free Version
$39/month 1. Sentance Rephraser
2. Multiple Tones of Voice
3. Built-in Plagiarism Tool
7-Day Trial

Customization is another key feature that JasperAI offers, and we appreciated the ability to tailor the paraphrased content to our specific needs. This feature allows users to adjust the tone, style, and level of creativity, making it versatile for different purposes, from academic essays to marketing copy.

JasperAI takes a proactive approach to prevent unintentional plagiarism, which is a significant concern for anyone using paraphrasing tools. It comes equipped with a built-in plagiarism checker that helps users identify and resolve potential issues, ensuring that the final output is not only unique but also entirely original.

To paraphrase, you can either copy and paste existing content into the document editor or ask Jasper to write the content for you, then rework it to your liking. That built-in plagiarism checker really works well here, as it can flag any text that is too similar to an existing copy.

You simply choose which parts to change, or you can ask Jasper to rewrite the whole section under a different tone of voice, which brings about a completely new style of text.

Additionally, JasperAI offers language support for multiple languages, making it accessible to a global audience. This feature is a significant plus for users who need to work with content in different languages or for those who want to tailor their content for different audiences, regardless of their location.

Features aside, the interface of JasperAI is incredibly user-friendly and intuitive, and it’s designed to be accessible, even for those who are not particularly tech-savvy. During our testing, we found it easy to navigate and generate paraphrased content with minimal effort.

Pricing

Given its extensive feature set, JasperAI is currently leaning towards the more expensive side of AI content authoring tools available on the market, but we believe this is well justified.

Plans are available for small teams, individual use, and full-fledged business use. The first two have seven-day free trials to make sure you’re satisfied with the baseline being set.

JasperAI Pricing

If money is a big selling point for you, we’d suggest going for yearly billing, as you’ll save a decent amount. However, to get a price for a business package, you’ll have to contact the sales team.

If you’d like to learn more about its content-creating features, paraphrasing, and much more, do check out our full review of JasperAI

Pros

  • Top-notch plagiarism detector to ensure original writing
  • Reword material to make it more formal, concise, lengthy, or simplified
  • Works with multiple languages, over 30 and counting
  • Creates accurate and engaging content with minimal human input

Cons

  • One of the more pricey AI paraphrasing tools, but has the feature set to back this up

2. CopyAI – The Best Free AI Paraphrasing Tool

CopyAI is a leading player in the world of content creation and paraphrasing, and our hands-on experience with this platform confirms its expertise.

It features an excellent paraphrasing tool, as well as several sentence and paragraph rewriting tools that make it another top contender.
CopyAI Logo
One of CopyAI’s standout features is its remarkable versatility in paraphrasing, and it can easily transform text while preserving the overall essence of the original content.

It can handle a wide range of content needs, whether you’re crafting persuasive marketing copy, informative blog posts, or engaging product descriptions.

You can use the AI sentence rewriting feature to fix smaller areas of text, which is useful if only some of your copy is slightly paraphrased. We found that this often delivered the best results, as it was easier for the AI to understand context better with short-from copy and sentences.

It’s also taken a user-centered approach with its interface, making it easier than ever to paraphrase your work. The platform’s dashboard is intuitive and easy to navigate, ensuring accessibility for a broad range of users.

CopyAI Dashboard

Starting Price Standout Features Free Version
$49/month 1. Text Expander
2. Multi-Language Supported
3. Free Plan
Yes – 2000 Words

Another key feature of CopyAI is its efficiency in content creation, and it significantly reduces the time and effort required to generate brand-new content. It has a host of templates for popular writing outputs like blogs, social media captions, and much more.

The more content you generate, the more likely it is that you run into paraphrasing and plagiarism issues, as is frequent with a lot of other AI software. Thankfully, the built-in paraphrasing feature and plagiarism checker can fix any issues and make accurate suggestions for you.

However, it’s important to note that while CopyAI streamlines the paraphrasing process, some manual input is necessary to ensure the paraphrased content is up to scratch. Often, if you just ask it to rephrase, we found that it over-complicated the text, so it’s best to add your own touches.

Pricing

We are happy to note that CopyAI is offering a free-forever option, something we wish other providers would start incorporating. You only get 2000 words a month with the free plan, so its usefulness really depends on what kind of output you’re looking for.

But the paraphrasing tool can be used as much as you like – which is a huge plus, and sees it land as number one on our list of the best free AI content generators.

Regarding premium plans, the base level plan is $49 per month, but it does allow access to 5 seats rather than the 3 that JasperAI offers, which is a significant benefit for small enterprises.

CopyAI Pricing

For more users and business-tailored support, you’ll have to contact the sales team and discuss the Enterprise plan, as no price is listed on the website.

Pros

  • Excellent sentence rewriting feature with high levels of accuracy
  • 5 users max on the lowest-priced plan
  • Generous free tier for up to 2000 words a month
  • Multi-language support to increase your audience base

Cons

  • Steep learning curve and not as user-friendly as JasperAI or other providers

3. Rytr – The Best for E-commerce

Rytr has emerged as a powerhouse when it comes to paraphrasing, especially for those in the e-commerce sector looking to craft engaging and original product descriptions.

Our hands-on experience with Rytr found it to be incredibly accurate with its paraphrasing, and it’s a strong option for content generation too. Rytr Logo

While many paraphrasing tools are generalists, Rytr excels in a specific niche, namely e-commerce and product description paraphrasing. Our testing revealed that Rytr can improve basic product descriptions, making them far more compelling and enticing for potential buyers.

It also boasts one of the best free plans out there, making it a great choice for small businesses or content creators on a budget. You can write up to 10,000 characters a month and even buy additional credits when you need them, rather than needing to upgrade to a paid plan.

Rytr Dashboard

Starting Price Standout Features Free Version
$9/month 1. Product Descriptions Rewriter
2. Suggested Keyword
3. Multiple Languages
Yes

Plus, Rytr doesn’t simply paraphrase the text, it’s adept at understanding context. This is a crucial feature that ensures the paraphrased content aligns well with the intent of the original text, rather than just changing words here and there.

Another key aspect of Rytr is its adaptability, and while it excels in e-commerce, it remains versatile enough to cater to other content requirements. Whether it’s blog posts, marketing copy, or educational material, Rytr can accommodate a wide range of content types.

It’s a great tool for content generation, as it can create cutting-edge copy with little human input. Plus, it’s a great aid for Copywriters, and we ranked it high on our list of the best AI copywriting tools.

Its user-friendly interface simplifies the paraphrasing process, making it accessible to a broad range of users, from content creators and marketers to educators and students.

Pricing

As we’ve noted previously, there’s a substantial free plan that allows users to trial the service without the need for a pay monthly plan. These options include access to a wide range of tones, support for multiple languages, a plagiarism detector, and 10,000 characters per month.

For smaller creators who might not be able to afford the wealth of CopyAI or JasperAI, this is a fantastic alternative. The pricier options, however, do remove any word limitations and provide AI-generated images, priority assistance, and a dedicated account manager.

Rytr Pricing

Pros

  • Great AI-generated images to support blogs and social media posts
  • Excellent free plan with up to 10,000 characters a month
  • Includes paraphrasing tools to improve copy
  • Incredibly user-friendly, ideal for first-time users
  • Built-in plagiarism checker for ensuring originality throughout your work

Cons

  • Less advanced features than the likes of JasperAi and CopyAI

4. Writesonic – The Best for Paraphrasing SEO Content

Writesonic is a content generation tool that shines when it comes to paraphrasing with a focus on search engine optimization. It’s able to improve text whilst sticking to the basic principles of SEO, including keywords and much more.

One of Writesonic’s key strengths lies in its versatility in content creation, likely due to the platform running GPT-4, as it can seamlessly handle various content types, from blog posts to social media content.
Writesonic Logo

It can even provide a list of references and citations for those who are crafting research-based articles or essays, making it a strong choice for academics. This helps identify any plagiarism issues, as by including the source of information, you can double-check your wording and make any updates yourself.

Plus, the built-in paraphrasing tool works like a charm, consistently producing excellent alternatives to its own text, as well as that we pasted into the checker.

You can select various tones and outputs, and each of them gives a genuinely different spin on the copy whilst still painting the same context and ideas throughout.

Writesonic Dashboard

Starting Price Standout Features Free Version
$16/month 1. Runs on GPT-4
2. Summarizer Tool
3. Referencing & Citations
Yes, 10k Words

Lastly, and as we touched upon earlier, Writesonic runs on GPT-4, the most advanced version of them all. This enables it to produce accurate and reliable results, especially when compared with other tools on this list, like Copy AI, which currently uses GPT-3.5.

This may not seem particularly important, but let us tell you, it is.

Running on the newer version means it has access to newer content, allows it to produce more accurate results, and works faster than ever.

This shouldn’t be overlooked, as it’s a big reason behind Writesonic’s place near the top of our list for the best AI writing tools right now.

Pricing

A good selection of plans is available for individual, company, and small team use; the annual plans offer the biggest savings. Even better, you have the option of using GPT-3.5 or GPT-4 on business plans, with the latter obviously being more expensive.

Before committing to a long-term plan, you can test out all the features for free during a trial period of up to 10,000 words.

The only catch is that using the business plan will cost you extra money if you want to generate unlimited words, or you can use the slider tool to control how many words each user should produce.

Writesonic Pricing

 

Pros

  • Runs on GPT-4, the most advanced output available right now, ensuring accurate results for content generation
  • Built-in paraphrasing tool
  • Useful 10,000-word free trial to test the service
  • Excellent citation feature that shows you the source of the information, useful for avoiding plagiarism

Cons

  • GPT-4 is only available to business and Enterprise users, and GPT-3.5 is for all other plans

5. AI Writer – Best Paraphrasing Tool for Academics

AI Writer offers impressive paraphrasing capabilities, and in particular, it works well for improving research-heavy articles and essays. It offers an easy-to-navigate interface, making it an ideal choice for first-time users of AI tools.

It’s main use case is as an academic paraphrasing tool, and it truly excels in transforming complex academic content, including essays, research papers, and educational materials. It does this by citing any references, making its content accurate and verifiable, similar to Writesonic.
AI Writer Logo

This means you can check the information yourself to ensure it’s from a verified source, saving countless man-hours spent doing your own research. It neatly arranges all of these for you as well, saving time formatting and editing your work.

Additionally, AI Writer provides support for educational content and can even assist in crafting lesson plans, educational articles, and study materials, catering to educators and e-learning platforms looking to create engaging and informative educational resources.

AI Writer Dashboard

Starting Price Standout Features Free Version
$49/month 1. Suggested Topics
2. Referencing Tool
3. Built-in Paraphrasing Tool
No

However, AI Writer’s limitations come into focus when looking at its versatility. In contrast to some of its AI paraphrasing competitors like JasperAI, AI Writer lacks the same level of adaptability. While it shines in academic and educational paraphrasing, we found that it wasn’t as well-suited for rephrasing content for non-academic purposes such as marketing or creative writing.

We found that AI Writer’s paraphrasing output didn’t always capture context perfectly, which led to more time needing to be spent on manual reviews and editing to align it precisely with the user’s specific requirements.

Pricing

The three plans that AI Writer offers increase the number of articles you can create. However, it’s frustrating that even a short blog post or social media posting counts as one, so keep that in mind while making your choice.

There’s no free plan; the most affordable one costs a whopping $49 a month for one user and one hundred articles. On the Standard plan, the users grow to 3, and on the Power plan, they climb to 10.

AI Writer Pricing

 

Pros

  • Great citation and referencing feature, ideal for academic writing
  • Useful topic discovery tool that helps you generate new content ideas
  • Decent at paraphrasing short-form copy

Cons

  • Expensive and somewhat confusing plans
  • Struggles with understanding how to paraphrase content with long-form copy

6. ShortlyAI – Great Option for Beginners

ShortlyAI is a relatively simple AI writer and paraphrasing tool that gets the basics spot on – it creates engaging content and can rewrite existing text.

The interface is easily accessible and ideal for beginners, but it does lack some of the advanced features you’ll find on other top tools on this list.
ShortlyAI Logo
One of the standout features of ShortlyAI is its ability to infuse creativity into paraphrased content. For us, it consistently generated highly creative and captivating text, making it a good choice for writers, marketers, and creative professionals looking to add flair to their content.

It does all of this without actually having a built-in paraphrasing feature and instead relies on its ability to rewrite content in different tones.

So, instead of asking the AI to paraphrase, you have to be a little more hands-on. You can do this by changing the audience and tone or simply asking the AI Writer to rework the content via the Chat feature.

ShortlyAI Dashboard

Starting Price Standout Features Free Version
$65/month 1. Summarizing Text
2. User-Friendly Interface
3. Multiple Output Modes
Yes

However, it’s crucial to recognize that ShortlyAI may not be the ideal solution for technical or academic content. Such content demands a more factual and structured approach, which doesn’t really align with ShortlyAI’s creative strengths, especially when compared with tools like AI Writer.

In our testing, ShortlyAI’s was better at creative content generation. In contrast, platforms like JasperAI and Writesonic offer a more versatile approach, catering to a broader range of content needs, from marketing and e-commerce to academic and technical writing.

Nonetheless, the choice between these tools ultimately hinges on your own specific content requirements. For those seeking creative and imaginative paraphrasing, ShortlyAI stands as an excellent choice. On the other hand, if versatility across various content domains is a priority, JasperAI and Copy AI offer a broader range of features.

Pricing

ShortlyAI Pricing

Although it’s unclear why ShortlyAI doesn’t specify a word count or time limit in its free trial, it’s still a good feature to have the option to sample before you buy.

If you’re happy with the service, you can choose between two plans: monthly and annual. The annual plan offers the biggest savings and adds two extra months for free.

We can’t truly say it’s the best value for money out there because it’s pretty expensive and lacks several of the advanced features that Writesonic and Copy AI offers, such as citations and plagiarism tools – but it’ll take care of your paraphrasing needs.

Pros

  • One of the easiest AI paraphrasing tools to use
  • Rewrites copy that’s both contextually relevant and accurate
  • Free trial, but no information on how long this is

Cons

  • Overpriced when you look at the feature-to-cost ratio

7. WordAI – Features an Excellent AI Text Rewriter

WordAI is a reliable paraphrasing tool that prides itself on precision and quality. It offers some useful features like a text rewriter and summarizer, and it’s also a great tool for creating your own content directly within the AI software.

One of WordAI’s key strengths lies in its commitment to maintaining high-quality results, and this was evident throughout our tests. The paraphrased content has a high standard of grammar – it can even grasp tenses, and make sure this is consistent throughout your copy.WordAI Logo

It features a useful tool called AI Text Rewriter, which is essentially what you’d use for paraphrasing any text you desire. With it, you can choose from complete sentence restructuring, enriching text, describing the same ideas differently, improving quality, improving clarity, or splitting sentences.

Each of these works fantastically well and offers genuinely improved or accurate results every time. We played around with a variety of test texts and found the Enrichment feature to be our favorite. It jazzes up the language, making it seem more sophisticated – of course, this may not be your desired result, but don’t worry, each rewriting tool works well.

WordAI Dashboard

Starting Price Standout Features Free Version
$65/month 1. Built-in Paraphraser
2. Low-Cost Plans
3. Beats AI Detectors
Yes

However, it’s important to understand that WordAI, while reliable in quality and precision for shorter-form content, isn’t as accurate as some other AI paraphrasing tools with longer text.

Its strengths lie in producing high-quality, contextually accurate short-form content, but it may not be the go-to choice for those looking for detailed essays or research-heavy work – we’d suggest JasperAI or Writesonic for this.

Still, if you’re looking for a decent AI rewriting tool that doesn’t break the bank, then Word AI is definitely a good option. Just be wary of some accuracy issues for longer-form content, as this does require a fair bit of human input to correct.

Pricing

WordAI provides three different price plans that can be paid for annually or monthly. The Starter Plan and Power Plans both come with seven-day free trials. There’s an Enterprise plan, but the cost of this isn’t displayed on the website, so you’ll need to contact sales.

WordAI Pricing

Pros

  • 7-day trial so you can try before you buy
  • Doesn’t trigger most AI detection tools
  • Great for paraphrasing content

Cons

  • Does require a fair bit of human input

8. Scalenut – Budget-Friendly AI Paraphraser

Scalenut is an AI paraphrasing tool designed to make text transformation easier, although it may not be quite as dynamic as some of its rivals on this list.

As we tested Scalenut, we discovered its features and what it brings to the table. We also found some areas where it doesn’t quite match up with other leading AI paraphrasing tools.
Scalenut Logo

One area where Scalenut does an excellent job in helping you rephrase text efficiently. It’s a handy tool for those moments when you need to give your content a fresh twist while retaining the original message.

That said, there’s no dedicated tool for paraphrasing. Instead, you’ll have to make use of other features to achieve this.

To do so, we found it best to play around with the different tones, as each one gives a genuinely different style of output. This can be used to bypass plagiarism concerns and paraphrase the initial text.

However, as there is no chat feature with Scalenut like you’ll find with other top tools, including Writesonic and Copy AI – you won’t be able to ask Scalenut to reword a section, and this is why it’s down towards the bottom of our list.

Scalenut Dashboard

Starting Price Standout Features Free Version
$65/month 1. Multiple Tones
2. Budget-Friendly
3. Tons of Templates
7-day Free Trial

If an AI writing tool doesn’t offer a dedicated paraphrasing feature, then it’s good to have some form of AI conversational bot, as this allows you to quickly generate and edit ideas, and you can prompt it to rewords the entire text of certain areas of text.

But since Scalenut lacks a chatbot and a dedicated paraphrasing tool, we can’t really recommend it over any others above.

What Scalenut does at least offer is a user-friendly experience: it’s one of the most simple AI tools we’ve used.

The interface is very aesthetically pleasing, and everything can be found in just a few clicks. Part of its simplicity may lay with the fact that it does offer fewer features, but we’re looking past that and believe it’s one of the best-looking tools we tested.

In summary, while Scalenut may not have the same creative flair or versatility as some other tools, it remains a dependable choice if you prioritize ease and reliability. It may not be your go-to for crafting highly imaginative content, but it offers enough to keep users satisfied, particularly when simplicity and efficiency are top priorities.

Pricing

In line with the majority of the providers on this list, Scalenut offers three plans that can be paid for either monthly or annually. The lower Essentials plan caps you at 100,000 words, but both the Growth and Pro subscriptions give unlimited words, so this should be plenty for modest content writers.

A 7-day free trial is available for each plan, allowing you to determine whether it’s the best AI paraphrasing tool for your everyday requirements.

Scalenut Pricing

Pros

  • Can often avoid detection from some of the leading AI detector tools
  • You can try any plan free for seven days
  • Rich suite of SEO-centered features

Cons

  • No multi-language support, currently the only output is in English

9. Hypotenuse – Includes a Built-In Plagiarism Checker

Hypotenuse, an AI-powered paraphrasing and content-creating tool, takes a unique approach to content generation. Our hands-on testing of Hypotenuse allowed us to dig deep into its capabilities and understand where it shines in the world of AI rephrasing tools.

This provider’s true strengths lie in simplifying the process of paraphrasing content, and it does this with a built-in tool that lets you rewrite sentences that could cause plagiarism issues. All you need to do is paste the content into the input field in its rewording tool, then let it work its magic.
Hypotenuse Logo

It relies on different tones to do this, and you can pick between any of the 20+ on offer, including informative, casual, and many others.

We found that the results didn’t differ massively between each tone, and sometimes the language used was way too complex to fit in with the original text.

Hypotenuse Dashboard

Starting Price Standout Features Free Version
$12/month 1. Product Descriptions Rewriter
2. Built-in Plagiarism Tool
3. Multiple Tones
Yes

This is why Hypotenuse finds itself in ninth place on our list, as other tools like Writesonic and JasperAI have a far better output, and the results were more accurate.

That’s not to say that Hypotenuse doesn’t do a good job, as, at times, we were pleased with the results, but when compared with other top tools, it fell short of our expectations.

When it comes to actual content creation, Hypotenuse also struggled to keep pace with the top tools.

The short-form content it generates is impressive, and it’s great for product descriptions, headlines, and slogans, as well as social media copy, but we believe that the true test for AI writing tools is a longer-form copy, and the results here just weren’t as good.

Pricing

When it comes to pricing, Hypotenuse is a little sneaky — on their website, you can see the price for the bare minimum of words, but this jumps up when. you enter your desired output. All plans are still reasonably priced, but be aware that the word restriction may catch you off guard.

Hypotenuse Pricing

Pros

  • Content Detective feature ensures that your copy is accurate and up-to-date
  • Great e-commerce features, including integration with Shopify and a product description generator
  • Incredibly user-friendly, suitable for first-time AI paraphrasing tool users

Cons

  • A limited number of templates are available
  • Can get a little expensive if you need 200,000+ words

10. Simplified – Entirely Free AI Paraphaser

Simplified is another well-known AI-powered writing tool that stands out for its paraphrasing features and a range of other features focused on content creation.

In our testing of Simplified, we delved into its paraphrasing prowess and its ability to simplify the content creation process.
Simplified Logo

Simplified’s paraphrasing tool is as simple as they come, and better still, it’s entirely free to use without the need to sign up for any plan. This is a welcome addition and something we’d love to see incorporated by other top providers, as it’s quite a basic feature at times.

However, the results are what leads to Simplified being at the bottom of our list – but don’t be too put off, it still beat dozens of other AI paraphrasing tools to find its way onto our list.

We just found that the results were pretty basic, as there’s no option to change the tone or anything here, you just click the paraphrase button, and the text is changed.

Simplified Dashboard

Starting Price Standout Features Free Version
$12/month 1. 100% Free Paraphrasing Tool
2. AI Chatbot
3. Multiple Custom Templates
Yes

In some positive news, the text was always new and original, but it doesn’t fully understand the context, as well as some of the other tools on this list, like JasperAI.

Instead, we found that it worked more like someone with a thesaurus – words were changed here and there, and the meaning stayed the same, but there was no real improvement to the standard.

Keep in mind that this is an entirely free service provided by Simplified, and it’s got a lot of benefits when you sign up, including up to 2000 words a month.

This is incredibly generous, and you can buy additional credits if you’d like to. We think that this is where the bulk of the paraphrasing should be done, and as Simplified has its own AI Chatbot, you can ask it to rewrite things and much more.

You also get access to tones of voice and much more on a paid plan, and here the output is good.

Lastly, this is one of the most bas AI paraphrasing tools out there, and it’s a great low-cost option for those on a budget like Students.

There are enough features here to write compelling content, and the free plan and paraphrasing tool are a welcome addition – but if you want the best results, we urge you to take a look at some of the vendors higher up on our list.

Pricing

We’re happy to see Simplified offering a free plan—not a free trial or a money-back promise, but a real, full-featured free copy of the content-creation and paraphrasing software.

Even though it’s not the most feature-rich product, it has enough to do the essentials right. You can always upgrade to AI Writer Pro when you’re ready for more templates, words, and features.

There is a 14-day free trial available for that version, so you can make sure the price is justified.

Simplified Pricing

Pros

  • Creates stunning AI-made presentations that can be useful for businesses
  • Features a top AI image create to support your copy
  • Low-cost plans to suit all budgets

Cons

  • The output isn’t at the same quality of top AI writing tools like Jasper or CopyAI

How We Ranked the Best Paraphrasing Tools

When assessing the best paraphrasing tools, we considered a range of critical factors to provide a comprehensive ranking that caters to diverse user needs. Our evaluation included the following key elements:

  • Paraphrasing Ability – Ability to effectively and accurately paraphrase content, particularly how well the tools maintained the essence and meaning of the original text while presenting it in a fresh and unique manner.
  • Tones of Voice – Adapting content to various tones of voice, ensuring you can can achieve the desired style and tone for your text.
  • SEO Optimization – We assessed the tools’ proficiency in generating content that aligns with SEO best practices, including keyword integration and content structure.
  • Content Formats – We considered how well each tool handled a variety of content types, from blog posts and product descriptions to academic papers and marketing copy.
  • Use Cases – We evaluated how well each tool accommodated a range of applications, from academic writing and business content to creative writing and marketing.
  • Plagiarism Checker – We considered whether the tools offered this functionality to help users ensure the originality of their paraphrased content.
  • Pricing – Affordability and value for money are essential, and we look for valuable insights into cost-effectiveness and subscription options.
  • Accuracy and Consistency – We assessed how often the tools produced accurate and coherent paraphrased content.
  • Content Quality –  We evaluated whether the tools maintained the clarity and context of the original text while presenting it in a more engaging and fresh manner.
  • Speed and Efficiency – Wecompared how efficiently each tool transformed text, ensuring that it was a time-saving solution for users.
  • Languages Supported – Multilingual support is important for a global audience. We assessed the tools’ capabilities in paraphrasing content in different languages.

By taking all these factors into account, we were able to create a comprehensive ranking of the best paraphrasing tools to help guide you into making informed decisions based on their specific content requirements and preferences.

How to Use an AI Rephrasing Tool

AI rephrasing tools, like JasperAI, offer a powerful solution for transforming text while preserving its original meaning and intent. While this guide focuses on the setup for JasperAI, the process is pretty much the same for most AI rephrasing tools. Whether you’re a writer, student, or business professional, this step-by-step guide will help you make the most of these versatile tools to enhance your content.

Step 1 – Create an Account

Start by heading over the the official JasperAI website and clicking the ‘Start Free Trial’ button. Currently, JasperAI is offering a 7-day free trial to all users. Enter your email address and create a password, then you can move on to the next step.

Step 2 – Input Your Text

Once you’re logged in, you’ll be greeted with a text input box on the left-hand panel on your screen. Here, you can either type or paste the text you want to rephrase. Ensure that your input is clear and well-structured for the best results.

Step 3 – Select the Tone

JasperAI offers different modes for rephrasing, such as “Creative,” “Informative,” and “Casual.” Choose the tone that best aligns with your content goals.

“Creative” is great for marketing and imaginative content, while “Informative” is ideal for academic or informative text. “Casual” provides a more relaxed and approachable text.

Step 4 – Generate Paraphrased Content

Click the “Generate” or “Rephrase” button to let the AI work its magic. The tool will process your input and provide you with rephrased content based on your selected mode, tone, and style. The time taken for this process may vary depending on the length and complexity of your input.

Step 5 – Review and Edit

Carefully review the paraphrased content provided by JasperAI. While these tools are highly capable, they may not always capture the nuances of your specific requirements.

Make any necessary edits to ensure the content aligns perfectly with your intent and maintains clarity.

What is the Best AI Paraphraser to Use in 2024?

The best AI paraphrasing tools can help you transform your copy into something entirely new and unique. The top providers are able to capture the essence of the original text and go one step further by drastically improving it.

This eliminates the possibility of any plagiarism issues and can add a spark of creativity to blogs, essays, and social media captions – to name a few.

Overall, we believe that JasperAI is the number one AI rephrasing tool right now, as it consistently provides accurate results that capture the theme of the original text. It delivers excellent results through a variety of different tones, modes, and other key features, meaning you get totally unique and engaging copy every time.

References

FAQs

What is the best paraphrasing tool online free?

Is there a better paraphraser than QuillBot?

What is the best paraphrasing tool for academic writing?

Is paraphrasing legal?

Is paraphrasing cheating?

Is paraphrasing a form of plagiarism?

Can AI paraphrasing be detected?

 

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The Best Construction Project Management Software: Top 10 for 2024 https://techreport.com/business-software/best-construction-project-management-software/ https://techreport.com/business-software/best-construction-project-management-software/#respond Thu, 02 Nov 2023 11:37:39 +0000 https://techreport.com/?page_id=3511989 Construction project manager making calls

Construction project management software is useful for small and large construction teams, as it helps them better manage tasks and deliverables, as well as communicate with suppliers and consumers. The...

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Construction project manager making calls

Construction project management software is useful for small and large construction teams, as it helps them better manage tasks and deliverables, as well as communicate with suppliers and consumers.

The correct construction project management (PM) solution can be the difference between a team that is unorganized and frequently misses deadlines and one where goals and progress are clearly communicated at regular intervals. It also allows for budget and scope to be taken into consideration in all important decisions.

We took a closer look at the top software for managing construction projects currently on the market to find the best one. Our choices have been assessed on a variety of factors, including cost, pros and cons, as well as individual features.

Read on to find out more about the best construction PM solution for your company.

The Best Software for Construction Project Management

Below is a quick look at our choices for the best software for construction project management, with Monday leading the charge. Later on, we’ll take a closer look at each tool, reviewing the key features, any unique offerings, pricing, and much more to determine why it’s earned its place on our list:

  1. Monday – The best construction project management software thanks to its turnkey construction templates and project management capabilities
  2. ClickUp – The best free tool available as it allows up to 20 users and access to core features like budget estimates and time-tracking
  3. Wrike – A reliable tool for construction project management with excellent billing and invoicing for on-site workers
  4. Smartsheet – The leading spreadsheet-style PM construction tool with useful equipment management features
  5. Teamwork – Low-cost PM construction tool with some of the top collaboration tools, such as shared docs, real-time annotations, and mentions
  6. Zoho ProjectsReliable construction project management software that integrates with the rest of the Zoho ecosystem
  7. Resource Guru – Useful tool with strong analytical and reporting features, ideal for project managers
  8. ProCore – A specialist tool with excellent financial and resource management features like payroll and invoicing functions
  9. Contractor Foreman – Intuitive software with good features for improving team output, including workflow automation and collaborative docs
  10. Houzz Pro  – A good PM construction tool that excels in lead generation and management

Why Do I Need a Construction Project Management Tool?

In the right hands, software for construction management streamlines procedures and enhances project performance.

Adopting a CMS can improve cooperation thanks to useful collaborative tools like shared docs, and you can reduce the potential for errors like missing equipment on site thanks to effective resource management.

Below are the headline key benefits.

Communication & Collaboration

Assuring excellent communication and collaboration at every project site is arguably one of the most important duties of any construction manager.

It can be challenging to manage projects as they develop and change, but it can be even more challenging for businesses with team members spread out throughout the city or even the country.

Every team member has access to a centralized point of communication when a good management system is in place, regardless of where they are working or what device they are using. This helps to ensure real-time communication and collaboration between clients, consultants, contractors, and project managers.

Managing Documents

It should come as no surprise that there is a lot of demand to store and handle crucial documentation in construction organizations in a secure manner.

The days of paperwork being jammed into file cabinets are long gone, as businesses can now easily manage their documents from their choice of construction management software.

Having a safe and simple approach to managing documents is essential for businesses that want to stay organized.

Project Management

It’s simpler for managers to adopt a productive, organized approach to project management if they use the right software, as the two go hand-in-hand. This allows managers to oversee all the vital information about staff, performance, equipment, and much more from one app.

Managers can easily track the project budget, locate critical information quickly, and prepare all the required documents, including information requests, business letters, change requests, and more.

Getting Organized

Although sometimes disregarded, one of the most important advantages of construction management software is its capacity to swiftly and efficiently arrange operations throughout the construction organization.

A streamlined organizational system allows team members across the business to readily access the information they need when they need it, from information storage and easy access to tracking expenses, contracts, and budgets.

Resource Management

All the resources and tools used in construction are coordinated across project deadlines with the use of construction management software. Managers can more effectively optimize the tools and resources to match their initial project bids and estimates by reviewing resource data.

A CMS can also support contractors in managing and organizing the daily distribution of personnel, resources, and materials, tracking their usage in real time. This will allow construction managers to organize resources in a much more effective and efficient manner.

Key Features to Look for in Construction Project Management Software

With the construction project management market being a crowded space, there are bound to be many appealing-looking tools that promise so much – but knowing who to trust or what to look out for can be a little overwhelming.

To help you, we’ve compiled a list of what we believe to be the fundamental features of good CMS software, including unique features, pricing, compatibility, and more:

  • Bid & Financial Management: Make mundane and complex tasks like budget planning and payroll or invoicing a breeze. Reduce the chance of miscalculations and remove the potential for human error – a must-have for the construction industry.
  • Customer Relationship Management: Keep all the key contacts of the customer when you’ve acquired them. You can use them to send regular project updates automatically and overall just provide a better experience for new clients.
  • Inventory & Equipment Management: Another essential for the construction industry, as inventory and equipment management allows managers to view what equipment and tools need to be a what site, and it can even notify them of when it needs maintenance and much more.
  • Document Management: Search, browse and distribute documents all via one central hub. No more struggling to find the right page or link.
  • Communications: Chat and automate responses in-app, so everything is easy to find and streamlined for your convenience.
  • Compatibility: Great apps for mobile devices, computers, and browser compatibility across the board are necessary. This way, project managers can keep track of everything wherever they are, on-site or at the office.

The Best Construction Project Management Apps Reviewed

In this section, we take an in-depth look at our top 10 construction project management apps, comparing their key features, pricing, device compatibility, and much more – starting with Monday, our top pick.

1. Monday – Overall, the Best Construction Project Management Tool in 2024

Monday Logo

Monday is one of the best and most popular project management tools that can be used across various industries, including construction. Particularly for construction use cases, Monday provides a selection of project templates specific to the industry, such as construction roadmaps and budget forecasting, as well as RFI and document management.

What makes Monday so reliable is its ability to adapt and flourish in pretty much any industry you put it in – and construction is no different. For example, Monday offers construction-specific templates. These include general contractor solutions, construction roadmap, and construction project tracking templates.

Monday.com task management

Best For Cheapest Monthly Plan Cheapest Annual Plan Free Version Compatibility
Project Management Basic – $10/month Basic – $8/month Yes Windows, Mac, Android, and iOS

This means you can save a ton of time and effort you’d have spent designing your own templates, instead, just fill out the premade ones and customize them to your liking. Then, you can take advantage of the collaboration features and work on these templates and documents with your teammates, using features like mentions, shared docs, and in-app chat.

We love Monday’s mobile apps, as they offer a powerful pocket-based solution for workers.

The apps even include an offline mode that lets you view timelines, documents, and more without internet access. This is especially useful for project managers who get site-specific information on the go and often travel to remote worksites.

To find out more, read our detailed review of Monday, which dives into all the nitty-gritty project management features it has on offer.

Pricing

Monday Pricing

There’s an excellent free plan on offer from Monday, but, for the construction industry, it’s not really suitable given the limited number of users and restrictions.

Thankfully, there is a good range of well-priced plans on offer for teams of all sizes, with prices starting from just $8/month.

Pros

  • Construction-specific templates like roadmaps and project timelines
  • Powerful mobile apps with offline access, perfect for site managers working in remote areas
  • Easy-to-use platform, ideal for beginners to project management
  • Excellent collaboration tools like shared docs, mentions, and comments in one central location

Cons

  • Not a construction-specific tool, so may require some third-party integrations to get the best out of it

2. ClickUp – One of the Top Free Construction PM Tools

ClickUp Logo

ClickUp is another top construction project management tool, and it works seamlessly with small, medium, or large enterprises looking to streamline their work processes. From pre-sales through concept to delivery, ClickUp makes it simple to plan, organize, and track construction projects.

Straight off the bat, ClickUp offers a huge range of construction-ready templates, like budget estimates, daily reports, and emergency actions, that can be finely tuned or customized to a project manager’s liking.

Once you’ve got to grips with the excellent templates, ClickUp will then assist you in working with your colleagues on them with its wide range of tools aimed at improving team collaboration.

Your team will be instantly updated on any changes that are made to your project, whether they’re made through comments or live editing.

ClickUp Project Management Software

Best For Cheapest Monthly Plan Cheapest Annual Plan Free Version Compatibility
Premade Construction Templates Unlimited – $10/month Unlimited – $7/month Yes Windows, Mac, Android, and iOS

Alongside this, you can keep tabs on every part of the construction process, for example, you can track employee time, monitor goals, create estimates, and so much more with your ClickUp subscription. This provides managers with a centralized location where they can oversee projects, staff, and much more.

You can even send contractors and designers customized forms for RFIs (requests for information) and approvals, saving a ton of time and hassle.

We really like that you can annotate and leave comments and mentions directly on the documents you’re working on so team members can track updates in real-time. The benefit of this is to have all comments and work in one place, eliminating the risk of something being missed.

There’s even a built-in messaging platform which eliminates the hassle of maintaining multiple channels, devices, or messaging apps, where things can often get messy or overlooked. This can also be used for those who work at the sites, as ClickUp offers virtually the same platform on mobile devices.

Pricing

There’s a lot for project managers to love about ClickUp, including its generous free plan that small teams or individuals can use to stay on track.

However, for the construction industry, we’d recommend opting for the Business or Business Plus plan, as they include custom templates tailored to construction use, as well as extra storage and time-tracking features.

ClickUp Pricing

Pros

  • Useful time-tracking features for calculating hours spent on projects
  • You can send custom RFIs at the click of a few buttons
  • Annotate and collaborate on documents in real-time
  • You can build customized construction workflows

Cons

  • Can be tricky to learn all of the features, but it excels once you have

3. Wrike – Great Software with Useful Billing and Invoicing Features

Wrike Logo

Wrike being one of the best tools for construction project management is no shocker, as the platform is known for being incredibly adaptable. With it, you get useful task management tools like custom request forms and support for a wide range of construction-related apps, such as Buildxact.

There are tools for boosting productivity, like time-tracking and task management, which allows you to easily assign tasks and manage your staffs workloads.

With the time management features, you can create individual timesheets to record data and ensure that billing and invoicing are accurate. It also provides workers with an easy way to upload timesheets and create invoices off of the data.

Wrike Project Management Dashboard

Best For Cheapest Monthly Plan Cheapest Annual Plan Free Version Compatibility
Billing and Invoicing Team – $9.80/month Team – $9.80/month Yes Windows, Mac, Android, and iOS

Wrike’s interactive project timelines are spot on, as they provide a clear and instructive overview of the key components of each project. This can be done in the Gantt chart mode, and the drag-and-drop builder makes customizing these timelines easier than ever. In fact, Wrike is one of the top Gantt chart solutions out there.

The data from Wrike’s charts can then be easily analyzed by project managers through the detailed reporting features.

Reports are easy to create and distribute, and the information they include is easy to understand thanks to appealing visuals like pie charts, bar graphs, and others.

Pricing

Wrike offers a strong free plan for users to get started and familiar with the software, but it’s unlikely to be enough for a small or mid-sized construction firm.

Instead, you’d be better off choosing either the Team or Business plan, which offer more features like interactive Gantt charts, time tracking, and the ability to add as many users as you want.

Wrike Pricing

Pros

  • Great interactive project timelines to help you visualize progress
  • Offers a very useful free plan for startups or small businesses
  • Detailed reporting features for project managers
  • Great time management and invoicing features, useful for on-site workers

Cons

  • Bug jump in pricing from the Teams plan to the Business plan, so it can get expensive

4. Smartsheet – The Leading Spreadsheet-style PM Construction Software

Smartsheet Logo

Smartsheet is another leading project management solution trusted by businesses of all sizes, and it truly excels for construction management. With pre-built solutions and templates for the industry, like roadmaps and budget forecasting, Smartsheet is a highly adaptable tool.

With Smartsheet, you can automate routine tasks to save time and stress, a feature of many of the top tools on this list. Custom workflows, in particular, are very useful in the construction industry, as they can be used to send out updates to stakeholders on the development of a site.

Also, like the other top construction project management tools on this list, Smartsheet offers a wide range of prebuilt templates that are specific to the construction industry. These include job site check-in and safety management – both of which work offline and can be used to ensure the correct tools and staff are on-site at each time.

Smartsheet project management

Best For Cheapest Monthly Plan Cheapest Annual Plan Free Version Compatibility
Spreadsheet Lovers Unlimited – $10/month Unlimited – $7/month Yes Windows, Mac, Android, and iOS

Aside from this, there are some advanced financial management features. For example, there are templates and tools for budgeting, forecasting, and estimates that can help keep a project aligned. It can even integrate with financial services like Xero, QuickBooks, and PayPal to further streamline your processes.

You save a ton of time by not creating your project from scratch. Fill out the template and distribute it to teams on-site, where they can be accessed via the excellent mobile apps for iOS and Android, so nothing will be missed.

Although some people will find the familiar spreadsheet-style layout useful, others won’t be so keen. It can be a steep learning curve if you’re not comfortable with Excel, and some of the features are quite technical, so it’s not an ideal choice for beginners.

Pricing

Smartsheet offers a good free plan that helps you learn the basics of the platform, with a restriction on the number of users and features on offer – for example, no custom construction templates on the free plan.

Instead, it’s wise to opt for the Business plan, which gives you up to 1TB of file storage and access to all the budgeting, estimate, and time-tracking features.

Smartsheet Pricing

Pros

  • Good range of construction-specific templates such as job site check-in and safety management
  • Integration with other relevant tools like Procore and Docusign
  • Familiar spreadsheet-style layout, which can be finely tuned to your business needs
  • Powerful apps for Android and iOS users, so you never have to miss an update

Cons

  • The spreadsheet-style layout may be great for some but tricky for others to learn

5. Teamwork – Budget-friendly App with Strong Collaboration Features

Teamwork Logo

Teamwork’s leading project management software was designed with client work in mind, making it ideal for construction use, even if it isn’t industry specific. With it, you can deliver work on time and within budget, get rid of client confusion, and grasp profits in one platform.

Teamwork isn’t exactly built with construction in mind, but a lot of the features make it a perfect choice for construction teams of any size.

For example, there are excellent billing, time-tracking, and invoicing tools that make it easy for a project manager to view the billable hours and expenses of workers on site.

Teamwork Project Management Platform

Best For Cheapest Monthly Plan Cheapest Annual Plan Free Version Compatibility
Time Management Starter – $8.99/month Starter – $5.99/month Yes Windows, Mac, Android, and iOS

Coupled with the fact that it integrates with HR platforms and tools like QuickBooks, Teamwork offers an all-in-one solution for maintaining employee data. You can even access this offline with useful mobile apps, and workers on-site are able to upload timesheets and access key data from even the most remote worksites.

The gist is that you won’t find any dedicated construction templates here, as you would with Monday or ClickUp.

Instead, there’s a library of other prebuilt templates that can be turned into what you need, whether it’s equipment inventory trackers or construction road maps. They may not offer the exact same functionality, but the potential is there.

We did like the ease with which collaboration is accessible, with Teamwork offering some of the best tools for teams to come together and work on files (hence the name, Teamwork.) For example, there’s an included messaging service to take over the usual emails, texts, and apps like Slack.

Pricing

Teamwork offers a good range of well-priced plans for construction businesses of all scales and sizes – this includes a decent free plan aimed at 1-3 users.

For the premium features like Gantt charts, and integrations with apps like QuickBooks and Google Suite, we’d recommend opting for the Grow plan.

Teamwork Pricing

Pros

  • Useful time-tracking and billing features, great for construction work
  • Easy-to-use desktop client and mobile apps
  • Affordable plans for construction companies of all sizes or those looking to scale up

Cons

  • No construction-specific features or templates

Zoho Logo

Zoho is a well-known company with a fleet of useful apps, including a powerful project management tool, excellent CRM, and much more. It offers a good range of construction-specific tools that make it excel in a crowded marketplace, including equipment management, budget estimates, and so on.

We really like that Zoho is able to offer an all-in-one platform, especially when you connect it to the powerful CRM on offer from the provider. This makes it easy for managers to collect client data and store it safely, leading to a better relationship in the future.

It’s got excellent budget management tools for invoicing, forecasting, and earned value management – all essential for the smooth running of any construction project. These provide a key overview of each stage of the construction process, and this information is readily accessible.

Zoho Projects

Best For Cheapest Monthly Plan Cheapest Annual Plan Free Version Compatibility
Budget Management Premium – $5/month Premium – $4/month Yes Windows, Mac, Android, and iOS

The equipment managing facilities are great, as they enable you to mark resources and categorize them as equipment, machinery, or materials. This helps with ensuring the right equipment is available on a job site and reduces the risk of forgetting to maintain or bring the right tools for the job.

You get a wealth of tools aimed at improving employee collaboration, with features like forums, shared docs, and an in-app chat, all aimed at improving the overall output of your team.

Forums, in particular, offer a place for teams to share thoughts, updates, and more on the delivery of a construction project, providing managers with a clear insight and overview of employee work and behavior.

Pricing

Zoho offers some of the most affordable paid plans out there alongside their strong free offering. The plan structure is simple, with a free plan accompanying the Premium and Enterprise solutions for larger teams.

Zoho Projects Pricing

Pros

  • Excellent collaboration features like Forums and an in-ap chat
  • Great budgeting tools that show forecast and actual spending side-by-side
  • Wide range of construction-specific features like inventory management

Cons

  • Doesn’t include any premade templates, you have to design them yourself

7. ResourceGuru – Great Analytical and Reporting Features

Resource Guru Logo

ResourceGuru is another well-known name in construction project management, and it offers some excellent features to back this up. For example, it offers a robust project schedule that enables you to plan resources using real-time data, helping you manage workers and deadlines with ease.

Furthermore, there’s a useful resource directory where you can manage any equipment that’s needed on each site, reducing the risk of workers not having the right tools and causing delays to work. You can even schedule a tool for maintenance, and automated reminders will be sent to ensure this is met.

You have access to powerful reporting tools that ensure everyone has something to do. This helps to maintain productivity levels and allows project managers to assign relevant tasks to the relevant people, meaning everyone is busy, focused, and working seamlessly.

Resource Guru Project Management Software

Best For Cheapest Monthly Plan Cheapest Annual Plan Free Version Compatibility
Analytics and Reporting Grasshopper – $5/month Grasshopper – $4.16/month Yes Windows and Mac

It’s backed up by Clash Management software, perhaps our favorite feature of the bunch, as it’s a simple but effective tool that makes sure no one or no equipment is double booked and helps workloads stay realistic.

Realistic workloads and no double booked equipment allows you to hit your targets without any hiccups along the way.

There are a few other construction-specific features that stand out, most notably safety standards, which allow you to track who is using high-risk equipment and assign approvers to control access. This is a huge yes for construction workers, as health and safety plays a fundamental role in everyday life.

Pricing

There’s no free plan on offer from ResourceGuru, which is a little disappointing. However, as the 3 plans on offer are so affordable, you can easily look past this.

The Blackbelt plan offers the best value for money if you’re happy to skip SSO and phone support, if not, the Master plan costs just $10/month per user.

Resource Guru Pricing

 

Pros

  • Excellent safety features for controlling high-risk equipment on work sites
  • Good range of construction-related tools, like a resource directory and budget forecasting
  • The Clash Management feature can reduce worksite errors that could otherwise be costly

Cons

  • No free plan or mobile apps – two big losses
  • Not as many features as other project management apps, for example, time management

8. Procore – Specialist Software with Excellent Resource Management Functions

Procore Logo

Procore is a leading construction project management tool that offers a few unique features like RFI and submittal management, as well as basic project management tools, like time-tracking and task management.

Procore is more specialized for construction use than other providers on this list and cuts a few corners on project management-related features. As you might have guessed, that does come at a cost – more on that later.

What you do get is a complete tool that offers multiple construction-specific features, such as timecard management for tracking hours worked, and RFI and submittal management for creating and sending RFIs within the platform.

By linking RFIs and submittals to relevant project documents or drawings, the system ensures that all information is readily available and provides context to third-parties who may view them. This ensures that nothing is missed, and for the person receiving the RFI, everything will be crystal clear.

Procore Dashboard

Best For Cheapest Monthly Plan Cheapest Annual Plan Free Version Compatibility
Resource Management Custom Quote Custom Quote No Windows, Mac, Android, and iOS

Project teams can manage expenditures with the help of Procore’s construction financials tools, which also allow executives access to real-time information about the state of their business. Plus, with simple integrations with the likes of Xero and QuickBooks, invoicing and billing are a breeze.

Procore offers bulk time entry for individuals or a crew, real-time worker productivity tracking, and an approval process for streamlined payroll – all fundamental for the construction industry.

Believe me, your finance department will thank you for every bit of payroll automation you can implement.

The platform itself offers a simple interface that requires no customization on your side, and all of these features are incredibly user-friendly, so even beginners can get to grips with things pretty quickly.

Pricing

Procore is a more specialist construction management tool, so to get an idea of how much it costs, you need to fill out some details to get a custom quote.

It would be nice to have some transparency, but this does help find the right plan for your business needs.

Pros

  • Specialist tool with a lot of key construction-specific features like document management and equipment inventory
  • Excellent finance tools like budget and cost estimates
  • Unlimited amount of storage for all your files and documents

Cons

  • Lack of transparency over how much the software costs
  • It doesn’t offer the same levels of features as a top project management tool like Monday, like integration and CRM

9. Contractor Foreman – Top Tool for Collaborating within a Team

Contractor Foreman Logo

Contractor Foreman is a cloud-based tool that assists in managing resources, records, and payments for construction projects. Notable features include project scheduling, billing and invoicing, document sharing, and time tracking for employees.

With this software, users are able to manage multiple projects at the same time and easily dispatch teams based on their availability and proximity, as the software features a useful GPS tracker – which helps keeps track of hours spent on site.

Plus, with the daily logs, to-do lists, and project planning templates, like equipment inventory, you can easily streamline the project lifecycle, and each of these can be customized to your requirements.

Contractor Foreman Dashboard

Contractors can quickly develop accurate estimates using the software’s custom estimation module, which has easy selections and is fully customizable. This helps to ensure that a project doesn’t go over budget and helps allocate resources to the right areas.

Its useful mobile apps make it simple to take pictures, measurements, and other crucial project documents while on the road.

Team members can handle all the documents involved in a building project in one location thanks to the document management module.

Furthermore, it’s possible to integrate Contractor Foreman with other applications like QuickBooks, WePay, Outlook 365, Google Calendar, and much more. Additional software integrations can be unlocked by using a paid Zapier account.

Best For Cheapest Monthly Plan Cheapest Annual Plan Free Version Compatibility
Team Collaboration Standard – $49/month Standard – $49/month 30-day Free Trial Windows, Mac, Android, and iOS

Pricing

Contractor Foreman lets you test any of its plans out for free for 30 days, which should give you enough time to figure out if it’s the right choice for your business.

You can opt to pay on an annual or quarterly basis, with the former offering the best value for money. Each plan increased the number of users, but all have limitations besides the Unlimited plan, where an infinite number of users can be added.

Pros

  • Excellent custom estimation module for forecasting costs and budgets
  • Powerful mobile apps for iOS and Android can be used offline or online for various tasks and documents
  • Offers a 30-day free trial for all plans

Cons

  • Lacks project management features like a CRM

10. Houzz Pro – Great Lead Management Solution

Houzz Pro logo

Houzz Pro is a hybrid project management tool for the building industry. Its primary goal is to generate leads for small contractors or subcontractors, as well as offering useful project management features like time sheets.

However, it comes with fundamental construction project management features like time-tracking, custom templates for safety on-site, roadmaps, and inventory monitoring – making it an all-around solid tool.

But it’s the elements that help with lead generation that may be the most beneficial to your business, as you can create a profile on Houzz Pro to highlight previous work, acquire lists of verified leads, and get in touch with leads directly to submit a quote on a project.

Houzz Pro

Best For Cheapest Monthly Plan Cheapest Annual Plan Free Version Compatibility
Lead Generation Starter – $65/month Starter – $65/month 30-day Trial Windows, Mac, Android, and iOS

The cloud-based tool also enables you to interact with your staff and clients from a central hub, with a built-in chat and shared docs for collaborative working – ensuring no one misses out on a vital update.

You can even organize meetings, manage follow-ups, and convert leads into projects so that prospects become projects.

With the assistance of material and cost libraries, they can produce precise estimates and bids in a matter of minutes, which perfect for use within the construction industry.

Moving on from the marketing-based features, you can create construction proposals from the turnkey templates that come with the software, each of which can be customized and tailored to the correct usage.

Thankfully, as this is a specialized tool for the industry, there are dozens of useful templates, from preplanning documents right through to detailed roadmaps, financial planners, and much more.

Pricing

Houzz Pro Pricing

Each plan offers a 30-day free trial, which is a great way to test the product before signing up for one of their paid plans – this is somewhat a replacement for the lack of a free plan.

Pros

  • Offers a 30-day free trial on all paid plans
  • Excellent lead generation features and a built-in CRM
  • Great proposals, estimates, and bid management functions

Cons

  • Limits the users you can add to paid plans
  • Customers state that canceling a plan can prove difficult

Comparison of the Top Construction Software for Project Management

Now you’ve had the chance to read about each of our top providers, we’ve compiled a useful table below that gives you an easy way to view the cheapest plans, best usage, and more.

Software Best For Cheapest Monthly Plan Cheapest Annual Plan Free Version Compatibility
Monday Project Management Basic – $10/month Basic – $8/month Yes Windows, Mac, Android, and iOS
ClickUp Construction Templates Unlimited – $10/month Unlimited – $7/month Yes Windows, Mac, Android, and iOS
Wrike Billing and Invoicing Team – $9.80/month Team – $9.80/month Yes Windows, Mac, Android, and iOS
Smartsheet Spreadsheet Lovers Unlimited – $10/month Unlimited – $7/month Yes Windows, Mac, Android, and iOS
Teamwork Time Management Starter – $8.99/month Starter – $5.99/month Yes Windows, Mac, Android, and iOS
Zoho Projects Budget Management Premium – $5/month Premium – $4/month Yes Windows, Mac, Android, and iOS
Resource Guru Analytics and Reporting Grasshopper – $5/month Grasshopper – $4.16/month No Windows and Mac
Procore Resource Management Custom Quote Custom Quote No Windows, Mac, Android, and iOS
Contractor Foreman
Team Collaboration Basic – $49/month Basic – $49/month No Windows, Mac, Android, and iOS
Houzz Pro Lead Generation Starter – $65/month Starter – $65/month No Windows, Mac, Android, and iOS

How to Choose the Best Project Management Software for Your Construction Business

It’s important to know your needs and the obstacles you confront in order to choose the best construction management solution. After all, the construction management software you choose should support your objectives.

No matter if you work as a builder, contractor, subcontractor, or project manager, the right construction management software will help you do more. It’s up to you to decide which is best for your construction company.

Here are some of the most crucial and common aspects to take into account when selecting your building project management software.

User-Friendly

In order for your employees to execute tasks quickly and effectively, they must have instant access to the information they require. Instead of creating access obstacles, technology ought to make it easier to get the right data. User interface software is crucial since it can have a significant impact on a construction project’s overall success.

Even people with the most advanced technological skills might become frustrated with solutions with a steep learning curve. Quick and effective communication between the many teams and stakeholders engaged in a project is made possible by an intuitive, user-friendly design. By ensuring that everyone is on the same page, this helps to minimize delays and cut down on errors.

Communication & Collaboration

Any construction project’s success depends on teamwork and communication.

All project parties, including head contractors, subcontractors, engineers, architects, and developers, must work well together to ensure a successful project.

You need a point of contact, the ability to inform everyone of developments, and the capacity to go over any potential problems or modifications. When the right construction management software is used, teamwork improves, communication is simpler, and all parties can accomplish their objectives and meet deadlines.

Integrations

Collaboration and communication can be streamlined by integrating construction project software with other tools, which makes it simpler for all parties to work together successfully and maintain the project’s schedule.

Construction teams can collaborate easily by linking several software packages, such as design tools, accounting programs, document management, and scheduling platforms. Integrations make it simpler for all teams to share documents and other crucial data, which helps everyone engaged to stay on the same page.

Project Complexity

A construction project’s complexity and scope can have a big impact in terms of price, schedule, quality, and resource allocation.

A project that is excessively complex could be challenging to manage and finish on time. Similarly, if a project’s scope is too broad, there might not be enough resources to meet deadlines and stick to the agreed-upon budget.

It’s crucial to choose a platform for managing construction projects that can handle both complexity and scope. Some software solutions, for instance, might only be able to handle small-scale projects with few tasks and resources, whilst others might be able to handle large-scale projects with many stakeholders and complex tasks.

Features

You want your chosen tool to have everything you need to succeed – think time management, budget forecasting for estimating project costs, automation for routine tasks, and much more. It basically needs to be an all-in-one project management solution, but this doesn’t mean it can’t have some bonus points for construction-tailored work.

Many of the providers on our list offer core project management solutions, like CRM, lead generation, and collaborative docs, but some go that step further and include templates for construction, like road maps and budget forecasting.

The ideal combination is to have a good range of both.

Pricing

Last but not least is pricing, and this can be a tricky one to navigate. Sure, getting a good deal is what we all want, but choosing based only on the price is sure to lead you down a dark road. That doesn’t mean that the more expensive a tool is, the better it will be, not by a long shot – what you want is a good range of features for an affordable price.

Most charge you per user, while the more project management-based solutions have plans from as little as $4/month, some even offer free plans, but they won’t suit construction use. Others will give you a custom quote based on some basic information you provide, and these are usually more specialist tools – but these will cost significantly more.

Should I Use Free Construction Project Management Software?

Free construction project management tools may sound appealing, but they’re very unlikely to be a long-term solution for your business needs, as they’re often restricting features and the number of users you can add.

What they are useful for is testing a service that may not offer a free trial or money-back guarantee, as it’s hard to know which will suit your enterprise needs best.

However, we recommend that you opt for a premium plan without any restrictions, regardless if your company size and potential to scale. This way, you get access to all of the extra features like Gantt charts, construction-specific templates like roadmaps, time and budget management features for invoicing and billing, plus being able to add as many users as you want.

Providers like Monday, our top pick for the best construction project management software, offer affordable plans and all of the features, users, and storage you require.

What’s the Best Project Management Software for Construction Businesses in 2024

The best construction management tools enable projects to work seamlessly and overall reduce the chance of errors, risks, and delays – all of which are essential in the construction industry.

All of the top providers on our list have features that make life easier, such as premade templates for each stage of the construction process, as well as useful add-ons like time management, budget estimates, and constriction road maps.

If you’re looking for the best project management software for the construction industry, we suggest trying Monday, an all-in-one project management solution with affordable plans that start from just $8/month per user.

FAQ

Why use software for project management?

What software is used for construction project management?

Is MS project good for construction?

What’s the best free construction project management software?

What’s the best construction management software for small businesses?

 

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Rytr Review — Comparison With Other AI Tools & Test Findings for 2024 https://techreport.com/artificial-intelligence/rytr-review/ Mon, 30 Oct 2023 11:07:02 +0000 https://techreport.com/?page_id=3523383 Rytr Review

Given the increased demand for content across social media, blogs, and everything in between, AI writing tools are becoming increasingly popular. For this reason, we decided to take a closer...

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Rytr Review

Given the increased demand for content across social media, blogs, and everything in between, AI writing tools are becoming increasingly popular. For this reason, we decided to take a closer look at one such tool: Rytr.

Our Rytr review is here to give you all the details about what this AI writing tool can do. With so many people looking for easier ways to write, platforms like Rytr claim to make writing simpler and faster – but just how good are they?

We explore Rytr’s core features, look at how much it costs, and see what actual users think of it, to make sure we give you the full picture, we’ve also tried out Rytr ourselves with thorough hands-on testing. So, if you’re a writer, a business owner, or just someone curious about AI writing tools, stick around as we dive into all things Rytr.

What Is Rytr?

Rytr is an AI-powered writing tool designed to assist you in generating engaging creative content efficiently and much quicker than a copywriter or human.

Rytr helps improve your content productivity with the help of advanced machine learning. It can produce a variety of content types, from blog posts and articles to social media posts and product descriptions.

One of the standout features of Rytr is its adaptability to different tones and styles. You can specify the mood or style you want, and the AI will generate content in line with that guidance. For instance, you can choose between a formal or casual tone for your content.

While Rytr doesn’t entirely replace the need for a human touch in content creation, it acts as a powerful tool in the hands of writers, marketers, and business professionals, giving them a head start in drafting ideas or even fine-tuning existing content.

How Does Rytr Work?

Rytr is one of the top AI-powered content creation tools designed to assist writers, marketers, and professionals in generating written content more efficiently. At its core, Rytr uses advanced machine-learning models to understand and replicate human-like writing patterns.

The process begins with you providing a brief or a prompt, which is a concise description of the content you want, and you can even select the desired tone, style, or writing format, which means you have a higher degree of control over the final output.

Rytr uses its machine-learning algorithm to process your input and generate an output. This sophisticated algorithm has been trained on vast amounts of textual data, allowing it to generate coherent and contextually relevant content based on the given prompt.

Within a matter of moments, Rytr presents you with a draft that aligns with your specifications.

Because you save loads of time on generating content, you have greater flexibility to refine, edit, or re-generate the content until you achieve a result you’re happy with.

One of the platform’s strengths lies in its ability to evolve, and as more users interact with Rytr and provide feedback on its suggestions, the platform continuously learns and improves, becoming more adept at understanding user preferences and the intricacies of different types of content.

In the grand scheme, Rytr doesn’t aim to replace human creativity but rather serves as a powerful tool to assist and advise on the writing process.

Who Is Rytr Best For?

Rytr’s genuine versatility means it can be applied to pretty much any industry or niche, from students writing essays to e-commerce platforms seeking engaging product descriptions. The list is endless, but we’ve tried to gather as many of the key uses as possible for you and listed them below:

  • Writers and Bloggers – Kickstart an article with a captivating intro, brainstorm ideas for blog posts, and even make write the entire piece for you.
  • Marketers and Digital Agencies – Generate ad copy, email campaigns, product descriptions, and social media posts.
  • Students and Researchers – Initial draft suggestions when struggling with writer’s block or when you need a starting point for essays, research papers, or reports.
  • Entrepreneurs and Startups – For those wearing multiple hats, Rytr can help in drafting pitches, creating website content, or formulating business plans.
  • Screenwriters and Playwrights – Crafting dialogues or set the stage for a scene. It can help outline plot points or even generate character interactions.
  • E-commerce Platforms – Write unique and appealing product descriptions or responses to customer queries.
  • Customer Support – Automate aspects of your customer support, as Rytr can help draft FAQs, response templates, or even guides and manuals.
  • Content Curators – Use Rytr to generate summaries, abstracts, or intros for the content you share.
  • Educators and Trainers – Create lesson plans, quizzes, or educational content. Rytr can can also assist in generating content for e-learning platforms.
  • Personal Use – Draft letters, resumes, or even personal blogs.
  • Translation and Language Learning – While it’s not a primary function, tools like Rytr can be used to craft sentences in different languages or styles, assisting language learners in understanding nuances.

Rytr’s Pros and Cons

Like any new piece of tech out there, strengths and weaknesses are bound to be apparent throughout. To help you understand the possible drawbacks, as well as all the glowing positives of Rytr, We’ve listed some of the key pros and cons below:

Pros

  • Simple and intuitive interface that’s easy for beginners to get used to
  • Excellent results for short-form content
  • Useful grammar, readability, and accuracy features
  • Affordably priced plans to suit all budgets

Cons

  • Accuracy declines somewhat with complex topics or longer-form copy
  • certain phrases are often overused, making it easier to spot AI-generated content

Rytr’s Pricing

Among the top AI-powered copywriting tools, Rytr has emerged as a standout option, particularly in terms of its cost-effectiveness. With a pricing structure designed to cater to diverse needs and budgets, Rytr ensures users receive unparalleled value for their money.

Rytr’s Free Plan: An Entry Point to AI-Driven Content

Rytr is one of the best free AI content generators out there, with its free plan allowing you to write up to 10k characters each month. It’s also a great way for new users to get to grips with the platform, something we’d like to see on offer from other top competitors.

For those looking to dip their toes into the world of AI content creation, Rytr offers a generous Free plan. With this, you can:

  • Generate up to 10k characters per month.
  • Access 40+ predefined use cases.
  • Write content in over 30 languages.
  • Experiment with 20+ tones to match their brand’s voice.
  • Ensure originality with a built-in plagiarism checker.
  • Create up to 5 AI-generated images monthly.
  • Join and engage with the Rytr premium community.

This Free plan is ideal for small content tasks or trial usage as it provides an expansive suite of tools at no cost. It’s not that much in terms of absolute word count (around 2,000), but it’s something.

Rytr’s Saver Plan: Boosted Capabilities at Modest Pricing

If you find Free plan’s limits a little too constraining, Rytr’s Saver plan is a steal at just $9/month or $90/year with a two-month free incentive. It has all the features in Free plan along with the following:

  • An increased limit of 100k characters monthly.
  • The ability to create up to 20 AI-generated images.
  • A unique feature that lets you create your custom use case.

It’s an optimal choice for regular users, freelancers, or small businesses that require more frequent content but don’t want to break the bank and pay the extra $20 every month for Unlimited.

Rytr’s Unlimited Plan: Premium Features for Power Users

Geared towards professionals, larger businesses, or anyone in need of heavy content output, the Unlimited plan is priced at $29/month or $290/year. Again, new sign ups get two free months as an incentive. As the name suggests, you can generate an unlimited number of words. Additionally, you benefit from:

  • The creation of up to 100 AI images per month.
  • A dedicated account manager for personalized assistance.
  • Priority email and chat support ensuring swift responses and resolutions.

This plan is a comprehensive solution that guarantees you won’t be left wanting, regardless of your content needs.

Overall, Rytr’s tiered pricing structure ensures every user, from casual bloggers to large enterprises, finds a plan tailored to their needs.

With an emphasis on providing value at each pricing pricing, Rytr has solidified its position as a top contender in the market of AI content generation.

Exploring Rytr’s Features

Rytr boasts an array of sophisticated features designed to simplify and elevate content creation. With just a touch of human input, it crafts diverse content suitable for numerous formats.

Exceptional content requires exceptional tools. To give you a clearer understanding of Rytr’s capabilities, we’ve outlined each feature of note for you below.

Chat

Rytr Chat offers a useful and different way to approach content creation, aside from the usual templates and prompts. This is a conversational AI that allows you to discuss ideas, ask questions, and much more. Think of it as a slightly watered-down version of ChatGPT.

Rytr Chat

From our playing around with this feature, we realized that it’s much more than a basic version of ChatGPT. It’s still able to create strong short-form copy, and it truly seems to understand even the vaguest of prompts. Overall, it’s a fun way to write content in a more relaxed manner and it even aids with research along the way.

Diverse Use-Cases

One of Rytr’s standout features is its access to over 40 predefined use cases which ensures you’re not just getting generic content; instead, the output is tailored to specific needs, whether it’s blog posts, ad copy, or social media content.

During our hands-on testing, we were particularly pleased with how this feature could cater to a wide range of writing scenarios, making the tool adaptable across different industries and professions.

This is backed up by the various tones on offer, which allow you to switch between potential audiences with ease – more on those later.

Multiple Languages

Good content has to be accessible to everyone, no matter where they are in the world or what language they speak. Rytr brilliantly addresses this with its ability to write in over 30 languages, meaning you can translate content for different audiences, thus extending your potential customer base and more.

Rytr Languages

This feature proved invaluable in our tests when we targeted diverse demographics, enabling us to communicate effectively without language barriers.

Judging by some of the feedback we received from colleagues who are bilingual, the translations are pretty accurate, and the platforms seems to understand the use of different dialects.

Tonnes of Tones

Content isn’t just about conveying information, it’s about resonating with the reader, and this is only really possible through the use of different tones.

Rytr’s access to over 20 distinct tones allows you to align the content’s emotion with your brand’s voice or the message’s intent.

Rytr Tones

We found this particularly useful when crafting marketing campaigns, ensuring the brand message was not only clear but also highly engaging.

Being able to switch between tones like formal, casual, witty, and informative gave the copy several different voices, making it appeal to a broader range of potential customers.

Plagiarism Checker

Originality is paramount with any form of writing, and in fact, plagiarism can land you in hot water if there are too many obvious similarities.

Thankfully, Rytr’s built-in plagiarism checker provides users with the confidence that their content is unique by scanning the web to see if any of your text matches already published content.

Rytr Plagarism Checker

This is particularly useful for students who will get in serious trouble if they are found to have plagiarised others’ work.

If sections of text appear too similar to others, you can use the paraphrase tool or simply ask Rytr to rewrite certain sections.

During our testing, this feature was a silent guardian, ensuring our content’s integrity and safeguarding against potential copyright issues.

With AI writing tools, there is always a strong chance that some of the copy will be similar to content online, especially with longer-from content and research-heavy articles, but we got around this by simply asking Rytr to rework the text.

AI-Generated Images

Visual content amplifies the words you write and has a great impact on your audience. Rytr steps into this domain by allowing you to generate a number of images using AI, depending on your plan.

All you need to do is write a few prompts on what you want visuals you want, click a button, and let Rytr get to work.

Rytr AI Art

In our tests, this feature came in handy for creating visually appealing blog posts and social media updates without the need for separate graphic design tools.

However, like with a lot of other AI art generators, the images, while unique, are quite clearly AI-made. This might not be a problem for some, but there is still room for development in this subset of AI tools.

Real-Time Feedback and Suggestions

Rytr’s real-time feedback feature is like having a virtual editor by your side. As we drafted content, the platform provided real-time suggestions, enhancing sentence structure, grammar, and overall coherence. Tools like Grammarly have been doing this for years, but we find that it can be hit-and-miss sometimes.

But with Rytr, the text generated seems to be fully understood by the software, so making changes to the tense, improving sentence structure, and fixing punctuation errors felt seamless.

Template Library

The expansive template library within Rytr was a true time-saver as it provides a ton of different ready-to-go templates for a whole variety of outlets. Catering to various content formats, from emails and newsletters to scripts and stories, these templates provided a solid starting point.

Rytr Templates

In situations where we faced writer’s block or needed quick content drafts, these templates proved invaluable. Whether you’re looking for brand names, business ideas, social media copy, CTAs, or cover letters – Rytr has you covered.

Customizable Content Briefs

Rytr seems to truly understand that content requirements can vary widely. Its feature allowing users to craft detailed content briefs ensures that the AI understands the context, tone, and objective of the content piece.

We found this customization pivotal in ensuring that the generated content aligned closely with our strategic intent. It saves content editors or copywriters precious time, as creating briefs can be a timely task. Instead, they can focus on the important jobs at hand, like crafting cutting-edge copy.

SEO Integrations

We were delighted to see that Rytr integrates with popular SEO tools like Semrush and provides SERP analysis. This basically means that Rytr can scan the web to see what keywords your competitors or the big brands are using to score well on Google’s complex ranking algorithms.

Rytr SERP Analysis

This saves SEO teams valuable hours that would usually be spent searching for keywords, and also saves time for copywriters by inputting these keywords throughout any generated content.

Rytr can suggest keywords based on the content and title of your blog post, and we found them to be spot-on more often than not.

Is Rytr AI Plagiarism-Free?

This is a tricky one, as we found that with long-form content, or research-focused essays, Rytr did struggle a little with plagiarism – but the same can be said for a lot of the popular AI writing tools.

Unfortunately, Rytr doesn’t offer a citation feature, unlike its rival, Writesonic, so you’ll have to go through the text and cite your own sources.

One way of ensuring your content is original and plagiarism-free is to use the provider’s built-in plagiarism checker, which will flag any sections that are too similar to pre-existing content.

From there, you can paraphrase the text or even ask Rytr to rework it, thus eliminating any potential copyright risks. So no, in short, Rytr isn’t always 100% plagiarism-free, but with the tools it has, you can overcome this quite easily.

Rytr vs Jasper and Other Top AI Writers

Rytr is undoubtedly a top AI writing tool, but how does it fair against some of the other leading providers? To help answer this question, we’ve compiled a useful table below that compares all the standout features, pricing, and more.

AI Writing Software Ideal For Starting Price Standout Features Free Version
Rytr Small to Midsize Content Makers $9/month 1. Brief Creator
2. Keyword Analysis
3. Multi-language Support
Yes
CopyAI Working Alongside Copywriters $49/month 1. Bullet Point Expander
2. Brand Tones
3. Freestyle Mode
Yes
Writesonic Accurate GPT-4 Content $16/month 1. GPT-4 Content
2. Photosonic Summarizer
3. Referencing & Citations
Yes, 10k Words
JasperAI Everyday Business Use $39/month 1. Text Rewriter
2. Multiple Tones
3. Paraphraser & Plagiarism Checker
7-Day Free Trial
ShortlyAI Paraphrasing Text $65/month 1. Paraphraser
2. Easy-to-use Interface
3. Change Output Length
Yes

If you want to find out more, check out our full review of the top AI writing tools for content generation.

What Do Rytr Customers Have to Say? 

Now that you’ve heard what we think of Rytr based on our hands-on review, it’s time to look at what real-life, everyday customers are saying about this AI writing tool.

To do this, we scanned through hundreds of reviews on popular consumer review sites like G2 and Trustpilot, as well as the dark corners of Reddit. Below are a few examples of what we found:

Rytr Review G2

The reviews for Rytr are overwhelmingly positive, with users quick to praise just how easy it is to begin churning out engaging content for various sources – with the templates, in particular, impressing this user.

There are also rave reviews for the different tones you can employ and how they can truly elevate a piece of writing for different audiences.

Rytr G2 Review 2

Others praised Rytr’s user-friendly interface, but also backed up some of our claims about the research side of things, something that is evident in the longer-form copy. At certain times, it felt like several points were either being repeated or reworded, something that may be fixed when it’s updated.

It doesn’t run on GPT-4, like Writesonic, so the results may not be as accurate.

Overall, the reviews we found for Rytr were generally all positive, even if it does lack some of the key features you’ll find with some of the other top AI content-creating tools, like JasperAI or Writesonic.

Many were impressed with how straightforward it is to begin generating engaging copy, a useful feature for those new to AI writing tools.

Other TechReport AI Guides

If you enjoyed this hands-on review of Rytr, then you might be interested in some of our other reviews on all things AI. These range from individual software reviews to general AI facts and statistics – we’ve compiled a list below for your perusal:

Why You Can Trust TechReport’s Rytr AI Review

At TechReport, our primary goal is to provide our readers with thorough, unbiased, and trustworthy insights into the ever-evolving world of technology.

We understand that with the vast number of AI writing tools flooding the market, choosing the right one can be an overwhelming task. That’s where our review of Rytr AI comes into play, and here’s why you can place your confidence in our assessment:

  • Extensive Experience in AI Tool Testing – We’ve rigorously tested dozens of AI writing tools. Our team has hands-on experience with various platforms, enabling us to develop a keen understanding of what makes an AI tool stand out. We aren’t just reviewing Rytr AI in isolation but against the backdrop of numerous other services.
  • Comparative Analysis with Leading AI Tools – Our exposure isn’t limited to lesser-known or new entrants in the AI writing tool arena. We’ve delved deep into other leading tools, including in-depth reviews on the likes of JasperAI, Writesonic, and similar platforms. When we commend Rytr AI for a specific feature, it’s after weighing it against the best in the business.
  • Customer-Centric Reviewing – We actively sought out verified reviews from actual users of Rytr AI on trusted platforms such as Trustpilot, G2, and Reddit. By doing so, we ensure our review isn’t just based on our own technical assessments but also factors in invaluable real-world user experiences and feedback.
  • Solid Reputation in Tech Reporting – We’re a respected authority in technology. Our reputation is built on the pillars of integrity, depth of research, and the value we provide to our readers. When we recommend a product or service, it’s a testament to its quality and relevance.

How to Use Rytr — A Quick Rytr Tutorial

Here’s how easy it is to start creating op-notch content with Rytr. It’s pretty straightforward to get up and running, and to help, we’ve created a simple step-by-step guide below.

Register

Rytr Website

Head to the official Rytr website and click the ‘Start Ryting’ button. Continue with either your Google, Facebook, or LinkedIn account, or you can opt for email/password.

Pick Your Plan

Rytr New Pricing

Rytr offers a free plan for users to get to grips with the platform, so this is a good place to start. Choose from either of the plans and hit the ‘Subscribe’ button.

Enter your payment details and the email/password combination you used to sign up.

Dive into the Dashboard

Rytr Dashboard

Once inside, you’ll be greeted by a user-friendly dashboard where you can access various templates and writing outputs. Invest some time to familiarize yourself with its layout and features.

Start Writing

Rytr New Task

Click the ‘Create’ button to load the Document editor. This is a Google Docs/MS Word style layout where you can choose between various tones, select a language, and much more.

Pick Your Writing Preferences

From here, you can start getting creative by:

  • Picking a core topic or subject matter.
  • Setting a desired tone or voice (e.g., conversational, playful, reflective).
  • Marking essential keywords or phrases that should appear in the content.

Engage Rytr’s Magic

  • Hit the “Generate” or “Produce Content” button.
  • Give Rytr a moment to process, and soon you’ll be presented with your shiny new copy.

Dive Deeper with Added Features

  • Explore Rytr’s more advanced features like Chat or the AI photo generator that are a little more technical.
  • You can use these tools for an even better writing experience.

Rytr.me Review – How Good Is It?

There’s no doubt in our minds that Rytr is a top AI writing tool: it combines affordably priced plans, a user-friendly interface, and engaging copy for a variety of different outputs, from blogs to product descriptions.

However, the feature set on offer here isn’t as rich as it is with some its rivals, like JasperAI and Writesonic, and it’s still running on GPT-3.5, which might be an issue for those who want the latest update and more accurate results it brings.

That said, Rytr is a great budget-friendly option for content creators looking to produce engaging, shorter-from copy, and its simple interface makes it a reliable choice for beginners.

FAQ

What are the disadvantages of Rytr?

Is Rytr free to use?

What is better than Rytr?

What does Rytr cost?

Can I use Rytr to write a book?

Does Rytr have a limit?

Is Rytr good for SEO?

Is Rytr safe?

References

The post Rytr Review — Comparison With Other AI Tools & Test Findings for 2024 appeared first on The Tech Report.

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Our Complete Writesonic Review for 2024 — It’s Better Than ChatGPT https://techreport.com/artificial-intelligence/writesonic-review/ Fri, 27 Oct 2023 10:53:19 +0000 https://techreport.com/?page_id=3522395 Writesonic Review

In the bustling world of AI content tools, Writesonic has been gaining a lot of attention thanks to its inclusion of GPT-4-generated content. With this Writesonic review, we aim to...

The post Our Complete Writesonic Review for 2024 — It’s Better Than ChatGPT appeared first on The Tech Report.

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Writesonic Review

In the bustling world of AI content tools, Writesonic has been gaining a lot of attention thanks to its inclusion of GPT-4-generated content. With this Writesonic review, we aim to give you an insightful look into this prominent player in the AI writing tool universe.

As digital tools evolve and new contenders emerge, it’s crucial to know where each stands, especially when they promise to change the game. That’s precisely why we rolled up our sleeves and dived deep into Writesonic.

For our Writesonic AI review, we assessed its features, tested its user-friendliness, and compared it with other top AI copywriters to bring you a complete view.

Whether you’re a seasoned content creator, a budding digital marketer, or someone keen to stay updated with the latest in AI advancements, this review promises clarity. Read on to see our take on Writesonic’s position in the ever-growing AI content ecosystem of 2024.

What Is Writesonic?

Writesonic is built on the foundation of some of the most advanced language models and currently relies on GPT-4, giving it a distinct advantage over some of its rivals, such as Rytr, which runs on GPT-3.5.

Writesonic is an innovative tool rooted in the rapidly evolving world of artificial intelligence (AI). In essence, it is an AI-powered writing assistant designed to streamline the content creation process for individuals and businesses.

Born from advanced machine learning models, Writesonic’s primary objective is to help with the production of high-quality content with greater efficiency and reduced manual effort.

At its core, Writesonic is more than just a simple content generator. It offers a suite of features catering to a variety of content needs – from blog posts, ad copy, and product descriptions to more specialized content like landing pages and email campaigns.

One of the unique selling points of Writesonic is its adaptability; it can tailor its outputs based on user input, making the content it generates relevant and targeted.

This helps to ensure that the generated content is coherent, contextually relevant, and grammatically accurate, although, to the human eye, you may struggle to spot any major differences between an AI writing tool operating on GPT-3.5 or GPT-4.

What Can I Do With Writesonic?

Writesonic, at its heart, is a versatile AI-powered content creation tool designed to cater to a vast spectrum of content needs – whether you’re drafting a compelling blog post, creating catchy ad copy, formulating product descriptions, or designing landing pages, Writesonic has the capability to assist and accelerate the process.

Beyond these, it’s adept at crafting engaging email campaigns, ensuring that your messages resonate with your audience. We ranked it as one of the best AI copywriting tools out there, alongside other industry giants like JasperAI and Rytr.

Writesonic’s adaptability means that its applications aren’t limited to just one industry, segment or use-case.

Digital marketers can use Writesonic to generate fresh and relevant content for their campaigns. Bloggers can employ it to overcome writer’s block and generate article drafts swiftly: the possibilities are endless.

Plus, e-commerce businesses can harness Writesonic’s prowess to craft compelling product descriptions that instantly engage and allure potential buyers, whereas startups and agencies can design convincing landing pages with efficiency, hacking the traditional, time-consuming content.

Below is a list of possible uses cases for Writesonic – if you don’t see your industry or content type here, don’t worry, Writesonic is likely to work for you, too, we just can’t include them all.

  • Content Creation – Generate blog posts, articles, and other long-form content.
  • Marketing Copy – Craft persuasive ad copy, headlines, and taglines.
  • Product Descriptions – Write enticing descriptions for e-commerce platforms.
  • SEO Optimization – Produce SEO-friendly content, meta descriptions, and title tags.
  • Email Campaigns – Compose compelling email subject lines and body content.
  • Social Media Posts – Create engaging posts for various platforms like Facebook, Twitter, and LinkedIn.
  • Landing Pages –  Design content for web pages that convert.
  • Video Scriptwriting – Draft scripts for promotional or informational videos.
  • Startup Pitches – Generate pitch ideas and summaries for new businesses.
  • Resume & Cover Letters – Craft professional resumes and cover letters tailored to specific job applications.
  • Language Translation – Translate content into different languages.
  • Research Summaries – Condense lengthy research materials into concise summaries.
  • Question & Answer Generation – Produce Q&A pairs for FAQ sections or quizzes.
  • Feedback & Reviews – Create reviews for products, services, or experiences.
  • E-books & Guides – Draft chapters or entire e-books on a given topic.
  • Story & Creative Writing – Spin narratives, short stories, or even novel drafts.
  • Tutorials & How-to Guides – Write step-by-step instructions or guides.

Writesonic Pros and Cons

Like any of the top AI writing tools, Writesonic does have its upsides and downsides, with more good than bad, we’re pleased to say. That’s not surprising, as were consistently rate Writesonic as one of the best AI writing tools for content generation. To help you decide, we’ve listed some of the key pros and cons below:

Pros

  • Runs on the latest GPT-4 for the most accurate and reliable output
  • Features tons of useful video guides to getting the best out of the platform
  • Requires minimal human input to generate cutting-edge copy for a range of niches
  • Customizable and affordable pricing plans for all users

Cons

  • Long-form content rarely passes AI detector tests, which could be an issue for some

Is Writesonic Free? A Full Price Breakdown

The platform does offer a free forever plan, making it one of the best free AI content generators, but it’s got a 10,000-word monthly limit.

Although Writesonic’s free plan is limited, it does give users a chance to familiarize themselves with its basic features, and it’s an excellent way for individuals to experience the platform’s potential without spending any money.

For those who have tested the waters and are looking to dive deeper into the Writesonic universe, the Freelancer plan is an appealing next step. This plan broadens the horizon, offering a wider range of premium features like Photosonic, an AI art generator, and the Complete Rewriter tools.

While there are still some limitations to the Freelancer plan, like only being able to use GPT-3.5, it’s overall generously designed to cater to the content needs of bloggers, solo entrepreneurs, and other content creators.

You get unlimited words on the Freelance plan, making it a great way for budding copywriters, marketers, and content creators to churn out as much content as they need, something we were thrilled to see.

Writesonic Pricing

However, if you are a small business seeking unhindered, expansive access to everything, Writesonic also offers the Small Team Plan. This comprehensive plan is a game-changer, tailored especially for small businesses, marketing agencies, and creators that require a consistent and diverse flow of AI-driven content.

With the Small Team plan, you’ll have to pre-select how many words you want, which can be a little annoying. But if you have detailed plans on the amount of content you want to put out, this isn’t a huge problem. You’ll have access to 5 voice tones, priority support, and GPT-4 output, all essential tools for a small business.

Larger enterprises with bespoke needs aren’t left out either.

Writesonic’s Enterprise Plan is a custom-built solution, offering everything from the previous plans and offering access to far more users.

The Enterprise version includes enhanced support, a smoother on-boarding process, and other exclusive features, like SSO/SAML Login, custom business templates, and much more, making it a favorite for corporations and large-scale content producers.

Sadly, there is no free trial on any paid plans, but there is a 7-day refund policy as long as you haven’t generated over 25,000 words – so this shouldn’t be a huge issue. It gives you enough time to decide whether it’s the right tool for you and test most of the advanced features on offer.

Reviewing Writesonic AI’s Core Features

We delved into Writesonic’s full suite of features to get a firsthand look at what it can offer budding content creators.

We wanted to understand what sets this platform apart from other top AI writing tools. From the essentials to the advanced, each feature was rigorously tested, providing a comprehensive understanding of its full potential. Here’s a detailed review of Writesonic’s core and advanced features:

Chatsonic

Chatsonic is Writesonic’s answer to Chat-GPT, an AI bot that can answer questions, generate images, and even cite its own references. This groundbreaking tool is a huge asset for copywriters and content creators alike, with the Citation feature, in particular, a real-time-saver for research-heavy articles.

Chatsonic Interface

The ability to create on-demand images based on a small prompt is another powerful asset in Writesonic’s toolbox and can be used to create mock-up product images or something much more creative.

Overall, we found it to be a brilliant tool that could neatly organize its data and research, answer pretty much any question we threw at it, and even use it to analyze market trends, a feature that could really benefit large SEO teams and agencies.

Botsonic

Botsonic is a no-code AI chatbot builder by Chatsonic, inspired by ChatGPT and powered by the latest GPT-4 technology.

It’s a new feature in Writesonics arsenal that allows users to build their own custom AI bot, this can be used for answering customer queries, drastically improving ticket response time.

You can train it using documents and other information from your own business knowledge base, so then it can tailor responses in your brand’s tone of voice or understand how to solve problems for potential customer support issues.

We were blown away by just how accurately Botsonic could understand the problem at hand, and it managed to create genuine responses to a list of common daily issues.

Botsonic Interface

We still think there is so much more that can be done with Conversational AI tools, but Botsonic is definitely a fascinating piece of software that is sure to revolutionize the way businesses interact with customers in the future.

It’s worth noting that Botsonic isn’t included in Writesonic’s main package and is a standalone product that starts from $49/month – for larger businesses, you’ll have to contact the sales team to discuss the pricing.

Audiosonic

Audiosonic is an AI Voice Generator that brings your voiceovers to life, allowing you to transform any of your content into realistic audio with its excellent Text-to-Speech and Voice AI Capabilities. It’s the perfect tool for marketing, sales, education, podcasts, and much more.

Audiosonic Interface

Robotic-sounding voiceovers are now a thing of the past, and Audiosonic is leading the way in this regard.

We gave it pages of text to read through, and you’d struggle to spot any use of AI, that’s how natural sounding it is. So if you’re a content creator but perhaps don’t want to use your real voice in any content you create, Audiosonic can step in a read page after page of information for you.

Photosonic

Photosonic is Writesonic’s take on an AI art generator, a useful tool that can help content creators generate relevant images to support their copy by entering a few prompts and descriptions. The biggest perk of this is that the image you get is always going to be 100% original to you, helping your content stand out.

Photosonic Interface

We found that the AI art generator delivered captivating results, even though it’s clear they are AI-generated at times. But this isn’t a huge issue, AI art tools are still relatively new, and there’s still a lot that can be improved with them.

Overall, we were pleasantly surprised by the excellent images produced by Photosonic.

Landing Page Generator

An effective landing page can make or break your online campaigns. Writesonic’s Landing Page Generator is designed to produce persuasive and engaging landing page copy tailored to your product and audience.

Writesonic Landing Page Writer

We found it particularly useful for creating landing pages on the fly, with minimal input. By feeding the system a few keywords and a brief description, it quickly generated content that was not only relevant but also conversion-focused.

Ad Copy Creation

In today’s digital age, advertising is everywhere, making it crucial to stand out. Writesonic’s Ad Copy Creation streamlines the process of crafting impactful ad content and is capable of generating engaging ads for a wide range of audiences.

Writesonic Ad Copy

During our testing, it consistently churned out copy that was catchy, concise, and compelling. For businesses running multiple ad campaigns or A/B testing, this feature can produce a variety of ad versions, enabling optimal audience engagement.

Blog Post Outliner

Content creators understand the value of a well-structured outline, and with Writesonic’s Blog Post Outliner, the brainstorming phase becomes more simplified and focused.

Writesonic Blog Outline

We provided topics to the Outliner, and we got detailed, organized outlines in return, complete with headers, sub-headers, and key points to cover.

This can be an indispensable tool for bloggers, journalists, or any writer looking to streamline their content planning process.

Advanced Language Models

Writesonic’s embrace of advanced language models, like GPT-4, sets it apart. When we experimented with this feature, the content produced was rich in context, depth, and fluency.

Writesonic GPT-4

It could easily be mistaken for human-written text, showcasing the tool’s prowess in understanding and generating intricate content. For users aiming to create longer, more in-depth articles, reports, or papers, these advanced models prove to be invaluable.

Personalized Content Tone

Every brand or writer has a unique voice, and capturing that essence is crucial. We found Writesonic’s ability to adjust the tone of the content was a standout feature for us, and it can even incorporate an existing brand tone.

Whether we wanted a formal report, a casual blog post, or a witty advertisement, the platform adapted remarkably. By specifying the desired tone, users can ensure their content consistently aligns with their brand or personal voice.

Product Description Generator

Navigating the e-commerce realm requires captivating product descriptions that not only inform but also persuade potential customers. The Product Description Generator in Writesonic stood out in its ability to craft descriptions that highlight the USPs of products with flair.

Writesonic Product Descriptions

We input basic product details and were met with descriptive content that was both engaging and persuasive, proving invaluable for online sellers aiming to boost conversion rates.

Content Rephraser and Enhancer

Originality and uniqueness are crucial in digital content, and Writesonic’s Content Rephraser and Enhancer is a tool that shines in this domain, making it easy to get multiple versions of a given text, as well as improved suggestions.

Writesonic Content Rephraser

When we fed its existing content, it meticulously reworked the material, offering fresh perspectives while retaining the original intent. This feature is a boon for those looking to refresh older content or ensure their writing remains distinct and plagiarism-free.

Email Campaign Writer

Crafting emails that resonate with readers and drive action is an art, and the Email Campaign Writer simplifies this process, making it easier than ever to write compelling, sales-focused emails for your audience.

Writesonic Email Copy

Our tests showed that, by providing a brief overview or intent of the email, the tool generates content that’s both attention-grabbing and action-oriented. For marketers aiming to optimize open and click-through rates, this feature offers a rapid, efficient solution.

SEO Content Optimizer

Writesonic’s SEO Content Optimizer is an excellent tool for ensuring your content appears at the very top of Google’s ranking algorithm. It works by integrating with SurferSEO, an SEO specialist tool that can audit work and suggest changes to improve visibility. With it, you can enter keywords of your choosing and ask Writesonic to implement them throughout your work.

Writesonic SEO Enhancer

When we used this tool, it offered insights into keyword placement, content structure, and meta descriptions, ensuring the content was primed for search engines. For digital marketers and bloggers keen on driving organic traffic, this feature is a game-changer.

Our Analysis of Writesonic’s Interface

Writesonic is primarily web-based, and any content you generate can be done from its user-friendly website.

You can use Chatsonic via the Android app, a feature that works really well, but there are no other apps for the actual content generation tool on any device.

This might seem like a big deal, but it isn’t really – most of the top AI writing tools are solely based on desktop web interfaces, and this is where you’ll be doing all of your writing.

There’s a clean look about Writesonic, and all of its powerful content-creation features can be found on the main dashboard, with quick links on the left side of the panel.

Writesonic Interface

You can access Audiosonic, Botsonic, and Chatsonic from the side panel, as well as other tools like brand voice, the Chrome extension, and much more. There’s  a tab for history, which shows you all the work you’ve done, bot conversations, or ideas generated through the platform, something you don’t get with some other top AI writing tools, such as Copy AI.

There’s also a useful tool that tells you how many words you’ve generated and how many you’ve got left on your plan, useful for those looking to manage their output.

Overall, Writesonic’s desktop app and Chrome extension make it easy to create cutting-edge content in a very user-friendly manner.

Sure, the features will take some getting used to, but everything is accessible write from your fingertips via the left panel on the main dashboard. In the future, it would be nice to see better device support for Android and iOS for those working on the go.

Writesonic vs Jasper and Other Writesonic Alternatives

If you’re interested in seeing how Writesonic compares to some of the other top AI writing tools on the market, then this is the section for you.

Here, we compare important aspects of the top tools, including the price, standout features, and more:

AI Content Provider Best Choice For Starting Price Top 3 Features Free Version
Writesonic GPT-4 Content $16/month 1. GPT-4
2. Text Summarizer
3. Article Referencing
Yes, but limited to

10k Words

CopyAI Assisting Copywriters $49/month 1. Chat by CopyAI
2. 25 Languages Supported
3. Workflow Templates
Yes
Rytr Smaller Content Creators $9/month 1. Rytr Chat
2. SEO Analyzer
3. Browser Extension
Yes
JasperAI Business Marketing $39/month 1. Sentance Rewriting
2. Tone of Voice
3. Plagiarism Checker
7-Day Free Trial
ShortlyAI Shortening Text $65/month 1. User Friendly
2. Paraphraser
3. Customized Output
Yes

If you want to read more, check out our full reviews of the top 10 AI writing tools for content generation.

Writesonic vs ChatGPT — How Do They Compare?

Writesonic is like a precise scalpel purpose-made for generating content with GPT-4. ChatGPT is better for research and it can generate content, but the default mode is more similar to a chainsaw. It can cut stuff, sure, but it won’t sculpt.

Writesonic and ChatGPT are two prominent names in the realm of AI-powered content generation, each bringing its unique strengths to the table. Though they both leverage advanced large language models, their applications and utilities contrast in fascinating ways.

Writesonic primarily caters to the content creation market and is built to produce articles, advertisements, landing pages, and other marketing-centric content.

On the other hand, ChatGPT’s forte lies in its conversational prowess – designed with human-like interactions in mind, it’s perfect for powering chatbots or interactive platforms where real-time engagement is paramount.

Writesonic provides a dedicated set of tools for content and copy, while ChatGPT has a broader scope and can handle an expansive array of queries, making it useful for everything from answering complex questions to engaging in casual dialogues.

However, when it comes to user experience, Writesonic takes a slight edge. With its commercial focus, the platform boasts an intuitive interface segmented for various content needs. ChatGPT, in contrast, usually offers a more streamlined interface that’s centered around conversations and written prompts.

Is ChatGPT More Affordable Than Writesonic?

Lastly, we move on to the financial differences, with Writesonic and ChatGPT both working on subscription models.

For Writesonic, your plan is tailored to the number of words you want to generate and how many users you require, whereas Chat-GPT can be free if you’re happy to use the GPT-3.5 output. You can upgrade to GPT-4 via the ChatGPT Plus plan, which costs $20/month.

Overall, the key differences are simple – Writesonic is a tool for generating cutting-edge copy using GPT-4 as its weapon, and it serves as the better content-creation tool. Whereas ChatGPT is better for aiding in research, although it can generate content, it isn’t a specialized tool for doing so and lacks key content-creating features like Templates.

Summary of What Other Writesonic Reviews Say

In our quest to offer a comprehensive perspective on Writesonic, we didn’t just rely on our own findings. We delved into feedback from actual users, scouring trusted platforms like Trustpilot, G2, and Reddit. Below is a summary of what these external Writesonic reviews reveal, providing a fair overview of the tool from a diverse group.

Writesonic Trustpilot Review

This user was particularly impressed with Writesonic, giving it one of its many 5-star reviews on the popular review site Trustpilot. One feature they were keen to share their thoughts on was the useful referencing tool, a feature we were also seriously impressed by. It works by citing all of the sources in chronological order for research-based articles, saving you a ton of time and effort later.

Writesonic Trustpilot Review 2Another recent user also gave 5 stars despite complaining the length of the free trial – but we can take this in a positive light. It would be useful to have a longer free trial, but 7-days are pretty common amongst AI writing tools. They also went on to praise the ability of the tool to write excellent content for a variety of different outputs, something we also were keen to point out.

Our Other AI Software Guides

If you’ve found value in this review, we believe you’ll appreciate our other AI software guides as well. We’ve dedicated countless hours to evaluating and understanding a wide range of AI tools, ensuring our readers have the insights they need to make informed decisions. Below is a list of our other AI reviews, with plenty more to come:

Why You Can Trust Our Review of Writesonic

When it comes to evaluating software like Writesonic, it’s imperative to dive deep and not just skim the surface. Our commitment to providing you with the most detailed and reliable insights is why we’ve not only researched Writesonic but tested it in real-world scenarios.

Our hands-on experience with Writesonic was thorough, and we actively incorporated it into our daily workflow. For instance, we trialed its content generation capabilities to create blog posts, advertisements, and email campaigns, among other tasks.

Our firsthand testing of Writesonic allowed us to gauge its strengths, pinpoint its shortcomings, and understand its nuances, ensuring a balanced and detailed overview of this AI writing tool.

To further bolster our evaluation, we understand the importance of comparing our experience with that of a broader user base, so we delved into user reviews on reputable platforms such as TrustPilot, Reddit, and G2. These platforms are treasure troves of user insights, and sifting through them helped us understand common trends, recurring praises, and any criticisms.

By combining the two, we are able to recognize similarities between our own hands-on experience and what real-life users were saying, which backs up most of the statements made throughout.

Plus, our expertise in the domain of AI software reviews isn’t confined to just Writesonic – we’ve also rigorously tested other leading AI writing tools, including the likes of JasperAI and CopyAI, as well as several similar platforms.

So, not only do we know what to look for when evaluating such software, but we’re also able to draw comparisons, identify standout features, and highlight areas where a tool might lag behind its competitors.

Getting Started With Writesonic — A Quick Guide

Navigating new software can sometimes feel daunting, but with Writesonic, our experience showed that it’s a relatively straightforward process.

Here’s a quick step-by-step guide to help you get started based on our firsthand experiences.

  1. Sign Up for an Account. In our experience, the sign-up process was simple and intuitive, you just navigate to the Writesonic website and click on the “Sign Up” button. Enter your basic info, including name, email address, and password. You’ll then receive a confirmation email. Click on the link inside, and you’re all set.
  2. Choose Your Plan. We found that exploring each plan’s features helped us pick the right one, and it’s pretty straightforward to choose between business or personal plans – whether you’re an individual content creator or a business, there’s likely a plan tailored for you.
  3. Familiarize Yourself with the Dashboard. Upon logging in for the first time, you’ll be taken to the main dashboard, where you can access all of Writesonic’s features. In our experience, it’s user-friendly and easy to navigate, with all of the features listed on the left side panel. Spend a few minutes exploring the different sections, tools, and settings available.
  4. Start Your First Project. Now comes the exciting part – to get started with your first piece of content, you can either use one of the dozens of templates at your disposal or use the Chatsonic feature to run your ideas through the AI conversational tool.
  5. Review and Refine. Once you’ve generated your content, it’s crucial to review it. We found that, like all AI tools, Writesonic can produce impressive results, but a human touch for refinement is sometimes necessary – you can also ask it to rewrite certain sections, improve areas, increase or decrease the length of text, and much more.
  6. Save and Export. After you’re satisfied, it’s time to save your work. Writesonic offers various exporting options. In our experience, it was easy to download our content in multiple formats or even share it directly to platforms like WordPress.

Writesonic AI Review Conclusion — Is it Worth Using in 2024?

After an in-depth examination of Writesonic’s capabilities and features, we believe that it stands out as a formidable player in the AI writing tool sector. Our hands-on experience, combined with feedback from reputable platforms such as TrustPilot, Reddit, and G2, underlines its efficiency in writing engaging content and providing a user-friendly experience.

In comparison with other AI tools, Writesonic offers a rich feature set complemented by excellent additional tools like Audiosonic, Botsonic, and Photosonic boosting an already excellent content-creating platform.

Its plans cater to a variety of needs and situations, from individual writers to businesses, ensuring adaptability and offering top value for money. Plus, as demonstrated by our step-by-step guide, Writesonic is incredibly easy to use, making it accessible even for those new to AI-driven content generation.

Writesonic AI Review FAQs

Writesonic vs ChatGPT: which is best?

How good is Writesonic?

What are the cons of Writesonic?

Is Writesonic safe to use?

Which is better, Jasper or Writesonic?

Can I use Writesonic for free?

What is the difference between Copy AI and Writesonic?

Is Writesonic good for SEO?

References

The post Our Complete Writesonic Review for 2024 — It’s Better Than ChatGPT appeared first on The Tech Report.

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An In-Depth Ooma Review — Everything You Need to Know in 2024 https://techreport.com/voip-services/ooma-review/ Tue, 10 Oct 2023 15:15:58 +0000 https://techreport.com/?page_id=3522002 Ooma VoIP Review

In today’s digitally connected world, choosing the right VoIP service is crucial for seamless communication, whether it’s for personal or professional use. This Ooma review aims to delve deep into...

The post An In-Depth Ooma Review — Everything You Need to Know in 2024 appeared first on The Tech Report.

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Ooma VoIP Review

In today’s digitally connected world, choosing the right VoIP service is crucial for seamless communication, whether it’s for personal or professional use. This Ooma review aims to delve deep into one such service that has been gaining traction among users seeking reliability and quality.

Ooma promises to offer an excellent VoIP experience, combining affordability with top-notch features that cater to both homes and businesses. Over the years, the company has bragged about its ease of use and crystal-clear call quality, but does it truly live up to these claims?

Our comprehensive Ooma VoIP review will dissect Ooma’s offerings, from setup to daily use, to give you an informed perspective before making your choice. If you’ve been on the fence about investing in this VoIP platform, read on to see if Ooma is the right fit for your business or individual needs.

What is Ooma and How Does Ooma Work?

Ooma is a popular VoIP provider renowned for its telecommunication services for both residential and business users. Initially, Ooma made waves in the market with one of the best VoIP services for Home, allowing users to make domestic calls for free after purchasing the initial hardware.

Over time, the company has diversified its portfolio, introducing business solutions, advanced features, and international calling plans, all the while maintaining a competitive edge in terms of pricing and quality.

The hallmark of Ooma’s service is its unique combination of hardware and software. While many VoIP services rely purely on software or mobile apps to connect users, Ooma provides a physical device – the Ooma Telo – that connects to a user’s internet router.

Ooma’s operation hinges on the conversion of voice data into digital packets, which are then transmitted over the Internet. When you place a call using Ooma, your voice is captured, converted into data packets, and sent over the internet to the desired destination.

If the recipient is on a traditional phone line, Ooma’s service will convert these digital packets back into an analog signal for the recipient’s phone. On the other hand, if both parties are using Ooma, the communication remains digital, often resulting in clearer sound quality.

We found that setting up Ooma is fairly straightforward, too. Once you acquire the Ooma Telo device, it’s simply a matter of connecting it to the internet router and to a traditional phone handset. After the initial setup process, which involves registering the device and choosing a phone number, the system is ready for use.

Who is Ooma Best For?

Ooma has tailored its services to appeal to a wide demographic, but there are particular sectors that can take advantage of the exceptional benefits of what Ooma offers. For homeowners, Ooma presents an exciting alternative to conventional landline services.

This makes sense, as many people are seeking ways to reduce monthly expenditures without compromising on the clarity and reliability of calls. The Ooma’s Telo device has become a favorite for these individuals, allowing them to make free domestic calls and eliminating the looming shadow of hefty phone bills.

On the business front, especially among small to medium enterprises, Ooma’s business suite is making significant inroads. Ooma Office ensures that businesses can have dependable communication channels without getting bogged down by intricate installations or inflated monthly charges.

With features like a virtual receptionist and conference bridges, it’s clear why many growing businesses are adopting Ooma as their primary communication tool. The rise of remote work has also seen a parallel increase in Ooma’s appeal.

In present times, we’ve witnessed a surge in professionals operating from diverse locations outside traditional office spaces. For them, Ooma’s crystal-clear call quality, complemented by features such as voicemail and call forwarding, acts as a bridge, ensuring they’re never out of touch with their teams or clients.

Furthermore, in an age where international communication is often a necessity, Ooma has made a name for itself with domestic calls, but it doesn’t fall short on the international front either. Offering competitive rates, it’s become a lifeline for those with families in distant lands or businesses with a global clientele.

Is Ooma Good? The Key Pros and Cons

Now for the all-important question – is Ooma any good? From our testing, we think so, and to back up these claims, we’ve listed some of the key pros, as well as some cons below:

Pros

  • Offers leading video conferencing features, ideal for businesses of all scale
  • Integrates with a host of third-party apps, like Amazon Alexa and Google Home
  • Incredibly user-friendly and can be set up in a matter of minutes
  • Features a good range of affordably priced plans to suit all needs
  • Fantastic 24/7 customer support team

Cons

  • Lacks detailed SMS features

How Much Does the Ooma Phone Service Cost?

Ooma has a good range of affordable plans for both business and residential use, making it an ideal choice for either. Below, we’ll run through each plan, including the key features, pricing, and other important aspects.

It’s worth noting that as of the time of writing, Ooma doesn’t offer any free trials, which we found to be a little disappointing, but it’s not uncommon for VoIP providers. However, you do get a useful 30-day money-back guarantee, which gives you ample time to decide whether they’re the right solution for you.

1. Ooma Telo (Residential Plan)

Ooma Telo offers users a home phone service with exceptional clarity, reliability, and an assortment of features like voicemail, caller ID, call-waiting, and 911 service. It’s designed with simplicity in mind, so you’ll be set up quickly.

After purchasing the Ooma Telo device, you’ll also enjoy a low monthly fee, primarily for taxes.

Ooma Basic Plan

With this service, you can opt for either the Basic plan or the Premier option, with the latter including features such as a Telemarketing Blocker, a free second number, Voicemail monitoring, and much more.

The main difference is the $9.99/month you have to pay for the service, whereas the basic plan is just a one-off purchase cost.

2. Ooma Office (Business Plan)

Ooma Office is tailored for small businesses, providing them with a professional phone system without the hefty price tag. Features include a virtual receptionist, extension dialing, call transfer, music on hold, and conference bridges.

This plan is designed to scale as your business grows, allowing you to add users or additional lines seamlessly, as and when you need them.

Ooma Business Plans

Within the business plans, there are three separate options to choose from. Each one increases the number of advanced features you get, for example, the Pro plan offers Video Conferences for up to 25 people, a feature that isn’t available on the Essentials plan.

On the flip side, you get Hot Desking and Video Conferencing for up to 100 participants on the Pro Plus plan, so it really depends on the size of your business.

3. Ooma Enterprise

For larger organizations, Ooma Enterprise offers a cloud-based unified communication solution. This includes call center features, advanced analytics, API integrations, and enhanced support, ensuring the business stays connected, efficient, and agile.

However, to get this plan, you have to reach out to the Ooma sales team and discuss your requirements. This can be quite useful, as it allows you to tailor a plan to your own business requirements, such as team size, necessary features, and so on.

Reviewing of Ooma Business’ Core Features

Now it’s time to take a closer look at the core features of Ooma and what makes it one of the top VoIP providers right now. In this section, we’ll evaluate important aspects like the call quality, ease of use, and other findings from our testing.

Crystal-Clear Call Quality and Advanced Voice Compression

Ooma’s impeccable call quality sets it apart from many other VoIP services we’ve come across. It ensures that conversations have minimal background noise and are devoid of distortions typically found in VoIP calls. Whether we were making local or international calls, the voice clarity remained consistent.

Overall, it’s evident that Ooma invests heavily in its infrastructure and uses advanced technology to prioritize call clarity. Such clear communication is invaluable, especially in professional settings where clarity and accuracy are paramount.

Another feature that genuinely impressed us with Ooma was its ability to maintain call quality even when the internet was at peak usage. Ooma’s advanced voice compression technology optimizes voice data to use less bandwidth, ensuring the call remains uninterrupted and clear.

We were really impressed and feel this demonstrates Ooma’s commitment to offering a seamless communication experience and understanding real-world scenarios where bandwidth can be a limiting factor.

HD Voice

HD Voice is where Ooma showcases its technical prowess. This broadens the audio frequency range of calls, capturing voice nuances that might go unnoticed in standard calls. Conversations feel richer and more lifelike, enhancing both personal and professional interactions.

For businesses that rely heavily on calls as their main form of communication, having a good setup is essential. We found that even on slower internet, Ooma was still giving crisp audio and even limited background noise for the optimal call setup.

Affordable International Calling

International calls have historically been a costly affair, but Ooma disrupts this narrative. The affordable rates offered are competitive, making it feasible for regular overseas calls. Below is a list of the current rate of international calls with Ooma for a select group of popular locations.

Ooma Internatiinal Call Rates

During our tests, not only was the connection stable, but we were also pleasantly surprised by the affordability of the entire experience.

This comes in handy for businesses that rely on a remote workforce, as it’s pretty common in today’s market to have teams spread across the globe – and Ooma, as one of the cheapest VoIP phone services, makes it easy to stay in touch with them with ease.

Advanced Security and Privacy

In an age where data privacy and security are of paramount importance, Ooma’s approach is reassuring. Each call is secure, backed by advanced encryption protocols that are in place. This commitment to user privacy and security ensures that personal and professional conversations remain confidential.

Some of the key security features of Ooma include:

  • Automatic Arm and Disarm, where your system automatically arms and disarms based on your GPS location
  • Remote 911, where you can call 911 from anywhere as if you were at home and automatically transmit your home address to emergency responders
  • Instant Alerts, where you can access real-time alerts on your mobile device to check the status of your home 24/7 from anywhere

Mobile Apps

Ooma’s forward-thinking approach is evident in its integration capabilities with smart home devices. Mobile apps, while not a necessity, add a layer of innovation and convenience to the Ooma ecosystem.

Being able to configure specific actions, like lights flashing for certain contacts, brings a fun and modern touch to traditional communication.

Ooma iOS App

We found the apps to be a true extension of the Ooma experience, not a dumbed-down version for mobile users. You can still access all the key features like Voicemail Monitoring and crystal-clear audio, so we were suitably impressed.

Virtual Receptionist

Arguably one of the most impactful features for businesses, Ooma Office’s virtual receptionist operates as an automated yet highly customizable front desk. Depending on the time of day or week, businesses can program the receptionist to provide different responses or menu options.

Ooma Virtual Receptionist

This ensures that callers always receive relevant information, whether that’s operation hours, current promotions, or the correct extension for their inquiries. It streamlines call handling and presents a professional image to callers, even if the business doesn’t have a dedicated human receptionist.

Extension Dialing and Overhead Paging

Internal communication is vastly streamlined with extension dialing. By assigning unique extensions to employees or departments, businesses can foster quicker connections without the hassles of dialing full numbers.

This setup reduces the time employees spend connecting with colleagues, enabling more efficient collaboration and potentially quicker resolution of customer inquiries.

In larger establishments or premises like warehouses and factories, instant communication is crucial. The overhead paging feature in Ooma Office allows businesses to broadcast announcements or alerts to all extensions, ensuring that critical information is promptly disseminated to all necessary parties.

Multi-Ring

With Ooma’s multi-ring feature, calls can be directed to ring simultaneously on different devices. For employees always on the move, this means their mobiles, office phones, or even home phones can ring at once, increasing the chances of picking up and reducing missed call rates.

It’s a blend of mobility and accessibility designed for the modern worker.

Ooma Multi Ring

Call Park and Transfer

Especially in busy office environments, there are times when calls must be briefly held or transferred. The Call Park and Retrieve feature allows a user to ‘park’ an active call and then retrieve it from any extension within the business.

It’s an invaluable tool for reception areas or when a caller needs to be connected with a specific department not immediately available. Beyond this, efficiently redirecting calls is a cornerstone of good customer service.

With Ooma Office, not only can calls be transferred internally to different extensions, but they can also be directed externally. Whether it’s connecting a client with a field representative or redirecting to a partner firm, the process is seamless, keeping disruptions to a minimum for the caller.

Music on Hold

A touch that often goes unnoticed until it’s absent, Music on Hold ensures callers aren’t met with eerie silence when waiting. Ooma Office allows businesses to customize this feature with music or promotional messages, turning wait times into potential branding or marketing moments.

It’s a subtle but effective way of enhancing customer experience.

Conference Bridge

Modern businesses often operate in dispersed settings, with stakeholders scattered geographically. Ooma Office’s Conference Bridge feature brings teams together, facilitating group discussions without the constraints of location. With clear voice quality and reliable connections, it’s a virtual boardroom at one’s fingertips.

Voicemail-to-Email Forwarding

In a digital age, immediate accessibility to messages isn’t just a convenience but often a necessity. When voicemails are automatically forwarded as audio attachments to email, it ensures that you can access, archive, and respond to them even when away from the office phone.

It’s a merging of traditional voice communication with modern digital workflows.

Ooma Voicemail-to-Email Forwarding

Call Logs and Reporting

Knowledge is power, and in business, understanding communication patterns can provide invaluable insights. Ooma Office’s detailed call logs and reporting tools give a clear picture of call volumes, durations, and patterns.

This data can guide staffing decisions, highlight peak call times, and even inform customer service strategies.

Ooma Call Logs

Ooma’s Interface and Compatibility

Ooma has a fleet of excellent apps for all major devices, including Android, iOS, Windows, and MacOS. This means you can use all the benefits of VoIP from anywhere in the world across all of your devices.

Its phone system is a hit among small and less tech-savvy business owners with its straightforward setup and customization. With the drop-down menu, business administrators can craft custom greetings, offer multilingual menu options, and switch between business and after-hours modes with the virtual receptionist.

The mobile apps for Ooma are essentially an extension of the already excellent web service, with the Android app, in particular, acting as a real asset to businesses. We were so impressed that we placed it top of the list of the best VoIP mobile apps on the market.

Ooma VoIP phone number service

Ooma Office Pro and Ooma Office Pro Plus also include a convenient desktop app so you can use your business phone system right from your computer. It’s a shame that none of the other plans offer this feature, as it would be incredibly convenient, but it shouldn’t be a major issue for users.

The complementary iOS and Android mobile apps, available with every Ooma business plan, maintain a consistent and familiar design akin to standard operating systems. This ensures even first-time users find it a breeze to navigate.

Both apps are essentially an extension of the Ooma desktop setup, and you’ll struggle to find any real differences between the two. Functions like making and receiving calls, transitioning between devices, blocking unwanted calls, and initiating automatic call recordings are both intuitive and swift.

Plus, features like auto-transcribed voicemails allow you to swiftly sift through messages and even play them at 1.5x or 2x speed for efficient and precise information gathering.

What Integrations Does Ooma Support?

Ooma, as a leading VoIP service provider, offers a ton of integrations to enhance the utility and versatility of its services. Through these, Ooma ensures that its platform can seamlessly fit into the existing workflows of businesses, thus enhancing efficiency and productivity.

Here’s a brief overview of the types of integrations that Ooma supports:

  • Customer Relationship Management (CRM): Ooma can integrate with the top CRM solutions, including Salesforce, and Zoho, amongst others, ensuring that sales and support teams can make calls directly from the software, log call data automatically, and maintain updated customer records.
  • Productivity Suites: This VoIP service also supports integration with popular productivity suites like Microsoft Office 365 or Google Workspace. Allowing you to sync your contacts, schedule calls directly from your calendar apps, or even access voicemails and call recordings from cloud storage seamlessly.
  • APIs for Custom Integrations: Advanced users or businesses with specific needs can leverage Ooma’s Application Programming Interfaces (APIs). These allow businesses to create custom integrations, ensuring Ooma fits perfectly within any unique ecosystem or workflow.

Sadly, there’s no Zapier support on offer with Ooma like you’d find with other top VoIP providers such as Vonage, so you’re a little limited in what you can link with. However, CRMs are the main integration you’ll need with VoIP software, as they enable you to seamlessly connect with your customer database.

How Does Ooma Compare to Other Top VoIPs?

If you’re still unsure of whether Ooma is the best VoIP service for your own individual or business needs, then you can compare it to the other top providers by using our useful table below:

 Provider Top Choice For Starting Price (monthly) Free Version Countries Supported  Standout Features
Ooma  Residential Use Essentials $19.95
Pro $24.95
Pro Plus $29.95
No  60+ – Video Conferencing
– Amazon Alexa Integration
– Ring Groups
Vonage  Large Businesses Mobile $19.99
Premium $29.99
Advanced $39.99
No  60+ – Video Conferencing
– Amazon Alexa Integration
– Ring Groups
Nextiva US or Canadian Businesses Basic $20
Pro $25
Enterprise $30
No US & Canada only – Integrates With a Host of Third-party Apps
– Unlimited SMS and calling
– HD Quality Calls
Phone.com Small Businesses Basic $11.99
Plus $15.99
Pro $23.99
No 56+ – No Need to Buy New Hardware
– Usage-based Pricing
– Upgrade Your Plan at Any Time
Ring Central Scaling Businesses Essential $19.99
Standard $27.99
Premium $34.99
Ultimate $49.99
No 50+ – AI-Recommended Strategies
– Integration With Other Apps
– Video Conferences

Whilst we believe Ooma is best suited for Residential use, it still functions very well as a business VoIP provider, making it an excellent all-around option. It doesn’t handle large businesses as well as Vonage, but it can still be used across businesses of most sizes.

Check out our full detailed overview for more information on the top VoIP providers on the market.

How Good is Ooma? What Do Other Ooma Reviews Say?

Ooma is a well-respected name within the VoIP world, and this extends beyond our own hands-on testing of the service. Popular review sites, such as Trustpilot, G2, and even Reddit, are all full of positive reviews on Ooma and the services they offer.

In this section, we’re going to explore some of the common reviews from actual everyday users of Ooma by looking at the overall take of the service on these sites, so you can see if it lives up to the hype and get an alternative perspective.

Ooma Review 1

This user, and many others, have had Ooma by their side for many years and heaped praise on the provider for its reliability, in particular, they praised the fact that Ooma works with pretty much any phone you have, so you can keep your current setup, which saves vital costs.

Ooma Review 2

Other users backed up our claims that whilst Ooma may not be as suitable for large businesses as providers like Vonage, it really shows its expertise as one of the leading VoIP services for small business use.

They also praised the low-cost plans and ease of use, two essential components of any good VoIP provider. However, the expertise of the customer support team was brought into the equation.

Our Other VoIP Guides

If you’re enjoying this review of Ooma or simply want to keep updated with all things VoIP, then check out our other articles by clicking any of the links below. We frequently review all the leading providers, give detailed insights, and offer various guides on how to get the best out of your VoIP system:

Why You Can Trust Our Ooma VoIP Review

If you’re wondering about the reliability of our review on Ooma, let’s walk you through our comprehensive evaluation process. We’ve undertaken rigorous hands-on testing of this VoIP service, testing the quality of its calls and the international coverage on offer.

We also explored other vital features like Voicemail Monitoring or Video Conferencing. This in-depth testing allows us to pinpoint Ooma’s strengths and identify areas that might benefit from enhancements.

Furthermore, we delved deep into its interface to gauge its user-friendliness and determine if it’s intuitive for beginners and experienced VoIP users. Plus, in addition to our firsthand experience, we sought out insights from other Ooma users.

We analyzed user reviews on esteemed platforms like G2, Trustpilot, and Reddit, incorporating the feedback of verified Ooma customers into our review so that you can have a different angle.

Our expertise doesn’t stop with Ooma, either. We’ve reviewed many of the top VoIP providers like Vonage, Phone.com, and RingCentral. This experience equips us with a robust benchmark, ensuring a fair comparison of Ooma against its competitors in the market.

How to Use Ooma — A Step-By-Step Guide

Setting up a VoIP system like Ooma can seem daunting at first, but in our experience, it’s a straightforward process. Let’s delve into a step-by-step guide to ensure a smooth setup and optimal use of the Ooma VoIP system:

Step 1 – Unboxing and Understanding Components

Upon receiving your Ooma package, the first thing you’ll want to do is unbox and familiarize yourself with the components. In our experience, identifying and understanding each part in advance makes the setup smoother.

Ooma Setup Step 1

Step 2 – Connecting to the Internet

Before connecting your Ooma device, ensure you have a stable internet connection:

  1. Connect one end of the provided Ethernet cable to the “INTERNET” port on the Ooma device
  2. Connect the other end to an open port on your modem or router

Ooma Setup Step 2

Step 3 – Connecting Your Phone

Once connected to the internet:

  1. Plug your regular home phone into the “PHONE” port on the Ooma device using a phone cable
  2. Power up the Ooma device by connecting the provided AC adapter

Step 4 – Activation

Before using the service, you’ll need to activate your Ooma device. Here’s what you need to do:

  1. Go to the Ooma activation webpage on a computer or mobile device
  2. Enter the activation code provided in your Ooma package
  3. Follow the on-screen instructions. In our experience, this is the step where you’ll set up your account details and choose your service plan

Ooma Setup Step 3

Step 5 – Customizing Your Settings

Once activated, log in to the Ooma dashboard. Here you can set up features like voicemail, call forwarding, and specific ring patterns. As we went over in our Ooma review, in our experience, the dashboard is intuitive, making customization easy and efficient.

Step 6 – Testing

It’s essential to test your setup to ensure everything works correctly. So make sure to do the following:

  1. Make an outgoing call to a friend or family member
  2. Ask someone to call you to check incoming calls
  3. Test voicemail by leaving a message

Step 7 – Exploring Advanced Features

Ooma offers a plethora of advanced features, including:

  1. Virtual Receptionist, which helps you manage incoming calls efficiently
  2. Ooma Mobile App to make or receive calls on the go. In our experience, this app is especially beneficial for business users
  3. Integration with Smart Devices like Amazon Echo or smart security systems

Ooma Review Conclusion — Is Ooma Worth It?

Ooma is, without a doubt, one of the top VoIP providers on the market for both residential and business usage, making it a great all-around option. It also has some cutting-edge features that make it stand out in a crowded market space like excellent video conferencing features for up to 100 users in the Office plans.

It even offers Ring Groups and a useful Virtual Receptionist. It doesn’t work as well for large businesses as Vonage does, but its versatility as a residential and small business VoIP service makes it a standout option for a large number of people.

It also offers reasonably priced plans, and as we discovered in our testing, it has a lot of advanced features that make it stand out, so you’re getting seriously competitive value for money.

Ooma App Review FAQs

Is Ooma really free?

How reliable is Ooma?

What are the disadvantages of Ooma?

Does Ooma have a monthly fee?

Does Ooma work internationally?

Is Ooma long distance free?

Do all phones work with Ooma?

References

The post An In-Depth Ooma Review — Everything You Need to Know in 2024 appeared first on The Tech Report.

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An In-Depth Copy AI Review From Our Testing of it in 2024 https://techreport.com/artificial-intelligence/copy-ai-review/ Fri, 06 Oct 2023 11:08:35 +0000 https://techreport.com/?page_id=3521302 Copy AI Review

In today’s digital world, where writing and content creation play a vital role, Copy AI has become an eye-catching tool that’s captured the attention of many users. In this Copy.ai...

The post An In-Depth Copy AI Review From Our Testing of it in 2024 appeared first on The Tech Report.

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Copy AI Review

In today’s digital world, where writing and content creation play a vital role, Copy AI has become an eye-catching tool that’s captured the attention of many users. In this Copy.ai review, we explore whether Copy AI is as good as it claims for aiding with writing.

In this Copy AI review, we’ll take a closer look at its features, how well it performs, and how easy it is to use. Our aim is to help you decide if Copy AI is the right tool to improve your writing, how it fairs in real-world scenarios, and whether it can actually replace a dedicated copywriter.

What is Copy.ai?

Copy.ai is an innovative platform that’s made significant strides in the field of AI-powered content creation. At its core, Copy.ai is a writing assistant that leverages the power of artificial intelligence to generate high-quality written content.

Whether you need help drafting a blog post, crafting marketing copy, or even composing emails, Copy.ai is designed to streamline the writing process, making it quicker and more efficient.

Copy.ai offers a range of pre-trained models that specialize in different writing styles and tones, making it adaptable to various content needs. Whether you’re aiming for a professional, informative tone or a playful, conversational one, Copy.ai can tailor its output to meet your requirements.

It’s a versatile tool that can be a valuable asset to writers, marketers, and businesses looking to enhance their content creation process and reduce hours spent on doing so.

How Does Copy AI Work?

Copy AI is basically your writing helper, it can assist copywriters in writing compelling content, or it can take care of it for you – it’s a highly versatile tool. Plus, as Copy AI runs on GPT-4, the results that you get are incredibly accurate and more human-like than ever.

You start by giving it a short sentence, telling it what you want to write about – the clever part is that Copy AI doesn’t just take your words at face value, it thinks about how to write what you want in the best way, whether you want your writing to sound professional or casual.

After that, Copy AI gets to work and creates the text for you – it’s like having a super-fast writer who understands your needs and can scan the depths of the internet for valuable content. You can then review the text and make changes, or if it’s not exactly how you want it, you can ask Copy AI to try again.

Once the writing is up to scratch, you can save it and use it for different things. Maybe you need a blog post on a certain topic, or you want to send a marketing email to your customers. With Copy AI, you can get these tasks done quickly and easily without spending hours staring at a blank screen.

Who Uses Copy.ai?

Copy AI can be used by a huge range of users, from blog writers to social media teams and even customer service departments – the tool’s versatility is what makes it truly stand out. Below is a list of some of the common use cases:

  • Business owners can save time and maintain a professional online presence by generating website content, promotional materials, and business communications.
  • SEO specialists can generate optimized meta descriptions, title tags, and content for websites, helping improve search engine rankings and organic traffic.
  • Content creators can rely on Copy AI for generating content ideas, outlines, and even complete drafts to overcome writer’s block and boost productivity.
  • E-commerce businesses can enhance their product listings and online sales by using Copy AI to produce product descriptions, reviews, and SEO-friendly content.
  • Email marketers can improve email engagement and conversions by leveraging Copy AI to compose attention-grabbing subject lines, personalized email content, and follow-up sequences.
  • Social media managers can create engaging and shareable content, including captions, hashtags, and posts, to increase their online presence and engagement
  • Public Relations specialists can employ Copy AI to draft press releases, media pitches, and communication materials to enhance their outreach efforts.
  • Customer support teams can enhance efficiency by using Copy AI to draft responses to common customer inquiries while ensuring consistency in communication.
  • Content marketing professionals can streamline content production processes by employing Copy AI to create blog posts, articles, and other content that aligns with their marketing strategies.
  • Non-native English speakers looking to improve their English writing skills can benefit from Copy AI’s assistance in generating correct and fluent text.

The list is truly endless, and any industry or professional could really benefit from AI writing tools like CopyAI – so if you don’t see your profession or industry listed, don’t panic – we just couldn’t include every single 0ne.

Copy AI’s Pros and Cons

Despite taking the AI writing industry by storm, Copy AI does come with a few downsides, but thankfully, it’s mostly all good, which is why it ranks so highly on our list of the best AI writing tools for content generation. Below, we’ve listed some of the key pros and cons of Copy AI:

Pros

  • Has dozens of premade templates for blogs, research papers, and social media
  • Can understand your brand’s tone of voice for consistency
  • Incredibly user-friendly, great for those new to AI writing tools
  • Offers a free plan with up to 2,000 words
  • Valuable e-commerce features like a Product Description writer

Cons

  • We found that short-form content isn’t as detailed as longer-form content
  • There’s no history tab for previously asked questions and set tasks

How Much is Copy.ai?

Copy AI has a solid lineup of plans that are suitable for small content creators, right the way up to large corporations looking to introduce innovative AI to their everyday workflows. We’re also delighted to see a free plan on offer, even if it’s limited to just one user and up to 2,000 words.

This is still a great way for smaller businesses to trial the service before signing up for a more expensive premium plan, so we’re a big fan of this, as other popular AI writing tools like Jasper.ai only offer a free trial. But with that being said, the paid plans can be quite expensive, depending on the size of your team:

CopyAI Pricing

Regardless of which paid plan you choose, you’ll have access to unlimited projects, chat, Infobase entries, brand voices, 95+ languages, and a plethora of detailed templates for getting started. The only real difference is the number of seats you get with each plan, which ranges from 1 all the way up to 200.

Plans can be paid for either monthly or annually, too, with the latter bringing about the largest savings if you’re happy to spend a large chunk at once. It would be nice to have a slightly longer money-back guarantee (10 days) for some of the larger plans, but that’s our only real complaint.

There’s even an option for a custom Enterprise plan, should the 200-seat Scale plan not be sufficient. We like seeing this option, as you can often strike a better and more personalized deal for your business.

Also, as mentioned before, all plans are protected by a 10-day money-back guarantee should you not be happy with the service.

A Review of Copy.ai’s Features With Examples

Now it’s time to take a closer inspection of all the features that make Copy AI stand out as one of the leading AI writing tools.

Creating Content

Copy AI is primarily known for its content generation, and this is the area where it dominates. Users can input a brief prompt or topic, and Copy AI can then produce coherent and contextually relevant text in a matter of seconds.

This feature is particularly valuable for those who need to create content quickly and efficiently, saving them a significant amount of time.

CopyAI Dashboard

After playing around with multiple outputs, such as social posts and even the odd LinkedIn Bio, we were seriously impressed with the level of quality we got. As CopyAI runs on GPT-4, the results were always likely to be accurate, but it truly blew us away with just how well-written it was.

The templates make it super-quick and easy to write for different mediums, too, with 90+ ranging from blogs to essays and even Amazon Product Descriptions – there’s something for every industry.

Chat by Copy AI

Chat by Copy AI is an excellent tool for creating content and getting detailed answers as quickly as possible. You can use it to discuss content ideas and ask it to write intros, headlines, and briefs. It’s a great way to improve creativity by saying your ideas out loud.

Chat by CopyAI

Plus, it uses real-time data to ensure that its reports are accurate and up to date, and can even cite all the sources it uses to gather its information. This is especially useful for researchers looking for sources to add credibility to their work and saves a huge amount of time.

It includes over 40 prompts that it can recognize, and you can ask it to generate keywords, titles, social media captions, and much more. You can have some real fun with this tool, so we’d recommend doing what we did, asking it a series of questions, and then outlining the content you want.

Multiple Writing Styles

One of the standout features of Copy AI is its adaptability to various writing styles and tones. It offers a selection of pre-trained models, each specializing in distinct styles, such as formal, casual, persuasive, or informative.

Users can choose the style that best fits their content needs, ensuring that the generated text resonates with their target audience.

Copy AI Writing Styles

These can take a bit of getting used to, and we found that playing around with different tones did deliver unique results each time, even if they were a little over the top. We preferred sticking to one, usually casual, as it seems to give the best results.

That said, if you’re unhappy with any of the content that’s been generated, you can always ask Copy AI to paraphrase the text or simply make your own basic edits here and there.

Content Enhancement

Beyond content generation, Copy AI serves as an effective tool for content enhancement, you can paste existing text into the platform, and Copy AI provides suggestions to improve clarity, readability, and overall quality.

It acts as an automated proofreading and editing assistant, helping users refine their content further. This is easy to use, especially if you’re familiar with tools like Grammarly, although we often found that to be hit-and-miss.

However, with Copy AI, the suggestions were well thought out, and it could even change to past and present tense throughout to ensure consistency, something writers often forget or struggle to stay within.

We found that the odd misplaced word may creep in sometimes, but overall, the punctuation checker and readability tools really help improve the writing.

Content Ideas and Outlines

Copy AI can also assist users in the initial stages of content creation by offering ideas and outlines. This is particularly beneficial for writers who require structure and inspiration to start their writing projects. It can generate content ideas and even provide a framework to follow, making writer’s block a thing of the past.

Copy AI Content Idea Generator

We loved this feature, as it truly does pave the way for much easier writing. We gave it a few basic terms and topics and asked it to create an outline and some ideas, and yet again, it didn’t disappoint.

It was able to come up with mostly accurate suggestions for what we could write about, and it even fills in the bulk of it for you. There were a couple of slightly farfetched suggestions, but overall, they were excellent.

E-commerce Descriptions

For e-commerce businesses, Copy AI can generate product descriptions, something that can be quite tedious and time-consuming. It excels in producing persuasive and informative content for product listings to enhance the online shopping experience and potentially boost sales.

CopyAI E-commerce

We created a load of fake products and put Copy AI to the test, and yet again, we were suitably impressed. It adapts incredibly well to both long and short-form content and saved previous man time by generating catchy descriptions with very little actual human input.

Some of the suggestions were a little unstable, but as it can generate so many at such high speeds, this is unlikely to cause any issues.

Social Media Content

Crafting engaging and shareable content for social media platforms becomes effortless with Copy AI. It generates social media posts, captions, and relevant hashtags tailored to specific platforms, ensuring that content resonates with the target audience and drives engagement.

CopyAI Social Media

It’s even able to look at what’s trending or what competitors are doing to generate popular hashtags, saving endless amounts of time doing research. Like with the product descriptions, the shorter copy can sometimes generate some bad ideas, but most of the time, we were satisfied with the results.

Email Copywriting

Email marketers can use Copy AI to enhance their email campaigns with compelling subject lines, personalized email content, and follow-up sequences, improving email engagement and driving higher conversion rates. You can even ask it to include discount links and CTA’s, for example, to enhance your marketing strategy.

Copy AI Email

We really like that you can make emails way more personalized with Copy AI, which improves your customer engagements and campaigns. It’s also able to adapt from sales-based emails to general updates pretty well.

Marketing Content

Marketing professionals can rely on Copy AI to create persuasive marketing copy. It assists in crafting impactful content for advertisements, landing pages, and promotional materials, ensuring that marketing messages effectively resonate with your audience.

Copy AI Marketing Content

All we needed to do was give Copy AI a few keywords, hints, and prompts, and from there, it managed to write different sections for landing pages and web copy. The results were impressive. We’re confident that with this, you’ll have more time to spend on other tasks.

That said, we did have to edit a few sections to add a bit more of a personal touch, but this can be overcome with better prompts and input at the start.

Blog Post Ideas and Introductions

Bloggers can use Copy AI to brainstorm blog post ideas and craft attention-grabbing introductions. This helps bloggers captivate readers right from the start, enhancing the overall effectiveness of their content.

Copy AI Blog Post Wizard

For small content creators, this is so valuable, as they may not have any real copywriting experience themselves. As always, getting started with blogs can be a real nuisance, but with a little input from the user, Copy AI is able to write much of it for you.

From compelling introductions to complete paragraphs by analyzing previous copy and even helpful conclusions to wrap your masterpiece up.

Language Translation

Copy AI also helps with language translations, making it a valuable tool for individuals and businesses looking to communicate with a global audience. It can rapidly translate content from one language to another, ensuring accuracy and clarity.

Copy AI Languages

At the time of writing, Copy AI supports over 90 languages, meaning virtually every audience can be reached. This opens up not only new audiences but additional revenue streams that were out of reach before.

We aren’t experts in 90 languages, so we can’t possibly say how accurate it is for all of them – but we analyzed feedback from other users on reputable sites and can confirm that the overall take on this feature is overwhelmingly positive.

A/B Testing Variations

Marketers can optimize their campaigns with Copy AI by creating A/B testing variations of their marketing efforts. This allows you to compare different content versions to determine which performs better, ultimately optimizing your marketing strategies.

This is essential for ensuring copy is engaging for your audience, and marketing and SEO teams will absolutely adore this feature. You can ask CopyAI to generate multiple texts and then trial team both to see which performs better, which will essentially lead to better conversions and more customers.

Custom Templates

You can create and save custom templates for frequently used content types and take advantage of over 90 different templates for a whole range of outputs already made by Copy AI. This streamlines content creation maintains consistency in style and tone, and ensures that branding guidelines are followed.

Copy AI Templates

There are countless examples to pick from, like cover letters, bios, product descriptions, and follow-up emails. If you have content that needs writing, the chances are that Copy AI will have a template you can use.

This takes a lot of stress out of writing, as all that needs to be done from there is to add the text, which of course, it can also do for you.

Copy AI’s Interface

Copy AI’s interface is incredibly user-friendly, and your journey to making high-quality content couldn’t be any easier. From the main dashboard, you can easily generate new content via one of the many templates or use the blank document to start entirely from scratch.

Copy AI Interface

The most difficult part is learning how it works, but this can be easily achieved with some man-hours. As there’s so much to explore, you’ll need to find the best way to use the software, but once you do, it’ll be a valuable asset.

We found that trialing a few basic tasks, playing around with the tone of voice settings and document mode, was the best way to get started, but this is likely to be different for everyone.

Overall, everything is conveniently accessible from the main dashboard, so once you’re up and running there, creating content is an absolute breeze, and no matter how tech-savvy you are, you’ll be able to get started right away.

Is Copy.ai Plagiarism Free?

Copy AI serves as a valuable content generation tool, but it raises the question of whether the content it produces is free from plagiarism — the act of using someone else’s work or ideas without proper credit — which is a significant ethical and legal concern in writing and content creation.

The write tool functions by using a vast database of text from the internet and other sources to generate content in response to user prompts. While its primary aim is to create original content based on user input, there’s always a chance that the generated text may have some similarities to existing content online.

These similarities are generally unintended and are more likely to occur when users provide prompts that closely resemble existing material. Basically, to avoid issues with plagiarism, you need to give detailed guidance to Copy AI rather than simple generic prompts.

You can also use the paraphrasing tool to reword the copy it generates, ensuring the maximum levels of unique content, or run anything produced through a reputable plagiarism checker like Copyscape.

Overall, this is pretty common with most AI writing tools, but we are a little disappointed that there’s no built-in plagiarism checker, so you’ll have to use an external tool and then CopyAI’s paraphraser.

Copy AI vs Jasper in 2024

Both Copy AI and Jasper.ai are top AI copywriting tools, but they also both excel in different areas, and depending on your usage, one may be better than the other – so let’s explore this in more detail.

For starters, Copy AI is better suited for short-form content, we’re talking 1,200 words or less. This includes popular outputs like blogs, email copy, and social media posts. It does this by offering over 90 unique templates, making it quick and efficient in producing a huge range of content.

On the other hand, Jasper.ai excels at long-form copy, around 1,200+ words, and this includes research papers, short stories, reviews, and so on. This is due to the built-in plagiarism checker and the more detailed SEO features, making it a top choice for marketing teams, SEO departments, and copywriters.

In terms of unique offerings, Jasper does include an AI art generator, Jasper Chat, and Jasper Recipes, all of which are excellent for taking your content to the next level. CopyAI does have its own chat feature, where you can ask it to summarize YouTube videos, for example, but currently, it lacks an AI art generator.

The other more noticeable difference is the price — with Copy AI offering cheaper plans — so it’s ideal for those on a budget. But if money isn’t an issue, then you may find Jasper to be a better all-around choice. For more information on JasperAI, check out our full testing results in our JasperAI review.

How Does Copy AI Fare Against Other AI Writers?

Now it’s time to see how Copy AI fares against some of the other top AI writing tools on the market. To do this, we’ve compiled a useful table comparing the key features, starting price, and more:

AI Writing Software Ideal For Starting Price Standout Features Free Version
CopyAI Aiding Copywriters $36/month  1. Bullet Point to Paragraph
2. Copy AI Chat
3. Freestyle Mode
Yes
JasperAI Business Marketing $39/month 1. Jasper Recipes
2. Jasper Art
3. Jasper Chat
Yes
Rytr Small Creators $9/month 1. Brief Generator
2. SERP Analysis
3. 30 Languages
Yes
Writesonic GPT-4 Content $16/month 1. GPT-4
2. Text Summarizer
3. Article Referencing
Yes, 10k Words
ShortlyAI Summarizing Text $65/month 1. Text Summarizer
2. Ease of use
3. Output Length
Yes

Is Copy.ai Legit? Summarizing Other Copy AI Reviews

Now that you’ve heard what we think based on our various tests and trialing of Copy AI, it’s time to take a closer look at its overall reputation. What do other CopyAI reviews say? Below are some of the latest verified reviews across the web on Copy AI:

CopyAI Review 1

This review, as well as countless others on sites like Reddit and TrustPilot, was quick to praise the quality of the content being produced by Copy AI, something that’s reflected in our testing of the tool as well.

However, as we found as well, there are some reports of content lacking a little bit of human touch, but we found that this can often be rectified by better prompts and commands.

Copy AI Review 2In this review, the user praises how user-friendly the interface is for Copy AI, making it a great choice for beginners to AI writing tools. This is echoed in multiple other reviews, and we agree – straight from the start, it’s easy to start generating content thanks to the plethora of templates on offer.

Overall, Copy AI boasts easily one of the highest reputations in the AI content generator market — of course, more are flooding the market, but there’s no doubt that Copy.ai will remain a key player.

Other Artificial Intelligence Guides

If you’re enjoying this article and want to discover more fascinating reviews, tips, and insights into all things AI, then why not check out our other guides by clicking any of the links below?

Why You Can Trust Our Review of Copy.ai

In case you still have any doubts, we’re going to run through why you can trust our review on Copy.ai, starting with our hands-on testing. To ensure that we can recommend certain features or how something works, we vigorously tested Copy AI by using it to write blogs, reviews, social media captions, and much more.

Through these tests, we’re able to suggest the strong areas and where there’s room for improvement. We also spend time exploring the interface to determine how user-friendly the software is and whether it’s suitable for beginners.

That aside, to add to our own experience with it, we also looked in-depth at user reviews on trusted sources like G2, Trustpilot, and Reddit. We’ve included some of our findings in this review from verified customers of Copy AI.

We’ve tested many leading AI tools, including Jasper AI, Rytr, and Writesonic, which gives us a good foundation of what to look for in our testing to easily compare Copy AI against others we’ve tested.

How to Use Copy AI — A Step-By-Step Guide

If you’re ready to get started with Copy.ai, here’s a quick guide:

Step 1 – Visit the Copy AI Website and Create an Account

To start with, head over to the official Copy AI website using your preferred web browser. Then, click on the ‘Sign Up’ or ‘Get Started’ button located at the top right corner of the page:

Copy AI Website

Now, enter the required details, such as your email address and a secure password, and then verify your email when prompted.

Step 2 – Choose a Plan

Once registered, you’ll be presented with all the different subscription plans. Copy AI offers a free plan, monthly subscriptions, and annual plans, so pick which one suits you best:

Copy AI Choose Plan

Enter your card details and complete the payment process.

Step 3 – Navigating the Dashboard

After logging in, you’ll be directed to the dashboard – from here, you can familiarize yourself with the layout and features and do some exploring. You’ll see the various content writing options, templates, and much more.

CopyAI Dashboard

Step 4 – Start Writing Content

Now, select the type of content you want to create (e.g., blog post, product description, email, etc.). A prompt will appear, asking for input or a brief description of what you want – alternatively, you can use on of the 90+ templates or Copy AI Chat to get started.

Copy AI Write Content

Adjust any parameters like the tone of voice you require or style.

Step 5 – Generate and Review

Click the ‘Generate’ button to start writing content. Within a few seconds, Copy AI will produce content based on your input. Review the generated content, and make any changes you require, or you can click the ‘Rewrite’ option to get a different version.

Step 6 – Export or Save

Once you’re satisfied with the content, you can either copy it directly or use any of the export options available, like downloading as a .txt or .docx file.

You’ll want to run through the content creation process a few more times to become an expert, but when you feel comfortable enough, you can have some fun and start exploring various templates, Copy AI chat, and other advanced features.

Copy.ai Review Conclusion — Is Copy AI Worth It?

Copy AI has cemented its position in the AI writing tool world by offering a streamlined, user-friendly interface coupled with an impressive range of content generation templates. It also now runs on the updated GPT-4 platform, meaning the results you get are more accurate than ever.

It can be a vital asset in the locker for a range of different industries that are looking to improve their written output, and with prices starting from just $36/month, it offers greater value for money for any business.

FAQ

Will AI replace copywriters?

How to earn money from Copy AI?

Is Copy AI better than ChatGPT?

Is Copy AI good for long-form content?

Can Copy AI be plagiarized?

Can Google detect Copy AI?

Is Copy AI safe to use?

References

The post An In-Depth Copy AI Review From Our Testing of it in 2024 appeared first on The Tech Report.

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The Best VPN for Streaming Lag-Free: Top 10 Compared for 2024 https://techreport.com/vpn/best-vpn-for-streaming/ Thu, 05 Oct 2023 13:57:04 +0000 https://techreport.com/?page_id=3519548 Best Streaming VPN

In today’s digital age, the way we watch our favorite shows and movies has evolved dramatically, and streaming services rule the entertainment world. However, streaming services have geo-restrictions, which can...

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Best Streaming VPN

In today’s digital age, the way we watch our favorite shows and movies has evolved dramatically, and streaming services rule the entertainment world. However, streaming services have geo-restrictions, which can prevent you from accessing certain content – that’s where the best streaming VPNs come in.

By using a VPN, you can access geo-restricted content anywhere in the world without any restrictions. So, with the rise of streaming platforms and more people shifting their focus to online video streaming platforms like Netflix, Amazon Prime Video, and Hulu – you won’t be left behind.

In this article, we’ll take a look at the top 10 best streaming VPNs, including ExpressVPN, NordVPN, and IvacyVPN. We’ll be exploring each provider’s key features, such as pricing, security, server speed, and more so that you can find the best one for your needs and budget.

The Top 10 Best Streaming VPNs Ranked

Below is a brief look at our rankings, with ExpressVPN coming out on top thanks to the unrivaled performance offered by the company’s own Lightway protocol. Here’s why each one has made it on our list:

  1. ExpressVPN – Overall, the best VPN for streaming thanks to the lightning-quick speeds provided by the Lightway protocol – welcome to lag-free streaming
  2. NordVPN – An excellent streaming VPN that can bypass most geo-locked content and has servers optimized for streaming
  3. Ivacy – A budget-friendly VPN that can unblock Netflix and other streaming services for just $1/month
  4. PureVPN – Strong VPN for streaming as it has servers in over 140 countries worldwide, perfect for unlocking multiple Netflix libraries
  5. Surfshark VPN A Popular VPN for streaming on multiple devices as it offers unlimited simultaneous connections
  6. AtlasVPN – The best free VPN for streaming, as it features a generous freemium plan with a 5GB data allowance
  7. CyberGhost VPN – Robust VPN with a huge server count and low-cost plans for streaming
  8. ProtonVPN – Ultra-safe VPN that features Secure Core technology that routes your connection through multiple servers in privacy-friendly countries
  9. Norton VPNA user-friendly option for streaming that has easy-to-use apps and excellent customer support options, ideal for beginners
  10. StrongVPN – Reliable VPN with a useful ‘best available server’ feature that selects the fastest server for you, ideal for streaming without lag

What Makes a Good Streaming VPN?

A good streaming VPN is essential for users who want to access geo-restricted content, protect their online privacy, and maintain a fast and stable internet connection while streaming. Here are some of the key features that make a VPN suitable for streaming:

  • Server Network: A streaming VPN should have a wide and diverse server network. The more server locations a VPN offers, the better the chances of bypassing geo-restrictions. It should also have servers in the specific region where you want to access content.
  • Speed and Performance: Streaming requires a fast and stable internet connection. Look for a VPN with high-speed servers and low latency to ensure uninterrupted streaming without buffering or quality drops. Some VPNs offer specialized servers optimized for streaming, too.
  • Unblocking Capabilities: The VPN should consistently and reliably bypass geo-restrictions imposed by streaming services. Popular streaming platforms like Netflix, Hulu, Amazon Prime Video, and Disney+ frequently update their methods of blocking, so a good VPN must keep up with these changes.
  • Streaming Device Compatibility: Ensure that the VPN is compatible with the devices you use for streaming, such as Windows, macOS, Android, iOS, smart TVs, gaming consoles, and routers. It should also allow multiple simultaneous connections to cover all your devices.
  • No Bandwidth Limitations: Look for a VPN that doesn’t impose data caps or bandwidth restrictions. Streaming often consumes a significant amount of data, and you don’t want your VPN to limit your usage. It’s best to avoid free VPNs, as they often have tiny data and bandwidth allowances.
  • Privacy and Security: While streaming, your privacy and security remain important. Choose a VPN with strong encryption, a no-logs policy, and additional security features like a kill switch, DNS leak protection, and malware blocking to keep your data safe.
  • Ease of Use: The VPN should have user-friendly apps and a straightforward setup process. This is especially important for less tech-savvy users who might be using these services for the first time.
  • Affordability: While price is a consideration, it’s important not to compromise on quality for a cheap VPN. Many premium VPNs offer competitive pricing, especially if you subscribe for a longer period, such as a two-year plan.
  • Global Coverage: If you want to access content from a variety of regions, ensure the VPN has servers in those specific locations. This is essential for unblocking region-locked content – the more countries and servers, the better.

How Do Streaming VPNs Avoid Being Blocked By Streaming Services?

Streaming VPNs employ a combination of tactics to avoid being detected and blocked by streaming services. One common technique is server rotation, where VPNs frequently add new IP addresses and change server locations to stay one step ahead of streaming service detection.

This strategy makes it more challenging for streaming platforms to identify and subsequently block VPN server IP addresses. This cat-and-mouse game between VPN providers and streaming platforms is ongoing, and VPNs continuously adapt to improve their detection methods.

Another method is obfuscation or camouflage features, which some of the top providers offer, such as NordVPN. These features hide VPN traffic by making it appear like your typical HTTPS traffic. By disguising VPN traffic, it becomes difficult for streaming services to detect VPN usage through deep packet inspection.

We should add that it isn’t illegal to use a VPN to stream content – but it may go against usage guidelines.

Comparing Top Services for the Best VPN Streaming Experience

Below is a useful table that takes a brief look at some of the key metrics, like average speeds, the number of servers, and the cheapest plan. This should make it easy to get a surface-level view of each provider:

VPN Cheapest Plan Streaming Services Unblocked Average Speeds Server Count Server Locations Money-back Guarantee
ExpressVPN $6.67/month Netflix, Hulu, BBC iPlayer, Disney+, and more 480Mbps 3,000+ 94+ 30-day
NordVPN $3.79/month Netflix, Hulu, BBC iPlayer, Disney+, and more 320Mbps 5,800+ 60+ 30-day
IvacyVPN $3.29/month Netflix, BBC iPlayer, Youtube 320Mbps 5,700+ 68+ 30-day
PureVPN $2.08/month Netflix, BBC iPlayer, YouTube 210Mbps 6,500+ 78+ 31-day
Surfshark $2.30/month Netflix, Disney+, Amazon Prime Video, and more 210Mbps 3,200+ 100+ 30-day
AtlasVPN $2.19/month Netflix, BBC iPlayer, YouTube 460Mbps 1,000+ 42+ 45-day
CyberGhost $4.99/month Netflix, Hulu, BBC iPlayer, Disney+ 400Mbps 9,400+ 91+ 30-day
ProtonVPN $3.66/month Netflix, Hulu, BBC iPlayer, Disney+, and more 100Mbps 2,970+ 69+ 30-day
Norton VPN $19.99/year ($1.66/month) BBC iPlayer, Max, and Amazon Prime Video 200Mbps 1,000+ 29+ 45-day
StrongVPN $3.99/month Hulu, HBO Max, Disney+, and Amazon Prime Video 150Mbps 2,000+ 75+ 30-day

Reviews of the Best VPNs for Streaming

It’s now time to take a closer look at the top VPNs for streaming, starting with our top pick, ExpressVPN. In these reviews, we’ll explore each provider’s suitability for streaming by reviewing their server count, overall speed, security, and other important aspects we found in our testing.

1. ExpressVPN – Overall, the Best VPN for Streaming

ExpressVPN Logo

ExpressVPN has earned the top spot for its remarkable performance in unblocking geo-restricted content across various streaming platforms. There’s no doubt that at the heart of ExpressVPN’s appeal is its impressive server network.

With thousands of servers in over 94 countries, it provides unparalleled access to global streaming content. This vast network ensures that whether you’re interested in US Netflix, BBC iPlayer, or Hulu, you can easily bypass geo-restrictions and unlock the content you desire.

Another of the key factors that set ExpressVPN apart from the competition is its blazing-fast speeds. Streaming in high-definition without buffering or lag is a breeze, thanks to ExpressVPN’s optimized streaming servers and the company’s Lightway protocol.

ExpressVPN app

Cheapest Plan Streaming Services Unblocked Average Speed Server Count Server Location Money-Back Guarantee
$6.67/month Netflix, Hulu, BBC iPlayer, Disney+, and more 480Mbps 3,000+ 94+ 30-day

However, ExpressVPN isn’t just about speed and server quantity, it’s also a trailblazer in the security and privacy department. It employs AES-256-bit encryption, which is considered military-grade, safeguarding your data from potential snoopers.

The VPN also adheres to a strict no-logs policy, assuring users that their online activities remain private, and to add an extra layer of security, ExpressVPN offers a kill switch feature in case your VPN connection drops unexpectedly. This will immediately sever your internet connection, preventing any data leakage.

This feature is especially important for users who want to maintain their anonymity while streaming, and as we discussed in our full ExpressVPN review, we found no issues when this was put to the test.

We also found that ExpressVPN offers user-friendly apps for all devices, whether you’re on Windows, macOS, Android, or iOS, the interface is intuitive and easy to navigate, making it an ideal choice for both VPN novices and experienced users who want a hassle-free streaming experience.

Plus, you’ll be able to enjoy ExpressVPN on all of your devices, as it allows for five simultaneous connections, meaning you can secure multiple devices under a single subscription. Although this isn’t the best in the industry, it offers great value for money — all things considered.

Pricing

While ExpressVPN’s performance is unquestionably top-tier, it’s worth noting that this excellence comes at a premium price. Compared to some VPNs on the market, it’s expensive. However, for those who demand the best streaming experience with uncompromising security and privacy, ExpressVPN is worth every cent.

Additionally, ExpressVPN offers a 30-day money-back guarantee, so you can test the service risk-free. There’s no free trial, which is a little disappointing, but that money-back guarantee should give you peace of mind.

ExpressVPN Pricing

Pros

  • Super-fast performance thanks to the Lightway protocol
  • Excellent security measures, including AES-256 encryption and a Kill Switch
  • User-friendly apps for all devices and support routers
  • 30-day money-back guarantee on all plans
  • The average speeds also make it a top gaming VPN

Cons

  • A little on the expensive side, and no free trial

NordVPN - top corporate vpn

NordVPN secures the second spot with its robust server network and excellent streaming capabilities. It offers impressive speeds through the Nordlynx protocol, water-tight security in the form of a kill switch and obfuscation, and dedicated servers for streaming.

All this ensures uninterrupted access to your favorite shows and movies. One of NordVPN’s standout features is its vast server network, as it currently has servers in over 60 countries, providing a wide range of options for accessing content from around the world.

The network is designed to easily unblock popular streaming platforms, including Netflix, Amazon Prime Video, and Hulu. To assist this, NordVPN’s SmartPlay technology automatically connects you to the most suitable server for streaming, ensuring a seamless experience.

You also get lightning-fast connection speeds through the Nordlynx protocol, which is optimized for speed and performance, and worked superbly when we tested it for our in-depth NordVPN review. This means you can binge all your favorite movies and shows in glorious HD without the fear of annoying lag or buffering.

NordVPN Amazon Fire TV VPN

Cheapest Plan Streaming Services Unblocked Average Speed Server Count Server Location Money-Back Guarantee
$3.79/month Netflix, Hulu, BBC iPlayer, Disney+, and more 320Mbps 5800+ 60 30-day

Beyond its endless streaming capabilities, NordVPN places a firm emphasis on your security. It employs the industry-leading XChaCha20 encryption, which ensures that your data remains protected, even when using unsecured public Wi-Fi networks.

Plus, NordVPN adheres to a strict no-logs policy, which means your online activities aren’t recorded or monitored by your ISP or the Government. You can also the useful double VPN option to route your internet traffic through two separate servers, adding an extra layer of encryption and anonymity.

While this might not be necessary for streaming, it can be a valuable asset for users who prioritize online privacy. Plus, there’s even an automatic kill switch to safeguard your connection in the event that it’s disrupted. We found that all of this not only makes Nord a top choice for streaming but also a top torrenting VPN.

Finally, NordVPN allows for up to six simultaneous connections, meaning you can secure multiple devices with a single subscription. This flexibility is excellent for households or individuals who want to protect or stream from various devices, from laptops and smartphones to smart TVs and gaming consoles.

Pricing

NordVPN offers great value for money, especially if you opt for some of their 2-year plans. You also get options for monthly or annual subscriptions, all of which include a 30-day money-back guarantee.

NordVPN Pricing

 

 

 

Pros

  • Great server speeds provided by the Nordlynx protocol
  • Incredibly user-friendly, perfect for VPN newbies
  • Solid, independently audited security features
  • Offers a huge range of servers scattered across the world

Cons

  • Weaker performance on iOS devices

3. Ivacy – A Top-Tier Budget-Friendly Streaming VPN

Ivacy Logo

Ivacy is another top streaming VPN, famed for its budget-friendly pricing and key suite of features. While it may not boast the same brand recognition as some competitors, its cost-effectiveness makes it an attractive option for users seeking a reliable VPN for streaming.

For starters, despite the price, the service offers specialized servers optimized for streaming, ensuring that you can access content from a wide range of sources. This is backed up by some pretty impressive speeds, thanks to the inclusion of Wireguard support.

While it might not consistently reach the lightning-fast speeds of ExpressVPN, it does offer reliable and stable connections for watching your favorite movies and shows, as we tested in-depth for our full IvacyVPN review.

Plus, for those who want the option to customize their VPN experience, Ivacy VPN offers split tunneling that allows you to choose which apps or websites go through the VPN tunnel and which ones use your regular internet connection.

Ivacy Dashboard

Cheapest Plan Streaming Services Unblocked Average Speed Server Count Server Location Money-Back Guarantee
$3.29/month Netflix, BBC iPlayer, Youtube 320Mbps 5700+ 68 30-day

This adds a level of versatility that can be valuable for streaming content while maintaining a local connection for other activities like local news and weather. Beyond this, as with all top VPNs, Ivacy VPN also includes a kill switch feature that protects you if your connections fail.

You also get military-grade AES-256 encryption, so you can rest assured knowing your streaming is safe and secure. But perhaps the standout area where Ivacy truly shines is with the user experience – its apps are easy to install and use on various platforms, including Windows, macOS, Android, and iOS.

Another point in Ivacy VPN’s favor is the ability to connect up to ten devices simultaneously with a single subscription. This generous allowance is particularly beneficial for families or individuals with multiple devices — and offers incredible value for money, considering the pricing.

But while Ivacy VPN offers an excellent streaming experience and robust security, it doesn’t have the same extensive server network as some other premium VPNs. However, this doesn’t significantly impact its ability to unblock streaming content, and for most, the servers provided are absolutely fine.

Pricing

The biggest selling point of all is the price, and if you sign up for a whopping 5-year plan, you’ll pay just $1/month. However, features like a Dedicated IP address and Port forwarding are only accessible as paid add-ons, so this can creep the price up a little.

Ivacy Pricing

But with such low-cost plans and a useful 30-day money-back guarantee, there’s certainly a lot to like about Ivacy.

Pros

  • Unblocks a good range of streaming services, including Netflix and BBC iPlayer
  • Incredibly affordable plans, including a $1/month 5-year option
  • Strong speeds thanks to the WireGuard protocol

Cons

  • No app for Linux users
  • Based in the privacy-restrictive Singapore

4. PureVPN – Top Streaming VPN with Global Coverage

PureVPN Logo

PureVPN is a top streaming VPN that offers a rich feature set, extensive server network, and dependable streaming performance. It boasts a huge range of servers in countries all over the world, making it a great option for streaming content.

With servers in over 140 countries, it provides a wide range of options for accessing streaming content from around the world. This global presence is essential for those seeking content from different regions or countries, like the huge Netflix library in Japan or the US.

In terms of performance, streaming speed is a crucial factor, and as we covered in our PureVPN review, it doesn’t disappoint here. While it may not consistently match the fastest VPNs like NordVPN in terms of speed, it offers a stable and dependable connection for streaming, thanks to the Wireguard protocol.

PureVPN Dashboard

Cheapest Plan Streaming Services Unblocked Average Speed Server Count Server Location Money-Back Guarantee
$2.08/month Netflix, BBC iPlayer, YouTube 210Mbps 6500+ 78 31-day

You also get a good range of security features to further boost your streaming experience, for example, it offers a split tunneling feature, allowing you to choose which apps or websites go through the VPN tunnel and which ones use your regular internet connection.

Alongside this, PureVPN employs AES-256-bit encryption, which is the gold standard for data protection, as well as adhering to a strict no-logs policy, assuring users that their online activities aren’t recorded. Plus, you even get a useful built-in ad-blocker.

This not only enhances your streaming experience but also protects you from potentially malicious advertisements that could compromise your security. But while PureVPN is undoubtedly feature-rich, it’s worth noting that it may not consistently unblock all streaming platforms, as some users have reported.

Although, it’s also worth mentioning that we didn’t experience any difficulties in our experience with the VPN. On a side note, PureVPN also allows for up to ten simultaneous connections, making it an excellent choice for households or individuals with multiple devices.

Pricing

You can get your hands on all of this for just $2.08/month, making PureVPN one of the cheapest streaming VPNs. There’s no free trial or plan, but you can take advantage of the 31-day money-back guarantee for peace of mind.

PureVPN Pricing

Pros

  • Great speeds thanks to WireGuard
  • Budget-friendly plans to start from just $2.08/per month
  • A generous 31-day money-back guarantee
  • Includes a password manager add-on for extra streaming security

Cons

  • Can be a bit iffy unlocking some geo-restricted content

5. Surfshark – Best for Streaming on Unlimited Devices

Surfshark Logo

Surfshark is one of the biggest and most well-known VPN providers, famed for its excellent speed and security, both of which make it an excellent VPN for streaming. It also has a great selection of servers and robust security measures to keep you safe and secure when browsing.

First and foremost, SurfsharkVPN boasts an extensive network of servers all around the world. With over 3,200 servers in 100+ countries, it can easily bypass geo-restrictions imposed by streaming platforms like Netflix, Max, and Disney+.

In fact, as we explored in our Surfshark VPN review, there’s very little in terms of streaming services that this VPN can’t unlock. But one serious stand out of SurfsharkVPN is its unlimited simultaneous connections – a real rarity in the VPN space, you can cover unlimited devices with one subscription.

Surfshark Dashboard

Cheapest Plan Streaming Services Unblocked Average Speed Server Count Server Location Money-Back Guarantee
$2.30/month Netflix, Disney+, Amazon Prime Video, and more 310Mbps 3200+ 100 31-day

This is a game-changer for families and even businesses. Furthermore, SurfsharkVPN has dedicated apps for all major platforms, including Windows, macOS, Android, and iOS. The user-friendly interface ensures a hassle-free setup process, and even those new to VPNs will find it intuitive.

There’s also a browser extension that we really liked, which makes streaming via Chrome or Firefox a breeze. In terms of security, Surfshark doesn’t cut corners and uses the industry-standard AES-256 encryption to keep your data secure from prying eyes.

Plus, its strict no-logs policy ensures that your online activities remain confidential from your ISP or other potential snoopers. Coupled with a built-in ad blocker and malware scanner, Surfshark ensures a safe and enjoyable streaming experience for all.

For those seeking even more privacy and anonymity, there’s even a MultiHop feature, which routes your connection through multiple servers in different locations. If you just want secure streaming, you may want to leave this off, as it can affect streaming speeds.

Pricing

Surfshark is one of the best cheap VPNs on the market, with prices starting from as little as $2.30/month. That, combined with the 7-day free trial on Android, iOS, and macOS, or the 30-day money-back guarantee, makes Surfshark an excellent, budget-friendly choice.

Surfshark Pricing

Pros

  • Unlimited simultaneous connections, so you can stream on all your devices
  • Has a wide range of streaming-optimized servers around the world
  • Unblocks most streaming platforms, including Netflix, Amazon Prime Video, Hulu, and more

Cons

  • No split tunneling on iOS devices could be an issue for some

6. AtlasVPN – The Best ‘Freemium’ VPN for Streaming

AtlasVPN Logo

AtlasVPN is another top streaming VPN, as it can effortlessly unblock a host of streaming services, such as Netflix, Disney+, Hulu, and plenty more, with ease. It manages to do so with one of the smallest fleets of servers, too, which is even more impressive.

With it, you’ll get robust security and a few extra quirks that make it truly shine. Although it may not have the largest server network, it boasts a substantial presence in key locations worldwide in over 30 countries.

As with most, our team of experts has done a full test and review of AtlasVPN, where we found it effectively sidesteps geo-restrictions, granting users access to an array of global content libraries. Whether you’re a Netflix enthusiast, a Hulu fan, or a BBC iPlayer devotee, AtlasVPN can unlock them all.

AtlasVPN Dashboard

Cheapest Plan Streaming Services Unblocked Average Speed Server Count Server Location Money-Back Guarantee
$2.19/month Netflix, BBC iPlayer, YouTube 260Mbps 1000+ 42 45-day

One of AtlasVPN’s standout features is its compatibility. It supports major platforms like Windows, macOS, Android, and iOS, making it accessible to users regardless of their preferred operating system. It can also be set up on routers, which means you can cover all the devices in your household with ease.

In terms of speed, AtlasVPN runs on the WireGuard protocol, and in testing, it scores strongly. You’ll be able to stream your favorite shows and movies in crystal-clear HD without any of that annoying buffering or slow load times.

Plus, it employs robust AES-256 encryption to safeguard your data from potential threats as well as adhering to a strict no-logs policy. Alongside this, you’ll find an integrated kill switch, a must-have for streaming, which adds an extra layer of security by disconnecting your internet if the VPN connection is interrupted.

For those who seek additional privacy features, AtlasVPN even offers a secure and private browsing mode called SafeBrowse. This blocks ads, trackers, and malicious websites, further enhancing your online safety.

Pricing

We’re thrilled to see a free plan on offer at last, with AtlasVPN leading the way here. Sure, it may only offer 5GB of data, so it isn’t ideal for streaming, but it’s great to test the service to see if you like it.

AtlasVPN Pricing

That aside, paid plans start from just $2.05/month, which represents excellent value for money, and places it on the more affordable list of streaming VPNs.

Pros

  • Offers a great free plan with up to 5GB/month
  • Includes unlimited simultaneous connections with one subscription
  • Unblocks most streaming sites like Netflix, Disney+, and Max

Cons

  • Not compatible with any routers
  • Has a small fleet of servers

7. CyberGhost VPN – Offers a Huge Fleet of Servers for Streaming

CyberGhost Logo

CyberGhost offers an affordable and reliable solution for those looking to stream and unblock a world of new content. It provides strong security measures, respectable overall speeds, and an astounding 9,600+ servers in 94 countries.

This makes it easily one of the most comprehensive VPNs, offering a vast selection of various IP addresses for streaming your favorite content from anywhere. This is undoubtedly CyberGhost’s largest asset, allowing it to bypass geo-restrictions with ease.

Whether you’re craving access to Netflix libraries from different regions, BBC iPlayer exclusives, or anything, CyberGhost ensures you can enjoy it all. Plus, as you’d expect, it also places a strong emphasis on the user experience, which is evident in its user-friendly apps and wide device compatibility.

CyberGhost Mac App

Cheapest Plan Streaming Services Unblocked Average Speed Server Count Server Location Money-Back Guarantee
$2.19/month Netflix, Hulu, BBC iPlayer, Disney+ 400Mbps 9400+ 91 45-day

It supports major platforms like Windows, macOS, Android, and iOS, meaning you can enjoy it on all of your devices. Once you’re set-up, the next thing to think about is the performance you’ll be getting. Thankfully, CyberGhost takes this issue seriously and offers high-speed servers optimized for streaming in HD.

In terms of security and privacy, you’ll be pleased to note that CyberGhost doesn’t cut corners. It uses AES-256 encryption to protect your data from prying eyes, and its strict no-logs policy guarantees the confidentiality of your online activities; plus, for further security, it includes an automatic kill switch.

CyberGhost also goes the extra mile by offering a dedicated streaming profile feature, which optimizes your connection for streaming, prioritizing speed and stability and making it a breeze to access your favorite content.

Pricing

CyberGhost offers an incredibly generous 45-day money-back guarantee, allowing users plenty of time to test its streaming features risk-free. It’s also one of the cheapest providers out there, with prices from as little as $2.19/month.

Cyberghost VPN pricing

Pros

  • Offers one of the largest server fleets out of all VPNs
  • Unblocks all of the major streaming services like Netflix, Hulu, and BBC iPlayer
  • Whopping 45-day money-back guarantee on all plans
  • Has low-cost options from just $2.19/month

Cons

  • A few users reported slow speeds after the initial connection

8. ProtonVPN – Ultra-Secure VPN for Streaming

Proton VPN

ProtonVPN, while it’s primarily recognized for its water-tight security features, has also proven itself as a strong contender in the realm of streaming — despite having a relatively small server fleet, especially when compared with CyberGhost.

We found that it can still unblock a wide range of streaming services and provide decent speeds for watching content, but one of the most distinctive features of ProtonVPN is its commitment to privacy and security.

This should come as no shock, as it’s developed by the creators of ProtonMail, known for its focus on privacy, and this ethos extends to the VPN. It uses AES-256 encryption to safeguard your data, and like most top VPNs, it adheres to a strict no-logs policy.

ProtonVPN Dashboard

Cheapest Plan Streaming Services Unblocked Average Speed Server Count Server Location Money-Back Guarantee
$4.99/month Netflix, Hulu, BBC iPlayer, Disney+, and more 100Mbps 2970+ 69 30-day

Plus, while ProtonVPN’s server network may not be as extensive as some, it does still offer servers in over 60 countries. This is more than enough for users to bypass geo-restrictions and access content from a variety of regions, including popular streaming platforms like Netflix, Hulu, and Amazon Prime Video.

You’ll be able to watch these streaming services on ProtonVPNs user-friendly apps for major platforms, including Windows, macOS, Android, and iOS – there’s even support for a range of routers, Chromebooks, and streaming sticks.

In terms of speed, ProtonVPN provides consistent and reliable performance for streaming, and you’ll be able to watch content in HD without too many issues. Sure, it doesn’t reach the dizzying heights of ExpressVPN, but there’s enough under the hood for a pleasant streaming experience.

One final noteworthy feature we think deserves a mention is ProtonVPN’s Secure Core technology, which routes your connection through multiple servers in privacy-friendly countries before reaching your desired destination server for ultimate anonymity when streaming.

Pricing

In terms of pricing, we’re thrilled to see a free plan on offer from ProtonVPN. With it, you can access a solid 2900+ servers across 65+ countries, stream content without any speed restrictions, and much more.

ProtonVPN's pricing

Should you crave all server options to watch more of your favorite content without any limitations, you can always upgrade to a paid monthly, annual, or 2-year plan, all of which are covered by a 30-day money-back guarantee.

Pros

  • Offers a fantastic free plan for basic streaming needs
  • Unblocks a load of streaming sites like Netflix, Hulu, Disney+, and more
  • Incredibly user-friendly, suitable for VPN beginners

Cons

  • Paid plans are pretty expensive

9. Norton VPN – User-Friendly Streaming VPN

Norton Family Logo

Norton VPN stands as a well-established name known for its strong reputation in cybersecurity — and while it may be synonymous with antivirus software, its VPN service has quietly become a reliable companion for streamers.

It does this by offering a robust server network spanning over 30 countries, enabling you to bypass geo-restrictions imposed by streaming platforms — quite consistently, might we add.

One of Norton VPN’s distinctive features is its integration with Norton’s suite of cybersecurity tools, which ensures that you not only have access to streaming content but also benefit from enhanced security for peace of mind that your online activities are in safe hands.

Norton VPN

Cheapest Plan Streaming Services Unblocked Average Speed Server Count Server Location Money-Back Guarantee
$19.99/year ($1.66/month) BBC iPlayer, Max, and Amazon Prime Video 200Mbps 1000+ 29 60-day

The user-friendliness of Norton VPN is evident in its intuitive apps, available on major platforms such as Windows, macOS, Android, and iOS. Even those new to VPNs will find it straightforward. In fact, it even offers a one-click connection, making it convenient for streamers looking for a hassle-free experience.

Also, unlike some VPNs that may cause noticeable slowdowns, Norton VPN surprisingly maintains stable and fast connections, which is crucial for uninterrupted streaming, especially for HD content. Again, it doesn’t boast the same speeds as ExpressVPN or NordVPN, but there’s enough here to be happy about.

But one area where Norton truly shines is with its 24/7 customer service, with its dedicated team on hand at all times. We found that you can contact them via live chat through the app, on the phone, or through an email ticket system. This is a huge plus for anyone new to VPNs.

Pricing

Norton has a clever and slightly different approach to their plans, as you can select between 1, 5, and 10 devices covered. You only get the option to pay yearly, but the first year is at a reduced rate, making it very good value for money.

Norton Secure VPN pricing

 

Alongside this, there’s a huge 60-day money-back guarantee, so you have 2 months to try the service before committing further to a long-term plan.

Pros

  • Comes with a huge 60-day money-back guarantee
  • Unblocks a good range of streaming websites like Netflix and Max
  • Fantastic customer service team on hand 24/7
  • From the makers of one of the best antivirus solutions

Cons

  • Smaller server fleet than most providers on this list
  • Renewal prices can be pretty expensive

10. StrongVPN – Good Choice for Beginners

StrongVPN Logo

StrongVPN is a less familiar name in the online security world, but it’s a pretty solid streaming VPN for a number of reasons. Despite having the smallest server network, it does unblock a few streaming services and offers decent speeds for streaming all your favorite shows.

It has servers strategically positioned in over 60 cities across 40 countries. This small but reliable coverage ensures that getting around geo-restrictions is pretty routine, whether you’re yearning for exclusive Netflix shows or international sporting events.

You also get a very user-friendly interface across all of the StrongVPN apps, which includes all the usual suspects, as well as some bonus extras like Smart TVs, Windows Phones, Roku, and Chromecast. You can practically stream from any device with StrongVPN.

strongvpn interface

Cheapest Plan Streaming Services Unblocked Average Speed Server Count Server Location Money-Back Guarantee
$3.97/month Hulu, HBO Max, Disney+, and Amazon Prime Video 150Mbps 2000+ 75 30-day

In terms of speed, StrongVPN has some solid speeds for streaming, so tackling any HD content on those newly unlocked libraries won’t be much of an issue. Again, it won’t compete with the top providers on this list, but as it uses the Wireguard protocol, you’ll be able to enjoy a lag-free experience.

This is backed up by excellent privacy and security, both of which are paramount for StrongVPN. You’ll find the usual AES-256 encryption to protect your data from potential threats, a strict no-logs policy, and a kill switch to protect you should your connection drop at any point.

Finally, one notable feature that sets StrongVPN apart from the rest is its “Best Available Location” setting. This feature analyzes server locations and recommends the optimal one for your connection, helping you make the most of your streaming experience.

Pricing

StrongVPN has one of the simpler pricing structures, with the choice of a monthly or annual option, with the latter bringing forth the best savings. Both of these are protected by a 30-day money-back guarantee.

StrongVPN Pricing

It’s not the cheapest VPN around, and the fact that it has fewer servers and features than other providers on this list, like NordPVN, is why it finds itself in 10th place.

Pros

  • Unblocks most streaming services, such as Max, Hulu, and BBC iPlayer
  • Useful ‘best available location’ feature for finding the best server for you
  • Straightforward interface, ideal for VPN newbies

Cons

  • More expensive than the top providers but offers fewer features
  • Has a small network of servers

Can I Use a Free VPN to Stream Online

While it’s possible to use a free VPN to stream online, there are several important considerations and limitations to keep in mind, for example, they’re likely to have tiny data caps that’ll make streaming a whole movie near impossible. Below are some of the other risks of using a free VPN:

  • Limited Servers – Free VPNs typically offer a limited number of servers and locations. This often results in slower speeds and may not provide access to the streaming content you desire. Popular streaming services often block known IP addresses associated with free VPN servers.
  • Speed and Bandwidth Restrictions – Many free VPNs impose speed and bandwidth limitations. Streaming requires a stable and fast connection, so these restrictions can lead to buffering and a poor streaming experience.
  • Data Caps – Free VPNs often have data caps, which means you can only use a limited amount of data each month. This isn’t ideal for streaming, which consumes a significant amount of data, so you may quickly exceed these limits.
  • Inconsistent Performance – Free VPNs may experience downtime or unreliable performance due to overcrowded servers, which can disrupt your streaming sessions.
  • Security Risks – Some may not prioritize user security and privacy. In fact, it’s not unheard of for free VPNs to log your online activities, display ads, or even sell your data to third parties. This compromises your privacy and isn’t worth the risk.
  • No Guarantees: Free VPNs rarely guarantee access to specific streaming platforms. Services like Netflix, Hulu, and Amazon Prime Video frequently update their detection methods to block VPN traffic, and free VPNs often can’t bypass these measures.

So, instead of using a free VPN that comes with all the risks listed above, we’d recommend you try a premium provider like ExpressVPN. They have a vast range of servers that are proven to unlock the major streaming services, and they’re backed up by lightning-fast connection speeds for lag-free streaming.

Do VPNs Affect Your Speeds?

VPNs can indeed affect your internet speeds, as when you connect to a VPN server, your internet traffic gets encrypted and routed through that server. This process introduces some latency and can reduce your overall connection speed.

However, one critical factor is the physical distance between your location and the VPN server, and connecting to a server that’s far away can result in slower speeds due to the increased time it takes for data to travel back and forth.

Additionally, the server’s load plays a role; if a server is crowded with users, it can slow down your connection as it juggles multiple data streams simultaneously. This is, unfortunately, common with free VPNs that only offer a handful of servers.

The choice of VPN protocol matters as well, as some protocols, such as WireGuard, prioritize speed and have minimal impact on your connection, while more secure protocols like OpenVPN might slow down your internet due to the encryption process.

That said, your original internet speed also plays a role, as a faster baseline connection may make the VPN-induced slowdown less noticeable.

How We Tested the Best Streaming VPNs

To ensure we only select the very best streaming VPNs, we put each provider through a series of tests. These include testing their unlocking capabilities, checking server speeds, and other important aspects. Below is the full list of criteria:

  • Streaming Services – We used Netflix, BBC iPlayer, YouTube, Hulu, and other popular streaming services to assess each VPN’s streaming abilities. This provides a fair indication of how a service operates when unblocking several platforms and ensures you won’t run into any hiccups along the way.
  • Speed – The second most important aspect of streaming VPNs is speed, and the performance speed must be super-fast and reliable for streaming, especially at UHD and 4K resolutions. We looked for speed retention results that were above 70% of the initial speed without VPN connections.
  • Extra Features – We also look at any bonus features that can improve the overall streaming experience, such as SmartDNS, which helps you set up a VPN on a Smart TV or various other devices. Other features include split tunneling, obfuscation, streaming-optimized servers, and many others.
  • Network Scale – It’s very important to have a wide range of servers all over the world, as this increases the amount of content you’ll have at your fingertips. We ensured that each provider has servers in different continents, countries, and cities so that you can get the best streaming experience.
  • Price – Paying more money for a VPN doesn’t automatically mean you’re getting the best service, likewise, opting for the cheapest doesn’t mean it’ll be bad. To help, we compare each VPN’s feature-to-price ratio to ensure you’re getting good value for money.

Our Other VPN Guides

If you’re still not entirely sure which VPN provider is the best for you, our team of VPN wizards have crafted several useful guides on the best VPNs. Here are our most popular guides that we recommend checking out:

How to Use a Streaming VPN: A Quick Guide

Hopefully, you’ve now decided which streaming VPN is best suited for your needs, but maybe you need a little help with getting started. Fear not, we’ve compiled a short guide on how to use your streaming VPN below, using ExpressVPN as an example (it works the same for pretty much all VPNs).

Step 1 – Download and Install

The first step is to head over to the ExpressVPN website. Now, navigate to the ‘Download VPN’ tab, and then select your device from the drop-down list. Next, locate the file in your File Explorer and launch the installation wizard.

ExpressVPN Device List

Step 2 – Pick Your Plan

Now that you’ve downloaded and installed ExpressVPN, it’s time to pick a plan and create your account. To do so, click the ‘Get ExpressVPN’ button in the center of the screen. Now, you should be greeted with the choice of 3 plans, monthly, 6-month, and yearly. Select the plan you want and then follow the next steps on screen.

ExpressVPN – List of Plans

Step 3 – Create an Account

Now that you’ve selected your plan, you just need to enter a few basic details, including your email address and payment number. If you’d like to remain anonymous, you can enter a new email address, provided you can access the account and verify it – you can also choose to pay via crypto to further enhance privacy.

ExpressVPN – Payment

Step 4 – Connect to a Server

Finally, the last step is to connect to a server, and you can do this by launching the ExpressVPN app on your chosen device and logging in with the details you used to sign up for your plan.

You’ll be greeted by the ExpressVPN dashboard, which has a list of servers in countries all over the world. Simply pick your chosen country and server, click on it, and then you’re good to go.

ExpressVPN Dashboard

Conclusion — What is the Best VPN for Streaming in 2024?

The best streaming VPNs can unlock a world of new content for you by bypassing geo-restrictions put in place by streaming services. They do this by running your IP address through a server in your chosen country, making it appear as if you’re actually there.

All the providers on this list work incredibly well for streaming, but our overall top pick is ExpressVPN. It comes out on top thanks to its unrivaled speeds provided by the company’s own Lightway protocol, as well as its dedicated streaming servers, which ensure a lag-free experience.

Better still, you can try ExpressVPN free for 30 days thanks to the provider’s generous money-back guarantee, and if you’re happy with the streaming performance, you can sign up for a paid plan for just $6.67/month.

FAQ

Do VPNs work for streaming?

Which VPN works better for Netflix?

Which is the best free VPN for streaming?

Is streaming faster with VPN?

How much is a VPN for streaming?

Which is the fastest VPN for streaming?

References

The post The Best VPN for Streaming Lag-Free: Top 10 Compared for 2024 appeared first on The Tech Report.

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A Full Jasper.ai Review for 2024 — Is Jasper.ai Worth it? Our Test Findings https://techreport.com/artificial-intelligence/jasper-ai-review/ Wed, 04 Oct 2023 16:17:27 +0000 https://techreport.com/?page_id=3520298 Jasper AI

In an age where information flows and content is king, the demand for efficient writing tools has reached unprecedented heights. In this Jasper.ai review, we look at this revolutionary tool...

The post A Full Jasper.ai Review for 2024 — Is Jasper.ai Worth it? Our Test Findings appeared first on The Tech Report.

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Jasper AI

In an age where information flows and content is king, the demand for efficient writing tools has reached unprecedented heights. In this Jasper.ai review, we look at this revolutionary tool that’s emerged as a beacon of hope for writers, marketers, and content creators seeking to streamline their creative processes.

But what exactly is Jasper.ai, and how does it transform the way we write? As writers, marketers, students, and professionals, we understand the importance of crafting compelling narratives, persuasive copy, and articulate reports – in this pursuit, Jasper.ai promises to be a game-changer.

But does it live up to the hype, or is it just another AI tool that gets forgotten about? To help you decide, our Jasper.ai review will uncover its key features, assess its real-world usability, and discover how it may forever reshape the way we write.

What is Jasper.ai?

Jasper. ai is an advanced artificial intelligence (AI) writing tool that harnesses the power of machine learning to assist users in generating high-quality written content.

It’s an innovative AI writing tool that’s revolutionized the way content is generated and refined. Developed by a team of skilled engineers and AI experts, JasperAI uses advanced natural language processing techniques to assist users in creating high-quality content quickly and efficiently.

Jasper.ai runs on the GPT-3.5 model, a sibling to the renowned GPT-3, to offer an impressive range of writing features with impeccable accuracy and lightning-fast content generation.

How Does Jasper.ai Work?

Jasper.ai operates on a simple yet powerful premise – it understands context, generates coherent text, and adapts based on what the user inputs. Whether you need some help with drafting a blog post, crafting an engaging email, or even generating code snippets, Jasper.ai can be your trusty writing companion.

To start, you just need to provide a brief prompt or description of the desired content you want – this could range from a few words to a more detailed explanation. Jasper.ai then takes this input and employs its vast language model to produce human-like text that aligns with the provided context.

It can generate content in various styles, tones, and formats, making it a versatile tool for a wide range of writing needs. It can also be a copywriter’s right-hand man, which helps eliminate the risk that AI writing tools will take the place of a good copywriter.

In fact, Jasper.ai is our top choice for the best AI copywriting tool, and it works in tandem with writers.

Who is Jasper Best For?

As we mentioned higher up in our Jasper.ai review, it’s a versatile and powerful AI-powered writing tool that can be beneficial for a wide range of individuals and professionals. It excels in various writing tasks and can be particularly useful for:

  • Content Writers and Bloggers: Jasper.ai can help content creators generate topic ideas, outline articles, and even draft entire blog posts. Plus, it can also assist in crafting engaging headlines and introductions.
  • Marketing Professionals: It can be a valuable asset for creating compelling ad copy, email campaigns, social media posts, and product descriptions. It can even optimize content for SEO and generate persuasive marketing materials.
  • Students and Academic Writers: Jasper.ai can assist in researching and outlining essays, reports, and research papers. In fact, it can provide suggestions for structuring academic work and even offer explanations of complex topics.
  • Business Professionals: You can draft reports, business proposals, and internal communications to maintain a consistent and professional tone in any written correspondence.
  • Developers: Jasper.ai can generate code snippets, documentation, and technical explanations, making it a useful tool for developers who need to communicate complex programming concepts.
  • English Proficiency: Jasper can be especially helpful for non-native English speakers looking to improve their English writing skills. It can provide grammar and style suggestions to enhance the quality of their writing.
  • Small Business Owners: Corporations with limited resources can use Jasper to create content for their websites, marketing materials, and social media platforms, saving time and effort.
  • Anyone Seeking Writing Assistance: Whether you’re writing a personal blog, composing emails, or simply need help with any form of written communication, Jasper.ai can provide valuable assistance and improve the quality of your writing.

Pros and Cons — Is Jasper.ai Good?

Like most tech software, there are bound to be some upsides and downsides to these tools, and in our testing, we’ve found that the same can be said for JasperAI and any of the other top AI writing tools. So, in this section, we’re going to look at both the pros and cons of JasperAI:

Pros

  • Generates accurate content faster than any human could
  • Includes a wide range of pre-installed templates for blogs, articles, etc.
  • Can integrate with tools such as Grammarly for better grammatical output
  • Features useful paraphrasing that can make similar content appear original
  • Has over 20 different tones of voice, and can even adopt your own style

Cons

  • You have to ensure the content is devoid of plagiarism
  • Can get pretty expensive for large teams

How Much Does Jasper AI Cost?

Jasper has a pretty straightforward price structure, with 3 plans aimed at different users. Overall, the cost is a little more than average for AI writing tools, but this is one of the top providers out there, so you do get what you pay for.

However, the Teams plan charges per 3 seats, so if you have a large team who needs access, this can get pretty expensive – but you could try contacting sales for the Business plan, as you may be able to strike a better deal.

JasperAI Pricing

We also really like that you have the option to pause your plan – maybe you’re going away for a few weeks, or there’s a lack of content needed, no problem. Jasper.ai lets you pause it, so your billing cycle will stop for this period as well.

If you simply want to cancel your subscription, we found this really easy, and we couldn’t find any reports of other users having issues here.

Is Jasper.ai Free?

There’s no free plan on offer from JasperAI, but there is a 7-day free trial on both the Creator and Team plans. This should give you enough time to learn the basics and decide whether it’s the right solution for your creative needs.

Once you’ve signed up for the plan of your choice, you’re also protected by a 7-day money-back guarantee.

Jasper.ai Features Review

Now it’s time to explore all the key features of Jasper that make it one of the top AI writing tools on the market and not just another hopeful AI trend. In this section, we’ll take a look at how we got on when testing the software, as well as any unique features and how it copes with the AI writing tool basics.

Content Generation

Jasper truly excels in content generation and finds itself top of our list of the best AI writing tools for content generation – it can take a simple prompt or topic suggestion and transform it into comprehensive written content.

This includes crafting unique articles, engaging blog posts, detailed essays, product descriptions, and more. In our testing, we found that the tool’s ability to generate content quickly and efficiently can significantly boost productivity for writers and content creators.

Jasper.ai Content Generation

Jasper Art

Jasper Art is a fantastic introduction to an already feature-rich tool, and with this, you can add some visual stimulants to your cutting-edge copy. It works by taking the prompts you provide, letting you pick a desired style — such as 3D rendering, or maybe you’re taking inspiration from a famous artist.

Jasper Art Interface

From there, Jasper will take this information and generate 4 different images for you to choose from – it’s as simple as that. You can even use the Jasper Chat feature to discuss how you want your masterpiece to look, but more on that later.

We found this feature to be fantastic, and the complexity of the images it’s able to reproduce is staggering. It can be very useful for e-commerce sites that want product examples or even supporting imagery for a blog or short story.

We’d recommend having some fun and playing around a little to truly get to grips with this — it reminded us of Midjourney, which is nice considering it offers this alongside all the AI writer assistance capabilities.

Jasper Chat

Jasper Chat is an innovative AI tool that allows you to have the most human-like conversations with your AI tool. You can ask it for ideas, to create titles or briefs – anything you’d usually do via a written command, you can do via Jasper Chat.

The real advantage is the way you can express yourself, as it’s much easier to say something and discuss your workflows out loud, and we found it can really boost productivity. This feature seems to go hand-in-hand with Jasper Art, too, and you can ask it to make elaborate creations with nothing but your voice.

Jasper Chat

We tried both written and text commands for Jasper, and we did prefer the casualness of Jasper Chat, it feels like you’re speaking to a colleague or creative professional. The results are pretty much the same, no matter how you choose to communicate, though.

But for those who like to run through ideas and thought patterns, Jasper Chat is a brilliant tool.

Jasper Recipes

Like a conventional recipe for a meal gives a set of step-by-step instructions on how to cook the dish, Jasper Recipes offers a sequence of Commands that, when applied in the proper order, will allow you to produce content much quicker than you have ever done before.

If you’re not sure what Jasper’s Commands are exactly, they’re basically a way to instruct Jasper what to write. So, say you want Jasper to write a blog post, you’d order the recipe with the first command, ‘write a brief about X’, then maybe ‘write a blog post title’, and so on, including things like the conclusion.

Jasper Recipes

This set of commands becomes a recipe, so instead of typing out each command, you give prompts in the same way and apply this recipe to it, which eventually leads to lightning-fast content generation.

However, you’ll need to be on the Teams plan to access this feature, which we thought was a bit of a shame – in the future, we’d like to see this rolled out into the Content Creator plan as well.

Text Expansion

Text expansion is a valuable feature that goes beyond the initial prompt and can add valuable extra details to your content. We found that Jasper.ai can expand on existing text with great detail, providing additional information, deeper explanations, or different variations.

This feature enhances the depth and richness of the content, making it more informative and engaging for readers. It’s particularly useful when you need to provide in-depth explanations or expand on key points but perhaps can’t find the words to do so.

Suggested Headlines

Crafting captivating headlines is essential for grabbing the reader’s attention, but it can often cause a real headache for marketing teams and copywriters. Jasper.ai can assist with this by suggesting headlines or titles that aren’t only attention-grabbing but also relevant to the content.

Jasper AI Headlines

This feature can help writers create headlines that are both SEO-friendly and appealing to their target audience, saving valuable time and effort. We found the headlines to be pretty consistent throughout, and 99% of the time, they matched the text in the paragraphs perfectly, with only a few examples that weren’t usable.

Grammar and Style Checking

Ensuring that written content is grammatically correct and adheres to the desired style is crucial for maintaining professionalism, plus, it can really boost readability. Jasper offers grammar and style checking, identifying and rectifying errors in punctuation, grammar, and style inconsistencies.

Overall, we found that the grammar settings are excellent, and Jasper can quickly identify basic mistakes, as well as some more advanced ones, like the wrong tone. If you’re used to a tool like Grammarly, you’ll find these features to be very useful, even if they do miss the odd wrong word, as we found a couple of times.

Tone and Style Customization

Every piece of content has its unique tone and style requirements – Jasper allows users to specify their desired tone and style, whether it’s formal, casual, persuasive, or informative. This customization ensures that the generated content aligns with the intended audience and purpose.

Jasper.ai Tone of Voice

You can even train Jasper to understand your current brand style and guidelines, ensuring a consistent tone throughout all your content, which is great for businesses with clear brand guidelines.

The different tones do work well, and the copy is pretty varied when you switch from, say, casual to informative, but you’ll need to play around with them to get used to them, as it took us a little while to figure out which tone worked best for which style of writing.

SEO Optimization

SEO (Search Engine Optimization) plays a vital role in content marketing by ensuring your content appears at the top of the complex Google Web Ranking system. Thankfully, Jasper can assist you by suggesting relevant keywords and optimizing content for search engines.

This helps improve the discoverability of your content online and enhances its chances of ranking well in search engine results. With that being said, it can be really difficult to rank well on Google and other search engines, so we were a little dubious about how well it would do.

JasperAI SEO

But to be honest, we were pleasantly surprised with the outcome. You can choose to enter a load of keywords manually, and Jasper will disperse them throughout your content, or it can study what competitors are doing and suggest the optimal keywords – which we found to be pretty impressive.

Language Support

In a globalized world, having the ability to seamlessly translate your content into different languages opens up new doors to potential customers. Jasper.ai supports multiple languages, enabling you to create content in over 3o different languages or translate existing content with ease.

This feature is invaluable for reaching a broader and more diverse audience.

Jasper.ai Languages

We’re not multi-language experts, but we could clearly see that Jasper.ai is more than capable of generating content in a wide variety of different languages, however, you’d need to be a native speaker to really understand just how good it is in understanding different dialects and tones when the copy is translated.

Research Assistance

Research is a fundamental part of content creation and often one of the more time-consuming elements. Jasper.ai can provide concise summaries or explanations of various topics helping users in their research efforts.

It offers quick access to relevant information, saving time and effort in the research phase. This is especially useful for students or for people who write research-based articles – although it doesn’t automatically arrange your citations for you, as is the case with AI Writer.

Code Generation

We all know how complex coding can be, especially if you have to try and break it down for someone. Thankfully, for developers and programmers, Jasper.ai is a valuable tool that can generate code snippets, scripts, or technical documentation.

It simplifies the process of creating and explaining code, making it easier to communicate complex programming concepts.

Email and Marketing Copy

Perhaps one of the more common uses of AI writing tools is crafting persuasive email marketing campaigns, engaging social media posts, and compelling advertisements – all of which are a breeze with Jasper.

Jasper AI Email Marketing

It can generate persuasive and attention-grabbing marketing copy, helping businesses and marketers drive their messaging effectively. We asked it to tackle some direct email responses and sales emails for some made-up products, and boy, did it deliver.

You can ask Jasper to include the name of the recipient for a more personal approach or even ask it to include discount codes, CTA’s, and much more.

Word Count Control

Content often needs to meet specific word count requirements, especially essays, social media posts, or certain blogs. Jasper allows users to specify the desired word count for their content which ensures that it aligns with any length constraints without compromising on quality or relevance.

This feature works really well, and for our tests, we asked it to write a 500-word blog, a 100-word ad, and a 50-word product description, and it nailed them all. It never exceeded the word count and managed to still not sound rushed, it was all perfectly concise – a real asset for any writer.

Templates and Examples

To assist you in getting started, Jasper also offers templates and sample content for various types of writing, like blogs, social media captions, and much more. These templates provide a foundation for users to build upon and customize to their specific needs, saving time and effort in the content creation process.

Jasper.ai Templates

We tested a few of these out, and overall, we were pretty impressed with the results. For starters, we tried the unique templates for personal bios on LinkedIn and product description templates for e-commerce sites, both of which make it much quicker to write.

There are even templates for opening paragraphs for blogs, conclusions to articles, and way more to play around with.

Jasper.ai Plagiarism and Accuracy

One of the most crucial aspects of any good AI writing tool is the accuracy of the information being generated and the prevalent issue of plagiarism. Ideally, you’d want the output to be as accurate as possible, with minimal plagiarism that could land you in hot water. So how does Jasper cope with this?

Jasper’s Accuracy

Jasper.ai’s content is based on the vast data it’s trained on, so the clarity and relevance of what it produces depends on how specific the user’s prompt is. General prompts might lead to broad responses, while detailed prompts deliver more accurate results.

Still, we found that you might need to refine the output to match your exact needs. That said, as Jasper runs on GPT-3.5, the accuracy is very good, and although there are some that use the more updated GPT-4, like WriteSonic, the results are practically identical.

Jasper AI and Plagiarism

For plagiarism, Jasper creates content based on patterns from its training, which means there might be times when the content it produces looks similar to existing content online, even if it isn’t directly copying them.

To help fight off any plagiarism fears, we’d recommend that users treat the content from Jasper as a starting point, making edits as needed. Using tools like Copyscape to check for originality can also help ensure the content is unique.

It also features a paraphrasing tool, so if you notice that the copy is identical or too similarly worded to other content online, you could just ask Jasper to paraphrase this or simplify, extend, or shorten – the options are endless to ensure totally original copy.

Our Findings on the Jasper App’s Interface

With JasperAI, the design feels clean and user-centric, making navigating around all of the apps fairly intuitive. It’s clear that the focus has been on user experience, ensuring that you spend less time figuring things out and more time getting your content right.

However, at the time of writing, JasperAI currently has no mobile apps for iOS or Android, which isn’t a huge problem. If you want to use these apps on your phone or tablet, you can just head to the JasperAI website and work as you usually would.

In fact, the mobile view is easy to use as the interface isn’t crammed full of features. But the most common method of using Jasper is likely to be on a laptop or desktop computer, and this is where it can truly show its impressive feature set.

Everything can be accessed by visiting the desktop site. In fact, the Jasper Chrome extension makes it simple for you to write high-quality material for the web, whether you’re composing an email, writing a blog post, or creating social media posts.

In the future, we’d like to see Jasper have dedicated apps for different devices, as this really does streamline the process of working on the go, but for now, you should find no issues with the desktop client.

Jasper AI vs Other AI Market Leaders

The emergence of Chat-GPT has blown AI writing tools up into a hugely competitive market, with hundreds of different providers all vying to be the best. All this makes it pretty confusing to know which tool is best for you, but worry not, we’re here to help.

Below is a useful comparison table featuring a select group of other top AI writing tools on the market, including the likes of CopyAI, and Rytr. Here, you can compare each provider’s key features, how much they cost, and other important factors:

AI Writing Software Ideal For Starting Price Standout Features Free Version
JasperAI Business Marketing $39/month 1. Sentance Rewriting
2. Tone of Voice
3. Plagiarism Checker
7-Day Free Trial
CopyAI Aiding Copywriters $49/month 1. Bullet Point to Paragraph
2. 25 Languages Supported
3. Freestyle Mode
Yes
Rytr Small Creators $9/month 1. Brief Generator
2. SERP Analysis
3. 30 Languages
Yes
Writesonic GPT-4 Content $16/month 1. GPT-4
2. Text Summarizer
3. Article Referencing
Yes, 10k Words
ShortlyAI Summarizing Text $65/month 1. Text Summarizer
2. Ease of use
3. Output Length
Yes

What Do Others Think? Jasper AI Reviews Overview

If you’re still not convinced by our thoughts and comments following our testing of JasperAI, then let’s take a look at what other customers are saying. We scanned through hundreds of reviews and threads on trusted platforms like Trustpilot and, of course, Reddit. Below are some of the sure opinions on JasperAI:

Jasper Review Trustpilot

This customer and hundreds of others were quick to point out JasperAi’s ease of use, which is something that we were also really impressed with. They were also delighted with the accuracy and speed of the content across multiple different forms of writing, a common praise you’ll find among many Jasper AI reviews.

JasperAI Review TrustpilotOthers were also able to thrive with JasperAI, with many claiming it helped them overcome the dreaded writer’s block, as well as improve their ROI and conversion rates. Overall, JasperAI boasts a stellar reputation in the field of AI writer assistants.

Similar AI Software Guides

If you’re interested in all things AI, be sure to check out all of our other useful reviews, guides, and more by clicking any of the links below:

Why You Can Trust Our JasperAI Review

To ensure you’re getting nothing but fair and honest reviews on tools like Jasper, we use a range of different testing methods for 100% accuracy and transparency, and this includes using the software for a certain period of time. We dive into all the key features, from the way it looks down to how it functions.

With JasperAI, we tested it by asking it to write blog posts, social media captions, and much more, and then pitted it against other AI writing tools that we’ve tested, such as Writesonic and CopyAI, to see which results were most accurate and how little human input was required.

To back up our own thoughts, we also looked at how other users of the software got on by exploring reviews on trusted websites like G2, Reddit, and Trustpilot. We feel that it’s important to see how these tools work from both sides, as every customer will have a different experience, sometimes bad.

Overall, the reviews for JasperAI across all of these sources were excellent, and that was reflected in our own testing.

How to Use Jasper AI — A Step-By-Step Guide

Now for one of the most important sections of all – how do you use JasperAI? AI writing tools might sound and look a little confusing, especially if this is your first time using such software. But worry not, in this section, we’re going to break it down into bite-size chunks so you can start using JasperAI straightaway.

Step 1 – Create an Account

Firstly, head over to the JasperAI website and sign up for an account. You’ll need to provide your email address and set a password, as well as selecting which plan you want to use.

Jasper Step 1

Step 2 – Tone of Voice

Before you start generating content, you need to understand the various tones of voice Jasper can write in, or maybe you want to upload some documents so it can understand your own tone of voice.

Jasper Step 2

Either way, it’s a good place to start, and you can choose from over 20, including casual, formal, and humorous, amongst several others. Choose the one that suits your personal or business needs, and then you can move on to generating your first piece of content.

Step 3 – Create Content with Templates

Once you’ve created your account, you can start exploring all the ways you can generate content, with the easiest being via the custom templates. JasperAI has premade templates for blogs, social media posts, LinkedIn bios, and much more.

Jasper Step 3

You’ll be asked for some basic information, like the topic of the blog, the audience, and the tone of voice. Once submitted, just click the ‘Generate’ button and watch JasperAI works its magic.

Step 4 – Create Content from Scratch

Another useful feature of Jasper is the ability to write from scratch via a Google Docs-like setup. Here, you can write or say commands like ‘write an intro for this blog’ or something else, and Jasper will start generating content for you.

Jasper Step 4

Step 5 – SEO Mode

Once you’re starting to get familiar with the software, you can start getting a little more technical by diving into the SEO features on offer. Here, you enter keywords from competitor pages or ones that your SEO department has recommended you use, and Jasper will write your content and add in the keywords as suggested.

Jasper Step 5

When done manually, keywords can take a while to factor into your content, but Jasper does so effortlessly in a matter of seconds.

Step 6 – Play Around

After a while, you’ll start to get the hang of how JasperAI works and how it works best for you – so now it’s time to have some fun and play around with the tool. We found that this is the best way to learn how to get the best out of it.

You can try using the templates more, using the document editor or SEO mode. Everyone is likely to have a different setup, so finding the best solution for you is the last and most important step.

Jasper.ai Review Conclusion — Is Jasper AI Worth It?

JasperAI can be a vital asset in the locker of any marketing professional, copywriter, or SEO team. With it, you can generate cutting-edge copy for various outputs in a matter of seconds, including blogs, social posts, and even product descriptions. As it runs on GPT-3.5, the results are incredibly accurate, too.

You’d struggle to tell the difference between the actual writing produced by Jasper and a seasoned copywriter – the big difference is price and time, Jasper can save you a ton of money you might otherwise spend on a copywriter, and it can save you some serious man-hours with its lightning-fast content generation.

FAQ

Is Jasper AI the same as Jarvis?

Is Jasper AI free or paid?

Can I use Jasper AI to make money?

Is Jasper AI better than Copy AI?

Can Google detect Jasper AI?

Can you write a book with Jasper AI?

What’s the verdict of Jasper AI Reddit reviews?

References

The post A Full Jasper.ai Review for 2024 — Is Jasper.ai Worth it? Our Test Findings appeared first on The Tech Report.

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Best Business Process Management Software: Top 10 BPMs in 2024 Compared https://techreport.com/business-software/best-business-process-management-software/ Thu, 28 Sep 2023 16:23:59 +0000 https://techreport.com/?page_id=3518914 Best Business Process Management Software

A Business Process Management (BPM) tool is a technological solution created to assist businesses in modeling, automating, monitoring, and optimizing their everyday tasks and processes. These resources offer a framework...

The post Best Business Process Management Software: Top 10 BPMs in 2024 Compared appeared first on The Tech Report.

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Best Business Process Management Software

A Business Process Management (BPM) tool is a technological solution created to assist businesses in modeling, automating, monitoring, and optimizing their everyday tasks and processes. These resources offer a framework for controlling and enhancing how work is carried out within a company.

BPM software like Monday or ClickUp can help businesses operate at their most productive and efficient levels. By dividing complex business processes into smaller, more manageable activities and prioritizing them to meet deadlines, BPM solutions give businesses important advantages.

In this article, we’ll take a closer look at the benefits of using BPM software, and we’ll review and compare the market’s top 10 best options, where you’ll learn their key features, pricing, compatibility, and other vital components, including their key pros and cons.

The Top Business Process Management Software Ranked

Below is quick glance at the 10 best business process management software solutions, with Monday taking the crown as our number one. Here’s why each one made it on our list and who they’re best suited for:

  1. Monday – Offers the best business process management software overall, thanks to its automation, time tracking features, and wide variety of integrations.
  2. ClickUp – The best choice for automating processes, as it allows you to set triggers for each automated process, such as a completed task
  3. Wrike – A powerful BPM tool with detailed reporting and analytical tools that help your business make data-driven decisions.
  4. Smartsheet – The best spreadsheet-style BPM that offers a huge range of customization to suit your business needs.
  5. Teamwork – Features some of the best time management tools, including tracking time on a task-by-task basis, offering managers greater insight.
  6. QuireA top choice for small to mid-size businesses, as it offers a wide range of plans that can scale alongside your business.
  7. Awork – Easy-to-use BPM software with one of the most user-friendly and eye-catching interfaces.
  8. ProWorkflow – Excellent BPM tool with useful financial management integrations with leading apps such as Xero, QuickBooks, and FreshBooks.
  9. Zoho Projects – The best budget-friendly BPM software with a wide range of affordable plans, including a generous free forever plan.
  10. Kissflow – A reliable low-code BPM platform that offers a wide range of customizations and automation.

What is Business Process Management Software?

Business process management software assists businesses in the design, modeling, execution, automation, and improvement of a collection of tasks and activities that, when finished, enable the organization to achieve its objectives.

The industry has witnessed the growth of advanced BPM software in recent years, which is essentially the introduction of modern technology like real-time analytics, complex event processing (CEP), business activity monitoring (BAM), and artificial intelligence (AI).

Therefore, businesses no longer exclusively rely on experienced coders to optimize their business processes because of BPMS’ growing use of low-code or no-code technology. The software is now at a stage where it can handle all these core duties for you with very little human input.

Key Reasons Why You Need BPM Software

There are a number of reasons why a business might need Process Management software, for example, they can automate routine tasks, saving time for other more important orders of business. Below are some of the key benefits of using a BPM tool:

  • Enhanced Efficiency – By automating and streamlining corporate operations, BPM technologies cut down on manual labor and the chance of human error. As a result, processes run more efficiently.
  • Cost Reductions – By decreasing errors, automating repetitive tasks, and streamlining processes, automation and process optimization can result in major cost savings for your business, as there’s less need for labor costs.
  • Enhanced Visibility – BPM tools give businesses comprehensive insight into their processes through real-time data monitoring and reporting features. This makes it easier to spot problems and areas where potential improvements can be made.
  • Consistency and Standardization – BPM software guarantees that processes are regularly followed and enforce defined practices. As a result, production is more consistent, and process issues are decreased.
  • Faster Decision-Making – Having access to real-time data and analytics into the performance of processes enables companies to make quicker, more informed decisions.
  • Compliance and Risk Management – BPMs assist businesses in ensuring adherence to internal policies and industry regulations. To reduce the risks associated with non-compliance, they also provide tools like audit trails and compliance reports.
  • Agility and Adaptability – By using a reliable BPM, businesses are able to adjust to shifting market conditions and customer demands. They can then quickly alter procedures to take into account new goods, services, or laws.

The Top Business Process Management Tools Reviewed

It’s now time to take a closer look at the best business process management tools on the market, starting with our number one, Monday. In these reviews, we’ll look at the key features, as well as any unique offerings, pricing, compatibility, and other crucial components.

1. Monday – Offers Easily the Best Business Process Management Software

Monday Logo

Monday is a flexible work operating system that provides excellent features that support different BPM-related functions. Its user-friendly interface is one of its best qualities. You can easily create visuals of your processes using the design’s customizable boards and widgets.

We find that the software makes it simple to create, manage, and alter workflows to your own BPM requirements, and Monday also excels in task management, providing tools for creating, assigning, and tracking tasks.

You can set deadlines, assign owners, and prioritize tasks, streamlining the execution of the process. Additionally, you can take advantage of mentions, comments, file attachments, and notifications that can be used to increase your team’s collaboration.

Monday.com Dashboard

Best For Cheapest Monthly Plan Cheapest Annual Plan Free Version Compatibility
Workflow Management $10/month $8/month Yes Windows, Mac, Android, and iOS

In terms of automation, and while not it’s not as robust as dedicated BPM automation tools, Monday does enable businesses to streamline processes. You can set up automation rules that trigger actions based on predefined criteria to simplify routine tasks, reduce manual effort, and enhance process consistency.

However, one of Monday’s strengths is its high degree of customization, including the ability to use custom columns, data structures, and automation rules to suit your unique processes. You also get a ton of useful integrations to ensure data flows seamlessly between different tools that your business uses.

The most popular options include Google Workspace, Microsoft 365, and Slack. And lastly, Monday offers mobile apps for both iOS and Android so you can manage your tasks and workflows from anywhere. To learn more about Monday, read our full, in-depth Monday review.

Pricing

In terms of pricing, Monday sits comfortably on the more affordable side, which is great for smaller businesses looking to save some money – but there’s still a good range of plans that allow for scalability.

There’s even a free plan that can be used for 1-2 users – so ideal for a startup or very small team. Either way, it’s a great way to test out the service before signing up for a long-term plan.

Monday Pricing

Pros

  • Offers a great range of customization
  • Excellent mobile apps for iOS and Android
  • One of the most user-friendly process management tools
  • Can be integrated with third-party apps, like Slack and Google Suite
  • One of the best task management solutions

Cons

  • All-in-one business tool — isn’t a dedicated BPM tool

2. ClickUp – Best for Automating Routine Tasks

ClickUp Logo

ClickUp is a robust Business Process Management tool that helps businesses automate and streamline their processes. Its cloud-based software is all about making your workflow more efficient and transparent.

One of the standout features of ClickUp is its flexibility. It allows you to design, automate, and streamline your workflows. Whether you’re managing simple tasks or complex business processes, ClickUp lets you create custom workflows that align with your needs.

Another strength of ClickUp is its automation capabilities. It allows you to automate repetitive tasks, notifications, and reminders with a lot of flexibility. This not only saves time but also reduces the risk of human error.

ClickUp – Best BPM Software

Best For Cheapest Monthly Plan Cheapest Annual Plan Free Version Compatibility
Automating Manual Processes $10/month $7/month Yes Windows, Mac, Android, and iOS

ClickUp’s reporting and analytics features are also worth mentioning, as they provide you with insightful data on task progress, team performance, and project metrics. This data-driven approach empowers businesses to make informed decisions, optimize their processes, and allocate resources more effectively.

Furthermore, ClickUp offers a mobile app that ensures that you can stay connected and productive on the go. This is particularly valuable for businesses with remote or distributed teams, as it allows for seamless communication and task management regardless of location.

However, we found in our testing that one potential drawback of ClickUp is its learning curve. While it offers a wealth of features, new users may find it overwhelming initially. However, we were glad to see that ClickUp provides extensive guides and excellent customer support to help users get up to speed.

Pricing

ClickUps business plans offer all the advanced automation, time tracking options, mindmap templates, and workflow management features you’ll need – so this is the best choice for enterprises.

There’s also a useful free version that you can try, but you’re limited to just 2 users and a pretty small amount of storage (100Mb) – with that being said, startups and small businesses should still be able to benefit from this, and it’s a reliable way to test the service out before forking out your hard-earned cash.

ClickUp Pricing

Pros

  • One of the best free project planning tools
  • Low-cost paid plans for businesses of all sizes
  • Powerful mobile apps for keeping track of processes on the go
  • Includes integrations for most popular workforce apps, such as Google Suite
  • Has excellent collaborative features, including real-time chat

Cons

  • It’s a pretty steep learning curve

3. Wrike – Offers Excellent Reporting and Analytical Features

Wrike Logo

Wrike stands out as one of the best Business Process Management tools available on the market, offering a comprehensive suite of features designed to streamline workflows, enhance collaboration, and drive productivity across organizations.

One of Wrike’s standout features is its user-friendly interface. Whether you’re a seasoned BPM professional or a newcomer, the platform’s intuitive design makes it accessible and easy to navigate.

Wrike also excels in customization, allowing businesses to tailor their workflows to meet their unique needs, making Wrike a valuable asset for organizations with diverse processes and workflows.

Wrike Process Management Dashboard

Best For Cheapest Monthly Plan Cheapest Annual Plan Free Version Compatibility
Team Collaborating $9.80/month $9.80/month Yes Windows, Mac, Android, and iOS

Plus, collaboration is at the very core of Wrike’s functionality, and its real-time editing, commenting, and task assignment features empower teams to work together seamlessly. You also have the ability to set up and manage approvals within the system, which further streamlines the whole decision-making process.

Automation is another area where Wrike shines, and it offers a range of automation options that save time and reduce human error by handling repetitive tasks, notifications, and reminders. The automation features not only enhance efficiency but also ensure that critical steps in workflows are consistently executed.

Also, Wrike’s reporting and analytics capabilities provide valuable insights into project and team performance. It helps organizations make data-driven decisions, optimize resource allocation, and identify areas for improvement. The interactive Gantt charts and reporting templates further simplify the process.

While Wrike undoubtedly offers an extensive feature set, it’s important to note that this can sometimes be overwhelming for smaller businesses with simpler workflow needs. Also, the pricing structure can become costly as organizations scale up and require more advanced features and user licenses.

Pricing

Wrike’s business plans, although expensive, offer a great range of features to improve your business process management. These include key automation for mundane tasks and Gantt charts.

There’s also a free-forever plan tailored towards entrepreneurs or small businesses, and even though it’s pretty limited in terms of features, it does allow for unlimited project creation.

Wrike Pricing

Pros

  • Incredibly easy to use, ideal for first-timers to BPM software
  • The free plan lets you create unlimited projects
  • External stakeholders or others can be invited at no extra cost
  • Hugely customizable interface with a selection of views, including Kanban
  • Among the very top workflow management tools

Cons

  • Can get pretty expensive for large teams

4. Smartsheet – Best Spreadsheet-Style BPM Tool

Smartsheet Logo

Smartsheet is a flexible and powerful platform with a familiar spreadsheet-style layout that enables businesses to improve productivity and optimize their procedures. It’s a game-changer for companies thanks to its powerful features, simple UI, and collaboration possibilities.

Easy workflow creation and customization are just some of Smartsheet’s unique features, and it provides a variety of templates that enable users to create workflows customized to their own needs, whether they’re managing a big project or keeping track of daily duties.

We also really enjoyed the resource management and team scheduling tools you get with Smartsheet, which enable you to allocate and track resources far more efficiently to ensure the workload is balanced.

Smartsheet Project Management Tool

Best For Cheapest Monthly Plan Cheapest Annual Plan Free Version Compatibility
Spreadsheet Fans $10/month $7/month Yes Windows, Mac, Android, and iOS

It also has a ton of integration capabilities, another feature that distinguishes it as a top BPM tool, and it can work in tandem with popular software like Salesforce, Google Workspace, and Microsoft Office 365, to name a few. Beyond its integrations, Smartsheet is adaptable to a variety of working methods.

It offers a good range of views to fit your preferences, whether you like a Gantt chart, a Kanban board, or a straightforward spreadsheet. The spreadsheet view, in particular, is what makes Smartsheet stand out, as it’s a familiar layout that’s been used for the past few generations, making it easy to get to grips with.

Through the spreadsheet view, you can access Smartsheet’s built-in forms to collect data from external stakeholders or team members. You can also create custom forms, share them with respondents, and automatically capture responses in a structured format within Smartsheet.

Pricing

Smartsheet offers a good range of plans, but they have a pretty hefty price increase on the Pro plan. With that being said, you do get unlimited editors, 1TB of attachment storage, and some other useful perks.

If that’s too steep, you can stick with the free forever plan that offers 2 editors, 2 projects, and the Gantt, Grid, and Card views. It may not be the most feature-rich free offering, especially when compared to Wrike, which allows unlimited projects, but it’s still a reliable way to try the features.

Smartsheet Pricing

Pros

  • The spreadsheet-style layout is great for customization and data collection
  • Offers a wide range of automations for routine tasks
  • Includes a free plan that’s ideal for startups
  • Features some of the best reporting and analytical tools, like Cell Linking

Cons

  • If you’re not a spreadsheet fan, this won’t be a good choice for you
  • Big jump in price from the Pro to the business plan

5. Teamwork – Best for Time Management

Teamwork Logo

Teamwork is a comprehensive, cloud-based project management tool that’s designed for businesses of all sizes with features like task and calendar management, milestones, time tracking, and invoicing features, among others.

The most notable aspects of Teamwork can be found in its user-friendly project and task management features. The platform offers a centralized location where you can generate, assign, and track tasks, and you can also introduce automation into your everyday work life.

You can let Teamwork take care of mundane tasks like scheduling meetings or assigning staff to tasks. Another key feature is Teamwork’s Gantt chart view, which stands out as a significant asset for project managers.

Teamwork Interface

Best For Cheapest Monthly Plan Cheapest Annual Plan Free Version Compatibility
Resource Allocation $8.99/month $5.99/month Yes Windows, Mac, Android, and iOS

This feature allows for accurate scheduling, effective management of task assigning, and the creation of visual project timelines. This project view plays a key role in efficient project planning as it keeps team members well-informed about critical milestones and deadlines.

Alongside this, Teamwork offers some of the best time-tracking features of any BPM, too, including allowing users to track time on a task-by-task basis. Team members can start and stop timers as they work, providing precise insights into how much time is spent on each activity.

You can even set time estimates for tasks, providing a baseline for the expected work duration, and team members can then compare actual time spent with the initial estimate, helping with project planning and resource allocation for future assignments.

Supporting these strong time-tracking features is a wide range of useful reporting and analytical features. For example, Teamwork provides reports that display time-tracking data, allowing you to monitor billable hours, track productivity, and compare estimated vs actual time spent on tasks.

Pricing

In terms of pricing, Teamwork offers some incredibly affordable plans that can scale seamlessly alongside any business – including a free forever plan which has some basic features and integrations.

Sadly, you’ll need to opt for the Deliver plan as a minimum if you want any of the automation features or the Grow plan for workload and capacity management functions.

Teamwork Pricing

Pros

  • Offers a wide range of low-cost plans
  • Features some of the best time management features of any BPM providers
  • Tons of automation for routine tasks

Cons

  • You’ll need a minimum of 3 users for any of the paid plans

6. Quire – Good Choice for Small to Mid-Size Businesses

Quire Logo

Quire is a strong all-round Business Process Management tool that’s best suited for small to mid-size businesses looking to manage tasks and improve collaboration throughout a team.

It offers some useful automation features to reduce the risk of errors and save valuable man-hours, and it boasts a user-friendly interface that allows you to add projects and team members with ease.

Another impressive aspect of Quire is its flexibility and customization options, and it has several features that offer businesses the ability to structure their workflow according to their unique work processes.

Quire Dashboard

Best For Cheapest Monthly Plan Cheapest Annual Plan Free Version Compatibility
Nested Lists $7.65/month $7.65/month Yes Windows, Mac, Android, and iOS

For starters, Quire boats a rich variety of integrations with a host of third-party apps, including Google Suite, Microsoft Office, and Slack – for more, you can also link it with Zapier, which unlocks a world of new integrations, so it’s very likely that your current tech stack can be accommodated.

It’s also incredibly easy to collaborate with your team members whenever you need to with Quire, and it makes it easy for users to share and work together on a variety of assignments with built-in messaging – so no more struggling to find messages.

With Quire, you also have the ability to save time and reduce the stress of managing projects, as the software provides an organized platform that not only streamlines business operations but also provides real-time status updates. You can automate your entire workflow, easily delegate tasks, and track progress.

Pricing

Quire boasts one of the best free plans of any BPM tool on this list, with up to 10 users permitted and the creation of 8 separate projects. This makes it a viable option for small businesses looking to save on cost.

For more features, users, and projects, you can upgrade to one of three paid plans, each offering more automations, views, and integrations – there’s even a 30-day free trial for each of the paid options.

 

 

Quire Pricing

Pros

  • Affordable plans and an excellent free tier for 10 users
  • Features a bundle of collaborative tools, including tagging and in-app chat
  • 30-day free trials on all paid plans to try out the premium features

Cons

  • No dedicated apps for Windows or Mac – it’s all web-based
  • Not a great option for large businesses with complex needs

7. Awork – User-Friendly BPM Platform

Awork is a versatile and user-friendly business process management tool that’s made significant strides in helping businesses improve their workflow and productivity.

One area where Awork really excels is task management, as it allows you to create tasks, assign them to team members, set due dates, and track progress, all from the main dashboard. You also have the ability to categorize tasks, add tags, and prioritize them.

Beyond all this, Awork offers powerful project planning tools, including Gantt charts, list view, board view, and timelines, which enable you to visualize project deadlines, dependencies, and milestones, making it easier to manage complex projects effectively.

Awork Dashboard

Best For Cheapest Monthly Plan Cheapest Annual Plan Free Version Compatibility
Custom Templates $8.45/month $10/month Yes Windows, Mac, Android, and iOS

There are also some useful collaborative features on offer, like comments, file attachments, and mentions, which all build towards seamless communication among team members, ensuring that everyone’s on the same page, even when working remotely.

Awork does also offer some automation capabilities, for example, you can set up custom workflows and automate repetitive tasks, saving time and reducing human error. However, it does lack in this area when compared to some of the more familiar brands like Monday, as the automations are quite basic and limited.

However, you are able to work with your current tech lineup, too, as Awork integrates with popular third-party apps like Slack and Trello. This allows you to connect your existing tools and centralize your work management, making it a valuable addition to your tech stack.

Pricing

Awork still very much feels like a work in progress – sure, it offers some excellent features and well-priced plans to boot, but it still falls a little short of giants like Monday and ClickUp.

Their plans start from just $8.45/month for the Basic plan, which gives you access to unlimited projects, time-tracking features, and a few integrations. For larger teams, you can opt for either the business plan ($12.68/month), which gives you access to more customer support, a workload overview, and team structure settings.

Alternatively, you can opt for the most premium option, Enterprise ($19.02/month), where you get SSO & SCIM integration and a custom subdomain. The plans are reasonably well-priced, even though there’s no free version. On the plus side, they also let you sign up for a 2-year plan for the best savings.

Pros

  • One of the most aesthetically pleasing BPM tools
  • Offers a good range of affordable plans, with a useful 2-year option
  • Strong reporting and time-tracking features

Cons

  • No free plan
  • Lacks advanced features and automations that the top providers offer

8. ProWorkflow – Best for Financial Management

ProWorkflow’s user-friendly interface makes it easy for businesses to manage their processes. The platform is intuitive and requires little to no training to get started. Additionally, the interface is customizable, which means that businesses can tailor it to their specific needs.

You can easily create and assign tasks to team members, set deadlines, and track their process, and we were impressed with the flexibility. Additionally, team members can collaborate on tasks without the need for integration.

ProWorkflow Project Management Software

Best For Cheapest Monthly Plan Cheapest Annual Plan Free Version Compatibility
Task Management $20/month $18/month Yes Windows, Mac, Android, iOS, and Blackberry

Time management is another essential feature of ProWorkflow, and the platform allows businesses to track billable and non-billable hours. Businesses can also set budgets for specific tasks, ensuring that they don’t exceed this. Plus, there are even invoicing features so you can invoice clients directly from the platform.

Alongside the excellent time management features, you can also access robust reporting features, making it easy for businesses to track their progress and identify areas that need improvement. What’s more, the platform offers several report templates that businesses can customize to meet their specific needs.

The reports can be exported in various file formats, making it easy to share them with team members or clients. Also, like many of the other top BPM tools, ProWorkflow integrates with a host of third-party apps, including Zapier, making it easier for businesses to manage their processes.

An example of some of those key integrations include Xero, QuickBooks, and FreshBooks, making it easy for businesses to manage their finances.

Pricing

The pricing structure of ProWorkflow is pretty straightforward but a tad more expensive than some of the other top tools on this list. There’s also no business pricing listed on the website, as you’ll need to contact the sales team to discuss the Enterprise plan.

ProWorkflow Pricing

Pros

  • You can create unlimited projects on every plan
  • Includes strong time management features
  • Excellent for finance teams as it integrates with the most popular finance apps, like QuickBooks

Cons

  • A limited number of plans means scalability takes a hit
  • More expensive but offers fewer features than the likes of Monday

9. Zoho Projects – The Best Budget BPM Software

Zoho Logo

Zoho Projects is a complete project management solution perfect for any sized project. With features such as employee time tracking tools, task management, and project collaboration, Zoho Projects makes it easy for teams to work together and streamline their workflows.

One of the great features of Zoho Projects is its customizability and flexibility. It allows you to set up your projects and processes the way you want without having to conform to a rigid set of rules.

You can easily create customized task lists, time-tracking modules, and issue trackers to best suit your team’s needs, too. This makes it easier for you to stay organized and manage multiple projects simultaneously.

Zoho Projects

Best For Cheapest Monthly Plan Cheapest Annual Plan Free Version Compatibility
Advanced Reports $5/month $4/month Yes Windows, Mac, Android, and iOS

Another advantage of Zoho Projects is its ability to improve communication and collaboration within the team, with features such as real-time chat, document sharing, and project notes for team members to exchange information and stay updated on project progress.

Also, unlike many of its competitors, Zoho Projects offers affordable pricing plans, making it accessible to businesses of all sizes. That said, starting with a free version for single users and competitive pricing to scale up, it’s easily one of the best for small business owners who need to stay within a budget.

Finally, Zoho Projects integrates seamlessly with other Zoho applications, such as Zoho CRM, Zoho Reports, and Zoho Analytics, as well as third-party tools to centralize all your data and further streamline your business processes.

Pricing

As previously mentioned, Zoho Projects offers some extremely cheap plans, with their top tier, the Enterprise plan, costing just $9/month. There’s even a free forever plan that allows 2-3 users to work across 2 projects – overall, you’re getting great value for money here.

Zoho Projects Pricing

Pros

  • Integrates with the rest of the Zoho network, including one of the best CRMs
  • Incredibly affordable paid plans, and an excellent free forever plan
  • Offers top-notch collaborative features such as real-time chat

Cons

  • No premade templates

10. Kissflow – Low-Code BPM Tool

Kissflow Logo

Kissflow is a versatile business process management tool that can simplify your working processes with over 400+ custom templates, an excellent workflow builder, as well as a ton of automation for completing mundane tasks.

With Kissflow, you also get automated routing and conditional branching, meaning processes only proceed to the next step when an event has occurred, a user task is completed, or a specific condition is met.

As mentioned previously, there are over 400 templates to design automated workflows, but the magic lies with Kissflow’s drag-and-drop no-code tools, allowing you to build more complex workflows without having to grasp coding when the template you require doesn’t already exist.

Kissflow Dashboard

Best For Cheapest Monthly Plan Cheapest Annual Plan Free Version Compatibility
Low-Code Tools Contact Sales Contact Sales Demo Windows, Mac, Android, and iOS

There’s even a Kissflow app store where you can download and use pre-made apps to handle team objectives, employee goals, and performance reviews – most are free as well. You can even integrate it with popular applications like Gmail, Slack, Dropbox, HubSpot, and Mailchimp.

Plus, it works with Zapier, so you easily sideload your current tech stack to work in tandem with Kissflow. Even better, Kissflow offers a variety of choices for data collection and report generation for gaining valuable insight into various parts of specific projects or the overall workflows for your business or teams.

It also prides itself on maintaining high security with bank-grade encryption, penetration testing, and the backing of Amazon Web Services, so businesses can rest assured that their sensitive data is safe within the system. Kissflow also regularly updates its security measures to stay current with the latest digital threats.

Pricing

Kissflow doesn’t list plans on its website, instead, you’ll have to contact the sales team to discuss a custom plan. There’s also no free plan, which is a shame – but there is a free demo, so one of their experts can run through all the features and show you how it works.

Pros

  • Offers a huge range of templates for improving workflows
  • Excellent customer support team, should any issues arise
  • Top-notch security for keeping your business data safe

Cons

  • Lack of transparency over the pricing

The Top Rated BPM Platforms Compared

Below is a comparison table of our top 10 business process management tools, comparing their cheapest plans, their best use cases, and other important components:

Software Best For Cheapest Monthly Plan (Per User) Cheapest Annual Plan (Per User) Free Version Compatibility
Monday Workflow Management $10/month $8/month Yes Windows, Mac, Android, and iOS
ClickUp Automating Manual Processes $10/month $7/month Yes Windows, Mac, Android, and iOS
Wrike Team Collaborating $9.80/month $9.80/month Yes Windows, Mac, Android, and iOS
Smartsheet Spreadsheets $10/month $7/month Yes Windows, Mac, Android, and iOS
Teamwork Resource Allocation $8.99/month $5.99/month Yes Windows, Mac, Android, and iOS
Zoho Projects Advanced Reports $5/month $4/month Yes Windows, Mac, Android, and iOS
Quire Nested Lists $7.65.month $7.65.month Yes Windows, Mac, Android, and iOS
Awork Custom Templates $8.45/month $10/month No Windows, Mac, Android, and iOS
ProWorkflow Task Management $20/month $18/month No Windows, Mac, Android, and iOS
Kissflow Low-Code Tools Contact Sales Contact Sales Demo Windows and Mac

How to Choose the Best BPM Tool for Your Business

Choosing the right business process management tool can be tricky. As we can see from the reviews, each provider has a lot to offer, and any of them would be a great asset to any company. To help you decide, we’ve listed some of the key factors you should consider when choosing the right BPM software:

  • Define your Objectives – Start by outlining your BPM goals in detail. What specific issues or difficulties do you hope to solve with BPM software? Decide on your objectives, whether they are to increase compliance, lower expenses, or increase efficiency.
  • Assess Current Processes – Make a careful analysis of your current procedures. Record current workflows, and pinpoint any potential trouble spots, bottlenecks, and places where automation may significantly improve things.
  • Consider your Budget – The cost of BPM solutions can vary greatly, as is evident with the different range of plans listed from the providers above, therefore, it’s important to know what you can afford to spend.
  • Scalability – As your organization expands, make sure the BPM software you chose can adapt to meet your changing needs and manage more complicated processes. Having multiple tiers of plans is a key component to look for here.
  • Ease of Use – Look at how user-friendly the BPM tool you’ve chosen is to ensure that your staff can quickly adapt without requiring extensive training. For this, we recommend making use of any free versions before committing.
  • Integrations – Check whether your chosen BPM tool can integrate with any existing systems and applications – for example, a top CRM, Google Suite, and others. Multiple integrations are crucial for seamless process coordination.
  • Security – Make sure the BPM software adheres to the security regulations and standards that apply to your sector. User authentication, access controls, and data encryption are all necessary security measures that need to be considered.

Conclusion — What’s the Best Business Process Management Software in 2024?

The best business process management software can help teams increase their productivity, improve efficiency, and boost revenue. Each provider on this list has features to improve all the above, such as time management tools and automations.

Overall, Monday is our top choice for the best BPM tool right now. Its ease of use, flexibility, integrations, affordability, and security measures make it stand out in a crowded market. If you’re searching for reliable BPMS software, look no further than Monday.

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References

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The Best Recruitment Software on the Market in 2024 Compared https://techreport.com/business-software/best-recruitment-software/ Wed, 27 Sep 2023 14:16:03 +0000 https://techreport.com/?page_id=3518453 Best Recruitment Software

Finding the best personnel for your company isn’t easy. To engage the best prospects before they’re snatched up by a rival, you must act quickly. The issue is that there...

The post The Best Recruitment Software on the Market in 2024 Compared appeared first on The Tech Report.

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Best Recruitment Software

Finding the best personnel for your company isn’t easy. To engage the best prospects before they’re snatched up by a rival, you must act quickly. The issue is that there are several processes in the hiring process that can make things take longer than they should. The good news is that these can be resolved by recruitment software.

These tools provide you with a solid framework to streamline your hiring procedure and shorten the time it takes to find candidates, but finding the ideal recruiting software can be difficult – that’s where we step in to help save you time. We’ve compiled a list of the top 10 best recruitment software solutions for teams in charge of talent acquisition.

The Top 10 Best HR Recruitment Software Solutions

Our testing and in-depth analysis of the market leaders based on criteria like pricing and the feature-to-price ratio, the value of any free versions, and their ease of use and overall functionality allowed us to confidently rank the market leaders accordingly. Here’s why they’re on our list:

  1. TeamTailor – Offers the best HR recruitment software with customizable templates for every stage of the hiring process and its intuitive candidate database
  2. ClearCompany – A beginner-friendly recruiting solution that includes a simple drag-and-drop career page builder, and an easy-to-navigate interface
  3. Monday.com – The best choice for automating routine hiring tasks, such as automated interview requests, email updates, and much more
  4. Rippling – A reliable tool with built-in features for helping finance departments, such as automated payments when bonus targets have been met
  5. BreezyHR – Good choice for small businesses looking to grow rapidly as it has a range of plans that can scale alongside your business
  6. Manatal – Useful recruiting software with an excellent duplicate monitoring system to avoid potential errors further down the hiring process
  7. Workable – Top choice for equal opportunity employers as it features anonymous screening, standardized tests, and cognitive and personality tests
  8. Recruitee – Intuitive recruitment tool that offers collaborative hiring through its excellent employee referral features
  9. Zoho Recruit – The best choice for recruitment agencies thanks to its detailed candidate databases and tagging system
  10. JazzHR – Solid recruiting software for small to mid-size businesses thanks to its low-cost plans and user-friendly dashboard

The Key Benefits of Using An Online Recruiting System

Recruitment is a continuous procedure in a job market that’s constantly changing. Both HR departments and recruitment agencies are constantly searching for new talent, but this constant quest for more experienced workers could seriously reduce your company’s productivity.

Thankfully, there’s a practical and affordable solution in recruitment software. With recruiting software, your business can automate numerous hiring procedures and free up time to focus on harder duties.

Automation enables you to access a far larger pool of people and find the best ones, in addition to saving you hours of labor. We’ve listed some other key benefits for you below:

Speed Up the Whole Recruitment Process

With top recruitment software, you can reach both employers and candidates at any time of day, from anywhere, and have access to all the information you need. You’re also always kept informed since all changes are made to the system automatically.

This allows you to shorten the time it takes to find and hire the best candidates whilst allowing your HR team to concentrate on other vital day-to-day activities.

Expand Your Database

With the ability to save all the resumes and job applications in one location, there’s no longer a need to go through mountains of paperwork. Plus, you can allow applicants to register and upload their own resumes, giving you a wider audience.

This can be particularly useful if your HR department ever loses an employee, as you have a whole new database of live candidates.

Decrease the Amount of Admin Work

Once you automate posting jobs across many job-board websites, you can save hours of work. Imagine being able to publish a job with only one click on hundreds of free and premium job boards.

Using a shared calendar is another feature of recruitment software that makes scheduling interviews easier, and it helps keep everyone updated with any potential last-minute changes.

Improved Candidate Quality

The ability to categorize and filter the received CVs while looking for people with particular abilities is another benefit, as you’re now keeping all the resumes in one central location. This enables you to identify better prospects faster and ensures that you match potential hires with positions that they’re qualified for.

Better Communication

Recruiters can monitor every task that their team is working on using a single system, and they can maintain all of your notes attached while updating any information collected on an applicant during the whole recruitment process.

You can treat each candidate fairly if you move candidates through the process digitally and keep them informed of any changes.

Stay on Track with Applicants

The system immediately updates any action made on a candidate, with all of your notes attached, so that you can make sure you take into account each application when filling open job vacancies.

You can be sure that no applications are lost by moving prospects through the hiring process online, eliminating the risk of the right one slipping away.

Increased Privacy

When hiring, you have access to very private information about each applicant, including addresses and contact numbers, for example. Thankfully, with the best recruitment software, you can be sure they’re all kept in one secure location, encrypted, and only accessible by you and your team – no risk of any GDPR slip-ups.

Reviews of the 10 Best Recruitment Software Solutions

Now that you know the key benefits you get with recruitment software, it’s time to take a look at which provider is best, starting with our number one pick, TeamTailor. In these reviews, we’ll explore all the important aspects of each tool, including the price, any unique features on offer, and other important functions.

If all you want is a quick overview of these aspects, then feel free to skip ahead to our comparison table.

1. Teamtailor – Overall, The Best Recruitment Software Solution

TeamTailor Logo

Teamtailor‘s cloud-based, reliable recruiting software is used in the hiring process by teams of all shapes and sizes. It can also be used across a range of industries, making it an adaptable tool to whatever task is at hand.

Plus, it offers useful features to draw in the best candidates for you. One of those is the excellent adaptable career site, where you can build your own user-friendly and attractive page for all your potential candidates to browse jobs, view requirements, and learn about your business.

This provides a more unique and professional experience that’s sure to impress the top applicants. From here, you get a range of functions to aid the hiring process, including tracking potential employees’ status and useful branding options to make the career page business-specific.

TeamTailor Dashboard

Best For Starting Price Free Trial Standout Features
Process Management Contact Sales 14-days 1. Automated Triggers
2. Career Site Builder
3. Custom Templates

Moreover, you’ll get seamless integrations with various popular job boards like Indeed. That said, what we were most impressed by was how TeamTailor supports multiple languages, so if you’re looking to fill an overseas role, Teamtailor can post jobs in a variety of different languages.

We also really enjoyed the Candidate database features, which allow larger teams to save time by filtering through applicants based on star ratings, previous feedback, and key components such as location and availability.

You can even invite members of different departments into the candidate database and hiring team for better results. But perhaps the standout feature of them all is the excellent Applicant Tracking System (ATS), which boasts a wide range of cutting-edge features like Automated Triggers.

These save you time and hassle by taking in mundane tasks like booking interviews, sending messages, adding notes, and much more. There’s even a full set of fully customizable templates at your fingertips at all times, each tailored towards a stage the candidate is in, saving more valuable time.

All of this can also be done in bulk, so you can send notes, interview requests, and more for a huge range of candidates in just a few clicks.

Pricing

Sadly, TeamTailor doesn’t include any pricing on its website, and although we prefer transparency with pricing, our team uses TeamTailor for our own hiring needs, so we know that, despite this, the tool takes a unique and welcomed approach to custom plans.

Better still, you can request a free demo or use the 14-day free trial to test out the service. This should give you enough time to explore all the key features and run through how everything works. We highly recommend doing this.

Pros

  • Excellent automated triggers for mundane tasks like scheduling interviews
  • Includes a custom career page builder with branding features
  • Integrates with job boards like Indeed, Bob, and LinkedIn
  • Outstanding Applicant Tracking System that provides a great experience for candidates

Cons

  • Lacks pricing transparency

2. ClearCompany – The Best Recruiting Software for Beginners

ClearCompany Logo

ClearCompany is a leading talent management and HR solution that was created to assist businesses in finding, engaging, and retaining top applicants.

It offers a comprehensive range of HR and recruitment solutions, including application monitoring, onboarding new hires, performance management, and many others. There’s a lot to like about ClearCompany.

For example, it’s one of the most user-friendly and intuitive HR, recruitment, and talent management platforms available. It provides users with an interface that’s aesthetically pleasing and lists all the important options in easy-to-find locations.

ClearCompany Dashboard

Best For Starting Price Free Trial Standout Features
Beginners Contact Sales No 1. ClearText
2. AI-assisted Job Descriptions
3. Custom Reports

Moving away from how it looks and on to how it performs, there’s even more to like. For starters, they have one of the best Applicant Tracking Systems with excellent features like ClearText, an automated messaging service that can update applicants on performance, feedback, and interview times.

It also features a superb AI-assisted job description writer to save HR teams countless hours of writing engaging and unique job postings. When the AI tool has worked its magic, you can then post to multiple job boards in a matter of seconds – and then edit the posts on each job board through one central location.

We were also impressed with the reporting and analytical features on offer, including tools for identifying the top-performing candidates, performance reviews once the candidates have joined, and other templates for applicant conversions.

The result? You can compile detailed reports for the key stakeholders within your business and improve areas that may be lacking. You can look at reports on employee engagement, workforce diversity, gender balance, pay fairness, tenure, attrition, and characteristics of high performers – all essential for HR departments.

Pricing

Sadly, this is another provider that doesn’t display any pricing on their website, similar to TeamTailor. Instead, you’ll need to contact them for a ‘custom quote.’ Although this can seem disappointing, sometimes, a one-size-fits-all just isn’t the right approach to something like HR software.

Pros

  • Very user-friendly interface, suitable for beginners
  • Offers powerful reporting and analytical features
  • Includes a unique AI writing tool that helps compose job descriptions
  • Features useful automated communications tools like ClearText and BulkTexter

Cons

  • Works best in the North American market
  • Lacks transparent pricing

3. Monday.com – Great Tool for Automating the Hiring Process

Monday Logo

Monday.com‘s cloud-based project management platform allows your team to manage projects successfully, collaborate effectively, and expand online.

Whilst it might not be as well-known for its recruiter tools, the tool itself is flexible enough to offer HR teams an all-in-one platform to help them engage with employees.

One of its many features, HR management, is responsible for managing the entire recruiting cycle, from hiring and onboarding to monitoring candidate performance. It can even do this autonomously, with routine tasks like posting to LinkedIn and hiring emails all taken care of by the software.

Monday.com Dashboard

Best For Starting Price Free Trial Standout Features
Customization and Scaling $8/month Yes 1. CRM
2. Custom Templates
3. Integrations

However, the versatility of Monday.com’s platform is unquestionably its most notable feature, as this software comes with dozens of HR-specific templates, 20+ drag-and-drop columns, hundreds of third-party app integrations, and practical widgets to let you tailor the platform to your requirements.

Plus, you can also keep your comments on one platform thanks to their in-app updates, which will save you time searching for information in email threads. Having one centralized location helps teams stay organized and makes finding important candidate data easier than ever.

It’s also famed for its CRM capabilities, which go hand-in-hand with the applicant hiring process. Once a potential candidate has applied for a job, you can store their details in the CRM system. This includes salary expectations or interview feedback, as well as personal data, including email addresses and location.

There are also a ton of templates to aid the hiring process, including custom application forms that can be fitted with employer branding, colors, and more. You can even record interview notes, set up an onboarding board to track progress, and share your boards with other teams and departments for more feedback.

Pricing

Monday offers a good range of plans for HR teams and businesses of all sizes. Now, it’s worth remembering that this isn’t a specialist tool for recruitment, but there is enough here to make it an excellent piece of software.

However, we’d recommend speaking with their sales team about the enterprise plan if you do want a tailored deal for your business, as you may find you get better value for money.

Pros

  • Low-cost plans, ideal for smaller businesses and HR teams
  • Can automate a ton of processes, like job posts and contacting candidates
  • Very easy to use, suitable for CRM and recruitment software newbies
  • Includes the best CRM on the market for maintaining relationships with applicants

Cons

  • This isn’t a specialist recruitment tool, so lacks more detailed features

4. Rippling – Offers Excellent Finance Features

Rippling Logo

Rippling is another top tool for HR departments and recruiters looking to source, manage, and maintain new applicants. With it, you can post new roles to over 25,000 job boards instantly, and onboarding new recruits can be done automatically in a matter of minutes.

The hiring process can also be completely customized from the employer’s end, and Rippling provides a vast variety of templates for each step of the hiring process.

These make it easy for both the applicant and hiring team to understand the next steps, and it’s all fully automated as well, so there’s no need to manually make changes following one stage’s completion.

Rippling Dashboard

Best For Starting Price Free Trial Standout Features
HR & Finance Teams $8/month No 1. Employee Referral Management
2. Role-based Access
3. Candidate Tagging

It’s also especially useful for designating role-based access for each member of a hiring committee, for example, the HR manager, executive, and recruiter can all be assigned different levels of access, which is great for protecting company data when using external companies to help with the hiring process.

You also get access to useful HR resources and financial tools in one platform, which can drastically improve the onboarding process. One neat feature of this is the Employee Referral Management system, which can automatically generate referral links when a new employee has hit certain targets or bonus-related goals.

In fact, it can even make payments for you. There are also some useful internal reporting features that let you see how well a recruiter or interview can analyze a candidate’s skills. It does this by creating reports with the data you enter.

So if a recruiter has consistently put forward candidates that go on to achieve well as your company, you can see this clearly in the reports.

Pricing

Rippling prices start from $8/user/month, but as with many, Rippling works with custom quotes as they know different businesses have different needs. That said, you can choose to incorporate useful tools like Time Management, Benefits, Payroll, and other key components for a successful HR department.

You can also schedule a 30-minute demo with a Rippling expert, but that’s it – no free version or free trial to test the service out first.

Pros

  • Incredibly easy to use and takes under 3 weeks to fully implement
  • Includes tools for finance, IT, and HR departments, making it an all-around powerhouse
  • Offers role-based access for internal employees and external recruiters

Cons

  • No free trial and no pricing displayed on the website

5. Breezy HR – Good Choice for Small Businesses Looking to Scale

BreezyHR logo

Breezy HR is one of the most widely used recruiting software products available today, and it’s trusted by thousands of businesses worldwide to attract the best talent.

By promptly posting available openings to several job boards, reviewing resumes, automating the interview process, and offering rich analytics, its applicant tracking system drastically improves the hiring process.

This cutting-edge recruiting tool makes the hiring process far less painful because of its simple drag-and-drop interface. In less than a minute, anyone can create a straightforward, engaging career site that’s mobile-optimized to post job openings. You can even tailor it to include company logos and branding.

Breezy HR Dashboard

Best For Starting Price Free Trial Standout Features
Small Businesses $157/month 14-days 1. Bootstrap Plan
2. Careers Webpage Builder
3. Automated Reference Checking

Plus, to get your open positions in front of millions of potential prospects, Breezy will post your job roles on over 50 job sites. With a searchable database of candidates, users can also shorten the recruiting process – this works well with the applicant tags that can be predetermined and set internally.

You can rank applicants based on location, skills, interview scores, and other key data. Breezy will then assist you in qualifying potential applicants in tailored pipelines once you’ve recruited a pool of them.

Everything you need to know about applicants, including their resumes, social media accounts, and team notes, is gathered in one place by the user-friendly candidate management application.

From there, sending an email, setting up an interview, finishing a review scorecard, or sending an assessment background check or offer only requires one click. There are also a ton of integrations to automate practically every part of the hiring process. Top apps include LinkedIn, GoodHire, and Google Analytics.

Pricing

Finally, we have some detailed and accurate pricing data to reveal, and better yet, you can try Breezy HR for free – forever. We’re delighted to see a free forever plan on offer here, it may only be for one position, but you get full access and unlimited users.

But worry not, if you like the service, you can easily scale up to one of the other 3 paid plans, each offering an increased number of job roles, features, automation, and so on.

Breezy HR Pricing

Pros

  • Offers a good range of plans that can scale with a business
  • Useful free forever plan or 14-day free trial of all paid plans
  • Very user-friendly drag-and-drop interface for building a careers webpage

Cons

  • The lowest-priced plan costs over $140/month

6. Manatal – Includes a Fantastic Duplicate Monitoring System

Manatal Logo

Manatal is a highly regarded applicant monitoring and recruitment software program that connects to thousands of well-known and specialized job posting channels from both for-profit and nonprofit sources.

The software boasts complex capabilities, including artificial intelligence (AI) and machine learning, and is used in over 90 countries. As previously stated, Manatal’s sophisticated candidate sourcing and AI-powered suggestions are its distinguishing characteristics.

Together, these tools enable you to sort through your piles of candidate information; the system then chooses the applicants who check the most criteria. For this to be successful, you can use customizable fields and search criteria that the AI engine will employ in its algorithm.

Manatal Dashboard

Best For Starting Price Free Trial Standout Features
Social Media Recruiting $15/month 14-days 1. AI Candidate Scoring
2. AI-Generated Job Descriptions
3. Duplicate Application Monitoring

This gives more weight to whatever elements you think are most relevant for each role, be they particular abilities, work experience, academic background, or any other requirements.

Furthermore, it provides sophisticated social media recruitment tools, such as a Chrome extension for importing LinkedIn profiles straight into your applicant database and straightforward job post sharing from your career page to websites and apps like Facebook, WhatsApp, and WeChat.

Manatal also offers a useful duplicate monitoring system and a combined profiles option in case you get the same application from two different sources. It’s also incredibly easy to use for newbies, but it also contains enough advanced features to keep the most experienced HR managers interested.

Pricing

Manatal is very affordable, with the entry-level plan costing just $15/user/month. There’s also a 14-day free trial for both paid plans on offer. We also really like that you can choose to opt for a custom plan, so if you do want a tailored package for your business, you can do so.

On the flip side, if you want to opt for a paid annual plan, then you can.

Manatal Pricing

Pros

  • Includes AI machine learning to score applicants and write engaging job descriptions
  • Offers a 14-day free trial with all paid plans
  • You can choose to opt for a custom plan should you wish to

Cons

  • Text messaging & SMS recruitment features are only available in their highest-tier plan

7. Workable – Top Choice for Equal Opportunities Employers

Workable Logo

Workable is a cloud-based recruitment tool and Applicant Tracking System that enables hiring teams to effortlessly identify candidates, track applicants, and collaborate. It contains a variety of features that’ll make life simpler for both companies and candidates.

Not only does Workable make it simple to publish your job on both free and paid job sites, but it goes beyond. AI is used to explore public web profiles and find the top candidates for your position, taking candidate sourcing one step further.

Add in branded career pages, multilingual options, employee recommendations, and even a browser plugin that enables you to quickly add potential prospects, and you’re in the best position to identify the top candidates for the job.

Workable Dashboard

Best For Starting Price Free Trial Standout Features
Equal Opportunities Employers $149/month 14-days 1. AI-recommended Candidates
2. Standardized Tests
3. LinkedIn Plugin

It’s also making every effort to assist employers in finding diverse applicants and eliminate prejudice from the selection procedure. This is accomplished through templates for inclusive job descriptions, anonymous screening, standardized tests and scorecards, and information on the demographics of applicants.

Plus, the platform provides candidates with a variety of cognitive and personality tests, giving businesses yet another source of unbiased information for making fair and unbiased hiring decisions.

Workable places a strong emphasis on its scalability, too, as it makes it simple to streamline your hiring process and avoid wasting time if you’re a growing business. The centralized hiring workspace it offers keeps stakeholders in sync, while user permissions let you expand without jeopardizing confidential information.

Besides all this, it’s incredibly simple to automate processes like report creation, compliance management, and workflow approval. As a result, the procedure is more streamlined, enabling your staff to use their time efficiently and quickly adjust to changes.

Pricing

Workable provides a strong selection of plans that can comfortably grow alongside any business needs, but they are a little pricey, with the cheapest plan costing $149/month. That said, this price point is for up to 50 employees.

The Premier plan will set you back nearly $2000/month for 251-500 employees – sure, if you’re a large business, this might not be a huge issue, but you’ll want guaranteed results.

Workable Pricing

Pros

  • Useful LinkedIn plugin for pulling applicant data
  • Excellent AI-based features for scoring and selecting candidates
  • Fantastic equal opportunities features, including standardized tests

Cons

  • Can be pretty expensive for businesses looking to grow rapidly

8. Recruitee – Features a Great Employee Referral System

Recruitee Logo

Recruitee is a powerful, reasonably priced, and scalable online recruiting software that helps to shorten the time to hire with an extensive, built-in applicant tracking system.

To ensure zero errors in your process, they have solutions for sourcing applicants, conducting interviews, hiring, and system analytics. You can set up your hiring team using Recruitee and assign role-based permissions for a collaborative recruitment strategy.

Plus, you can conceal private notes and sensitive information by using a wide range of visibility choices, and you can also simply organize your interactions within the Recruitee platform using notes, task reminders, or tags to draw attention to important information for your colleagues.

Recruitee Dashboard

Best For Starting Price Free Trial Standout Features
Collaborative Hiring $224/month 14-days 1. RefferalsHub
2. CareersHub
3. E-Signature Built-in

The standout features, however, are the RefferalsHub and CareersHub, with the former placing an impressive emphasis on trusting your own employees. Through this, you can invite staff members to contribute to interviews, feedback, and much more.

Additionally, the adaptable CareersHub offers multiple posting and intelligent job campaigns, sourcing and referral tools, evaluation and interviewing tools, e-signature, and electronic onboarding, all supported by GDPR compliance and automation tools.

The CareersHub dashboard also provides access to the drag-and-drop career page editor, which lets you add and modify configurable items to your career page. Ready-to-use text, photos, and videos are available in its library, saving you time and effort in creating your own assets.

Pricing

Recruitee offers a transparent view of its pricing, with users able to select and tailor plans based on the number of positions they need filling – all offer a 14-day free trial to boot.

There’s also the useful option of picking a custom plan, but for that, you’ll need to get in contact with the sales team. We do feel the prices are quite high, but it’s still just nice to see them displayed on the company’s website.

Recruitee Pricing

Pros

  • Direct connections to over 2,900 free and paid job boards
  • Highly customizable and easy to use, suitable for beginners
  • Brilliant employee referral program places an emphasis on trust in staff

Cons

  • Automation features are only available on the more expensive plan

9. Zoho Recruit – Top Choice for Recruitment Agencies

Zoho Recruit Logo

Zoho Recruit is a powerful recruiting tool with a full application tracking solution that’s best suited for corporate HR departments and recruitment agencies.

You can manage and keep track of each stage of the hiring process with the help of its customizable features and integrations. For one, you can easily locate and track ideal candidates with Zoho’s client and applicant portals and staff recommendation portals.

There are a number of automated, analytical, and communication options available in Zoho Recruit, and you can publish multiple job positions, promote them on social media, sort through many resumes, and import applicant data to your recruiting database.

Zoho Recruit Dashboard

Best For Starting Price Free Trial Standout Features
Staffing Agencies $25/month 14-days 1. AI-assisted Candidate Selection
2. Dedicated Recruitment Mailbox
3. Integration with Zoho Network

You can even examine candidate and recruiter records, run background checks, and pre-screening tests. Zoho Recruit offers powerful AI functions – for example, it enables candidates to send their resumes through a specific gateway and lets you set up a special mailbox for resume submissions.

The information and records of applicants can then be extracted, standardized, and mapped to various areas in your application tracking system. Then, to save ample time, your recruitment staff can filter candidate records by using the AI features to grade applicants in accordance with your selected criteria.

Plus, to connect with candidates for interviews and evaluations, you can also use a built-in video interviewing tool, which is available as a paid add-on. With it, you can schedule interviews right from the candidate’s profile using Zoho Recruit.

Lastly, there’s a whole host of useful integrations, including with the whole Zoho network, which includes an excellent CRM and other tools that can improve workflows. But perhaps the most vital one is Checkr – with it, you can screen applicants in one click and have reports sent to any of your hiring teams’ devices.

Pricing

Zoho Recruit is one of the more affordable choices out there, especially as a few of its features are paid add-ons, like video interviewing tools. That doesn’t stop it from being an incredibly popular solution for businesses around the globe, though.

There’s also a 14-day free trial on all paid plans and a generous free forever plan, although you’re restricted to posting just one job – but it gives you time to work out all the features.

Zoho Recruit Pricing

Pros

  • Reasonably priced plans that can easily scale alongside your business
  • Offers a free forever plan along with a 14-day free trial on paid plans
  • Excellent AI-based tools for helping locate the top prospects

Cons

  • Some features, like video interviews, are paid add-ons

10. JazzHR – Good Choice for Small to Mid-Size Businesses

JazzHR Logo

JazzHR is a user-friendly hiring solution that allows for unlimited users and the posting of positions to 18 popular job sites (or more with integrations).

It’s a cost-effective option for businesses that just need to post a few jobs at once, but it can be expensive to access infinite jobs and the product’s best features.

The cheapest plan just allows users to publish up to three jobs that sync across different online job boards and isn’t an actual ATS. However, the Plus and Pro subscriptions offer a lot more features.

This includes the option to schedule interviews and screening questions so that applicants can be emailed automatically at specific points in the procedure.

JazzHR Dashboard

Best For Starting Price Free Trial Standout Features
Small Businesses $49/month No 1. Auto Post to Free Job Boards
2. Interview Guides
3. Workflow Helpers

It’s an easy-to-use piece of software that can be learned in a day and used right away to start gathering resumes. It includes LinkedIn integration so that users can post job openings, gather applicants from them, or conduct candidate searches.

Depending on the position and skill type you’re looking for, you can simply post jobs to nearly all the big job boards with a single click and expect to receive a significant number of applications.

For more advanced features, the premium plan offers background checks on recruiters and applicants and tests for applicants to see if they’re suitable. There’s also the useful Workflow Helpers tool that can be used to automate routine tasks like sending feedback, updating applicant statuses, and other time-saving tools.

On paper, JazzHR may seem like a pretty cheap and straightforward recruitment tool, but when you start adding on the required features, such as candidate texting ($39/month), career page builder ($39/month) and features like e-signature at $39 – the total cost starts to climb up.

Pricing

As mentioned before, JazzHR has some attractive prices on paper, but when you start including the various add-ons like candidate texting and integrations with apps like Zoom, the price soon shoots up. Sadly, there’s also no free version to test the service, so you’ll have to hope it’s suitable straight from the get-go.

JazzHR Pricing

Pros

  • Allows for unlimited users, so your whole team can use it
  • Incredibly easy to learn, it can be implemented and accessible on day one
  • Includes useful features like interview guides and Workflow Helpers

Cons

  • Many features cost extra, which can make the service very expensive
  • Offers fewer features than the top providers on this list

The Top 10 Recruiting Management Tools Compared

Now that we’ve explored our top 10 picks for the best recruitment management tools in detail, it’s time to compare the key features drawn from the reviews above. This will make it easy for you to compare the key components, like pricing, standout features, and others:

Provider Best For Starting Price Free Trial Standout Features
TeamTailor Process Management Contact Sales 14-days 1. Automated Triggers
2. Career Site Builder
3. Custom Templates
ClearCompany Beginners Contact Sales No 1. ClearText
2. AI-assisted Job Descriptions
3. Custom Reports
Monday.com Customization and Scaling $8/month 14-days 1. CRM
2. Custom Templates
3. Integrations
Rippling HR & Finance Teams $8/month No 1. Employee Referral Management
2. Role-based Access
3. Candidate Tagging
BreezyHR Small Businesses $157/month 14-days 1. Bootstrap Plan
2. Careers Webpage Builder
3. Automated Reference Checking
Manatal Social Media Recruiting $15/month 14-days 1. AI Candidate Scoring
2. AI-Generated Job Descriptions
3. Importing Social Media Data into Databases
Workable Equal Opportunities Employers $149/month 14-days 1. AI-recommended Candidates
2. Standardized Tests
3. LinkedIn Plugin
Recruitee Collaborative Hiring $224/month 14-days 1. RefferalsHub
2. CareersHub
3. E-Signature Built-in
Zoho Recruit Staffing Agencies $25/month 14-days 1. AI-assisted Candidate Selection
2. Dedicated Recruitment Mailbox
3. Integration with Zoho Network
JazzHR Small Businesses $49/month No 1. Auto Post to Free Job Boards
2. Interview Guides
3. Workflow Helpers

What’s the Best Free Recruitment Software to Use?

We wouldn’t recommend using free recruitment management software, as they contain far fewer features than the top providers on this list. But if you don’t want to spend any of your hard-earned cash, then you could try one of the free forever plans offered by a top tool.

For example, Zoho Recruit offers a free forever plan where you can access all the premium features, but you’re limited to one job posting. Alternatively, you could use the 14-day free trial on offer from our top pick TeamTailor, as this offers a good way to study all the features and learn how to use the system.

But overall, we’d steer clear of any 100% free recruitment tools, as they won’t offer key features like candidate texting, automations for interviewing, detailed career web pages, and other vital components of the best hiring software.

Factors to Consider When Choosing a Recruiting System for Your Business

There’s still a lot to consider when deciding which is the best recruiting system for your needs. Although all the providers on this list are very strong options, the one that’s right for you varies based on your requirements.

To help you decide, we’ve listed some of the key factors you ought to consider when picking your favorite recruitment software.

  • Price – This is always an important factor. The best thing to do is to look at the features offered and the integrations available and then compare the prices. Also, be sure to check if any of the features listed are paid add-ons, as this can catch people out.
  • Business Needs and Goals – Start by understanding your organization’s specific recruitment needs and goals. Different software solutions cater to different requirements, such as volume hiring, niche skill acquisition, or improving diversity.
  • User-Friendliness – The software should be easy to use for both recruiters and candidates, as this will streamline the hiring process and reduce training time for your team. As such, we recommend trying any free versions before committing.
  • Integration Capabilities – Ensure that the recruitment solution can integrate seamlessly with your existing HR and business systems. This may include your HRIS, payroll software, Applicant Tracking System, CRM software, and other tools used in your hiring processes.
  • Scalability – Consider whether the software can scale with your organization’s growth. It should be able to handle an increasing number of candidates and job openings.
  • Candidate Experience – Look for features that enhance the candidate experience, such as easy application processes, mobile optimization, and communication tools.
  • Automation & AI – Many of the best and more modern recruitment software platforms offer automation and AI-driven features like resume screening, chatbots, and predictive analytics to help identify top candidates more efficiently.

We’ve taken all these factors into consideration when testing, ranking, reviewing, and comparing the market’s top options.

Besides this guide, our team of experts has tested, ranked, reviewed, and compared numerous other tools that businesses around the world turn to for hiring, team management, and the like. Here are some guides we think would prove helpful:

Conclusion | What is the Best Recruiting Software to Use in 2024?

The best recruitment software makes it simple to locate, assess, and choose qualified candidates for interviews. Software for recruiting should have features like advertising jobs on various career sites, screening resumes, and tools for evaluating and tracking candidates.

All the providers on this list can do the above and more, with many now using AI to further improve their candidate selection, and some can even write job descriptions for you.

But there can only be one top pick, and we’ve gone with TeamTailor, as it includes excellent features like Automated Triggers, a simple-to-use Career Site Builder, and a ton of Custom Templates for each stage of the hiring process.

FAQ

What software do recruiters use?

What is HR recruitment software?

What is KPI in recruiting?

Which portal is best for a recruiter?

How do recruiters track applicants?

Can I get recruitment software free?

What’s the best recruiting software for small business needs?

References

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The 10 Best AI Writing Tools in 2024 for Marketing Copy, Essays, and Blogs https://techreport.com/artificial-intelligence/best-ai-writing-tools/ Thu, 21 Sep 2023 15:58:23 +0000 https://techreport.com/?page_id=3517030 Best AI writing tools

Marketers, small businesses, and content writers have been looking for an AI content creation solution to lighten their workloads well before OpenAI’s ChatGPT was made public. ChatGPT has been used...

The post The 10 Best AI Writing Tools in 2024 for Marketing Copy, Essays, and Blogs appeared first on The Tech Report.

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Best AI writing tools

Marketers, small businesses, and content writers have been looking for an AI content creation solution to lighten their workloads well before OpenAI’s ChatGPT was made public. ChatGPT has been used for financial planning, nutritionist advice, and AI social media posts, but it isn’t the only option available.

Today, there are several AI content-generating solutions available with cutting-edge capabilities that assist with producing blog posts, crafting product descriptions, conducting keyword research, and even assessing current material. If you don’t know where to begin, everything can seem overwhelming.

Fortunately, we’ve already done the testing and research, so you don’t have to. Here, from our experience with AI tools, we’ll compare the features, benefits, drawbacks, testimonials, and prices of the top 10 AI writing tools.

Ranking of the 10 Best AI Tools for Writing

Below, we’ve listed our top 10 best AI tools for writing, with the well-loved platform JasperAI taking the top spot. Later on in this article, we’ll take an in-depth look into each provider by comparing their key features, what languages they support, and more important details:

  1. JasperAI – Overall, the best AI writing tool as it understands a brand’s tone of voice, has a content look-back feature, and boasts an excellent plagiarism tool.
  2. CopyAI – The best choice for copywriters as it offers a bullet point-to-paragraph tool and useful pre-made templates for all content.
  3. Rytr – One of the top free AI writers that offers a generous free plan, great for content creators on a tight budget.
  4. WritesonicPopular content creation software that uses GPT-4 for the most accurate and reliable results.
  5. AI Writer – Useful tool for students and researchers as it’ll automatically list all citations and sources for you.
  6. ShortlyAI – Top AI writer that can quickly summarize or elaborate on any text you provide it with.
  7. WordAI – Intuitive content writing software that can avoid AI detection bots, ideal for students writing essays.
  8. Scalenut – The best choice for SEO teams, as it offers key features like SEO reports and keyword analysis.
  9. Hypotenuse – An excellent e-commerce-focused AI writing tool that can mass-produce product descriptions for an online store.
  10. Simplified – Reliable and budget-friendly AI writing software for users looking to save money.

What is AI Writing Software?

AI writing tools, commonly referred to as AI content writers, are pieces of software that use artificial intelligence to create text based on human input. With the help of AI technology, AI writers can produce copy that resembles that of a human, including data, statistics, and so much more.

For companies that engage in content marketing, AI authoring tools are fantastic. AI writing software can assist you if you frequently create text for blog posts, website landing pages, product descriptions, advertising, social media posts, video descriptions, and emails.

A replacement for human writers isn’t quite possible with AI writing, at least not yet. It’s actually more of a productivity tool designed to enhance your work or help with the painstaking process of research.

How Do AI Content Writing Tools Work?

As previously indicated, AI assistants produce a textual output based on input provided by the user, so it still relies on some human interaction at least. The user can give it pointers or ask it to include lists, tables, data, and other useful insights.

They’re gradually trained using real-world data, and they’re able to trawl through this in a matter of seconds, giving them a distinct time-saving advantage over humans.

As they gain knowledge from the provided data, they get better at producing output that sounds realistic, as currently, it can sound a little robot-like, and to a trained eye, it can sometimes be pretty clear what’s AI-generated.

AI content tools scan the web for existing content and gather data in accordance with user instructions, much like a good copywriter will do when researching an existing piece of content before writing a new one. They then process the data and produce new content with their findings.

What Can I Use An AI Writer Bot for?

There’s really no end to the kind of work an AI writer bot can do, and as we found in our testing, playing around with the software can give you a good indication of how they work best. But to help you, we’ve compiled a list of some of the more common uses for AI writing tools:

  • Blogs – Perhaps the most common use of AI writers is the creation of blog posts. You can enter keywords, topics, and headings, and then the AI tool takes care of the rest. For companies with ample content to share, AI is essential, as they can churn out content faster than any human.
  • Social Media – Businesses frequently post on social media to keep their audience updated, and even though this is a shorter form copy, it can still take considerable time. AI writers can learn and study from millions of social media posts to help write engaging posts for your audience.
  • Proofing – AI tools can optimize and improve current copy, not just for writing new stuff. If you have a web page, blog post, or something else, you can have AI check it and improve it where needed, meaning your content is consistent and regularly updated.
  • Marketing Slogans – Another form of complex but short-form copy is marketing slogans, which can be tricky to think up on the spot. AI can scour the internet for examples or use your keywords as a suggestion to come up with something catchy.

Will AI Replace Human Writers?

Content writers will be pleased to hear that AI won’t replace human writers – not for a long time. The main reason for this is that collaboration is key, and what we mean by this is that AI works best with some human input, like keywords or topics.

In short, you need to point AI in the right direction and work with it to get the best results. It also needs editing, as now, when you ask AI to generate some copy, it sounds like it’s being written by robots (because it is.)

So human input is needed to make it informative and engaging, not just mass streams of information put linearly.

Comparing the Best AI Writing Assistants

To help you compare the 10 best AI writing assistants, we’ve created a table that shows each tool’s key usage, the top 3 features, pricing, and more:

Provider Best For Price Standout Features Free Version
JasperAI Business Marketing $39/month 1. Sentance Rewriting
2. Tone of Voice
3. Plagiarism Checker
7-Day Free Trial
CopyAI Aiding Copywriters $49/month 1. Bullet Point to Paragraph
2. 25 Languages Supported
3. Freestyle Mode
Yes
Rytr Small Creators $9/month 1. Brief Generator
2. SERP Analysis
3. 30 Languages
Yes
Writesonic GPT-4 Content $16/month 1. GPT-4
2. Text Summarizer
3. Article Referencing
Yes, 10k Words
AI Writer Content Generation $49/month 1. Topic Discovery
2. Citations
3. Direct WordPress Publishing
No
ShortlyAI Summarizing Text $65/month 1. Text Summarizer
2. Ease of use
3. Output Length
Yes
WordAI Avoiding AI Detectors $65/month 1. Title Spinner
2. Tense Correcter
3. Anti-AI Detection
Yes
Scalenut SEO Content $65/month 1. SEO Reports
2. Cruise Mode
3. AI Content Templates
7 Day Free Trial
Hypotenuse Online Stores $12/month 1. Mass Product Descriptions
2. Google Ads Writer
3. Content Detective
Yes
Simplified Small Businesses $12/month 1. AI Presentations
2. Title Generator
3. Content Templates
Yes

In-Depth Reviews of the 10 Best AI Writing Tools

With all said and done, it’s now time to get into the nitty-gritty section of our reviews on the 10 best AI writing tools. In this section, we’ll look at the top features, what languages are supported, and all the other key details, starting with JasperAI:

1. JasperAI – Overall, the Best AI Writing Tool to Use in 2024

JasperAI Logo

JasperAI, or as it was formerly known, Jarvis, is easily one of the most feature-rich and potent AI content creators. As one of the earliest ChatGPT-based apps, it has a more established feel than most other apps because it’s been around for a while, so it’s had a chance to adapt.

Speaking of adapting, Jasper can now help you by sticking to a brand tone or guidelines, and all you have to do is upload several samples of previous work. We found that it quickly learns the style and can seamlessly replicate it throughout its output.

It can even nail a conversational tone, bring humor to its writing, and even come up with cunning CTAs. It’s truly an all-in-one marketing solution when used correctly, and backs this up with excellent tools like a plagiarism checker, which is essential to ensure unique copy.

Sadly, this feature needs to be purchased separately, which can make the cost quite high – but more on pricing later.

JasperAI Dashboard

Best For Price Standout Features Free Version
Business Marketing $39/month 1. Sentance Rewriting
2. Tone of Voice
3. Plagiarism Checker
7-Day Free Trial

But one feature that’s included as standard is the excellent AI Paraphrasing tool, which can rewrite full sentences and paragraphs in different formats, like formal, simple, shortened, or lengthened. This can create truly unique text and allows the user to fully customize how it sounds to fit in with where it’s being shared.

However, the feature that truly caught our attention is the Content Look-back function. This allows text to flow seamlessly by recognizing what has previously been written in the sentences and paragraphs following a new bunch of copy.

Even experienced writers can sometimes struggle with the workflow, so this tool means that all copies will read naturally and be compelling. Other settings worth mentioning include voice commands for a totally hands-free experience, this way, you can save time by just telling Jasper what you need.

SEO Keywords, which helps you incorporate keywords throughout your content to ensure you rank as high as possible on Google, is another, and the built-in document editor, which is basically Google Docs and works as your playground to write, edit, and compose written masterpieces.

Pricing

JasperAI is currently one of the more expensive AI content writing tools on the market, and it’s no surprise given its impressive set of features – so we think it justifies this pretty well.

There are plans for both individual usage, small teams, and full-on business plans, with the former both offering 7-day free trials to ensure you’re happy with the standard being set.

JasperAI Pricing

For the best savings, we’d recommend opting for yearly billing, as you’ll save a decent amount. However, to get a price for a business package, you’ll have to contact the sales team.

Pros

  • Includes an excellent plagiarism checker for unique content
  • Can paraphrase text by making it shorter, longer, more formal, or simplified
  • Offers pre-installed templates for blogs, articles, and more
  • Integrates well with Grammarly and other writing tools

Cons

  • Quite expensive when compared with other AI writing tools

2. CopyAI – Best for Helping Copywriters

CopyAI Logo

CopyAI is another top AI writing tool that has a ton of excellent features aimed at improving writing output. For example, it has excellent tools for writing product descriptions, a huge time-saver for e-commerce brands.

It also adapts to your brand’s tone of voice to allow for consistently on-brand content. Sounds familiar? It’s true that CopyAI offers many of the features you’ll find in JasperAI, but each is excellent in different ways.

We found that CopyAI tends to prompt you more via its excellent chatbot – it’ll also push toward the pre-made templates for the best results – these include templates for blogs, social media posts, and many others.

CopyAI Dashboard

Best For Price Standout Features Free Version
Aiding Copywriters $49/month 1. Bullet Point to Paragraph
2. 25 Languages Supported
3. Freestyle Mode
Yes

There are also some unique features here that help set CopyAI apart, including an excellent Bullet Point to Paragraph feature, which works by taking user-inputted bullet points and crafting them into copy, whether it be a blog, article, or anything in between.

This aside, there’s also a bundle of useful pre-made templates to help you get started, including social media ads, Instagram captions, blog posts, and much more. But if you’re feeling a little short of inspiration, you can always try the Freestyle mode, which lets you enter whatever you want, and leaves the rest to CopyAI.

You also get the option to link CopyAI with Zapier, and this can improve workflows in several ways, like sending the content automatically to your CMS, or it can link with many of the top CRM platforms and help you gain leads from your written content

We’re also thrilled to see a growing number of languages being supported by CopyAI, which at the time of writing, supports 25 languages on its Pro plan. Some of the popular languages supported right now are Italian, German, Japanese, Spanish, Russian, French, and Chinese.

Pricing

We’re delighted to see a Free-forever plan on offer from CopyAI, something that JasperAI is yet to offer. However, you’re limited to just 2,000 words, so how useful this is will differ depending on your needs – it’s ideal for short-form content needs.

In terms of paid plans, you’ll find the entry plan costs $49/month, but you do get access to 5 seats instead of 3 like you’d find on JasperAI, so that’s a big plus for small businesses.

CopyAI Pricing

For more users and business-tailored support, you’ll have to contact the sales team and discuss the Enterprise plan, as no price is listed on the website.

Pros

  • Includes an excellent chatbot to help you write your content
  • Allows up to 5 users on the entry-level plan
  • Includes a free plan, although you’re limited to 2,000 words
  • Has support for over 25 popular languages
  • Easily one of the best AI copywriting tools

Cons

  • We found it slightly complex to use when compared with others on this list

3. Rytr – Best Free AI Writing Tool

Rytr Logo

Rytr is another well-known AI writing tool that’s famed for its excellent free plan, making it ideal for small content creators, entrepreneurs, and small businesses.

It even offers a plagiarism checker, AI-generated images, and a few other quirks on the free plan – a huge win. Its paid plans are also very good, and they remove any character or word count restraints you’ll find on the free plan.

You’ll also find a useful Outline and Brief generator, which can then either be written by a copywriter or aid Rytr with creating the content for you. Plus, there are other useful features, such as SERP analysis, which basically means it’ll find the top-ranking webpages and study the keywords they use to perform so well.

Then, it’ll start including these keywords in the relevant copy, thus improving your SEO ranking on Google and other search engines.

Rytr Dashboard

Best For Price Standout Features Free Version
Small Creators $9/month 1. Brief Generator
2. SERP Analysis
3. 30 Languages
Yes

You also get an impressive number of languages to write in, over 30 and counting, as well as 20+ tones for engaging content. These include assertive, casual, witty, formal, and many more – this is great for a business or creator who puts out a wide range of content.

To support this further, there are also hundreds of pre-made templates for different types of copy, such as blogs, landing pages, and product descriptions, which makes writing a breeze.

That said, we found that shorter-form content works best with Rytr, as the long-form copy wasn’t quite the same standard as with JasperAI or CopyAI. However, we think Rytr works best as a tool for beginners and those who haven’t worked with AI writing tools before.

This is mainly due to the free plan it offers, as well as the user-friendly interface. It’s a great way to get used to these tools, and you can scale up from the free plan to a paid plan when the time is right.

Pricing

As mentioned throughout our Rytr review, it offers a generous free plan for people to get to grips with the service, and it’s kind enough to include 20+ tones, 30 languages, a plagiarism tool, and around 10k characters a month.

Rytr Pricing

This is excellent for small creators who perhaps can’t afford the riches of JasperAI or CopyAI. However, the paid plans remove any word count limits and also offer a dedicated account manager, AI-generated images, and priority support.

So whilst there are far fewer features than you’ll find with the top 2 writing tools for beginners and those on a budget (starting paid plans are only $99/month), Rytr is a great option to use.

Pros

  • Great AI-generated images to support blogs and social media posts
  • Supports 30+ languages, so you can generate content for a worldwide audience
  • An excellent free plan that includes a plagiarism checker
  • Very user-friendly interface and dashboard, great for beginners

Cons

  • Has fewer premium features, like tone of voice or a paraphraser

4. Writesonic – Best for GPT-4 Text Generation

Writesonic Logo

WriteSonic is an interesting choice for the best AI writing tool, as unlike many others on this list, it uses GPT-4 text generation on its business plan, which is the latest version and offers the best results – if this is important for you, this is your best bet.

It also has the typical features, including a plagiarism checker, a paraphrasing tool, and a sentence extender. But as said before, the introduction of GPT-4 is the standout feature here.

Beyond our testing, research also suggests that it’s able to compose the most sensible, accurate, and realistic copy. This is a huge advantage to a writer who wants their copy to be as error-free and on-point as possible.

It really shines through more with longer-form copy, and you may not notice as much difference if your main output is product descriptions or social media posts – but as mentioned before, this is a privilege reserved for Business or Enterprise plans.

Writesonic Dashboard

Best For Price Standout Features Free Version
GPT-4 Content $16/month 1. GPT-4
2. Text Summarizer
3. Article Referencing
Yes, 10k Words

We were also impressed with a feature that allows you to reference other articles in your writing, whether it be backlinking, internal links, or links to data or research. This adds major credibility to your work and saves you time going back in and adding in those all-important links.

Other impressive elements include a built-in AI-powered browser, so you can automate or use your voice to control just about anything, including composing emails to improve lead capturing, a feature that’s certain to be a hit with marketing departments.

It can take an age to come up with unique and engaging emails to improve sales, but Writesonic takes care of this for you. One final and useful addition that we find would be useful for students is the text summarizer, which can take a large block of text and shorten it, as well as making it much easier to understand.

This is best used for making notes or aiding with revision – you can also flip it and use the summarized text to present or explain things to colleagues.

Pricing

There’s a good range of plans for solo, business, or small team usage, with the best savings coming via the annual plans. You can even select if you want to use GPT-3.5 or GPT-4, with the latter costing more, of course.

Writesonic Pricing

You even get a free trial of up to 10k works, which allows you to test all the features before you subscribe to a long-term plan. The slight catch is that with the business plan, you’ll have to pay more for unlimited words, or you can use the slider tool to set how many words you’d like each user to generate.

Pros

  • Uses the latest GPT-4 for the most accurate writing and results
  • Useful 10,000-word free trial to test the service
  • Custom plans that let you select the number of users, words, and GPT version
  • Excellent referencing feature that can improve internal linking

Cons

  • Reports that longer-from copy can contain plagiarism, so keep an eye on this

5. AI Writer – Best for Content Generation

AI Writer Logo

AI Writer is another top tool used for creating unique content, and that’s really where its expertise lies. It can create unique-sounding articles, blogs, social media posts, and so much more at the click of a few buttons.

However, it does lack some of the more advanced features you’ll find with other providers. More on that later. What you do get is one of the very best content-creating machines out there for a host of different mediums, including research-heavy and verifiable articles.

It does this by citing all sources that are used for you, so you won’t have to spend time finding them all later.

AI Writer Dashboard

Best For Price Standout Features Free Version
Content Generation $49/month 1. Topic Discovery
2. Citations
3. Direct WordPress Publishing
No

This offers massive potential for science use or mathematics, as well as saving students hours preparing detailed citations and links to other web pages. It claims to be the only AI writing tool to do this, and according to our research and testing, they’re spot on.

It goes one step further still, as it remembers all the references it inputs, so if you need a similar article, it can generate completely new sources of information – no duplicated content whatsoever. It’s also very SEO-friendly, and you can enter your chosen keywords.

That said, there’s no SERP analysis like you get with Rytr, but it’s still pretty accurate. We also really like the (Sub) Topic Discovery, which scans the internet to see what people are writing about right now, which helps content managers and creators come up with new ideas or missed opportunities.

Then, once the content is complete, you can use the useful Direct WordPress publisher to quickly update your website.

Pricing

AI Writer offers 3 plans, each increasing the number of articles you can write – annoyingly, even a small blog post or social entry counts as one, so you’ll need to factor that into your decision.

AI Writer Pricing

There’s no free plan either, with the cheapest option setting you back a cool $49/month for just one user and 100 articles. The users increase to either 3 on the Standard plan or 10 on the Power Plan.

Pros

  • Includes a time-saving citation feature, great for research-driven articles
  • Brilliant topic discovery feature for generating new ideas
  • Very user-friendly, perfect for beginners
  • Can directly publish to WordPress, saving time and effort

Cons

  • No free plan or trial to test the service
  • The standard plan is quite pricey

6. ShortlyAI – The Best for Summarizing Text

ShortlyAI Logo

ShortlyAI is one of the new AIs that has emerged as a strong competitor in the field of AI writing tools. With it, you can create engaging blogs, social media posts, scripts for videos, ad content, product descriptions, and a number of other marketing materials.

This provider runs with GPT-3, which may not be quite as technically advanced as GPT-4 that WriteSonic uses, but we found that you’d have to look pretty hard to notice.

ShortlyAI Dashboard

Best For Price Standout Features Free Version
Summarizing Text $65/month 1. Text Summarizer
2. Ease of use
3. Output Length
Yes

The output is still very human-like, whether is for paraphrasing, writing blogs, or any other form of content you wish to write. However, as ShorltyAI started off as a text shortener or extender, this is really where its expertise lies,

That said, despite the fact that we found it struggles to create the same kind of unique content as the like of JasperAI – that’s not to say it can’t, but it doesn’t quite hit the same levels. If your primary use is to summarize or elaborate on certain points, then this might be for you.

It still works well as a content generator, and if you’re typing and find yourself stuck, it can read your previous text and continue writing for you at the click of a button. We found the accuracy and consistency to be pretty good, and it wasn’t very obvious that AI had taken over.

We do feel it’s worth mentioning that you might run into a few plagiarism issues, as ShortlyAI does seem to pull samples from Google, and it doesn’t do the best job at rewriting them. So, if you’re a student or content writer, you could run into some issues if your text isn’t totally unique.

Pricing

ShortlyAI does offer users a free trial, although confusingly, it doesn’t specify a time period or a word count for this – strange, but it’s still nice to see that you can try before you buy.

If you’re satisfied with the service, there are just two plans to pick from, monthly or annual, with the latter bringing about the best savings and even offering an extra 2 months free.

ShortlyAI Pricing

Sadly, it’s very expensive, and as it lacks some key features and the content-generating skills of others, we can’t really claim it’s the best value for money out there.

Pros

  • Incredibly easy-to-use interface, suitable for all
  • Offers a free version to test the service
  • Great text summarizing and lengthening tools

Cons

  • Very expensive
  • Lacks the depth of features other providers offer, such as citations

7. WordAI – Best for Avoiding AI Detecter

WordAI Logo

WordAI is a reliable tool for creating unique content that’s SEO-friendly, free of plagiarism, and reads very well. This useful tool can rewrite sentences and paragraphs or create brand-new content on the spot, with a little human input to improve things along the way.

There’s also a clever feature that allows WordAI-generated content to slip through undetected, making the content more human, something we hope to see with ChatGPT in the future.

WordAI Dashboard

Best For Price Standout Features Free Version
Avoiding AI Detectors $65/month 1. Title Spinner
2. Tense Correcter
3. Anti-AI Detection
Yes

This is obviously a huge win for students or copywriters who perhaps want their usage of AI tools to go under the radar. Additionally, WordAI can assist through the Perfect Tense integration if you’re trying to bulk alter grammar and tense in your text.

It suggests adjustments when it finds spelling errors and incorrect tenses, which can save a lot of hassle for both new and experienced copywriters. The platform’s title spinner, which offers high-quality titles by analyzing the entered information and ensuring that titles are relevant, is equally significant.

The latest version now even supports HTML. As a result, you’ll be able to add styling, spin movies, photos, and much more right from the editor. We were also impressed to see some excellent SEO-driven features, where keywords can either be manually input, or it can suggest strong keywords based on web searches.

This is particularly useful for marketing teams who can consistently rank high on Google with very little input, saving time for other tasks.

Pricing

In terms of pricing, WordAI offers 3 plans that can paid for monthly or annually, with the Starter Plan and Power Plans both offering 7-day free trials. There’s also an Enterprise plan, but you’ll have to reach out to the sales team to figure out the pricing – there’s also no free trial for this level plan.

WordAI Pricing

Pros

  • Offers a free trial to test the service
  • Has excellent SEO features for identifying keywords
  • Can’t be detected by AI detecting tools, great for students

Cons

  • Can require lengthy and detailed editing

8. Scalenut – Best for SEO

Scalenut Logo

Scalenut is yet another reliable AI writing tool that we found can really help any writer overcome writer’s block. Plus, with its AI writing algorithm, you can write interesting content and improve your page ranks.

You can create content that’s search-engine-optimized using Scalenut’s SEO Assistant. It’s extremely similar to Jasper with the integration of SurferSEO, but without having to purchase two different products.

You enter your keyword, and you’re presented with a document editor built around it – it’s incredibly easy to use, even for SEO and content-writing newbies.

Scalenut Dashboard

Best For Price Standout Features Free Version
SEO Content $65/month 1. SEO Reports
2. Cruise Mode
3. AI Content Templates
7 Day Free Trial

This all-in-one SEO tool goes a step further and constantly scours the internet for updated keywords and can even take on heavy research tasks. It works by looking at rivals and top-ranking web pages on Google, then it generates reports that you can action.

By doing this, you can stay ahead of the game and constantly appear at the top of web searches. Aside from the excellent SEO features, Scalenut will also help you write the most compelling and unique content and offer a range of different tones that can benefit content creators.

It can also learn the tone used by your business, whether it be formal, playful, or funny. There’s even a host of AI-generated templates to help speed up the process, from product descriptions and blog posts to social media captions – there’s one for everything.

The useful Cruise Mode feature can also create 1,500-word articles in under 5 minutes, all plagiarism-free and SEO-friendly.

Pricing

Scalenut offers 3 plans that can be paid for monthly or annually, as is the trend with most providers on this list. Plus, considering the prices on offer and the features you get, this is a good value-for-money AI writing tool.

Scalenut Pricing

Both the Growth and Pro plans offer unlimited words, with the cheaper Essentials plan limiting you to 100,000, which should be ample for small content creators. Each plan offers a 7-day free trial, too, so you can decide whether it’s the right AI content generator for your needs.

Pros

  • Can avoid AI detectors, great for students
  • Offers a 7-day free trial on all of its plans
  • Includes excellent SEO features for getting a strong Google ranking

Cons

  • Only supports English, no other languages

9. Hypotenuse – Best for E-commerce

Hypotenuse Logo

Hypotenuse is an e-commerce-focused AI writing tool that aims to help online stores with selling, like product descriptions, SEO ranking, and much more – it even integrates with Shopify for a seamless experience.

That said, we also found that it’s a reliable tool for other sources of content creation, like blogs and social media posts, and even features an excellent AI image generator. But e-commerce is where this AI powerhouse really shines.

It has a ton of features aimed at improving your online store’s presence. For example, you can write product descriptions at scale by simply entering a few key terms, you can even select your target audience.

This neat feature saves hours of painstaking labor, coming up with snappy descriptions for a host of products.

Hypotenuse Dashboard

Best For Price Standout Features Free Version
Online Stores $12/month 1. Mass Product Descriptions
2. Google Ads Writer
3. Content Detective
Yes

It can even generate high-quality and original AI images to support your product descriptions – this can be very useful for those who use dropshipping or those who don’t have the resources to photograph actual product images.

However, we have found that this tool is much a work in progress, and some results can seem a little odd, but it’s still very useful. E-commerce aside, you’ll find all the typical AI content writing tools you’d expect, like a plagiarism detector, templates for blogs, social media or long-form essays, and more.

Plus, there’s a great tool for writing Google Ads, as well as for Facebook and Instagram – you can select a tone for these to suit your business requirements. Other quirky features include the excellent Content Detective, which ensures all research and data is up to date and accurate, a useful tool for data-heavy articles.

Pricing

Hypotenuse is a little crafty with the pricing displayed on their website, as they show you the price for the minimum number of words. The price is still pretty good for all plans, but don’t get caught out with a small word limit.

Hypotenuse Pricing

For a custom or business plan, you’ll need to get in touch with the sales team to discuss the number of users, word count, and more.

Pros

  • Features a useful Content Detective feature for ensuring copy is accurate
  • Integrates with Shopify, incredibly useful for online stores
  • We found it has a user-friendly interface

Cons

  • A limited number of templates are available
  • Can get a little expensive if you need 200,000+ words

10. Simplified – Budget-Friendly AI Writing Tool

Simplified Logo

Simplified is a strong AI content writer that can be used across different niches, including the design, writing, and editing process. Its ability to adapt to all your content needs, be it writing, video editing, or marketing, makes it a great all-in-one tool for content creation.

Straight off the bat, it offers a ton of templates for all sorts of copy, like blogs, social media, and e-commerce stores. Plus, unlike others on this list, it can even generate titles for your blogs and social posts based on the written content – which can sometimes be the hardest part.

It even offers a unique Amazon product features generator, which is particularly useful for Amazon resellers. This works by offering a prebuilt template that contains all the placeholders you’ll find on Amazon. You just need to click the generate button, enter a few keywords and terms, and let Simplified work its magic.

Simplified Dashboard

Best For Price Standout Features Free Version
Small Businesses $12/month 1. AI Presentations
2. Title Generator
3. Content Templates
Yes

We love how flexible this provider is, too, with almost every niche of content creation accessible at your fingertips, like letterheads, invoices, business cards, and even a hashtag generator – it’s the ultimate tool for all your business needs.

Although we should mention that the general copy isn’t quite to the same level as JasperAI or Rytr, it still works well for short-form content. And as you’d expect, there are also other useful products that fall under the Simplified brand.

This includes video editing software, social media management, and graphic design tools – so if you’re looking for all the above and want to work in harmony with the same provider, this may be the best choice for you.

Pricing

We’re delighted to see a free plan on offer from Simplified, not a free trial or money-back guarantee, but an actual free version of the software you can use to generate content.

Simplified Pricing

It may not be the most feature-rich offering, but there’s enough there to really nail the basics. Then, when you’re ready, you can always upgrade to AI Writer Pro for more templates, words, and features. That version does offer a 14-day free trial, so you can ensure the cost is worthwhile.

Pros

  • Excellent AI-generated presentations, ideal for business usage
  • Includes a fun AI image generator
  • Budget-friendly plans

Cons

  • Lacks the accuracy and writing quality of the top AI content generators

How We Ranked the Best AI Writing Software

In order for this list to take form, we tested them and analyzed user reviews of these AI writing tools with a set of criteria that includes the basic fundamentals like pricing, features, SEO tools, and so on. To help you understand how we came to these decisions, we’ve compiled a helpful list below:

  • Accuracy – We tested the accuracy of each of these AI writing tools to ensure that the content they were generating was relevant, correct, updated, and, most importantly, human-like.
  • Features – It’s important that each provider nails the basics, like offering a plagiarism detector, a paraphraser, or features blog writing, social media, and so on. More feature-rich tools took higher preference on our list.
  • Unique Features – The best AI writing tools on this list will also offer unique features that set them apart, like citation tools, title writing, bullet point-to-page writing, or even title generation.
  • SEO-Friendly – To go alongside excellent writing, we believe good SEO is essential. Each provider will have some SEO tools, like keyword discovery and analysis, to help your copy reach the heights of Google rankings.
  • Pricing – Getting good value for money is another essential, as some tools may offer the same identical features, but one may cost more. All the providers on this list have a good feature-to-price ratio, so you get what you pay for.
  • Scalability – This is another key component, as you want your AI writing tool to grow alongside your requirements. So, having multiple plans is useful for a business or individual.

Is AI-Generated Content Bad for SEO?

In short, no. AI-generated content can actually improve your SEO as long as you’re willing to work alongside it. Most providers will require you to enter keywords into your copy, but others will research and report to you the current trending keywords.

This is very useful, as SEO is constantly adapting and changing based on how keywords and the Google ranking algorithm work. So, having a tool that can scan the internet and find you all the important terms to include is a huge win and can really have a positive and dramatic impact on your SEO performance.

Do I Need to Worry About Plagiarism With AI Writing Tools?

There’s no need to worry about plagiarism with AI writing tools, as all the top providers on this list include tools to detect plagiarism. They also specialize in writing unique content, using the internet as their source of data but writing it in a unique way.

It’s worth noting that for academic purposes, AI writing tools are strictly forbidden, so you must take this into consideration before you decide to use one. They’re best served for content creators, marketing teams, and e-commerce brands – but that doesn’t mean you can’t use them for research and citations.

Conclusion | What is the Best AI Writing Tool to Use in 2024?

The best AI writing tools can be a marketer’s, content creator’s, or SEO manager’s best friends, as they aid with the whole content-generating process – all you need to do is point it in the right direction.

Each of the tools on this list can create unique and engaging content at the click of a few buttons, ensuring that the copy is accurate, relevant, and up-to-date. This can save precious time and help ensure that deadlines are met, which is essential in today’s fast-paced digital world.

Overall, our testing concluded that JasperAI is the top AI writing tool, as it creates excellent human-like content that’s 100% unique, plagiarism-free, and concise.

FAQ

Which AI tool is best for writing?

Is there a completely free AI writer?

What is the most advanced AI language?

Should I use an AI writing bot?

Can Google detect AI content?

References

The post The 10 Best AI Writing Tools in 2024 for Marketing Copy, Essays, and Blogs appeared first on The Tech Report.

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ExpressVPN Vs NordVPN in 2024: A Full Comparison https://techreport.com/vpn/expressvpn-vs-nordvpn/ Tue, 19 Sep 2023 10:41:06 +0000 https://techreport.com/?page_id=3518010 ExpressVPN Vs NordVPN – Which is Better?

ExpressVPN and NordVPN are two of the biggest names in the world of cybersecurity, and for good reason. Both offer cutting-edge features like Nord’s XChaCha20 encryption or ExpressVPN’s lighting-fast Lightway...

The post ExpressVPN Vs NordVPN in 2024: A Full Comparison appeared first on The Tech Report.

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ExpressVPN Vs NordVPN – Which is Better?

ExpressVPN and NordVPN are two of the biggest names in the world of cybersecurity, and for good reason. Both offer cutting-edge features like Nord’s XChaCha20 encryption or ExpressVPN’s lighting-fast Lightway protocol for unrivaled speeds.

Advanced security features are used by both VPNs, for example, both VPNs offer a password manager built in to guard against data breaches, while NordVPN has a unique Meshnet feature that gives safe access to other devices.

In this comparison, we’ll examine the major distinctions and unique features between NordVPN and ExpressVPN. Our goal is to give you insightful information so you can choose the one that best meets your needs.

Both have undergone thorough testing and analysis, where we looked at their features, streaming abilities, speed, and other vital metrics.

A Quick Overview: NordVPN Vs ExpressVPN

These are two of the best VPN providers right now, and they share a lot of similar functions – both offer super-fast server speeds and military-grade encryption to keep you safe online. But if you’re interested in how similar or different they are, then this next section is for you.

Below, we’ve created a useful table that shows all the key information in one easy-to-read table. With this, you can compare the key functions, such as price, server count, and other important details:

NordVPN ExpressVPN
Starting Price $3.19/month $6.67/month
Free Version No No
Money-Back Guarantee 30-days 30-days
Average Speed 200-300Mbps 200-300Mbps
Server Count 5,800+ 3,000+
Server Locations 60+ 90+
Devices/Subscription 6 8
Streaming Services Unlocked Netflix, Hulu, BBC iPlayer, Disney+, and more Netflix, Hulu, BBC iPlayer, Disney+, and more

Nord Vs. ExpressVPN Pricing

Although both carriers provide 3 different subscriptions, there are substantial differences in the cost, the amount you save, and the maximum contract term. However, thanks to NordVPN and ExpressVPN’s 30-day money-back guarantees, you can test out any of them risk-free.

ExpressVPN’s Pricing

Unless you choose a monthly subscription, which outperforms NordVPN in affordability, ExpressVPN is the more expensive alternative, as even the longer plans are quite expensive in comparison.

ExpressVPN Pricing

That said, what’s nice about ExpressVPN is that regardless of the plan, you’ll get everything on offer with ExpressVPN — the same isn’t true for NordVPN. Let’s take a closer look at how it differs.

NordVPN’s Pricing

NordVPN is far less expensive than ExpressVPN, and the Google Play Store offers a 7-day free trial of the service. Monthly pricing starts at $12.99/month, whereas an annual plan only sets you back $4.99/month. That said, the best value for money is with the 2-year plans illustrated below:

NordVPN 2-year plans

As we mentioned above, with an ExpressVPN plan, you get all the features on offer regardless — whereas with NordVPN, you get different tiers that offer different features for scaling prices. For example, the basic plan doesn’t include malware protection or a dedicated IP.

That said, overall, the basic includes most of the features on offer with NordVPN at a much lower price point than ExpressVPN.

Other Pricing Factors to Consider

It’s also worth noting that, sadly, neither desktop client for these providers is available via a free trial – which is a bummer. Thankfully, you can use Nord with other devices after you sign up for a free trial using an Android device.

However, ExpressVPN does one-up Nord in terms of device limits, as it permits up to 8 simultaneous connections, whereas NordVPN’s subscription covers just 6 device connections.

Both services provide several payment methods. Credit cards, PayPal (in some regions), AmazonPay, Sofort, prepaid cards, Apple Pay, Google Pay, and cryptocurrencies are accepted by NordVPN.

ExpressVPN takes credit cards, PayPal, Bitcoin, and others like UnionPay, although it doesn’t support AmazonPay (whereas NordVPN does).

Express VPN Vs Nord VPN Features

Both ExpressVPN and NordVPN contain some truly unique features, but they also both excel at getting the VPN basics spot on – we’re talking kill switches, split tunneling, and so on. To help you compare the two better, we’ve listed all the core features below, as well as some quirks you’ll find with each.

Obfuscated Servers/Stealth Mode

In order to retain a connection even in the face of network restrictions or Deep Packet Inspection (DPI) methods, especially in nations like China, where internet access is highly blocked, both NordVPN and ExpressVPN have a feature called Stealth VPN.

Obfuscated servers, which are available on all OpenVPN protocol connections, are how NordVPN’s Stealth VPN is recognized. NordVPN automatically creates a connection that passes off your traffic as standard HTTPS traffic by choosing these servers from the list of specialty servers.

NordVPN Obfuscated Servers

Users can then easily get around censorship and access restricted content, thanks to this. However, ExpressVPN also offers its Stealth VPN feature, which works without a hitch on the app. If the program determines that it’s necessary to avoid DPI or other restrictions, it automatically configures the Stealth VPN capability.

Split Tunneling

You can select which apps use the VPN connection and which ones connect directly with the help of a useful feature known as split tunneling. It’s incredibly practical when you want to watch Netflix US while having access to your own local news websites.

It’s available in both services, but ExpressVPN has a wider range of compatibility.

ExpressVPN split tunneling

 

In this situation, you have the option of allowing or disallowing the listed apps to use the VPN. Only Windows and Android are supported by NordVPN, both of which operate somewhat identically.

Until then, Mac users running macOS 10.1 or later can use split tunneling with ExpressVPN. Overall, though, there’s not a lot to split these top providers in this instance.

Smart DNS

Smart DNS is another useful feature for users who wish to use a VPN for a multitude of different video streaming platforms. It first unblocks Netflix and other services without encrypting traffic or routing the connection through a VPN server, which results in significantly faster speeds.

Second, it functions on a variety of gadgets that don’t allow VPN connections, including several smart TVs and gaming consoles.

ExpressVPN Smart DNS

The SmartDNS version of NordVPN also supports several media devices, plus you get SmartPlay technology to provide improved streaming access across all servers, making it one of the top VPNs for streaming right now.

The main distinction between this and ExpressVPN is that MediaStreamer is a part of the VPN but also functions outside of it (it’s not only a Smart DNS feature). This means that you’ll have more flexibility in how you employ it.

Kill Switch

Both applications have a kill switch feature which stops you from unintentionally disconnecting the VPN while browsing. You can choose to use a standard kill switch or one that exclusively affects particular apps using NordVPN. However, you won’t find a kill switch on the NordVPN mobile app.

NordVPN Kill Switch

In contrast, you’ll find a kill switch on all versions of ExpressVPN, whether it be on the excellent Android or iPhone apps or either Windows or MacOS clients. On Apple devices, this feature is called Network lock, and you can toggle this on or off in the settings tab via the main dashboard.

On paper, ExpressVPN is the best VPN for Android users, and it offers its kill switches on more devices than NordVPN, which makes it the winner for this category – we’re still hoping that someday, Nord will roll out a kill switch for their Android app – but until then, ExpressVPN has the advantage.

NordVPN Unique Features

As much as these two VPN giants have in common, they also have some major differences and their own unique set of features, and to help, we’ve listed some of said key features below, starting with NordVPN:

  • NordLynx – Built on the WireGuard protocol, NordLynx is a ground-breaking innovation from NordVPN. Without compromising security or privacy, it speeds up your VPN connection and lets you connect to NordVPN servers quicker – hence why Nord is the top choice VPN for gamers and torrenters.
  • Threat Protection – This is Nords answer to antivirus software, and it does an excellent job of keeping you safe from any malware, viruses, or other online threats. As with the best antivirus software, it even scans your downloads to ensure what you’re getting is a legitimate file.
  • Dark Web Scanner – This scans the depths of the internet to check if any of your passwords, credit cards, or personal information of any sort has been leaked onto a large number of databases.
  • Meshnet – This makes it possible to securely connect up to 60 devices, making it ideal for collaboration, remote file access, and virtual LAN parties.
  • DoubleVPN – The Double VPN setting transports your traffic between two servers. When using this, your activity will be encrypted twice because it’ll go through a NordVPN server twice.
  • Dedicated IP – Instead of being shared across several devices or services, dedicated IP addresses are assigned to a single user or device. This indicates that the addresses are maintained and aren’t given to new users. (This is a paid feature.)

ExpressVPN’s Unique Features

Now it’s time to look at what makes ExpressVPN so excellent – we’ve already seen some of the cutting-edge features on offer from NordVPN, so can its rival live up to these high standards?

  • Threat Manager – This is a potent tool created to proactively identify and stop dangerous threats. It defends against cyberattacks and prevents users from accessing harmful websites, guaranteeing a secure online experience.
  • Router Applet – ExpressVPN provides a practical way to set up the VPN straight on your network with the router applet. By doing this, the encryption and privacy capabilities of the VPN can be used by all connected devices in your home or workplace network, increasing overall security.
  • Password Manager – A password manager is provided by ExpressVPN to assist users in creating secure passwords for all their different internet accounts. This makes sure that your login information is securely kept and accessible when needed, improving account security.

Is Nord or ExpressVPN Better for Streaming?

Both VPN services are great streaming options, as they unblock not only Netflix US but other libraries around the world. With NordVPN, for instance, we were able to unblock over 20 Netflix libraries, and likewise with ExpressVPN.

To get around tight geo-restrictions (blacklists of streaming services), NordVPN performed somewhat better and is undoubtedly one of the best VPNs for Netflix. However, both services gave us access to the famously secure Japanese Netflix – a huge win for anime lovers around the world.

Streaming services like YouTube, BBC iPlayer, and others were also tested, and for a full overview of the streaming experience across platforms, we also analyzed the experiences of other long-time users of each VPN.

Overall, we also really liked that all servers for ExpressVPN and NordVPN support streaming, so you won’t have to transfer servers before watching your favorite programs. Plus, thanks to the NordLynx protocol and ExpressVPN’s Lightway alternative, you can stream content in HD and 4K for the best viewing experience.

Support for Smart DNS is yet another excellent feature offered by both providers. Without using a VPN connection, this feature enables unblocking of streaming services on smart TVs, gaming consoles, and other media devices.

Overall, both NordVPN and ExpressVPN are equally excellent for streaming. Both can unblock the most popular streaming services, while, although marginal, NordVPN can get around some stricter limitations. They both allow you to stream content in the highest video quality, and both include the Smart DNS feature.

Is ExpressVPN or Nord Better for Torrenting?

Once more, picking the winner in this category is challenging, as they both offer great speeds and a variety of torrent-friendly servers. However, even though NordVPN has nearly twice as many in total, P2P is only accessible on select servers.

Currently, all ExpressVPN servers allow torrenting, so there’s no need to locate any specialized server, just connect to one nearby, and you’re good to go. Additionally, compared to NordVPN’s 60 countries, ExpressVPN is accessible in over 100 countries across the globe, offering you total coverage.

ExpressVPN also promises fast connections to difficult-to-reach places like India or Belarus, whereas NordVPN’s location coverage makes it pretty likely that you will find a nearby server wherever you are.

That said, we should mention that ExpressVPN lacks a complimentary SOCKS5 proxy, in contrast to NordVPN. On the other hand, you have the option of using the split tunneling feature, which is accessible on Windows, Mac, and Android and enables you to pick which apps you wish to be VPN-secured.

Security: ExpressVPN Vs NordVPN

Top-notch security and privacy are provided in abundance by both NordVPN and ExpressVPN. Neither is based in a nation that belongs to the 14-Eyes Alliance alliance, and both offer the widely used tunneling protocols OpenVPN and IKEv2, as well as AES-256 data encryption.

Below, we’ve listed some of the other key security features offered by both providers.

Logging

A leading international accounting firm, PwC, independently audited NordVPN and ExpressVPN’s stringent no-logs policy. However, ExpressVPN does compile some usage data, like the total amount of data moved and the number of successful VPN connections — only to improve the service.

Privacy

ExpressVPN is based in the British Virgin Islands, while NordVPN is registered in Panama. Both countries have zero data retention rules, so these VPNs can have a reliable no-logging policy.

Furthermore, neither of them is a member of the intelligence partnership known as 14-Eyes. Therefore, there’s no cause for concern that the government has asked the ISP to gather and provide information about users’ online activities.

RAM-Only Servers

In 2019, ExpressVPN introduced RAM-only servers under the name TrustedServer, making it one of the first service providers to do so. Because all data is erased following a reboot, that represents a significant advance in terms of security.

Additionally, every time new software is updated, the owner is aware of exactly what’s running. Traditional servers, on the other hand, rely on changing the outdated configuration, which is more prone to attack.

In 2020, NordVPN made the switch to RAM-only servers that were partially owned and managed by the business. So, on the whole, both ExpressVPN and NordVPN have fully transitioned to RAM-only systems, where nothing is saved locally, and your information is automatically wiped out, ensuring complete security.

Encryption

Both NordVPN and ExpressVPN employ 256-bit AES encryption, which, due to the cipher’s impossibility of being cracked, offers unbreakable online security. That said, when it comes to the security it provides for the control channel, ExpressVPN has a slight advantage.

This cipher is employed to establish sessions and safeguard the transfer of AES keys. For this channel, both NordVPN and ExpressVPN employ RSA encryption, although ExpressVPN employs a longer key – 4,096 bits as opposed to NordVPN’s 2,048 bits.

Does Express or Nord Offer Better Device Compatibility?

Each provider offers apps for pretty much any device you can think of, and there’s room for everything, as both support a large range of routers, so you can cover your whole house. Below is a quick glance at the compatibility of both ExpressVPN and NordVPN:

ExpressVPN NordVPN
Supported OS Windows, macOS, Linux, Android, iOS Windows, macOS, Linux (no GUI), Android, iOS
Other Software & Devices Android TV, Fire, Roku, Kodi devices, Apple TV, and more Android TV, Fire devices, Routers, Apple TV, Roku, PlayStation, Xbox, and more
Browser Extensions Chrome, Firefox, Edge Chrome, Firefox, Edge, Brave, Vivaldi
Simultaneous Connections 8 6

It won’t be difficult for users of either VPN to secure every device in their homes, as in addition to browser extensions for Chrome, Firefox, and Edge, you’ll find apps for all the major platforms. However, ExpressVPN offers a router applet, which NordVPN does not.

Even though the latter may be manually set up to function with the most widely used routers, this method is still less convenient than simply downloading and installing the service right away. The difference in simultaneous connections is also minimal, and you can get rid of the restriction by setting up the VPN on a router.

ExpressVPN Vs. Nord Apps: Who Offers a Better UI?

Whether you’re using ExpressVPN on Windows, MacOS, Android, or iOS, the interface is virtually the same across the board. Each app offers that familiar mobile-style layout which is incredibly easy to navigate, even for complete newbies.

It even shows the last server you connected to on the home page, making it easy to pick up where you left off – useful if you’re streaming.

ExpressVPN vpn dashboard

On the contrary, the NordVPN home page features a world map with markers for each country where it has servers. Plus, there’s a list view on the left (or, on mobile devices, at the bottom of the screen).

Finding the exact server you need is always simple, thanks to the server list’s division of general-purpose servers from those made for P2P traffic or Tor via VPN connections.

NordVPN Review

Overall, both offer aesthetically pleasing interfaces, but the ease of use you get with ExpressVPN’s mobile-style layout is more convenient and pleasing to use. We particularly like the look of the iOS version, as iPhone users tend to get pretty shoddy-looking VPN apps – making ExpressVPN one of the best VPNs for iPhones.

NordVPN or ExpressVPN? What Real Users Have to Say

Both NordVPN and ExpressVPN receive high marks from real users for their solid performance and dependable services, and both are often praised for their ease of use, especially ExpressVPN, with many commenting on their pleasant UI.

ExpressVPN Ease of Use – TrustPilot

For NordVPN, many were quick to point out the company’s excellent customer support and overall strength in the depth that VPN offers. In particular, the knowledge of the support staff was a common praise, as their ability to tackle complex issues was top-draw.

NordVPN Support – Trust Pilot

However, one area that seemed to hold ExpressVPN back was its pricing, as it is one of the most expensive VPNs on the market. Customers love the speed, performance, server count, and much more – but the cost of the service often pops up.

ExpressVPN Cost – TrustPilot

In a similar vein, NordVPN has been criticized by some for the lack of transparency on their renewal prices, with many customers being caught out and charged inflated prices – note to users, always read the fine print.

NordVPN – Renewal Prices

Overall, despite the odd criticism, both VPNs boast stellar reputations online across a multitude of sites and are easily renowned as two of the very best VPNs to get in 2024.

ExpressVPN Vs NordVPN Vs Surfshark

To give you an idea of just how good these two are, we’re going to throw a third VPN provider into the mix. Similar to before, we’ve created a table that compares all the important features of each of these top VPNs, including pricing, average speed, and other vital stats:

VPN Cheapest Plan Free Version Devices/Subscription Server Count Server Locations Average Speed
ExpressVPN $6.67/month No 8 3,000+ 90+ 200-300Mbps
NordVPN $3.19/month No 6 5,800+ 60+ 200-300Mbps
Surfshark $2.30/month No Unlimited 3,200+ 100+ 250-350Mbps

As you can see, Surfshark can hold its own against any other VPN, with it being one of the cheapest and fastest VPN providers on the market – you even get to benefit from unlimited simultaneous connections, which is a huge plus.

It may not have Nord’s XChaCha20 encryption protocols or ExpressVPN’s Lightway, but it’s a great alternative to these powerhouses for anyone on a budget. That said, if you’re not set on ExpressVPN or NordVPN, we’d recommend reading our full review and comparison of all the top VPN services before deciding.

ExpressVPN Vs NordVPN Servers

The strengths of the two providers are closely matched again here, and the one that suits you best will depend primarily on your usage.

ExpressVPN outshines NordVPN in terms of global coverage, having over 3,000 servers spread across an amazing 100+ locations. That said, NordVPN is just as impressive as it boasts almost 5,800 servers spread across 60 countries.

While many servers guarantee a quick and reliable connection, bypassing geo-restrictions requires a vast geographic footprint. ExpressVPN, for instance, has virtual servers in India that can be used to unblock regional content. In contrast, NordVPN only provides servers around India and none in the country directly.

Overall, both VPN providers will offer you a sizable number of servers in a wide range of locations. ExpressVPN, however, has a benefit over NordVPN because it has servers in countries like Bolivia, Pakistan, India, and other nations that Nord doesn’t.

Why You Can Trust Our ExpressVPN Vs Nord Analysis

We vigorously tested both VPN services, and we took into account reviews from real customers to ensure that each category we looked at was verifiable. To do so, we looked at the various components that make these top VPN providers good to pinpoint where each one shines and where there’s room for improvement.

For example, the average speeds of each, how many servers they offer and how many countries, as well as the important privacy and security features like split tunneling and kill switches.

We’ve also previously tested dozens of the top VPN services on the market using the same criteria as above, so we feel we’re well-placed to give accurate and honest opinions on each.

With a mixture of our own testing and analysis, plus factoring in reviews from customers who have used these products for years, we’ve tried to be as objective as possible with the reviews and comparisons we’ve made.

Our Other VPN Reviews and Guides

Although ExpressVPN and NordVPN are easily the market dominators, others are increasing the gap, making it all the more difficult to choose the best ones for your needs and budget. From the best budget VPNs to the best ones for streaming, we’ve done the heavy lifting to help.

Here are other guides we’ve compiled that we feel would help you compare these market giants to other prominent VPNs.

Which is Best in 2024, ExpressVPN or NordVPN?

Picking between these two is extremely difficult, as both offer excellent features like server speeds, high server counts, and top-notch encryption protocols to ensure your online activities are safe.

At the end of the day, it really depends on what your primary use of each of these VPNs is for – if you want access to as many countries as possible to unlock geo-restricted content, ExpressVPN is for you, as it has servers in 100+ countries.

However, for a better value-for-money deal with a company that offers market-leading XChaCha20 encryption and lightning-fast speeds via the NordLynx protocol, NordVPN might be your best bet.

Whichever way you spin it, you’ll be in safe hands with either provider, as they both equally nail the basics of a VPN, such as security, privacy, and streaming demands, and each has its own unique set of features to make them truly stand out in a crowded market.

FAQ

Is Express or NordVPN better for streaming?

Is NordVPN actually the best?

Is ExpressVPN better than NordVPN Reddit?

Is ExpressVPN really worth it?

Who wins the ExpressVPN vs NordVPN vs Surfshark battle?

What is the difference between NordVPN and ExpressVPN?

References

The post ExpressVPN Vs NordVPN in 2024: A Full Comparison appeared first on The Tech Report.

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Best Cheap WordPress Hosting: Top 10 Budget WP Hosts Compared for 2024 https://techreport.com/hosting/best-cheap-wordpress-hosting/ Wed, 13 Sep 2023 08:23:36 +0000 https://techreport.com/?page_id=3516240 Best Cheap WordPress Hosting Sites

WordPress hosting is a well-liked method for creating cheap yet effective websites trusted by hundreds of thousands of people. But the market space is pretty crowded, and for beginners, it...

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Best Cheap WordPress Hosting Sites

WordPress hosting is a well-liked method for creating cheap yet effective websites trusted by hundreds of thousands of people. But the market space is pretty crowded, and for beginners, it can be tricky to know what to look for and which providers you can trust. It’s also worth noting that some WordPress-based services like WP Engine or SiteGround don’t come cheaply.

However, several hosting companies have tailored their offerings to be both excellent and reasonably priced WordPress-focused options. To help you find the best cheap WordPress hosting service for you, we’ve compared each one, giving you a breakdown of their features, pricing, and top pros and cons to help you make an informed decision on the best one for your needs and budget.

The Top 10 Best Cheap WordPress Hosts Ranked

Below is a quick glance at the top 10 providers that offer the best cheap WordPress hosting, with DreamHost leading the way. Further down, we’ll individually review all these providers, looking at the core features, pricing, and more, but for now, here’s the main reason each one has made it to our list:

  1. DreamHost $2.59/month — Overall, the best cheap WordPress host, thanks to its excellent 100% uptime guarantee and useful built-in website WordPress builder
  2. BlueHost $2.95/month — A reliable cheap WordPress host that offers excellent tools for e-commerce brands, such as unlimited products and secure payment transactions
  3. InMotion $3.99/month — A popular service that offers excellent website security features, like a pre-installed firewall, malware protection, and DDoS protection
  4. Liquid Web $17.50/month — A strong cheap WordPress host that has a ton of optimized plans that can scale alongside your business
  5. A2 Hosting $3.99/month — One of the fastest cheap WordPress hosting tools that offers lightning-fast page load speeds of just 0.285 seconds
  6. IONOS $3/month — Useful hosting service that offers customers detailed reports and analytics to improve website performance
  7. HostArmada $2.49/month — The best for US-based customer support should you run into any issues when launching your website
  8. NameCheap $19.55/month — Intuitive WordPress hosting site that features useful tools for building your own WP website, including themes and a drag-and-drop interface
  9. HostPapa $2.95/month — A reputable provider that offers a whopping 100GB of SSD storage on its cheapest paid plan
  10. Name.com $2.49/month — A user-friendly option for beginners with an easy-to-use cPanel

Is Cheap Website Hosting Reliable?

Don’t be fooled by the term ‘cheap.’ Just because these providers are well-priced and budget-friendly, it doesn’t mean they skimp on the features, and you’ll get an uptime guarantee of at least 99%.

Plus, depending on what you plan on using the page for, there’s no reason this should cost you or your business thousands of dollars a year. Sure, big fancy e-commerce stores would likely need a more premium service – but providers on this list can offer that as well, at a fraction of the price.

With that being said, whether you’re just looking for a webpage to display details, just having an online presence, or even for an e-commerce platform, all these providers can guarantee you a well-hosted website.

Should I Opt for Cheap or Free Web Hosting?

Now, cheap is one thing, but free is an entirely different box of frogs. With 100% free companies, they have to make money somehow, or it’s simply unsustainable for them. One of the ways they do this is through ads and not the kind that’ll benefit you.

Instead, they’ll be displaying ads on your website from third parties or themselves, as this way, they can earn some money. This may not seem like the end of the world, but for visiting customers, it’s not always a great look, and it may even put some users off entirely.

You’re also likely to get very little in the way of customer support, as, again, you’re not paying, so you’re not their priority. There are a host of other reasons why we wouldn’t recommend free web hosting services, but now we’ll focus on why you should go for cheap instead.

Firstly, there are no annoying ads for customers, and you’ll get excellent customer support should something go wrong. You’re also likely to get a much higher uptime guarantee, which is essential for e-commerce platforms that make their money from online stores.

That, coupled with improved security like installed firewalls and analytical features, make it a no-brainer – budget-friendly over free every day. So not only are the providers on this list cheap hosts, but most feature in our list of the best WordPress hosting services on the market – that’s how good these are.

The 10 Cheapest WordPress Hosting Services Reviewed

It’s now time to take a deeper dive into the 10 cheapest WordPress hosting services, and we’ll kick things off with our top pick, DreamHost. In these reviews, we’ll provide you with all the key information you need to make an informed decision, looking at uptime guarantees, customer support, and security, amongst others.

1. DreamHost – Overall, the Best Cheap WordPress Host

DreamHost logo

DreamHost is one of the most recognizable faces in the WordPress or shared hosting world, with a glowing reputation that’s been earned for its reliable uptime guarantees, cutting-edge features, and resolute security.

It even offers VPS or private server hosting for larger projects and businesses. In terms of features, DreamHost includes everything you’d expect to find on one of the top WordPress hosting services, including a free domain for your business or personal website.

Beyond this, you’ll also get unlimited traffic allowance, so you can rest assured your website can handle all the foot flow you expect, as well as a free SSL certificate to confirm authenticity.

DreamHost Dashboard

Cheapest Plan Storage Traffic Free Domain Uptime Average Page Load Time
$2.59/month 30GB 100k-1M Yes 100% 1.54 seconds

Whilst none of these features may blow you away, what DreamHost really excels in is getting the basics done right, all for a very fair monthly price, as all of these features are included in the low-cost Shared Starter plan.

What did blow us away is the promise of a 100% uptime guarantee. If they fail to hit this target, they’ll compensate the customer. That’s really putting your money where your mouth is.

If you’re looking for a bit more oomph, then you can always opt for the Shared Unlimited plan, which introduces free daily backups to ensure the safety of your website, as well as automatic WordPress updates, so your website is always optimized using the latest WP version.

That said, one feature that caught our eye was the built-in WP website builder, which makes getting your website up and running a breeze. With this, you get access to an easy site creator wizard, a ton of professional templates to speed things up, and a useful drag-and-drop editor to fully customize your masterpiece.

Pricing

We’re thrilled to see a host of dedicated WordPress plans on offer from DreamHost, and these plans give you the peace of mind of knowing your business can scale alongside one of the many plans on offer – an essential tool for e-commerce brands.

DreamHost Pricing

For the best value, we’d suggest opting for either the WordPress Starter or WordPress Unlimited plans, with the best savings coming if you opt for a whopping 3-year plan.

The Starter plan offers support for one website with a free domain, unlimited traffic, and free SSL certificates, whereas the Unlimited plan allows you to create as many websites as you want and includes unlimited emails for your domain.

Pros

  • Offers an excellent feature-to-price ratio
  • Includes a 97-day money-back guarantee for shared hosting
  • Promotes a 100% uptime guarantee, or compensation will be paid
  • Free domain, domain privacy, SSL, and daily backups included
  • Easy WordPress integration can be done in one-click

Cons

  • You have to pay extra for certain features, like the malware protection tool

2. BlueHost – Best Host For E-Commerce

BlueHost logo

BlueHost is a host trusted by hundreds of thousands of WordPress users. It offers a range of cheap shared hosting solutions with an uptime guarantee of 99.9%, generous amounts of SSD storage on all plans, and a ton of custom WP templates to build your dream website.

Feature-wise, BlueHost truly excels at keeping your website safe and secure with top-notch security measures. Unlike other providers, you get a solid suite of tools to keep your business up and running, including malware scanning, domain privacy, and a free SSL certificate.

BlueHost Dashboard

Cheapest Plan Storage Traffic Free Domain Uptime Average Page Load Time
$2.95/month 10GB 50k-500k Yes – $5.45/month 99.9% 0.8 seconds

You can also benefit from one-click WordPress installs, which is great if you’re new to web hosting, WordPress, or if you’re just not that tech savvy. This, combined with the aesthetically pleasing cPanel and custom dashboard, makes BlueHost an attractive option for both seasoned professionals and newbies.

We should also mention that for those willing to spend a little more or for users who envision their website and business demands scaling rapidly, BlueHost has some other plans that offer an impressive range of additional plugins, mainly aimed at e-commerce use.

These include the option for unlimited products, secure online payments, shipping labels, and gift cards – so it’s tailored for an e-commerce business to thrive and scale alongside it. All this can be found in the Online Store plan, but none of these plugins are available on lower-tiered plans.

Pricing

BlueHost has a good range of plans for WordPress hosting, some tailored toward e-commerce use and others for more simplistic websites, but each of them includes the same core features like SSL certificates, malware scanning, and a free domain.

BlueHost Pricing

You’ll need to spend a bit more if you want the useful plugins in the Online Store plan, but if your business is selling online, it’s really a no-brainer, especially as the plan can scale alongside your growth.

The best value for money is again with a long-term plan; in this instance, 3 years – although the prices above are at a discounted rate, and afterward, the prices will auto-renew at the regular rate, so don’t get caught out.

Pros

  • Includes a free domain and SSL certificate on all plans
  • Great tailormade options for e-commerce brands
  • Offers one-click WordPress installation
  • Brilliant and knowledgeable customer support team, useful for beginners

Cons

  • Prices jump after renewal and can get expensive

3. InMotion Hosting – Best for Website Security

InMotion Hosting Logo

InMotion Hosting is a top cheap solution for WordPress hosting that boasts reliable and stable performance for your website all year round with its 99.9% uptime guarantee.

They’re known for having excellent US-based customer service and their range of WP plans that can scale seamlessly alongside any website and business. It’s worth pointing out that this is one of the more expensive options on this list, but it does have some strong features that make it worth the money.

For starters, you get a suite of marketing tools, like a WP website builder, email, free advertising credits, and solid customer management tools.

InMotion Dashboard

Cheapest Plan Storage Traffic Free Domain Uptime Average Page Load Time
$3.99/month 100GB 50k-500k Yes 99.9% 1.19 seconds

They go one step further and even offer you a ton of bundled-in security tools. Most providers on this list include SSL certificates as standard, but with InMotion, it’s a lifetime SSL, and you also get hack and malware protection to keep your website safe, as well as DDoS protection.

These extra features go a long way to justifying the slight increase in price over some of the other top providers on this list, and it has a few more tricks up its sleeve. For example, there’s W3 Total Cache supported, which basically improves page load times with a high-performance plugin.

So is it worth the extra money? We think it justifies its price tag pretty well, as you get all the above and unlimited storage and bandwidth on the Launch, Power, and Pro plans. It may be too much for some new businesses or individuals to pay straight away, but if your purse strings can be stretched, it’s worth the money.

Pricing

As mentioned throughout our review, InMotion Hosting can cost a little more than some other providers on this list, but it still can be considered a cheap WordPress hosting service.

InMotion Pricing

Each plan from Launch to Pro offers unlimited bandwidth and storage, as well as emails, meaning you do really get good value for money. You’re also protected by a generous 90-day money-back guarantee.

The prices displayed are for a 3-year plan, and these will mean you get the best value for money if you can fork out the upfront cost – we’d definitely recommend doing so, as they can also scale up your plan should your business need extra support.

Pros

  • Excellent page loading times and overall performance
  • Offers a 90-day money-back guarantee for a hassle-free purchase
  • Useful integrated website builder for WordPress
  • Includes useful marketing tools like customer management options

Cons

  • US-based servers might be an issue for some

4. LiquidWeb – Great for Scaling With Your Business

LiquidWeb logo

LiquidWeb earns its spot on our list of the best cheap WordPress hosting providers, despite being on the higher side of budget-friendly. With that being said, the Spark plan is reasonably priced and offers some excellent features.

With it, you’ll get a near-perfect uptime score of 99.9% and an integrated firewall to keep your website free of malware and hackers. But the price may be off-putting for those who really want to save some money, and that’s fine.

There are other providers on this list that offer similar features and security, all for less money. However, we felt inclined to include Liquid Web, as it does offer a lot, whether you’re a growing e-commerce brand or just need a neat landing page.

LiquidWeb Dashboard

Cheapest Plan Storage Traffic Free Domain Uptime Average Page Load Time
$17.50/month 15GB 50k-1M Yes 99.9% 1.4 seconds

What really compelled us, however, was the excellent 99.9% uptime guarantee on offer. For a provider that falls into the affordable category, this is fantastic. That aside, you also get 20 auto-scaled PHP workers per site, which means your website will run as smoothly as possible.

Beyond all this, you’ll get a decent amount of SSD storage (15GB on the Spark plan) to play around with, although we were disappointed to see no unlimited bandwidth – but you never really get unlimited, so the 1TB on offer with the Spark plan is good enough.

A couple of extra quirks include the Plugin Performance Monitor, which basically reports how well each plugin is working, so you can make any amendments, as well as iThemes Security Pro, another plugin to secure and protect your WordPress website.

Pricing

As has been referenced throughout this review, LiquidWeb is right on the cusp of affordable, but we think it leans on the side of cheap. That being said, some of the plans are expensive, but this shouldn’t put you off.

LiquidWeb Pricing

All this means is that if your business and website continue to grow, you have a web host who can scale alongside you, which is a huge benefit for any business. Each plan increases the number of websites, storage, and bandwidth, making growing alongside them a breeze.

We’d recommend starting with the Spark plan, which is the lowest-priced plan, and includes generous storage and bandwidth, but it’s good to keep in mind that it can cover just one website.

Pros

  • Offers a 99.9% uptime guarantee backed by SLA
  • Includes server management on all plans
  • Top-notch customer service team who can help with a range of issues
  • Allows you to choose between cPanel, Plesk, and InterWorx for hosting

Cons

  • Slightly more expensive than most providers on this list

5. A2 Hosting – The Fastest Cheap WordPress Host

A2 Hosting logo

A2 Hosting has been in the game for many years and offers its customers lightning-fast servers, great customer support, and excellent all-around security.

It was one of the first providers to offer SSD storage, something that’s now commonplace amongst all the best cheap WordPress hosting services. This aside, your website will run on what A2 Hosting refers to as ‘turbo servers‘ – which sounds very impressive, and it is.

A2 Hosting Dashboard

Cheapest Plan Storage Traffic Free Domain Uptime Average Page Load Time
$3.99/month 50GB 50k-1M Yes 99.9% 0.285 seconds

The speeds on offer are very good, and WordPress-based websites will run seamlessly. They also offer free SSL certificates on every plan, as expected, and also give you a minimum of 50GB NVMe SSD Storage on all plans, with the number rising with the tier of the plans.

Plus, there’s a host of optimized WordPress features to go with this, including SEO tools, so you can make sure your website is consistently at the top of Google’s web rankings. We’re also pleased to see Jetpack free included on the lowest tier plans, something other providers often make you pay for.

What this essentially offers you is heightened security through Jetpack, which offers backups, easy restores, malware scanning, and much more. All of this helps keep your website running smoothly and free from any hackers.

However, if you want a dedicated IP address or the ID Protection options, you’ll have to pay extra for these, no matter what plan you settle on. This may not be a huge issue for some, but as this provider is slightly on the pricier side, it would be nice to see some of these bundled into at least one plan.

Pricing

Like most other providers on this list, A2 Hosting offers the best value for money with a 3-year subscription, and we’d recommend opting for the Run or Jump plans.

A2 Hosting Pricing

These offer 50GB to 100GB of storage and a ton of WordPress-optimized features, including SEO tools. They may be slightly more expensive than a few of the other options on this list, but you’re still getting reasonably good value for money.

Pros

  • Excellent page load times for a smooth customer experience
  • Has servers on 3 different continents
  • Offers free daily backups
  • Very user-friendly, suitable for beginners
  • Easily one of the fastest WordPress hosts

Cons

  • No free domain included
  • One of the more expensive ‘cheap’ WordPress hosts

6. IONOS – Offers Great Analytical and Reporting Features

IONOS logo

IONOS is perhaps the most affordable of the lot, with some incredibly cheap plans for new businesses looking to launch their first website. They even include a free domain in your first year, which is amazing, seeing as prices start from just $1/month.

On the base plan Start, you get 25GB of SSD storage and 9GB of RAM, which is more than enough to run a basic website, blog, or something similar – however, it may not be enough to run a small to midsize e-commerce website, so bare that in mind.

IONOS Dashboard

Cheapest Plan Storage Traffic Free Domain Uptime Average Page Load Time
$1/month 25GB 50k-500k Yes 99.9% 2.5 seconds

You also get a free SSL certificate and domain, which is pretty standard, even amongst cheaper providers. Yet, IONOS goes one step further and throws in malware scanning to keep your website safe and some useful site analytics, which allows you to measure the success of your website and make alterations as needed.

Usually, both of these features are reserved for higher-tier plans, or you have to pay for them – so kudos to IONOS for offering these in their cheapest plan. We should also mention that the other plans are well-priced and offer stepping-stones for growing businesses, as the plans can scale alongside your requirements.

However, there are some features that are only available on the more expensive plans, including Jetpack free and a caching plugin that helps improve page load times and website performance. But that’s one of the few differences in the plans, besides some extra storage, RAM, and more email addresses.

We would have liked to have seen some bonus features for the more premium plans, like SEO or marketing tools – but given the overall cost of IONOS plans, we think we can let that slide.

Pricing

IONOS’s introductory offer means you can get your hands on a reliable WordPress host for just $1/month – by far the best value-for-money provider on this list – even the renewal prices are incredibly affordable.

IONOS Pricing

There may not be quite as many features to shout about as top providers like DreamHost, but with malware scanning and a useful cashing plugin available in the Grow plan, there’s still a lot to like.

Pros

  • Incredibly affordable plans, great for small businesses
  • Free domain and SSL certificate with every plan
  • Offers plans for Linux users, a rarity for cheap web hosts

Cons

  • US-based servers only for shared hosting
  • We found support response times are a little slower than most

7. HostArmarda – Best for Customer Support

Host Armada logo

HostArmada is another useful and cheap WordPress hosting service that combines a wide range of useful features, like 1-click WP installation and a reliable 99.9% uptime guarantee with low-cost plans starting from just $2.49/month.

This budget-friendly price looks even better when you add in the extra security features that are included, including a built-in firewall to prevent any attacks, malware removal for when your website may be vulnerable, and a virus and malware scanner to prevent them.

HostArmada Dashboard

Cheapest Plan Storage Traffic Free Domain Uptime Average Page Load Time
$2.49/month 15GB 50k-500k Yes 99.9% 1.5 seconds

It also offers 24/7 human support when you first launch your website, as things can go wrong in the early stages, so having a dedicated support member can really ease this process.

You also get a 1-click WordPress installation to save time, freeloading speed optimization to improve customer experience, and an intuitive drag-and-drop website builder.

On the more premium plans by HostArmada, there’s a group of features called ‘Speed Reaper‘ – these offer you 3x more CPU and RAM, the LiteSpeed Web Server, and HTTP/3. All of this means a rapid website and the best possible experience for your website visitors, which is ideal for online stores.

All this can be accessed through a combination of a custom dashboard and cPanel setup, which we found to be highly intuitive and pretty user-friendly. From the cPanel, you can work on your website’s SEO settings, access your email settings, and add useful tools like a spam filter.

Pricing

The pricing for HostArdama is pretty straightforward, and there are 3 main plans for you to choose from, each offering great value for money and all protected by a 45-day money-back guarantee.

HostArmada Pricing

For access to the Speed Reaper feature set, you’ll need to go for the Speed Reaper plan, as this isn’t included in either of the lower-tier options. All plans include useful malware protection and scanner tools, though.

Pros

  • Easy to use dashboard with cPanel integration, great for beginners
  • Handles traffic very well with impressive speeds
  • Has servers in 9 data centers worldwide

Cons

  • Expensive renewal prices can catch people out
  • LiteSpeed is only available on the highest-tier plan

8. NameCheap – Offers Great Web Building Services

Namecheap logo

NameCheap is actually one of the more expensive providers – but it still offers enough features, like a 99.9% uptime guarantee, a useful maintenance mode for when your website isn’t quite ready to launch, and lightning-fast page load times.

Each NameCheap plan also comes with a free Content Delivery Network (CDN), which boosts your website’s speed and performance. Alongside this, you’ll get One Dashboard, where you can build your own WordPress site with an easy drag-and-drop interface.

NameCheap Dashboard

Cheapest Plan Storage Traffic Free Domain Uptime Average Page Load Time
$19.55/month 10GB 50k-500k Yes 99.9% 2 seconds

We were also impressed to see that the cheapest plan on offer can support web traffic of up to 50k users, which is pretty good considering the price. Each plan adds more, with a total of 500k visitors to your site on the top-tier plan.

This means NameCheap can be used for e-commerce brands and any other business website you can think of. Also, one new feature that’s worth mentioning is the Free PositiveSSL.

This brings improved encryption, validation, and trustworthiness to your WordPress website, which is provided by Sectigo. This includes 256-bit encryption, an industry standard that’ll protect your website from just about anything.

Pricing

As mentioned elsewhere in this review, NameCheap is on the more expensive side of cheap, and that’s why it finds itself further down our list. However, it does offer a useful 30-day free trial, should you wish to test the service before signing up for a paid plan.

NameCheap Pricing

It does feature an excellent uptime guarantee and useful security measures, too, as well as boasting some of the best web page speeds we’ve seen – but we feel that other providers, like DreamHost or A2 Hosting, offer similar, if not more, for a better price.

Pros

  • Offers an excellent 99.9% uptime guarantee, 100% on shared hosting plans
  • Great web page loading speeds to improve customer experience
  • Includes a free domain and migration

Cons

  • No specialist plans for online stores
  • Pay extra to use non-US data centers

9. HostPapa – Offers a Huge Amount of Storage

HostPapa Logo

HostPapa offers an excellent range of plans, including those optimized for WordPress, so you know you’re getting good features here. Even the lowest-tier plan includes Jetpack Free, and they also offer 100GB SSD storage and email support.

Alongside this, your website is protected by a 99.9% uptime guarantee, so performance is unlikely to be an issue. There are also some excellent WordPress-specific features like a free SSL, domain, and email account.

Plus, you’ll get some more unique offerings, such as a firewall, malware scanners, and automated backups up to 10GB.

HostPapa Dashboard

Cheapest Plan Storage Traffic Free Domain Uptime Average Page Load Time
$2.95/month 100GB 50k-500k Yes 99.9% 0.86 seconds

The latter features can be found in the highest-tier plan, WP Ultra, but the pricing is still incredibly affordable. The WP Ultra plan also includes the WP Ultra Suite, which offers you unlimited MySQL Databases for all your projects and up to 8x more CPU for a lightning-fast experience for customers.

These features are geared more toward online stores or larger businesses, but with the way the plans are structured, it’s easy to see how seamlessly HostPapa can scale alongside your business. In terms of looks, the server provides a basic cPanel and a straightforward native account administration dashboard.

The latter is user-friendly and appropriate for beginners, but there are some more advanced features for professionals to sink their teeth into. Everything from installing WordPress and making backups to adding a domain name or email account can be done from there.

Pricing

HostPapa’s optimized WordPress plans offer users great value for money, whichever plan you opt for. We’re also delighted to see Jetpack included on every plan, not just the upper tiers – something we wish all providers would offer.

HostPapa Pricing

Pros

  • Includes a free domain with every plan
  • Offers 100GB storage on the cheapest plan
  • Has data centers in 3 different countries

Cons

  • The interface is slightly outdated and slow
  • Charges for add-ons like SEO tools can make it a lot more expensive

10. Name.com – Best for WordPress Hosting Beginners

Name.com Logo

Name.com offers pure simplicity when it comes to WordPress hosting, with just one plan costing $2.49/month billed annually. With this plan, you get a one-click installation, unlimited bandwidth, and storage, as well as a free SSL.

You also get access to a boatload of plugins and themes to customize your WordPress site, with security add-ons, as well as tools for improving your page load time. We also really like that there are plugins specifically for online stores featuring SEO tools.

Name.com Dashboard

Cheapest Plan Storage Traffic Free Domain Uptime Average Page Load Time
$2.49/month Unlimited 25k-500k Yes 99.9% 2.5 seconds

There’s also a very beginner-friendly feel to Name.com, and the interface seems to have been designed with simplicity for newbies in mind – making this a great choice for those building or hosting their first website.

You’ll even get specialist support from one of the useful team members, who will also handle any migration for you. To finish, you’ll get an impressive 99.9% uptime guarantee, so whenever a visitor wants to view your website, they can do so without any issues.

If you want to improve performance via any add-ons, you can use the one-click installer Softaculous.

Pricing

Name.com only offers one WordPress hosting plan, which does leave us wondering if it can support natural growth – you do get the basics, but straight off the bat, this isn’t really tailored for e-commerce use. For small websites and businesses that want their first homepage on the internet, this might be for you.

Name.com Pricing

Pros

  • All plans come with a free domain
  • Strong uptime guarantee of 99.9%
  • Offers unlimited storage

Cons

  • Slower page load times than other providers on this list
  • No 24/7 live chat support

The Top 10 Budget WP Hosts in 2024 Compared

Now that we’ve taken a look at each of the top cheap WordPress hosting services in detail, it’s time to compare them against each other using the data from the tables above. This will help you visualize which is cheapest, which host can handle the most traffic, or which has the fastest page load times:

Software Cheapest Plan Storage Traffic Free Domain Uptime Average Page Load Time
DreamHost $2.59/month 30GB 100k-1M Yes 100% 1.54 seconds
BlueHost $2.95/month 10GB 50k-500k Yes – $5.45/month 99.9% 0.8 seconds
InMotion $3.99/month 100GB 50k-500k Yes 99.9% 1.19 seconds
LiquidWeb $17.50/month 15GB 50k-1M Yes 99.9% 1.4 seconds
A2 Hosting $3.99/month 50GB 50k-1M Yes 99.9% 0.285 seconds
IONOS $3/month 25GB 50k-500k Yes 99.9% 2.5 seconds
HostArmada $2.49/month 15GB 50k-500k Yes 99.9% 1.5 seconds
NameCheap $19.55/month 10GB 50k-500k Yes 99.9% 2 seconds
HostPapa $2.95/month 100GB 50k-500k Yes 99.9% 0.86 seconds
Name.com $2.49/month Unlimited 25k-500k Yes 99.9% 2.5 seconds

Factors to Consider When Choosing WordPress Website Hosting on a Budget

If you’re just starting to think about hosting your own WordPress website, you may not be aware of what to look for in terms of features, pricing, etc. To help, we’ve compiled a list of some of the key components of any good WordPress hosting service.

  • Features: You should be able to easily install WordPress with just one click, and WordPress-optimized services should also include cache, staging, free site migration, and other helpful features. Professional email accounts, free SSL certificates, and limitless bandwidth are also good additions.
  • Pricing: In our reviews, we looked at the monthly price of each provider to ensure you get a good features-to-value. Although these are cheap WordPress hosts, never base your decision solely on the cost, as you might end up with poor service.
  • Performance: Even if the host provides the most cost-effective feature package, it’s worthless without outstanding performance. We thoroughly evaluated each one to guarantee that any host we provide has excellent average response times and at least 99.99% uptime, and this should be what you’re looking for.
  • User-Friendly: Each hosting service we’ve included has an intuitive interface for beginners but offers enough advanced options for pros too. This is crucial, as many may be building their first-ever website, so having a simple interface is a huge advantage.
  • Customer Support: Time is of the essence while operating a website, so you should be able to get immediate assistance if something goes wrong. Because of this, all of our chosen hosts provide 24/7 customer service via live chat, email, phone calls, or other means.

Other Hosting Guides Worth Reading

If you’re still not sure which host you’d like to use, our team of tech experts has compiled various other hosting guides to help you on your quest to find the best one for your needs. We recommend giving these a read if you’re still on the fence:

Conclusion | What is the Best Cheap WordPress Hosting Solution in 2024?

The most effective WordPress hosting options don’t have to be expensive, our list proves that. Many companies provide affordable, top-notch WordPress hosting, and they give you a ton of WordPress-specific functionality, ensure excellent speed, and make management simple.

Overall, DreamHost is our top option if you don’t want to sacrifice quality but yet want to stay within your budget. Its monthly costs start at $2.59, and you get a 99.99% uptime guarantee, fantastic support, simplicity of use, and many features that improve WordPress.

FAQ

What is the cheapest hosting for WordPress for 2024?

Which free hosting is best for WordPress?

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References

The post Best Cheap WordPress Hosting: Top 10 Budget WP Hosts Compared for 2024 appeared first on The Tech Report.

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PureVPN Review: Is it Any Good in 2024? Everything You Need to Know https://techreport.com/vpn/purevpn-review/ Thu, 07 Sep 2023 12:04:07 +0000 https://techreport.com/?page_id=3515502 PureVPN Review

In this PureVPN review, we explore this popular provider that’s a favorite among online security fanatics as it offers robust encryption protocols and works seamlessly for streaming and torrenting. Plus,...

The post PureVPN Review: Is it Any Good in 2024? Everything You Need to Know appeared first on The Tech Report.

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PureVPN Review

In this PureVPN review, we explore this popular provider that’s a favorite among online security fanatics as it offers robust encryption protocols and works seamlessly for streaming and torrenting.

Plus, it can unblock Netflix and a host of other websites, and it also recently became the first VPN to offer an ‘always on audit’, which offers a massive boost for your safety and security.

In this PureVPN review, we’ll take a deeper look into its key features, establishing how safe it is, as well as its performance for torrenting and streaming, plus we’ll compare it to other key players on the market to help you determine if it’s worth it for you in 2024.

What is PureVPN?

PureVPN has been in the VPN industry since 2007, so it knows how to make a secure and reliable product. The company is currently based in the British Virgin Islands, which is well-famed for its favorable online privacy laws.

It’s also an incredibly popular VPN for users who stream or torrent frequently, and it even has predetermined setups for each of these features. To top it off, the service offers strong encryption through WireGuard, OpenVPN, IKEv2, and leak protection, so you’re in safe hands.

Plus, there are excellent mobile apps available for iOS and Android users, as well as desktop clients for MacOS, Windows, Chromebooks, and a host of web browsers and streaming sticks – it can even be installed on routers.

How Does PureVPN Work?

PureVPN works in the same way that pretty much all VPNs operate – when you connect to your home Wi-Fi, mobile data, or a public hotspot, a Virtual Private Network is formed and acts as a middleman.

This means that your Internet Service Provider (ISP) won’t be able to see your browsing history, only that you’re connected to a VPN. The benefits of this are clear on one hand – no one can view your personal info and browsing history.

That said, there are also a few bonus features. For example, you won’t be subject to bandwidth throttling, which is a huge plus. This basically means that your ISP won’t be able to limit your speeds, something they do to help with congestion on the network.

What Can I Do With Pure VPN?

There’s so much more to VPNs than just improved online security, although that’s one of the key advantages of signing up with one. In case you were wondering, we’ve compiled a list of what you can do with PureVPN below:

Use Public WiFi Stress-Free

As useful as coffee shops or other shared space WiFi networks are, they do come with some obvious risks. It’s quite easy for a good hacker to secretly watch you when you’re sharing sensitive company documents or personal emails, and it can easily put you at risk of financial fraud.

Thankfully, using PureVPN will protect your data, hide your browsing history, and ensure no hackers can gain access to your computer by taking advantage of the weak public internet.

Hide Your Browsing History from your ISP

Your home internet is likely to be much safer than any public WiFi, but that doesn’t mean that there’s no one snooping. Without a VPN, your ISP can view all of your browsing data and then potentially sell it to third parties and advertisers.

However, by using a good VPN like PureVPN, you can hide your actual IP address, meaning your ISP won’t be able to view any of your browsing history and sell your data.

Unblock Geo-locked Content

One of the most popular uses of PureVPN is streaming and unlocking new libraries on popular services like Netflix, a feature commonly referred to as geo-unlocking.

It’s a commonly known fact that Netflix offers different content, depending on your physical location, with countries like the US and UK having much larger libraries than most.

Luckily for you, PureVPN allows you to connect to a host of servers scattered around different countries and continents, so you can easily unlock new Netflix libraries or streaming services like BBC iPlayer if you’re outside of the US or the UK. In fact, it’s on our list of the best Netflix VPNs.

Work From Anywhere, Safely & Securely

For businesses that have multiple remote employees, there’s a real risk of company information being leaked if a worker accesses a weak network – this can lead to ransomware attacks if you’re not using some of the top antivirus software.

A VPN can help you run your remote business without having to worry about losing sensitive information. By encrypting your network and preventing hackers, you can work safely from anywhere in the world.

Is PureVPN Good? Top Pros and Cons

Even the top VPN services on the market have their upsides and downsides, but thankfully, PureVPN has far more to like than dislike.  Below is a list of the pros and cons:

Pros

  • Features an excellent always-on audit for improved security
  • Includes a password manager add-on for keeping your personal credentials safe
  • Offers a 31-day money-back guarantee on all paid plans
  • Supports a vast range of devices, including Linux, Chromebooks, and Android TV
  • You’re protected by AES-256 encryption

Cons

  • Mixed customer support reviews

How Much Does PureVPN Cost?

When it comes to long-term subscriptions, PureVPN competes with Surfshark and Windscribe, two of the cheapest VPNs on the market. But don’t be fooled by these low prices, they’re still all excellent providers.

No matter which PureVPN membership plan you choose, you’ll get the same features and the ability to use the VPN on 10 devices at once (but keep in mind that sharing your account with others is against the VPN’s Terms of Service, including with family members).

PureVPN Plans

When you buy a long-term plan, PureVPN offers the best value. It’s by far the most affordable choice among the alternatives, offering the greatest savings on a 2-year plan. A 31-day money-back guarantee is also provided, allowing you to change your mind if you’re not happy with the service.

PureVPN is also available for $10.95 per month – which isn’t an awful price for a monthly subscription when you consider the monthly chargers in place by all the other VPNs available.

Plus, PayPal, credit cards, and a number of digital currencies, like Bitcoin, are all accepted as payment methods. However, much to our confusion, some PureVPN landing pages don’t provide the cryptocurrency payment option.

Can I Get PureVPN for Free?

Sadly, PureVPN doesn’t fall in the bracket of the best free VPN services, as there isn’t a free offering available. However, you can test the entire service for 7 days for just $0.99 to determine whether the VPN meets your demands, such as whether it’s compatible with your favorite streaming services or reliable for torrenting.

Or, if you want to try the service for free without any hassle, you can take advantage of the 31-day money-back guarantee from PureVPN – this gives you time to test the service and make sure it’s right for you by checking if it works with streaming platforms, or offers you enough protection.

An In-Depth Look at PureVPN’s Features

PureVPN has an impressive range of features that make it a go-to provider for over 3 million users – but what are the best features on offer, and is there anything unique here? All will be revealed below.

Split Tunneling

Split tunneling, which enables you to send some of your application or device traffic through an encrypted VPN while leaving other applications or devices with direct internet access, is a feature we’re happy to see offered by PureVPN.

This is especially helpful if you want to make use of services that work best when your location is known and have secure access to chats and data that could be sensitive.

PureVPN Split Tunneling

Kill Switch

A reliable kill switch is a crucial component of any VPN. When enabled, it immediately cuts off your internet connection if you accidentally disconnect from your VPN.

PureVPN Kill Switch

It’s especially helpful if you’re torrenting and don’t want your identity to be compromised or when using public Wi-Fi, both of which are vulnerable to hacker attacks. PureVPN’s kill switch is turned on by default (but you can always turn it off).

It can be a little hit and miss, which can be said about a lot of kill switches – but it does the job most of the time, and regular VPN users shouldn’t worry.

Port Forwarding

For less than $1 a month, PureVPN offers port forwarding as an add-on option. When set correctly, it enables access to a particular device linked to your local network from computers outside of your network.

PureVPN Port Forwarding

You can set up game servers, host small websites, monitor your security camera, or just remotely access your device whenever you need to with port forwarding.

Obfuscation

Similar to what we went over in our Surfshark review, PureVPN has recently added an obfuscation feature that’s useful for those who live in heavily controlled countries, especially those that prohibit VPN usage.

However, it isn’t advised for people who want the fastest connection speed, as it can slow things down quite significantly – as the feature develops, this may change for the better.

By masking your VPN data, it gives the impression that you’re merely browsing on a public network, but you still gain access to all the advantages the VPN offers, such as unblocking geo-restricted content, avoiding ISP throttling, and staying safe, but no one can identify your VPN connection.

PureKeep

PureVPN has integrated a password management add-on called PureKeep into its software to increase your online security. Military-grade encryption and a master password are used to keep your personal documents, such as credit cards or work files, secure at all times.

PureKeep password manager

 

Plus, you get assistance with building fresh, unique passwords in addition to removing the frustration of remembering them for multiple accounts. You can even create lengthy passwords that contain numbers, symbols, lowercase and uppercase characters using the PureKeep password generator.

Always-On Audit

PureVPN recently declared that it’ll be the first VPN provider with an always-on audit. According to its contract with KPMG International Limited, the auditing firm is permitted to perform a complete surprise audit without prior notification.

The message is clear: Your privacy is always protected, even if audits can occur at any time. KPMG recently conducted an inspection of the service and discovered no proof that it doesn’t uphold its no-logs claims.

Is PureVPN Safe?

Yes, PureVPN is very safe to use and takes countless measures to ensure your safety. Below are a few examples of how they keep their users safe:

Encryption Protocols

PureVPN is incredibly safe and takes your security seriously. It uses AES-256 encryption which is deemed the industry standard (bettered only by the XChaCha20 used by NordVPN.)

The US government, military, and businesses that deal with sensitive data all trust this level of encryption, which offers a whopping 2256 possible key combinations — hence why it’s practically impossible to crack.

Tunneling Protocols

You also get access to a wide range of tunneling protocols with PureVPN, including the lightning-fast WireGuard protocol, for increased performance. While it may not be the fastest VPN service, it does offer excellent speeds, thanks to the inclusion of WireGuard.

There’s also the slightly outdated but still reliable OpenVPN TCP and UDP, which can offer decent performance. Below is the full list:

  • WireGuard – Ultra secure and offers great speeds
  • OpenVPN TCP – Slower speeds, very secure and reliable
  • OpenVPN UDP – High speeds option, less stable than TCP
  • IKEv2 – Very fast, optimized for mobile devices
  • SSTP – Can potentially work in China
  • L2TP/IPSec – The oldest protocol of the lost, avoid it if you can

Logging

Today, PureVPN is based in the British Virgin Islands, having made the switch from the less privacy-centered Hong Kong, which was coming under increasing pressure from China on its data laws.

PureVPN also has a very brief history of aiding the authorities in an investigation into a cyberstalker, where they passed over his logs to the FBI, as well as being able to trace two of his email accounts linked to the same IP address.

While these actions may sound favorable for a law-abiding citizen, they raised some data concerns within the community – but thankfully, PureVPN has since updated its privacy policy.

They assert that they don’t record IP addresses, IP addresses assigned to VPN servers, timestamps associated with VPN sessions, browser activities, or DNS requests. Additionally, the auditing firms Altius IT and KPMG examined their privacy policy and confirmed this.

PureVPN continues to store only your name, email address, and payment method: but that’s usual practice. For added security when signing up and checking out, you can opt to pay for your plan via cryptocurrency with some VPNs, including PureVPN.

A Look At PureVPN’s Compatibility

PureVPN has apps for pretty much any device you can think of, including Linux, Chromebooks, and multiple browsers. Below, we’ll take a quick look at each of these apps and discuss their key features and how they work.

Windows

The Windows client for PureVPN is a great tool, even if it’s a little boring aesthetically – but VPNs don’t win awards for looking good. Instead, you get a pretty basic interface and some useful support for the WireGuard, OpenVPN, and IKEv2 tunneling protocols.

PureVPN Windows App

You also get access to the kill switch feature, which you can toggle on and off, as well as the auto-connection. There isn’t much more to say – it does what it needs to very well and reliably.

Mac

You’ll struggle to notice many differences between the Mac and Windows versions, but we don’t mind the consistency here. However, one noticeable difference is that the Mac client doesn’t show the ping next to the server like it does on Windows, which is a shame.

PureVPN Mac Dashboard

That aside, you’ll find support for WireGuard, IKEv2, and L2TP/IPSec tunneling protocols – no OpenVPN support for Mac users, but as there’s WireGuard on offer, this shouldn’t be an issue.

Linux

The Linux version is perhaps now the most unique of them all, as it targets users with an IT background because it operates using the Command Line Interface. The app provides support for WireGuard and OpenVPN (TCP and UDP) protocols.

PureVPN Linux Interface

Additionally, PureVPN recently released a new graphical user interface (GUI) software for Linux, making it considerably simpler for Linux customers to use the service – you can find this on Ubuntu. This makes it easily one of the best Linux VPNs.

It has two protocols, TCP and UDP, an Internet kill switch, and an auto connection feature that connects to a server when the software is opened. Plus, the Connect to Fallback option is available on the Linux version of PureVPN, so if your desired protocol is unavailable, this option will connect you to the next best alternative.

Android

The most feature-rich of the bunch is currently PureVPN’s Android app. It features split tunneling, the option to select the network type (NAT or non-NAT), Dark and Light themes, and multiple server modes (Stream, Internet Freedom, Security/Privacy, and File Sharing).

PureVPN Android

 

The WireGuard, IPSec, and IKEv2 tunneling protocols are included in the Android app, making it an all-around excellent offering for keeping Android users safe on the go.

iOS

The iOS app now more closely resembles the Windows version in terms of functionality and design. It supports the IKEv2, WireGuard, and OpenVPN (TCP and UDP) protocols. It’s much more simplistic than the Android version, but that’s typical with the top iPhone VPN apps.

PureVPN iPhone App

Other

It would take all day to run through all the supported devices on offer from PureVPN, but to help, we’ve compiled a list of some of the other top devices you can work with:

  • Routers
  • Blackberry OS
  • Kindle
  • Nintendo
  • Google Chromebook
  • Microsoft Surface
  • Sonon
  • Raspberry Pi
  • Xbox + PlayStation
  • Smart TVs
  • Amazon Fire Devices

PureVPN Vs. ExpressVPN and Other Top Competitors

To help you see how PureVPN compares with some of the other leading VPNs right now, we’ve compiled a useful table that allows you to see the key components of each, including average speeds, server count, and much more.

VPN Provider Average Speeds (Mbps) Cheapest Plan (Monthly) Simultaneous Connections Server Count Server Locations
PureVPN 300-350 $2.08 10 6,500+ 78+
ExpressVPN 350-400 $6.67 8 3,000+ 94+
IvacyVPN 250-300 $1.00 10 5,700+ 68+
Surfshark 300-350 $2.30 Unlimited 3,200+ 100+
NordVPN 300-350 $3.19 6 5,700+ 60+

Each of the market’s best VPNs offers something different and unique and also does the basics well, like server speeds and security. PureVPN does lead the way in terms of its coverage, though.

It offers a larger server count than most VPNs out there, even though others have more countries active. It’s also excellent for streaming and torrenting and is even one of the leading gaming VPNs right now. Plus, it has dedicated servers for each of these that can be preconfigured during the setup procedures.

PureVPN Server Locations

PureVPN has one of the largest server counts among any of the leading VPNs, so that means you can get coverage from pretty much anywhere in the world. To help, we’ve compiled the full list below for you:

  • United States
  • United Kingdom
  • Australia
  • Germany
  • Canada
  • Netherlands
  • Hong Kong (SAR)
  • Belgium
  • France
  • Sweden
  • Japan
  • Singapore
  • Italy
  • Ireland
  • Luxembourg
  • India
  • Austria
  • Denmark
  • Norway
  • Romania
  • Russia
  • Poland
  • Czech Republic
  • Finland
  • Spain
  • Switzerland
  • Ukraine
  • New Zealand
  • Latvia
  • Turkey
  • Lithuania
  • Greece
  • Estonia
  • Bulgaria
  • Slovakia
  • Brazil
  • South Africa
  • Hungary
  • South Korea
  • Nigeria
  • Moldova
  • Albania
  • Taiwan
  • China
  • Vietnam
  • Afghanistan
  • Algeria
  • Angola
  • Argentina
  • Aruba
  • Bahamas
  • Bahrain
  • Bangladesh
  • Barbados
  • Bermuda
  • Bolivia
  • British Virgin Islands
  • Brunei Darussalam
  • Cayman Islands
  • Chile
  • Egypt
  • Monaco
  • Oman
  • Panama
  • Philippines
  • Portugal
  • Puerto Rico
  • United Arab Emirates
  • Serbia

Is PureVPN Legit? | A Look at Real PureVPN Reviews

Do you want to hear from other users of PureVPN about their hands-on experience with the service? We have it covered – Below are a few of the comments left by everyday users of PureVPN and their thoughts on the service.

PureVPN has been praised multiple times for its ease of use and excellent customer support, which, when combined, makes it a great choice for users who perhaps aren't that tech savvy, or maybe it's their first time using a VPN.PureVPN Customer Review
It also gains a lot of praise for its usability and massive server account, which, for avid VPN users, is essential. Having a large range of servers means you can unblock more content or get protected in countries where other VPNs may not be accessible.

PureVPN Servers ReviewOther long-term users also pointed out their continued approval of PureVPN, again referencing the useful selection of servers and the reliable kill switch that kicks in when your connection drops.

PureVPN Kill Switch Review

Overall, regardless of the review site, you'll find ample positivity going around for PureVPN. One aspect where we have seen some mixed feedback is the promptness of the support, but apart from that, PureVPN boasts a solid reputation and ample positive reviews.

How to Use PureVPN | A Quick Guide

Getting your hands on PureVPN and setting up on any of your devices is a breeze, but if you're new to the process, then stay tuned as we run through how to download, install, and set up below.

The steps you'll see are for the Windows download, but they're pretty much identical for all apps. For Linux, routers, or other devices, check out the dedicated install instructions.

Step 1 – Download for your Device

Head over to the PureVPN website and navigate to the 'Apps' section at the top of the page. There, you'll see a drop-down menu of the available apps – in this case, we're going for Windows. Hit the download button to begin downloading PureVPN to your device, then move on to the next step.

PureVPN Windows Installation Step 1

Step 2 – Pick Your Subscription

The app will now be downloaded in the background, and while this happens, you can select your PureVPN plan, of which there are 3 that offer different levels of coverage.

Max, which includes one of the best password managers, end-to-end file encryption, and a personal privacy manager, Plus, which offers the above features minus the personal privacy manager, and Standard, which is a standalone VPN. You'll get options to pay monthly, annually, or for the best savings, the two-year plan.

PureVPN Plans

Step 3 – Install PureVPN

The file should now have been downloaded, so locate the installation package in your File Explorer and double-click to launch the on-screen installation wizard. From here, just follow the instructions that pop up.

PureVPN Windows Installation

Step 4 – Load PureVPN

Now that you're finished installing PureVPN, it's time to load up the app and sign in using the details you entered when picking your plan. Upon your first login, you'll be greeted with several options on how you'll use the service.

Select the option that best suits your needs, and the app will be optimized to offer you the best performance. You'll only need to do this once, but you can change this in the app settings.

PureVPN Step 4 Usage

Step 5 – Connect to Your Chosen Server

Now that you're logged in, it's time to get the best out of your VPN. From the main user dashboard, select from one of the many thousands of servers in your desired country, and that's it.

All of your web traffic will now be protected for as long as you remain connected to your VPN – that means no bandwidth thrilling or snooping from your ISP and a safe browsing experience.

fast VPN service

As mentioned before, the steps are pretty much identical for most common devices (Windows, MacOS, Android, and iOS), so you can repeat these steps for your other devices. For details on the more technical setup for Linux, Routers, or Smart devices, head over to the FAQs on the PureVPN website for step-by-step guides.

Why You Can Trust Our Review of PureVPN

We've tested and compared many of the market's top VPNs to ensure we can give an accurate summary of each tool's advantages and any areas where it's lacking when compared to its competitors.

For this in-depth PureVPN review, we tested the platform using the 7-day trial, and although this is a short period, it proved enough for us to get a good grasp of its inner workings, and we could test the speeds on various servers using tools like www.speedtest.net from Ookla, and really analyze the interface.

We also tested its unblocking power and noted anything there that we felt would be valuable for our readers to know. Once we had our verdict, we moved on to analyzing reviews from long-time users on reputable sites like TrustPilot and Reddit to ensure that we didn't miss anything noteworthy.

PureVPN Review Verdict | Is PureVPN Good in 2024?

PureVPN is an excellent provider that offers one of the largest server fleets we've seen. It also offers excellent optimized performance for torrenting, gaming, and streaming, which when coupled with the WireGuard support means lag-free performance.

Whilst there are other tools out there that may offer slightly faster speeds or perhaps more advanced encryption protocols (NordVPN's XChaCha20 is the top standard), we've shown in this PureVPN review that there's ample to love about this VPN.

You can get PureVPN's useful password manager and file encryption service bundled in with the Max subscription, and all paid plans benefit from a risk-free 31-day money-back guarantee.

FAQ

Is PureVPN a Chinese company?

Is PureVPN scam?

Which is better, NordVPN or PureVPN?

Is PureVPN better than ExpressVPN?

Does PureVPN sell your data?

Is PureVPN good for streaming?

The post PureVPN Review: Is it Any Good in 2024? Everything You Need to Know appeared first on The Tech Report.

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The Best Business Antivirus Products for Endpoint Security Compared for 2024 https://techreport.com/antivirus/best-business-antivirus/ Thu, 31 Aug 2023 11:42:00 +0000 https://techreport.com/?page_id=3513422 Best Antivirus Solutions For Businesses

The possibility of a cyberattack looms greater than ever, and our personal information is more likely to be compromised as our lives become more and more digitized. Thankfully, there are...

The post The Best Business Antivirus Products for Endpoint Security Compared for 2024 appeared first on The Tech Report.

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Best Antivirus Solutions For Businesses

The possibility of a cyberattack looms greater than ever, and our personal information is more likely to be compromised as our lives become more and more digitized. Thankfully, there are some excellent corporate antivirus solutions out there that can be trusted by businesses to keep them safe.

Experts at Tech Report have put together a list of the top business antivirus software programs for 2024 to assist you in selecting the best tool for your needs. When making our decisions, we took into account a number of variables, including pricing, features, ease of use, and their recent malware detection scores.

The Best Antivirus for Business: Top 10 Ranked

We understand that finding the best antivirus solution for your business can be a daunting task, especially when the market is full of excellent contenders, all looking to be your number one. To help, we’ve cherry-picked the best of the bunch, and you can view our top 10 business antivirus tools below:

  1. TotalAV – Overall, the best antivirus for businesses, thanks to its excellent independently reviewed safety scores and comprehensive SafeScan features
  2. Nord Threat Protection – A reliable antivirus tool for businesses that includes the best VPN on the market and strong ad and tracker-blocking features
  3. Norton Antivirus –  Popular business antivirus software that uses AI machine learning to detect and protect you from malware, viruses, and ransomware
  4. Surfshark Antivirus – A brand-new antivirus that features Icogni, which contacts data brokers and removes your personal information from their systems
  5. TrendMicro – Budget-friendly tool that covers up to 10 devices with one subscription and includes the excellent payment security feature, PayGuard
  6. ESET – One of the best antivirus tools for remote businesses thanks to its anti-theft tools, including webcam monitoring and pinpoint location tracking
  7. Avast – Useful antivirus that offers a dedicated 24/7 business phone line for any security issues that may arise
  8. Intego – The best antivirus tool for businesses that run on Mac OS, with fantastic device optimization and advanced firewall features
  9. Avira – Intuitive app that includes a useful VPN, password manager, and excellent quarantine storage for suspicious files
  10. Panda Dome – A good tool that includes many strong features for business use, like USB protection and Data Shield

Why Do I Need An Antivirus for My Business?

The importance of good business antivirus software can’t be overlooked, as it’ll save you from leaked information, harmful viruses, and much more later down the line. Below are some of the key reasons you should be incorporating an antivirus solution into your everyday business practices.

Secure Private Data

You can relax more knowing that your company’s sensitive data is better protected against breaches thanks to antivirus software. Viruses are frequently the cause of data breaches, and your computer could become infected by a virus, which could then be used to steal vital information about your company.

Data breaches can be stopped by antivirus software, as it’ll safeguard your company from malware-related data leaks.

Prevent New and Old Viruses

Antivirus software helps shield your company from both recent and historical viruses. Although there are many different kinds of antivirus software solutions, most of them use signature databases.

These databases are updated as new viruses are discovered with the addition of their signatures, which represent each particular virus’s digital trace. So long as you keep your antivirus program updated, it’ll offer protection against both new and old viruses.

Get Protected Automatically

The automatic security provided by antivirus software is another reason your company needs it. A lot of business owners lack the time or expertise necessary to manually protect against cyber threats.

However, antivirus software provides automatic security and will perform real-time file and software scanning. The antivirus program will even scan a file or application when you open it, ensuring it’s safe and okay to use.

Prevent Phishing

Phishing scams have been plaguing businesses for years and years, but they’re still incredibly hard to prevent without the right tools. All it takes is for someone to be busy working and having their guard down and then clicking on a link.

That’s all phishing requires, it may take you to a login page or ask you for some sensitive information, and if it looks like a reputable source, then people tend to oblige. Thankfully, using antivirus software can prevent all of this.

Antiviruses scan your computer, phone, and inbox for signs of malware. Many antivirus solutions also include a firewall to prevent you from visiting phishing sites or accidentally downloading malware contained in an email link.

Overcome Ransomware

Ransomware is one of the most cunning types of contemporary malware since it’s so hard to spot and nearly impossible to remove. It blocks the PC entirely or freezes access to the files on the hard disk.

A full disk formatting is frequently the only option; of course, this results in the permanent loss of all data on the disk. It should come as no surprise that business owners prefer to pay large ransoms to scammers in exchange for a slim chance of having their lost data recovered.

Thankfully, having a top antivirus solution can prevent you from losing your files or coughing up money to scammers by neutralizing the threat early on.

Consumer Vs. Business Antivirus: Is There a Difference?

All too often, people assume that antivirus software is basically comparable across the board, but that isn’t the case—especially if you need to choose a package that can effectively defend your company.

It’s crucial to understand the distinction between consumer software and business solutions if you want to keep your organization secure because the finest consumer security apps and the best corporate antivirus packages are worlds apart.

For starters, a basic consumer tool is a standalone app downloaded onto a device, then you just let it run in the background, performing some basic scans and potentially warning you or removing any suspicious files – that’s basically it.

However, it’s a whole different ball game for business solutions. The majority of them use some sort of centralized system for deployment and management – this allows your IT department to install the software on all your company’s devices, and they can manage any threats or updates remotely.

A commercial antivirus program will ultimately view the PCs, laptops, and phones used by your business as endpoints of a larger network, and the software will defend the entire network regardless of which devices are connected.

The Best Enterprise Antiviruses Reviewed

Now it’s time to explore our choice for the best enterprise antivirus solutions, starting with our overall top pick TotalAV. Here, we’ll explore the security features on offer, the cost of the software, as well as the standout features, amongst other factors, to help you make an informed decision.

Alternatively, you can skip past our in-depth reviews to see our head-to-head comparison of the market’s best business antivirus tools — to easily compare pricing, compatibility, and more.

1. TotalAV – Overall, the Best Business Antivirus Solution

Total Password Logo

TotalAV is a comprehensive antivirus software package with a massive range of features aimed at protecting your business. It offers real-time defense against malware, viruses, spyware, ransomware, and other threats.

Plus, it scans data being transmitted to and from your computer, the folders you open, and the procedures your computer runs to provide that level of security. It even runs scans automatically in the background, so you don’t need to do them manually.

Another essential component of antiviruses is malware scanning, and TotalAV’s Smart Scan is a little more sophisticated than the standard scans most antivirus programs run. TotalAV examines important areas in addition to looking for malware to see if there are any potential performance issues with your computer.

Total AV Image

Latest Malware Detection Rates Price for Businesses Users per Subscription  Compatibility Top Business Features Money-back Guarantee
100% $49/year ($4.08/month) 6 Windows, Mac, Android, and iOS 1. WebShield
2. VPN
3. Smart Scan
30 Days

For instance, it reveals which applications were given permission to launch automatically during startup, allowing you to determine which ones could be disabled to speed up startup times — but these features are specific to the desktop apps for Windows and Mac OS.

However, there are some useful features for mobile apps as well. For example, Android users have the option to password-protect apps, limiting access to their most private information. We also really liked the inclusion of an excellent VPN, which many of the top providers include.

That said, TotalAV’s built-in VPN solution is incredibly easy to use and relies on the OpenVPN and IKEv2 VPN protocols. With it, you get a kill switch, which basically protects your browsing should your connection fail, as well as servers in 39 countries, mainly in Europe.

Overall, it’s a great tool for businesses looking to safeguard their data and sensitive information. The inclusion of a VPN and a password manager means that TotalAV is a one-stop shop for all things cybersecurity, placing your business in safe hands.

Pricing

We should mention that Total AV does offer an excellent free plan, but for business use, this isn’t the one we’d recommend. But if you’re looking for the best antivirus solution for Android, be sure to check that out.

Instead, you’ll want to opt for one of the premium plans. Each offers the same core features, but if you want the included VPN, and Password Vault Ad Blocker, we’d recommend the Total Security package.

TotalAV Pricing

Pros

  • Includes a fantastic VPN with all paid plans
  • Scores very well in independent security reviews
  • Highly user-friendly, can be used by beginners with ease
  • Offers a great free plan for very small businesses or entrepreneurs

Cons

  • Only covers up to 6 devices, so can be quite expensive for larger businesses

2. NordVPN Threat Protection – Includes the Best VPN on the Market Right Now

NordVPN - 2nd best free vpn for netflix

Nord‘s VPN is undoubtedly one of the best VPNs on the market, partly thanks to its water-tight encryption and no-nonsense approach to security. The introduction of further measures to keep you safe online is a welcome addition to an already great service.

With Nord Threat Protection, you get access to excellent antivirus and ad-blocking features, and this potent pair cooperates to protect you from malware, ads, trackers, and phishing scams via its threat protection, trackers, and ad blockers.

You also get access to real-time protection, which offers continuous monitoring of downloaded files and prompt response to suspicious activity.

Nord Threat protection

 

Latest malware Detection Rates Price for Businesses Users per Subscription  Compatibility Top Business Features Money-back Guarantee
Not Independently Tested $62.28/year ($5.19/month) 5 Windows, Mac, Android, and iOS 1. Ad Blocker
2. Data Breach Scanner
3. VPN
30 Days

However, the lack of a standalone firewall could be a source of discouragement for some because it might force them to rely on a separate antivirus or an existing firewall solution. But don’t worry, Nord will work alongside your current firewall seamlessly and even boost overall security with its threat detection feature.

This function monitors all your online activity, including email correspondence, web browsing, and app usage — Should anything suspicious be flagged by the system, you’ll be notified instantly.

For further security, Nord features a reliable ad and tracker blocker, which can stop those annoying pop-ups from plaguing your online activities. You can even whitelist or blacklist certain websites that you run into any issues with, and Nord will count the number of suspicious ads for you to highlight their worth.

Overall, despite not really being a standalone antivirus solution, Nord Threat Protection works in tandem with the rest of the Nord ecosystem. When paired with the best password manager for business, a market-leading VPNNordVPN — and other useful tools, you can rest assured that your online safety is taken care of.

Pricing

Nord offers a few different plans with some extra features on the more premium offerings. For example, you can get access to 1TB of storage and a data breach scanner on the Complete package — whereas the Standard offers less storage and no scanner.

You also get the option of paying monthly, annually, or signing up for a massive 2-year plan, which will save you some money in the long term. If you’re still not sure, we recommend reading our full NordVPN review, where we go over everything on offer in-depth, including the VPN and anti-malware capabilities and plans.

Nord Threat Protection Pricing

Pros

  • Excellent at blocking pop-up ads and disabling trackers
  • Low-cost plans, including an excellent 2-year deal
  • Allows you to whitelist or blacklist dangerous websites with ease
  • Pairs well with the rest of the Nord network, including VPN, Password Manager, and File Locker

Cons

  • Doesn’t feature its own Firewall, but it can be paired with your current system

Norton Family Logo

Norton is one of the biggest names in the antivirus market and has been helping people stay safe online for many years. As its protection is based on machine learning, it offers some of the best detection rates out there, making it a top option for business owners.

As mentioned above, Norton relies on the use of AI machine learning to help detect and prevent any viruses, malware, or trojans. This has led to the provider boasting some of the most impressive detection results you’ll find, but it’s so much more than that.

It’s perfect for businesses who want to reduce the risk of a shutdown. For example, Norton Safe Web will run in the background and analyze any websites you enter and browse them for malware or other online threats.

Norton Antivirus Singapore

Latest malware Detection Rates Price for Businesses Users per Subscription  Compatibility Top Business Features Money-back Guarantee
100% $49.99/year ($4.16/month) 5 Windows, Mac, Android, and iOS 1. AI Machine Learning
2. Smart Firewall
3. SafeCam
60 Days

After some time, the software will even give websites safety ratings based on what’s found, so you can keep an eye on what is safe. Unlike Nord Threat Protection, Norton also features its own Smart Firewall that’ll monitor your web traffic to keep unwanted apps and users from accessing your devices or information.

It can even detect potential cryptojacking attempts. Also, it uses its Intrusion Prevention System to look for any potential data leaks — if a leak is found, the network traffic is stopped to prevent additional damage from happening.

Another feature that we really liked is the SafeCam, which helps you prevent your webcam from being hacked, where someone could watch your activities. This can be especially useful for remote businesses that rely on their staff to attend virtual meetings and work on laptops with webcams.

Pricing

Norton is known for having various plans for all uses, but unlike many others, it offers a dedicated plan for small businesses, which can cover up to 20 devices with one subscription, and it offers 24/7 customer support.

Sure, if your enterprise has lots more employees, it can get pretty expensive — but for the coverage on offer, it’s still decent value for money.

Pros

  • Offers some of the best detection rates thanks to its AI machine-learning
  • Includes useful bonus features like SafeCam and parental control locks (which can also be used by businesses)
  • Can come bundled with an excellent password manager and VPN
  • Includes a dedicated and secure firewall

Cons

  • The interface is quite outdated and can be tricky to navigate

4. Surfshark Antivirus – A Great Antivirus Solution with Icogni Built-in

surfshark logo

Surfshark‘s antivirus may not have as many features as other top antivirus programs, such as a firewall, but it stands out because it offers comprehensive security in the form of an excellent VPN, a secure search engine, and data breach monitoring.

With the antivirus solution, there are a variety of scanning options available, too, including rapid, complete, scheduled, and drag-and-drop item scans. This allows businesses the peace of mind that all files being shared within the network are safe and malware or virus-free.

There’s also real-time protection accessible on Windows and macOS, whereas before, this was only available on Android — so it’s good to see Surfshark broadening its coverage with this feature.

Surfshark Antivirus UK

Latest malware Detection Rates Price for Businesses Users per Subscription  Compatibility Top Business Features Money-back Guarantee
100% $41.88/year ($3.49/month) 5 Windows, Mac, Android, and iOS 1. Incogni
2. Surfshark Alert
3. VPN
30 Days

As Surfshark is relatively new to the antivirus market, it wouldn’t be a surprise to see more features, like a firewall, introduced in the near future. Back to the present, what Surfshark does offer is an excellent VPN.

This is included in the One bundle, alongside a built-in search engine that can keep your private data secured, ensuring none of your data is being collected. We were also really pleased to see the introduction of Surfshark Alert, or what other providers refer to as a Data Breach Monitor.

These can be especially useful for businesses, and Surfshark’s offering will scan the web to see if a data breach has occurred — you can even customize how often you want to receive these reports, either whenever a data breach has occurred or only when your accounts have been affected.

Perhaps the standout feature, though, is Incogni, a feature exclusive to Surfshark. It’s a clever tool that works by contacting data brokers that store information on you or your business, like emails and phone numbers, and asking for it to be deleted from their databases.

Pricing

Like Nord Threat Protection, Surfshark gives you the option to sign up for a 2-year plan and save some money in the process — a good move if you’re looking for some stability with your cyber security.

All plans include Surfshark’s excellent VPN, but you’ll have to opt for One or One+ if you want increased storage, real-time data breach alerts, and webcam monitoring. If you’re unsure, read our full Surfshark Review for an in-depth look at everything on offer.

Surfshark Antivirus Pricing

Pros

  • Offers the Incogni service for removing personal data from data brokers
  • One of the most pleasant user interfaces, easy to use for beginners
  • Gives you access to one of the best VPNs on the market
  • Features a private search engine so none of your data is tracked

Cons

  • No firewall is included
  • Scans can take much longer than they do with other providers

5. Trend Micro – Budget-friendly Antivirus for Business

Trend Micro Logo

Trend Micro is a popular antivirus that offers a variety of anti-malware applications for various operating systems, and two of its products support Chrome OS, which is a pretty uncommon feature for antivirus software.

Sadly, the VPN on offer is only included in the top tier level, but you’ll get access to some useful ransomware protection and dark web monitoring. Alongside these features, you’ll also get some nifty unique offerings, like Pay Guard.

This creates a safe online environment for your business to make transactions. On top of this, unlike many other providers who use their own robust browsers, Trend Micro uses your default browser but turns on the most secure settings.

Trendmicro online security

Latest malware Detection Rates Price for Businesses Users per Subscription  Compatibility Top Business Features Money-back Guarantee
97% $59.95/year ($4.99/month) 10 Windows, Mac, Android, and iOS 1. Pay Guard
2. Spam Filter
3. Ransomware Detecter
30 Days

Other business features worth mentioning include the Spam Filter, but this currently only works for businesses that use Outlook. Weirdly, it’s turned off by default, but once switched on, it provides an extra layer of security and can help avoid phishing scams.

However, it’s known to sometimes incorrectly transfer a valid email to the spam folder, so do be sure to add trusted contacts. Aside from all this, you get quick malware scans that can be set to run daily, weekly, or on a specific day of your choosing.

The scans themselves are amongst some of the quickest, so you can find out if there are any issues on your network and deal with them accordingly. And lastly, Trend Micro offers excellent ransomware features that can swiftly remove any files that contain suspicious software.

For businesses, having access to good ransomware features is a must, as they’re frequently targeted far more than individuals.

Pricing

Trend Micro doesn’t offer any business-tailored plans. Instead, for multiple-device coverage, you’ll have to opt for the Premium security suite, which covers up to 10 devices, be it Windows, Chromebook, or iOS.

trendmicro pricing

With this plan, you get a VPN, password manager, and features like Pay Guard bundled in, making it a wise choice for any business owner. You can even try it out for free for 30 days to ensure it’s the right tool for your enterprise needs.

Pros

  • Offers a 30-day free trial on all plans
  • Useful Pay Gaurd feature that tunes your browser to the safest settings when making payments
  • There’s a free version available

Cons

  • No firewall is included on any plans
  • Can get quite expensive if you’re a business with over 10 employees

6. ESET – The Best Choice for Enterprises with a Remote Workforce

ESET Logo

ESET has a reputation for being one of the most secure antivirus solutions available, with many users valuing ESET’s comprehensive selection of top-notch security features.

This includes anti-theft tools for stolen devices, good performance in third-party lab testing, and a fantastic Android app. The ESET anti-theft tool is a welcome addition to an already strong, feature-rich lineup.

If you ever lose your smartphone, location tracking allows you to mark it as missing in the ESET anti-theft web interface. Then, as soon as your device connects to the internet, this useful feature will begin automatically monitoring it and showing its location on a map using the Wi-Fi networks nearby.

ESET Dashboard

Latest malware Detection Rates Price for Businesses Users per Subscription  Compatibility Top Business Features Money-back Guarantee
99.8% $270.80/year ($22.56/month) 5 Windows, Mac, Android, and Linux 1. Anti-theft
2. Webcam Monitoring
3. Phantom Account
30 Days

These features seem to work best on Android, which is why we rate ESET as one of the top antivirus solutions for Android users. You can even monitor your laptop’s webcam, should it ever be stolen, so you can physically see where it is or who took it.

For businesses that rely on remote workers, this can be especially useful to avoid personal business information from being leaked or stolen. Plus, there’s also a smart feature called Phantom Account.

This creates a blank profile with no password, so if your laptop is stolen, the thieves will be met with a blank account with no access to any personal files or data. Beyond this, we also love that ESET has business-specific plans that can cover from 5 right up to 100 devices.

This tends to be far more cost-effective than purchasing multiple licenses and distributing them across your business, and finally, you’ll get the usual lineup of features aimed at improving security, including malware scans, ransomware protection, and heightened banking measures, similar to Micro Trends Pay Guard.

However, unlike Pay Guard, you’ll automatically be redirected to a secure browser whenever you need to enter card details for extra security.

Pricing

ESET has a vast range of plans that can be used for both business and individual use, but having a tailored enterprise solution is a big win and can save you some cash. The available plans are listed below:

  • Protect Entry — $211/year for 5 devicesIncludes security management, endpoint protection, as well as file server security
  • Protect Advanced — $220/year for 5 devices — Boasts everything from Protect Entry along with full disk encryption and cloud sandbox
  • Protect Complete — $270.80/year for 5 devices Has all features from Protect Advanced and mail security and cloud app protection
  • Protect Elite — Contact sales (minimum of 26 users) — Includes everything from all plans, as well as multi-factor authentication, detection, and response

Pros

  • Offers plans tailored to businesses that offer 24/7 support and can save you money
  • Excellent device theft features like location and webcam monitoring
  • Includes a home-network security scanner, ideal for remote workers

Cons

  • No apps for iOS could be a deal-breaker for businesses that use only Apple devices
  • The software can be tricky to understand and navigate, not ideal for beginners

7. Avast – Useful Antivirus with Excellent Customer Support

Avast Logo

Avast is easily one of the most well-known brands in the entire antivirus sector, and its all-around superb security against internet threats is what makes it so appealing.

Along with scanning your devices, it also checks your online network, safeguards your webcam, and stops unauthorized downloads and actions – it even offers a VPN service for secure browsing.

There’s also the welcome addition of a built-in firewall, something that we wish all antivirus solutions on this list would include – it even lets you block internet access to specific apps yourself. However, the increased network security features are only available for paying customers.

Avast Best Free Antivirus for Chromebook

Latest malware Detection Rates Price for Businesses Users per Subscription  Compatibility Top Business Features Money-back Guarantee
99.5% $187/year ($15.58/month) 1-Unlimited Windows, Mac, Android, and iOS 1. Firewall
2. WiFi Inspector
3. The Sandbox
30 Days

It’s a worthy investment as this can warn you of any ARP spoofing attacks and hide sensitive information. Plus, you even get the welcome bonus of an excellent VPN to work alongside your firewall, which is available in the Avast One Bundle.

Free users get up to 5GB a week with the VPN, which is pretty generous, but it’s unlimited for paying consumers, and beyond this, we’re also delighted to see a host of business-specific plans and features. For example, there’s a 24/7 business support line that gives you the highest priority customer care.

This is essential for any business, and beyond all of this is a pretty nifty bonus feature called The Sandbox, which allows you to test any new programs, software, or files in a separate area on your PC. It’s clear that Avast boasts a lot, but it gets even better.

To round off the business-related offerings, you’ll find a WiFi inspector that scans all networks you connect to, a Data Shredder that deletes any confidential files that cover financial or customer data, and a Phishing Net that protects your business from a host of new or old phishing websites.

Pricing

There’s a variety of different plans for businesses of all sizes, starting with the Small Office Plan, which covers 10 devices and offers more than enough features to keep you safe. You can even access a plethora of business-tailored plans, which lets you select the exact number of users you need.

Avast Pricing

Pros

  • Performs exceptionally well in independent lab tests, so you know it’s safe
  • Offers brilliant customer support for users on any of the business plans
  • Useful Sandbox feature for testing files, software, and more for malware or viruses

Cons

  • The business plans can get quite expensive for large teams

8. Intego – The Best Antivirus for Businesses Run on MacOS

Intego Logo

Intego is the antivirus solution that Mac users have been crying out for – as most solutions usually work best on Windows.

It offers great real-time protection that can detect even the more recent online threats, as well as a performance optimization setting to ensure your device is running as smoothly as possible.

However, despite being made with Mac users in mind, it does have a pretty strong app for Windows, but there are fewer features available – more on that later. So if you’re looking for the best antivirus for Mac, you’re in the right place.

Intego

Latest malware Detection Rates Price for Businesses Users per Subscription  Compatibility Top Business Features Money-back Guarantee
100% $62.99/year  ($5.24/month) 1-5 Windows and Mac 1. NetBarrier
2. Washing Machine
3. Quarantine
30 Days

Back to Mac, though — there are some pretty interesting features on offer, including NetBarrier, which is an advanced firewall that can detect if you’re connected to your work, home, or public WiFi and change your security settings accordingly.

There’s also a system cleaning feature aptly named Washing Machine that allows you to optimize your device by deleting useless cache or junk files with a click of a few buttons, freeing up important memory space. This can be useful for businesses that may be overrun with duplicate files in the system.

Unfortunately, all the features above are only available on the Mac version of Intego — but that’s not the end of the world, as you’ll still get access to the firewall and real-time protection of the Windows app.

But as it’s a much newer piece of software, in the not-so-distant future, we’d expect to see some of these premium features roll over to the Windows client. If you’re after one of the top antivirus solutions for Windows, Intego may not be there yet, but we’ve included many of the market’s top options in our list.

Pricing

The pricing is a little awkward with Intego, as it only lets you cover 1, 3, or 5 Macs with any of the subscriptions – so if you’re a large business that runs on Apple, this will get very expensive. You can also try reaching out to Intego to request a quote.

We do like that you can select a yearly or two-year plan, and this will save you some money in the long run. Plus, they do offer a 7-day free trial for all plans, so you can test the service out before committing.

Pros

  • A feature-rich antivirus solution for Mac users, who are often overlooked
  • Incredibly user-friendly, ideal for first-time antivirus users
  • Strong virus detection rates based on reputable independent reviews

Cons

  • Plans aren’t ideal for large businesses and can get quite expensive
  • No mobile apps, not even for iOS

9. Avira – Great All-in-one Solution with a VPN and Password Manager

Avira Logo

Avira is another one of the most well-known tools. Famed for doing the basics right, like ensuring excellent security, as evident in ample independent reviews, and offering excellent features like Quarantine, which stores infected files in a safe location for you.

Other excellent features include a spin on a firewall, as Avira doesn’t actually come preloaded with its own. Instead, you can manage your Windows firewall (sorry, Mac users) through its simple and intuitive interface.

Alongside this, another basic but fundamental feature is real-time protection which can run a variety of scans to spot any malware.

Avira Antivirus Singapore

Latest malware Detection Rates Price for Businesses Users per Subscription  Compatibility Top Business Features Money-back Guarantee
99.1% $249.99/year ($20.83/month) 25 Windows, Mac, Android, and iOS 1. Quarantine
2. Auto Update
3. File Shredding
30 Days

Coming back to the Quarantine function as this is a key feature on offer. It works by recognizing a suspicious file, then encrypting it and sending it to ‘quarantine.’ This prevents the infected file from spreading or causing your computer any damage — just simply locate the folder and manually delete it.

Avira can also automatically update any of your apps, which is essential for business users, as new updates bring security patches and prevent old software from being compromised — it should be noted that this isn’t available on the free plan.

However, the free plan offers a decent free VPN, even though it’s capped at 500MB/month. For unlimited data, you can upgrade to a paid plan and give yourself further protection. There’s also a password manager that’s completely free — perfect for keeping important business credentials and financial information safe.

Pricing

As we’ve gone over above, Avira has one of the best free plans out there that includes a limited VPN, an excellent password manager, and some basic antivirus features like malware detection – but it’s not really suitable for business use.

Instead, you can opt for one of Avira’s excellent business plans, which can cover either 5 or 25 devices with one subscription. You can pay for this monthly, annually, or, for the best savings, opt for the two-year plan – all come with a whopping 60-day money-back guarantee for extra peace of mind.

Avira Antivirus Pricing

Pros

  • Includes an excellent VPN and Password Manager, useful for business consumers
  • Useful business-specific plans that can save you a lot of money
  • Scores highly in independent security reviews

Cons

  • No firewall settings for Mac users

10. Panda Dome – Includes Excellent USB Protection Features

Panda Dome Logo

Panda Dome may well take the prize for the most aesthetically pleasing antivirus solution out there – although that won’t win it any security prizes. That being said, it does still boast some excellent features.

For example, you’ll get a useful password manager on the premium plans, as well as USB Protection and a Data Shield. So, aside from the pleasant UI experience on offer, there are some serious safety credentials on display.

Most notably, it offers strong real-time protection that runs regular scans and automatically removes suspicious files. We also really like the introduction of USB protection, something you don’t see with all other antivirus providers, but for business users, it’s undoubtedly a vital tool.

Panda Dome Interface

Latest malware Detection Rates Price for Businesses Users per Subscription  Compatibility Top Business Features Money-back Guarantee
99.5% Contact Sales Unlimited Windows, Mac, Android, and iOS 1. USB Protection
2. Data Shield
3. Anti-theft
30 Days

In a business setting, USB sticks are commonly transferred around the office for meetings and presentations, which means they can pose a serious threat if infected. Panda Dome will automatically scan the USB stick to ensure no malware, viruses, or trojans are spread across your network.

They also have a good answer to any potential ransomware issues a business might face with the introduction of their Data Shield feature. It works by creating a barrier against malware and ransomware, and once you select a folder or program, it locks out all unauthorized access.

So if you’re hit by ransomware, you can simply move the files to another computer. Lastly, and a little bonus feature to finish, is the anti-theft solution, which relies on remote monitoring. Once enabled through the system, if a device goes missing, you can track its every move from the Panda Dome dashboard.

Sadly, unlike ESET, which connects to WiFi networks near your stolen device, it has to be online, and you can’t monitor the webcam, either.

Pricing

The pricing for Panda Dome can be a little confusing, as their main business plans are provided by parent company WatchGuard, which offers plans that can cover up to 100 users.

Sadly, there are no prices listed on the website. Instead, you can try all the premium plans for 30 days and then speak to sales about a tailored plan.

Pros

  • All plans include a useful VPN
  • One of the most visually pleasing antivirus solutions
  • Offers a 30-day free trial to business clients through parent company WatchGuard

Cons

  • Lack of transparency over prices for business plans
  • Can get quite expensive if you have multiple employees

Head-to-Head Business Antivirus Comparison

To help you make an informed decision on the best antivirus for your business, we’ve compiled a helpful table so you can easily compare the key features, latest security scores, and much more at a glance:

Provider Lastest Malware Detection Rates Price for Businesses (per user) Users per Subscription  Compatibility Top Business Features Money-back Guarantee
TotalAV 100% $49/year ($4.08/month) 6 Windows, Mac, Android, and iOS 1. WebShield
2. VPN
3. Smart Scan
30 Days
Nord Threat Protection Not Independently Tested $62.28/year ($5.19/month) 5 Windows, Mac, Android, and iOS 1. Ad Blocker
2. Data Breach Scanner
3. VPN
30 Days
Norton Antivirus 100% $49.99/year ($4.16/month) 5 Windows, Mac, Android, and iOS 1. AI Machine Learning
2. Smart Firewall
3. SafeCam
60 Days
Surfshark Antivirus 100% $41.88/year ($3.49/month) 5 Windows, Mac, Android, and iOS 1. Incogni
2. Surfshark Alert
3. VPN
30 Days
TrendMicro 97% $59.95/year ($4.99/month) 10 Windows, Mac, Android, and iOS 1. Pay Guard
2. Spam Filter
3. Ransomware Detecter
30 Days
ESET 99.8% $270.80/year ($22.56/month) 5 Windows, Mac, Android, and Linux 1. Anti-theft
2. Webcam Monitoring
3. Phantom Account
30 Days
Avast 99.5% $187/year (5 Devices) ($15.58/month) 1-Unlimited Windows, Mac, Android, and iOS 1. Firewall
2. WiFi Inspector
3. The Sandbox
30 Days
Intego 100% $62.99/year  (5 Devices) ($5.24/month) 1-5 Windows and Mac 1. NetBarrier
2. Washing Machine
3. Quarantine
30 Days
Avira 99.1% $249.99/year ($20.83/month) 25 Windows, Mac, Android, and iOS 1. Quarantine
2. Auto Update
3. File Shredding
30 Days
Panda Dome 99.5% Contact Sales Unlimited Windows, Mac, Android, and iOS 1. USB Protection
2. Data Shield
3. Anti-theft
30 Days

Consider These Key Factors When Choosing the Best Corporate Antivirus

We get that there’s a lot of information to process when deciding which antivirus solution to trust with your business, so to help you out, we’ve listed some of the key components you must consider when picking your tool:

  • Ease of use: Having an antivirus that’s easy to use is a must, especially if you’re a smaller business that doesn’t have an IT department. Instead, you might rely on the expertise of your staff, with some likely to be more adept at the software than others. Therefore, it’s crucial that the tool you use is user-friendly.
  • Scaling: A good antivirus offers a range of business-tailored plans offering great value for money, but you’ll need to consider your future needs. You may start with a smaller plan with fewer features and users, but as your enterprise scales, you’ll need it to scale with you in terms of users and security.
  • Price: The cost of the antivirus is a big factor, as some can cost a fortune. We’d never recommend opting for the cheapest just to save a few bucks, nor would we suggest going for the most expensive package. Instead, find a provider, like any on this list, that offers a good range of features for a fair price.
  • Features: Most of the providers on this list offer similar features, like real-time scans and malware detectors. However, some have unique offerings, like firewalls, dark web scanners, and ransomware prevention. These help them stand out in a crowded market and offer you better security and protection.
  • Security: All these tools are aimed at helping improve your business’s security, and some do a better job than others. That’s why we included their latest security scores in our reviews, so you can get an idea of the level of protection.

Is the Best Free Antivirus Enough for Businesses?

In short, no. Even the best free antivirus solutions are unlikely to be enough to keep a business safe, regardless of the size — but they can work well for individual use. With free options, you’ll only be able to use them on one device, which already rules them out for small, medium, or large businesses.

They also commonly lack key features, like dark web scanners, secure payment features, and ransomware software — all features that are essential for businesses to avoid any threats.

Instead, we’d recommend opting for a paid solution, as this way, you can have as many users as you need; plus, you’ll get access to all the features needed to keep your business safe from viruses, malware, and ransomware attacks.

Conclusion | What is the Best Antivirus for Business Use?

The best antivirus solutions for businesses will keep your enterprise safe from a host of online threats, like malware, viruses, trojans, and even ransomware, which can cost businesses a fortune.

All the excellent providers we’ve reviewed on this list contain features aimed at fighting off these threats, like real-time scanning, phishing prevention, and tools for safer online payments.

So if you’re looking for the best solution for your business needs, we’d recommend trying TotalAV — one of the largest names in the antivirus sector, famed for its excellent independently reviewed security scores and real-time protection, amongst ample more.

FAQ

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The post The Best Business Antivirus Products for Endpoint Security Compared for 2024 appeared first on The Tech Report.

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The Best Workflow Management Software: Top 10 Compared for 2024 https://techreport.com/business-software/best-workflow-management-software/ Mon, 21 Aug 2023 12:22:18 +0000 https://techreport.com/?page_id=3510483 Best Workflow Management Tools

The best workflow management software helps teams stay unified and on track with all tasks at hand, with the aim of improving productivity and reducing mistakes. It can also be...

The post The Best Workflow Management Software: Top 10 Compared for 2024 appeared first on The Tech Report.

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Best Workflow Management Tools

The best workflow management software helps teams stay unified and on track with all tasks at hand, with the aim of improving productivity and reducing mistakes. It can also be used to schedule or automate tasks, improve team collaboration, manage the overall workload of employees, and evaluate the progress made.

In this article, we’ll go over some workflow management fundamentals and review and compare the market’s best workflow management software — from their best features, pricing, and the top praises and drawbacks of each one to help you pinpoint the best one for your next project.

The 10 Best Workflow Management Tools in 2024

There are a ton of different workflow management tools out there, and knowing which one is right for your business or individual needs is tricky. To help you, we’ve handpicked the best options and ranked them below with reasoning for why they’ve made it on our list:

  1. Monday$8/month — Overall, the best workflow management solution thanks to its excellent templates, phenomenal customization, and ease of use
  2. ClickUp $7/month — The best free workflow tool as it allows up to 20 users on the free plan, as well as a generous amount of file storage
  3. Wrike $9.80/month — A powerful workflow management solution that’s great for team collaboration as it includes excellent shared docs
  4. Smartsheet$7/month — The top spreadsheet-style project planning tool with a familiar and highly customizable layout that’s great for Excel lovers
  5. Teamwork$5.99/month — Budget-friendly workflow management tool that offers a strong feature-to-price ratio
  6. Zoho Projects$4/month — A popular tool as it’s cheap and it can integrate seamlessly with the rest of the Zoho network
  7. Quire $7.65/month — A budget and reliable workflow tool that offers a clean and intuitive interface, ideal for beginners
  8. Awork $10/month — Simple-to-use workflow management tool with great customer care and ample custom templates for managing work your way
  9. ProWorkflow $18/month — Useful workflow management software with excellent time-tracking features, perfect for HR departments
  10. Resource Guru$4.16/month — One of the cheapest solutions for remote workforces, and it includes billing, invoicing, and vacation management

What is Workflow Management Software?

Simply put, Workflow management software lets you assign, group, and manage tasks that need to be carried out in order to achieve a bigger objective. The word “management” in the phrase simply denotes the existence of a person or entity in charge of the overall strategy.

Workflow management software offers adaptable features to enhance your business’ productivity. With it, you can detect duplicated jobs, automate work processes, find potential areas for improvement, and achieve new levels of efficiency — all thanks to its capacity to develop and optimize workflow in the best possible way.

The Benefits of Effective Project Workflow Management

Using reliable workflow management software can greatly improve your team’s overall output, reducing the risk of error, as well as speeding up the completion of tasks. We’ve compiled a list of some of the key benefits you can expect when using a project workflow management tool:

Reduce the Risk of Errors

There’s no way to operate completely error-free, however, you can improve your proactive error detection and correction skills. With project management software, you’re likely to detect the problem before it happens, and if they do occur, pinpoint exactly what went wrong to avoid such mistakes in the future.

Improve Overall Productivity

Teams can spend less time sending emails and updating information on different platforms because all operations are automated in one centralized location. Employees aren’t required to wait around for permissions to come through. Instead, they can follow the development in the workflow system and remain informed.

Balance Multiple Tasks

With the best project workflow management tools, everything is under one roof, whether you want to onboard several employees, manage IT needs, conduct internal surveys, request marketing content, or authorize trip reimbursements.

Instead of using numerous project boards, chat programs, and emails, requests are neatly arranged in one workflow system in accordance with various processes. Within the same tab, you can move between a purchase request and a request for trip reimbursement — no delays or confusion.

Increased Transparency

Managers feel more comfortable assigning ownership of work when the responsibilities of each job function are crystal clear with clearly defined goals and employees are aware of what needs to be done.

Shadow duties are squeezed out by workflow management, with more control over data accessibility than previously. Everything occurs in the open, and as such, administrators have the option of displaying or hiding critical information from particular teams or job responsibilities.

Better Work Culture

There are already too many emails and texts being sent out since so many businesses now employ remote workers, so using a good workflow tool aids in maintaining job organization and tracking.

The discipline of workflow management can spread throughout an organization and become ingrained in the workplace culture, allowing you to achieve your business objectives faster when everyone is on board with the concept of well-organized, simplified procedures.

The Market’s Top Workflow Solutions Reviewed

To help you make an informed decision on the best workflow management solutions, we’ve reviewed each of the 10 best options on the market. We’ll explore all the key features, functions, pricing, and much more to help you make an informed decision.

If all you want is to compare tools, our comparison table gives a quick overview of all the key details you need to compare, such as the starting price, any free versions, compatibility, and what it’s best for.

1. Monday – Overall, the Best Workflow Solution in 2024

Monday Logo

Monday is the best workflow solution, as this project management tool can be used by businesses across various industries. With it, you can streamline management to put a stronger emphasis on structure and transparency as it simplifies complicated workflow procedures.

You can set tasks on a board on Monday and then add the steps necessary to complete the assignment; plus, it’s incredibly adaptable and simple to use. It’s also simple to import data from spreadsheets and other workflow management programs, which saves a ton of time.

Monday- Best Free Project Management Software

Best For Cheapest Monthly Plan Cheapest Annual Plan Free Version Compatibility
Workflow Management $10/month $8/month Yes Windows, Mac, Android, and iOS

Additionally, the company’s workflow management software provides a number of workflow views, including a list, map, kanban board, or Gantt chart view to view your task and project progress. The data that workflow managers need to track can then be seen by visualizing these workflows in customizable dashboards.

Some other useful features you can expect to find include workflow templates, automation, data visualization, sophisticated task board customization, management of task status, assignees, due dates, and hours spent. These are all common with the best workflow management tools, but Monday truly excels here.

What particularly sets Monday apart from its workflow management rivals is the ability to add on extras like an industry-leading CRM platform or tools for marketing and HR departments to improve productivity. This means you can run your business to its full potential, all through the Monday platform.

Pricing

Monday offers a good range of plans for companies of all sizes, but you have to pay per seat, which can be costly for smaller teams or startups.

Monday Pricing

However, there’s an excellent free plan that offers an excellent alternative to smaller teams, as it gives you access to the full set of features but limits you to 1-2 users. We still think it’s a great way to test the service out before subscribing to a premium plan.

Pros

  • Lots of integrations to support 3rd party data
  • Includes Work OS, a specifically designed workflow system for custom workflow apps
  • Large workflow template library to jumpstart planning
  • Excellent free forever plan, great for small businesses
  • Highly customizable

Cons

  • Can take some time to learn how to get the best out of the software

2. ClickUp – One of the Best Free Workflow Management Options

ClickUp Logo

ClickUp has business workflow management woven into every feature, created from the ground up to excel at fostering team efficiency and cooperation. It’s a productivity centre that offers functions typically only found in various different products.

The workflow management software combines planning with tracking, communication with documentation, and even introduces the newest AI text-generation tools to the environment.

Customizable templates, Mind Maps, and workflow management features reduce repetitive chores. These are the three elements of ClickUp that project managers will value most, as it allows your team to focus on their work with complete efficiency.

ClickUp Project Management Software

Best For Cheapest Monthly Plan Cheapest Annual Plan Free Version Compatibility
Automating Manual Processes $10/month $7/month Yes Windows, Mac, Android, and iOS

Furthermore, there’s a huge library of workflow templates you can pre-select to save vital time instead of having to create them from scratch. With these, you can build your own custom workflows that best suit your business needs.

There are also some excellent collaboration tools that allow teams to work on shared documents, assign tasks, and leave important feedback or comments to allow for a seamless working experience.

In terms of unique offerings, one feature we also really enjoyed was ClickUp’s Everything view, which makes it easy to find anything you’re looking for by offering a bird’s eye view of all tasks, projects, and assignments. You can search for specific items within this view filter to save time.

Pricing

ClickUp offers a decent free plan that allows you to get to grips with the service, although it’s aimed at a maximum of 2 users. With the free plan, you get 100Mb of storage, Kanban view, and an array of collaborative tools.

For access to the more premium features such as Advanced Automations, Workflow Management, and Mind Maps, you’ll need to upgrade to one of the business plans:

ClickUp Pricing

Pros

  • Features a wide range of workflow templates you can fully customize
  • Useful Everywhere View for overseeing and collaborating on projects
  • Generous free plan for testing the service
  • Affordable paid plans with an excellent range of features

Cons

  • Can seem like quite a steep learning curve as the software is a little complex at first

3. Wrike – Great Workflow Software for Team Collaboration

Wrike Logo

Wrike is an easy-to-use workflow management tool that supports teams of five or more users and provides an infinite user base. Managers can customize workflows, dashboards, reports, and request forms using the program.

The extensive workflow system that Wrike offers its users enables teams to work seamlessly across enterprises. With numerous pre-made templates for all different kinds of jobs, you can get detailed views of progress and priorities using Gantt charts and Kanban boards.

And as you’d expect from a popular tool like Wrike, it also offers automation tools like push alerts, deadline tracking, and custom request forms that automatically assign tasks — a must-have for an efficient workflow.

Wrike Project Management Dashboard

Best For Cheapest Monthly Plan Cheapest Annual Plan Free Version Compatibility
Team Collaborating $9.80/month $9.80/month Yes Windows, Mac, Android, and iOS

Furthermore, through KPI reports, managers have access to insightful data for efficient resource management and allocation. Depending on the type of team or organization—such as marketing teams and professional service teams—the workflow management software also provides a choice of various solutions.

Perhaps the standout feature is the AI Work Intelligence which allows for a tailored app experience, while other notable functions include team and user workload management tools, account-wide work plans, shareable dashboards, and interactive workflow views.

Plus, you can use the Cross-tagging feature to help you avoid file clutter by allowing you to access projects and folders from other locations without having to duplicate them. Additionally, Wrike connects with hundreds of apps to maintain current workflows, and since it’s cloud-based, data access is always possible.

Pricing

As is common practice with the best workflow management software, Wrike offers a reliable free plan for up to two users. With it, you get access to the board and table views, as well as a rare addition to free project management solutions — time tracking.

If you need more features, storage, and users, you can upgrade to one of the many business plans, which start from $9.80/month and include automation features, Gantt charts, and much more.

Wrike Pricing

Pros

  • Easy-to-use interface
  • Offers a ton of third-party integrations, including Slack and Google Suite
  • You can add an infinite number of users to the Enterprise and Pinnacle plans
  • One of the best Gantt chart software solutions

Cons

  • You’re limited to 10 workflows per space

4. Smartsheet – Top Spreadsheet-style Workflow Tool

Smartsheet Logo

Smartsheet is a workflow management tool that allows users to arrange tasks, manage schedules, and create efficient processes. The design is based on the much loved (or hated) Microsoft Excel Spreadsheet and offers a huge variety of customizations and integrations.

For managers who are currently using Google Sheets or Microsoft Excel for workflows and want an improved experience, it’s a popular and highly flexible workflow management software option.

Smartsheet’s ability to automate calculations—even those involving many sheets—is one of its strongest features. Workflow managers may now collect data from many processes and workspaces without having to create intricate calculations thanks to automation.

Smartsheet Project Management Tool

Best For Cheapest Monthly Plan Cheapest Annual Plan Free Version Compatibility
Spreadsheet Fans $10/month $7/month Yes Windows, Mac, Android, and iOS

This workflow tool’s reporting capabilities are powerful, with editable summary reports that can be easily exported to Excel or Sheets. Workflow managers can keep track of significant milestones thanks to the Critical Path feature, which emphasizes all tasks that have a direct impact on a project’s completion deadline.

Custom spreadsheet import, process automation, data visualization, personalized branding, and workflow automation with formula calculations are among the features that make Smartsheet truly stand out, but perhaps the most interesting function is the Excel-style layout.

For those familiar with and well-informed on all things Excel, there’s a satisfying feeling with viewing all your projects and tasks in a spreadsheet-style format, and what makes Smartsheet the best is that it’s highly customizable and allows project managers to tune the sheet however they wish, unlike traditional tools.

Pricing

With Smartsheet, you get four different plans to choose from, including a generous free plan that allows you to create multiple projects and features up to 5 dashboards. You can even integrate it with some of your current tech lineups with apps like Slack and Teams.

That aside, there are 3 paid plans, with prices starting from as little as $7/month, each giving you access to more projects, templates, features, and users.

Smartsheet Pricing

Pros

  • Low/no-code workflow automations
  • Offers an excellent alternative to Google or Excel spreadsheets
  • Includes workflow process notifications which help keep users on track
  • Offers a great free plan and well-priced paid options

Cons

  • Can be tricky to navigate if you’re not spreadsheet-savvy

5. Teamwork – Affordable Workflow Management Software

Teamwork Logo

Teamwork is a popular option renowned for being one of the best project management tools, as it provides teams with a simple interface and all the tools they require, greatly reducing the hassles associated with managing projects and all their milestones and assignments.

It incorporates billing and invoicing, making it perfect for organizations that handle client business most frequently. In fact, it also lets you monitor employee time and workload, recognize when deadlines are slipping, and send invoices to clients for billable hours.

In its board view, Teamwork offers Kanban boards — which involve placing cards on a board with a row of vertical columns — with Teamwork, you can customize these columns to track the data valuable to you, from the task, assignee, due date, time spent on a task, etc.

Teamwork Project Management Platform

Best For Cheapest Monthly Plan Cheapest Annual Plan Free Version Compatibility
Resource Allocation $8.99/month $5.99/month Yes Windows, Mac, Android, and iOS

Although you can represent anything with the columns, many people choose to name them with a process, such as To Do, Doing, and Done. The status of each task is visible to anybody with access to the board.

Your project dashboards are filled with information as you and your team add projects and related information to Teamwork. Each dashboard includes a number of graphs and info boxes that provide updates on the status of your projects.

Plus, it displays to team administrators how many projects have tasks that are due soon, how many tasks are currently allocated to various team members, how much time the team has recently spent working on tasks, and how many of those hours are billable.

Only information relevant to them, such as impending tasks and milestones, time logged, and active tasks allocated to them, is visible to those without admin capabilities.

Pricing

Teamwork has a large range of affordable plans, including an excellent free forever tier, which includes some useful integrations with the likes of Slack and Teams, but it limits the number of users, features, and storage you can access.

Thankfully, there are 4 other plans you can pick from, with prices starting from just $5.99/month, and each planned tailored to seamlessly grow alongside your business:

Teamwork Pricing

Pros

  • An intuitive design that’s easy to navigate, great for new users
  • A top-notch free plan that can be used by small businesses
  • Includes built-in time management features
  • Can be fully customized to suit your team’s demands

Cons

  • You need to have a minimum of 3 users for any of the paid plans

Zoho Logo

Zoho Projects is an excellent workflow automation tool trusted by thousands of businesses. The software has sophisticated capabilities, including Gantt charts and the capacity to simultaneously record billing time for several projects.

Also, Zoho Projects comes with an outstanding selection of communication options, such as live chat boxes, forum pages, and interaction with Zoho Meeting.

Zoho Projects

Best For Cheapest Monthly Plan Cheapest Annual Plan Free Version Compatibility
Advanced Reports $5/month $4/month Yes Windows, Mac, Android, and iOS

Another strength of Zoho Projects is its ability to foster team communication. For instant messaging, the platform has an integrated chat window, and paying users can upload files for streamlined collaboration. In order to preserve information as staff changes, you can also establish forums for specific projects.

What’s truly a standout feature is the integration with the rest of the Zoho ecosystem, which includes an excellent CRM, a helpdesk solution, mail tools, and so much more. This kind of functionality means you can run your whole business on the Zoho network and get the best out of each product.

And as a reputable name in the project management field, Zoho also fosters keeping up to date with intuitive, user-friendly mobile apps, and there’s built-in time tracking which is always a bonus considering that with many, this would require integration.

Pricing

A generous free plan allows you to trial the service, albeit with limited features and users, without paying a penny. It’s great for startups or small businesses with 2-3 users max and allows you to create 2 projects and 3 plans.

For more premium features, you can upgrade to one of two highly affordable feature-rich plans, with a Premium subscription costing just $4/month, making Zoho easily one of the cheapest workflow management tools and one that offers phenomenal value for money.

Zoho Projects Pricing

Pros

  • Can integrate seamlessly with the rest of the Zoho network, including the CRM
  • Includes fantastic time-tracking features
  • Very easy-to-use apps for all devices (including mobile)
  • Decent free forever plan for small teams

Cons

  • Offers less storage in premium plans than most other workflow management tools

7. Quire – A Great Choice for Beginners

Quire Logo

Quire is a centralized project management platform for team collaboration and one of the best around. Teams can exchange files, make changes in real-time, celebrate accomplishments, and work toward goals that are above their current capabilities using Quire.

It’s also the first among project management software solutions to offer a nested Kanban Board and a revolutionary nested task list with endless subtasks and subtask levels provided to let teams break down complex projects as much as what’s needed for easy management.

Quire Dashboard

Best For Cheapest Monthly Plan Cheapest Annual Plan Free Version Compatibility
Nested Lists $7.65/month $7.65/month Yes Windows, Mac, Android, and iOS

Teams often struggle to prioritize work because typical to-do lists are too big for them to handle. By breaking down large undertakings into smaller, more manageable segments, Quire increases productivity.

Quire can also be integrated with a number of services, including GitHub, Slack, and Zapier. Then, you can write unique scripts and combine Quire with other programs using the API provided by Quire.

One feature that we really enjoyed was Systemize Clutter, and what this basically does is it creates smart folders for cross-project organization that’ll help you address spontaneous tasks from My Tasks and declutter the complexity of your projects.

Pricing

Quire gives users the chance to try the service without spending any cash with one of the best free plans for up to 10 people and 8 projects – far more than many of the other workflow management tools on this list.

For extra features like Gantt charts, time management, and more integrations, paid plans start at just $7.65/month. These can also be tested thanks to the provider’s 30-day free trial.

 

Quire Pricing

Pros

  • Simple and intuitive interface that’s ideal for beginners
  • Low-priced plan for all businesses
  • Offers a vast network of integrations with apps like Quickbooks and Slack

Cons

  • No Google Calendar integration could be a deal breaker for Google Suite users

8. Awork – Easy-to-Use Workflow Management Solution

Awork Logo

Awork is a top work management tool that’s incredibly popular for teams of any size working together on projects. This is thanks to the seamless collaboration on offer and the intuitive and friendly interface that’s ideal for beginners.

With this tool, you can easily organize your team and manage project coordination in one place. It compiles all tasks and project information in one location, making it accessible from anywhere, whether in a client meeting or at home.

Awork Dashboard

Best For Cheapest Monthly Plan Cheapest Annual Plan Free Version Compatibility
Custom Templates $12/month $10/month Yes Windows, Mac, Android, and iOS

Furthermore, project scheduling and your team’s individual calendar are combined by Awork. By doing this, you can always keep track of your team’s workload, who is working on what, and when vacations are planned.

In the incredibly accurate workload overview, free capacity or conflicts in your projects are immediately obvious, which means fewer mistakes are made. Also, by doing this, you can decide right away who can handle urgent tasks and whether you still have time for a new project.

In terms of third-party apps, almost any workflow can be connected to Awork. For apps like Lexoffice, sevDesk, MS Teams, Slack, Google Drive, and other services, direct links are available for seamless cross-app integration. If you need more, you can go through Zapier or the free Rest API.

Pricing

As Awork is a small business, it’s no surprise to see a lack of a free option, as companies like this truly rely on the income of premium plans, but it would’ve been nice to get the option of a free trial.

Instead, there are 3 paid plans, with the cheapest setting you back $10/month per seat, which does place it on the pricier side when compared with other tools on this list.

Pros

  • Pleasing user interface with a logical structure
  • Provides a detailed, clear overview of tasks allowing for better workflow management
  • Strong time-tracking features

Cons

  • No free plan or free trial to test the service
  • Costs more than Monday but has distinctively fewer features

9. ProWorkflow – Includes Excellent Time Management Features

ProWorkflow Logo

ProWorkflow is a workflow management solution that places a strong emphasis on visibility and control. Teams get an overview of all ongoing, completed, and upcoming tasks, and they can easily manage projects with the tool’s easy drag-and-drop interface.

One-click replies, Gantt-style timeline overviews, and timesheets, plus integrated time-tracking, means there’s little left to be desired for those who opt for ProWorkflow.

Additionally, you can create reports based on the distribution of workload among your employees. This information can then be used to identify any issues with team members who are overworked.

ProWorkflow Project Management Software

Best For Cheapest Monthly Plan Cheapest Annual Plan Free Version Compatibility
Task Management $20/month $18/month Yes Windows, Mac, Android, iOS, and Blackberry

All of ProWorkflow’s regular features, such as team messaging, time tracking, and task management, are available from any device or location thanks to the company’s dedicated mobile application. Additionally, it includes an open API, making it very effortless to link with well-known third-party business apps.

We also really like that ProWorkflow lets you have as many users as you’d want, unlike other rivals. The maximum number of users per subscription is unrestricted, and you can sign up as a single user at the lower price tier — which is also rare. Platforms like Monday.com require a minimum of 3 users on the starter plan.

Plus, there’s no cap on the number of projects you can track in ProWorkflow, regardless of the pricing tier you choose, but there is a 25 GB or 50 GB file storage cap, and you are free to track as many projects as you like in that area.

Pricing

Yet again, there is no free plan here for users to sink their teeth into, instead, you have to jump into a pretty hefty $18/month to use the service. That said, there’s little need to pay for separate tools through integration, as ProWorkflow comes equipped with all the features you’d need:

ProWorkflow Pricing

Pros

  • Offers unlimited projects to users on every plan
  • Plans can be used by a single person, with no minimum number
  • Great apps for mobile devices

Cons

  • No free plan options and expensive paid plans
  • Offers fewer integrations than other tools on this list

10. Resource Guru – Great for Remote Workforces

Resource Guru Logo

Resource Guru is a workflow management tool that assists busy teams in keeping their projects on schedule. It provides a quick, adaptable approach for both large and small businesses to schedule workers and allocate tasks for any kind of project.

It’s used by project managers and team leaders to increase staff productivity without depleting their energy. It allows them to see the entire team’s schedule on one calendar, create and update appointments quickly, and deal with scheduling issues as they arise.

Resource Guru Project Management Software

Best For Cheapest Monthly Plan Cheapest Annual Plan Free Version Compatibility
Custom Fields $5/month $4.16/month Yes Windows and Mac

You can manage team members, independent contractors, tools, and meeting spaces in one location with Resource Guru. Strong filters make it quick and easy to identify the resources you need, and real-time availability tracking helps you avoid double bookings and excessive workloads.

Vacation, sick days, and other time off are easy to manage, thanks to built-in leave management capabilities. Powerful reports provide information on billable hours, utilization rates, clients, and projects, simplifying project forecasting and budgeting.

With the help of personal dashboards, calendar integrations, and daily schedule emails, team members can keep track of their allocated tasks.

Pricing

Resource Guru offers 3 plans, all of which are incredibly well-priced, which is good as it lacks a free plan. Each plan allows for the creation of unlimited projects, with the storage size being increased with each plan.

Resource Guru Pricing

Pros

  • Tons of integration options
  • Clean and intuitive interface
  • Great customer support team

Cons

  • No free plan
  • No apps for mobile devices is a big issue for some businesses

The Best Workflow Management Systems Compared

Now that we’ve dived into the nitty-gritty parts of the reviews, it’s time to have a quick glance at the key details. To help you, we’ve compiled a useful table that highlights the key aspects of each piece of software:

Software Best For Cheapest Monthly Plan (Per User) Cheapest Annual Plan (Per User) Free Version Compatibility
Monday Workflow Management $10/month $8/month Yes Windows, Mac, Android, and iOS
ClickUp Automating Manual Processes $10/month $7/month Yes Windows, Mac, Android, and iOS
Wrike Team Collaborating $9.80/month $9.80/month Yes Windows, Mac, Android, and iOS
Smartsheet Spreadsheets $10/month $7/month Yes Windows, Mac, Android, and iOS
Teamwork Resource Allocation $8.99/month $5.99/month Yes Windows, Mac, Android, and iOS
Zoho Projects Advanced Reports $5/month $4/month Yes Windows, Mac, Android, and iOS
Quire Nested Lists $7.65.month $7.65.month Yes Windows, Mac, Android, and iOS
Awork Custom Templates $12/month $10/month No Windows, Mac, Android, and iOS
ProWorkflow Task Management $20/month $18/month No Windows, Mac, Android, and iOS
Resource Guru Custom Fields $5/month $4.16/month No Windows and Mac

How to Choose the Best Workflow Tool for Your Business

The workflow management software market is awash with a ton of different providers all vying for your business – so knowing how to choose the best PM solution and what to look out for can be confusing. To assist, we’ve compiled a list of key factors you should look for when deciding which is the best tool for you.

Features

The workflow automation solution you choose becomes a crucial component of your company. Therefore, it’s crucial to consider what features you get for the price, as some features, like time tracking or certain integrations, are only available on higher-tier plans.

Some features you should look for that are crucial to a good workflow tool are collaboration tools, such as shared docs, in-app communications, and real-time annotations and mentions. Others include role-based access control, process management, KPI reports, and analytical tools.

Pricing

You should never pick your software based solely on pricing, as the cheapest isn’t likely going to cut it for you. On the other hand, the most expensive doesn’t exactly mean it’s the best choice either. Instead, look for a provider that has a good feature-to-price ratio and go from there.

Here, it also depends on several factors. Besides the number of users increasing the costs, you’ll want to make sure that the features you need are available on the plan you find doable for your budget. Some, like ClickUp, offer time tracking for free, whereas others have this in a paid plan or as an integration option.

Users

As we touched on above, it’s important to plan how many people will be using the workflow automation software. The tool might be used by everyone in the company or just a few individuals, maybe even by external parties.

All the best workflow management software solutions have a cap on the number of users you can onboard on each plan, so this is super important to consider before choosing the one for your team. This makes it as important to keep your company’s expansion and scalability in mind too.

Ease-of-Use

It’s important to automate workflows so that workers won’t have to spend a lot of time on the same task. Therefore, it’s vital that you take into account how user-friendly the workflow automation software you choose is for your personnel; otherwise, you risk making an expensive software error.

Automating mundane tasks like project alerts for when someone gets a task assigned to them, it needs to be reviewed, or it’s done; this prevents unnecessary back-and-forth and streamlines your workflow. Often, automation is limited to paid plans.

Integrations

Businesses nowadays already use tools and apps as a part of routine operations. In such a situation, it’s crucial to understand whether the new workflow management solution you purchase can be linked with the tools your business already uses.

Integration is essential in the age of automation, as all your day-to-day operations will go more smoothly if all the tools cooperate. For example, if your team uses Slack for communication, having Monday send automatic alerts to channels depending on project progress is helpful.

What’s the Best Free Workflow Management Software?

If you’re a small business or startup or perhaps new to the world of workflow management, it would be worth trying one of the free plans on offer by one of the top free project management tools on this list.

Whilst we’d always recommend signing up for a paid plan to access all the features, integrations and remove any user restrictions, they can be a good way to test the service before you buy. Here are the top options compared head-to-head:

Software Max Number of Users Paid Starting Plan Price Top Free Features

Monday

 2 Users

 $8/user/month

 1. Gantt Charts

2. Monday Workdocs

3. Kanban View

ClickUp

 Unlimited

 $5/user/month

 1. Unlimited Tasks

2. Native Time Tracking

3. Two-Factor Authentication

Wrike

 Unlimited

 $9.80/user/month

 1. Live Editor

2. Email Integration

3. Activity Stream

Once you’re happy with the tool of your choice, you can signup for a paid plan. Our top choice, Monday, offers a 30-day free trial on its paid-tier plans, and after that, you can get started for just $8/user/month.

Conclusion | What’s the Best Workflow Management Tool to Use in 2024?

The best workflow management tools ensure productivity and efficiency and help assist in eliminating task duplication. Teams can use them to streamline work processes that help them work more productively, and they can even be used to automate mundane tasks, saving you time.

All the providers on this list do this and more, as they include key project management features, as well as nifty extras like billing and time-tracking, amongst many others. Plus, they can link to your current tech lineup to help automate and streamline your work processes.

If you’re looking for the best workflow management software, we suggest trying Monday, with prices starting from just $8/month. Test the service with the generous free plan or try out the paid options with the lengthy 30-day free trial.

FAQ

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The Best Password Manager Reddit Users Recommend: Top 10 Compared for 2024 https://techreport.com/password-managers/best-password-manager-reddit/ Tue, 15 Aug 2023 16:05:01 +0000 https://techreport.com/?page_id=3511591 Best Password Managers, According To Reddit Users

Reddit is commonly referred to as the front page of the internet, and its users (Redditors), are well-known for their strict opinions on just about everything – including the best...

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Best Password Managers, According To Reddit Users

Reddit is commonly referred to as the front page of the internet, and its users (Redditors), are well-known for their strict opinions on just about everything – including the best password managers.

We’ve scrolled through hundreds of threads, posts, and comments to determine what the best password manager Reddit users recommend is in 2024. In this article, we’ll review each of the recommendations put forward by Redditors, comparing their key features, overall security, unique offerings, and other key factors.

Top 10 Reddit Best Password Manager Recommendations

Below is a quick look at the top 10 list as chosen by Reddit users. We gathered this information by browsing threads, subreddits, and comments, and the list reflects the providers that garnered the best of these, starting with NordPass:

  1. NordPass – Overall, the best password manager Redditors recommend, as it includes next-gen XChaCha20 encryption and 6 devices on one subscription
  2. Norton – The best ‘totally free’ password manager that features an excellent auto change option for changing passwords in one-click
  3. Enpass – A powerful password manager that can run offline from anywhere, so no internet connection is required
  4. 1Password – Great choice for remote workers and frequent flyers thanks to the useful Travel Mode feature
  5. Roboform – Budget-friendly password manager that excels at filling out complex forms with its advanced autofill feature
  6. Keeper – An excellent password manager that includes a secure messaging platform, KeeperChat
  7. Total PasswordEasy-to-use PW manager that lets you create secure notes on any device, great for beginners
  8. Avira – A popular tool that includes a useful built-in authenticator for logging into popular apps like Dropbox and Gmail
  9. Dashlane – A useful tool that comes with a free VPN bundled in for extra security
  10. Bitwarden – Affordable open-source password manager that can be privately hosted

Can I Trust Reddit User Recommendations for Password Managers?

As dubious as it might sound, yes, you can trust Reddit users’ recommendations for anything tech, as they’re the average consumers, the people who actually buy these products and live with them on a daily basis.

Other reviews you read will often be paid promotions, like YouTubers who have sponsorship deals and will rant and rave about how good a product is, even though that’s what they’re being paid to do. However, Redditors will be brutally honest with their reviews, as they’re not being paid to tell you how great something is.

Instead, they’ll say what they liked and, often, what they really disliked. You should be careful, though, as some companies are lurking in the corners of Subreddits, writing strong reviews for products, including password managers – but some quick checks will show you that they’re actually linked to a product in some way.

Is There a Password Manager Redditors Don’t Recommend?

Redditors typically don’t endorse companies that have previously been hacked or exposed to data dumps. Such password managers put your online security at risk because your personal information might be hacked and exposed. Following are some password management options that Redditors have differing opinions of:

  1. LastPass —  One password manager with both positive and negative reviews is LastPass. Because of the hack (leaked source code), several commenters don’t endorse it. In fact, a new hack of the password manager occurred in 2022. However, because they’re open about the hack, some people prefer it.
  2. OneLogin — OneLogin has quite a few negative reviews, mainly due to the fact that it’s been known to be hacked. In truth, OneLogin was attacked in 2017, consumer information was exposed, and affected user data was kept in their US data centers, which isn’t a good sign.

Do I Even Need a Password Manager?

You should use a password manager as you won’t need to memorize your passwords, as it’ll keep track of them for you. In addition to creating and changing passwords for you with a single click, some password vaults can safely store additional forms of information, including credit card numbers.

Beyond this, sharing your data with loved ones and friends is safer when you use a password manager, especially when compared to writing down your login information in an email or on a message board that isn’t encrypted.

You must, of course, have faith in the organization that created your password manager, but thankfully, the majority of them have an impeccable reputation.

Reviews of the Top Reddit-Recommended Password Managers

Now it’s time to take a look at the top Reddit-recommended password managers. We’ll review their key features, pricing, and security and highlight what makes them stand out from the rest of the competition.

NordPass Logo

Reddit users agree that NordPass is the greatest password manager app available. It employs a new-generation encryption technique and provides high-level security. Let’s examine the features that NordPass provides in greater detail.

There’s a bundle of security features aimed at making your life simpler, including the likes of a password generator, which essentially creates unique passwords for different sites that are near-impossible to crack.

NordPass also recognizes passwords stored in your browsers automatically, or they can be imported from a different password manager. It’s also really simple to share passwords via email across accounts and with non-users using the Secure Share feature.

NordPass Dashboard

What Reddit Users Love Most Starting Price Max Devices Per Subscription Free Version Compatibility Money-Back Guarantee
The next-gen XChaCha20 Encryption $1.49/month 6 Yes Windows, macOS, Android, iOS, Chrome, Safari, Firefox, Opera, Edge 30 Days

Plus, to ensure no one is getting their hands on your passwords, NordPass supports multiple forms of 2FA, including codes via text or email and various authenticator apps from the likes of Google and Microsoft.

NordPass will even scan the dark web to see if any of your passwords have been compromised and leaked online. If they have, it’ll recommend unique new passwords with the excellent built-in generator tool.

Perhaps the standout feature that truly sets NordPass aside from its rivals is the introduction of the next-gen XChaCha20 encryption, which is virtually unbreakable, more secure, and much faster than the previous industry-standard AES.

Because of this no-nonsense approach to security, on top of boasting all the features you’d want in a PW manager, Reddit users agree that NordPass is the number one password management solution.

Pricing

With its generous “free forever” plan, NordPass offers a number of helpful features, including autofill passwords and limitless password storage. Here are all of your options:

NordPass Pricing

The premium plan gives you access to the complete range of capabilities, including a Dark Web scanner and weak password detection, so if you want to get the most out of NordPass, we advise signing up for it. Overall, NordPass offers excellent value for money, plus you can try it risk-free with the 30-day guarantee.

Pros

  • Features next-gen XChaCha20 encryption for better speed and security
  • Excellent dark web scanner to spot compromised passwords
  • Offers unlimited password storage
  • A useful free plan for testing the service, and it includes autofill
  • Includes a great password-sharing feature that’s safe and easy to use

Cons

  • You’re limited to one device on the free version

2. Norton – The Best Totally Free Password Manager

Norton Family Logo

Norton Password Manager, unlike the majority of password managers that offer a restricted free version or a free trial, where you’ll eventually need to pay to access the greatest features, is a completely free security solution that easily competes with paid tools.

Even though it’s free, the firm best known for some of the best antivirus software still offers biometric login, strong security mechanisms, and cross-platform capabilities – so there’s a lot to love besides the price.

Norton Password Manager’s browser extension-based user interface is one that we really enjoyed, too. Sites are listed in a grid or list format, and everything is neatly arranged, so all of your personal information is kept structured with separate sections for logins, wallets, addresses, and notes.

Norton Password Dashboard

What Reddit Users Love Most Starting Price Max Devices Per Subscription Free Version Compatibility Money-Back Guarantee
The Autochange Feature Free 10 Yes Windows, macOS, Android, iOS, Chrome, Safari, Firefox, Opera, Edge N/A

You can view a list of your passwords along with their relative strength using the safety dashboard tool. To assist in creating strong passwords, there’s also a password generator that can create unique passwords.

And Norton not only saves your passwords but also provides you with some basic stats on them, identifying old, duplicate, and weak passwords that you should change. That said, one feature that Redditors raved about was the Autochange function. With it, you can easily mass-replace passwords with one click.

Thanks to this, all the procedures you’d typically need to follow to change the password are carried out automatically, saving you a huge amount of time. However, you don’t get access to a data breach scanner, so you can’t tell if your passwords have been compromised, it just suggests if they’re weak and easy to crack.

Overall, it’s one of the most user-friendly password managers, so those who aren’t extremely tech-savvy will find its user interface to be simple and easy to navigate.

Pricing

As is apparent from the review above, Norton is a totally free password management solution, so you don’t have to spend any cash to benefit from it. Often, it’s included in other Norton Bundles for their antivirus solution, so that can be another way you can get your hands on this.

Pros

  • Completely free
  • Excellent Autochange feature to change weak passwords with one click
  • Simple-to-use interface, great for non-tech-savvy people
  • Can be used on up to 10 separate devices

Cons

  • Not as many advanced features as others, like a dark web scanner

3. Enpass – Powerful Offline Password Manager

EnPass logo

Enpass is a desktop password manager that works entirely offline and is available for Android, iOS, Windows, macOS, and Linux users. All of Enpass’s features, excluding breach monitoring and the ability to identify accounts that support 2FA, are available in the free edition.

In fact, the free plan even tags along with unlimited password storage. That said, the best aspect about using Enpass is undoubtedly the fact that none of your data is ever uploaded to the company’s servers. Instead, you get to decide where it’s saved.

Whether locally on your computer or in the cloud — Enpass is likely to be compatible with your preferred storage solution because it supports Dropbox, iCloud, Google Drive, and OneDrive, amongst several others.

EnPass Dashboard

What Reddit Users Love Most Starting Price Max Devices Per Subscription Free Version Compatibility Money-Back Guarantee
It works offline + One-time fee plan $1.99/month 6 Yes Windows, macOS, Android, iOS, Linux, Chrome, Safari, Firefox, Opera, Edge 30 days

Enpass has also recently introduced an excellent recovery feature under the Enpass Hub for users who have forgotten their master password. It works by allowing authorized admins to review and approve password reset requests, making it one of the top business password solutions available.

Also new to the Enpass Hub is Vault Sharing, which offers an encrypted method for users to share passwords with colleagues, family members, or friends without the need to send unsecured texts or emails.

Plus, Enpass also includes several features that help you keep an eye on your passwords and make it simple to access them when you need to. Along with your account usernames and passwords, the platform will also save and automatically fill in your credit card and identification information.

Pricing

Enpass provides a variety of options for individual or business use, including family plans providing coverage across many devices. Contrary to NordPass, the free account only allows you to store up to 25 things on a single device.

Enpass Pricing

Unlimited passwords are available when upgrading to the Individual subscription, but only on one device. With the Family tier, you can simultaneously install Enpass on up to 6 devices for more coverage. And, of course, Enpass is the only provider that lets you pay a one-time fee for life access.

Pros

  • Excellent free plan to test the service
  • Great new access recovery feature for those who forget their master password
  • Works offline, so no internet connection is needed
  • Low-cost personal and business plans

Cons

  • No 2FA, which some Reddit users said was an issue

4. 1Password – Great Business Password Manager That Features a Travel Mode

1Password Logo

1Password is another top password manager, as recommended by Reddit users. With it, you get Two-Factor Authentication (2FA), autosave, and autofill features, plus useful extras like secure notes and unlimited vaults, making it a great all-in-one package.

AES 256-bit encryption, used by banks and governments worldwide, is employed by 1Password to ensure your security. Whilst this is less impressive than the XChaCha20 used by NordPass, it’s still ultra-secure and reliable, hence its use in most of the top password managers.

The Vault settings in 1Password are particularly useful, and they’re subdivided within each 1Password account, letting you create multiple categories for specific data or serve as a filing system for various pieces of information. Forms, passwords, secure papers, credit cards, and other items can all be stored in the vault.

1password | password storage

What Reddit Users Love Most Starting Price Max Devices Per Subscription Free Version Compatibility Money-Back Guarantee
Travel Mode $2.99/month 5 No Windows, macOS, Android, iOS, Chrome, Safari, Firefox, Opera, Edge 30 Days

Additionally, your private data will be categorized, and you can grant users access to specific files as needed. On family and corporate plans, you can set up specific sharing preferences for every vault with other users.

However, the one feature that Reddit users were impressed by most was Travel Mode, a feature unique to 1Password. When traveling across certain borders, some customs officials will request access to your device, and with Travel Mode, you can select which vaults will be accessible to these officials.

All you need to do is select certain vaults that are safe for travel and others that are not. If your device is seized, they can’t access your sensitive information. This also serves as an extra layer to protect your information if your device is stolen while traveling.

On business plans, administrators can remotely configure these settings for team members.

Pricing

1Password offers a wide choice of plans for businesses, families, and individuals, but regrettably, none of them are free. Instead, all paid levels come with a 14-day free trial.

1Password Pricing

You can keep an unlimited number of passwords on one device if you choose the individual plan or on 5 devices if you choose the family plan. There are also two separate company plans, Teams and Company, that are paid per person per month and provide coverage for any staff members.

Pros

  • Includes an excellent Travel Mode
  • Offers a 14-day free trial for all paid plans
  • Incredibly user-friendly, so great for password manager beginners
  • 1GB of encrypted file storage included on all paid plans

Cons

  • No free plan to test the service

5. RoboForm – Affordable Password Manager With Excellent Autofill Feature

Roboform Logo

RoboForm unquestionably has a wide enough feature set to handle any circumstance. Strong, well-known, and trustworthy encryption algorithms provide security, secure sharing options are on offer, and it combines a top-notch password generator with broad compatibility.

We particularly adore how RoboForm incorporates folders, allowing you to arrange passwords however you find most helpful. For instance, companies can easily make distinct files for personal and work-related passwords for seamless, categorized password management.

RoboForm password protection

What Reddit Users Love Most Starting Price Max Devices Per Subscription Free Version Compatibility Money-Back Guarantee
Autofill Forms $1.99/month 5 Yes Windows, macOS, Android, iOS, Chrome, Safari, Firefox, Opera, Edge 30 Days

RoboForm also offers a one-click login system, which saves you the time and hassle of typing in your email addresses and the long, unique passwords that the app generates for you – which it does very well. In fact, you can choose the desired length and whether any special characters are required, which is useful for IT admins.

Another potent RoboForm feature is password sharing – If you wish to lessen the chance that sensitive information may be disclosed outside of your firm, this function enables you to securely share encrypted passwords or credentials with other RoboForm users within your organization.

Beyond all this, in the event that something unexpected occurs to an employee, family member, or friend, RoboForm offers emergency access to a predetermined user. This means they can safely access your details in the event of an emergency – a very useful feature we’d like to see introduced on other top password managers.

Pricing

Although Roboform offers a great free plan, there are also outstanding paid plans available for both people and corporations. Roboform Everywhere is a good, cost-effective alternative for people seeking a personal account because it only covers one account.

Roboform Pricing

In the event that you need more coverage, you can easily upgrade to the family plan, which can support up to 5 devices per subscription. If you’re willing to trust this supplier with your long-term future, there’s even an enormous 5-year plan that costs just $0.99/month.

Pros

  • One of the best business password managers, as it includes file and password sharing
  • Reddit users claim this is one of the best value-for-money providers
  • Excellent free plan

Cons

  • The interface is outdated compared to other top providers

6. Keeper – Reliable Password Manager With A Secure Messaging Platform

Keeper Logo

Keeper is a safe password manager that uses multiple layers of security to ensure the security of your logins and files, and as you’d expect, plans for individuals, families, and companies are offered.

Your login information and passwords are always secured thanks to Keeper’s use of end-to-end encryption to protect your data — this means that nobody, not even Keeper staff, will have access to text-based versions of your data.

Plus, even if Keeper experiences a data breach, MultiFactor Authentication (MFA), which involves a physical token or biometric login, will keep your data safe. Beyond this, like the majority of password managers, Keeper comes with a password generator that produces random, strong, and lengthy passwords for you.

Keeper | best password managers for business,

What Reddit Users Love Most Starting Price Max Devices Per Subscription Free Version Compatibility Money-Back Guarantee
Keeper Chat $2.92/month 5 Yes Windows, macOS, Android, iOS, Chrome, Safari, Firefox, Opera, Edge 30 Days

You can choose a password’s length and include elements like numbers, characters, and symbols, which makes it great for businesses, as IT departments can impose rules on password length to improve security.

There are a couple of standout features that really caught the eye of Redditors, too, including the secure messaging service, KeeperChat. This allows you to share files, passwords, or sensitive information between you and another Keeper user. It reduces the risk of data leaks or vital company information being stolen.

Another excellent feature is Keeper Concierge, which offers 24/7 support and one-on-one training with one of Keeper’s cybersecurity experts. This is more valuable to business clients, as they can train IT departments or staff on the best practices of using this tool – but it’ll cost you an extra $8.33/month billed annually.

Pricing

You can manage passwords without spending any money if you sign up for the free plan, which is only suitable for one device but should give you a good idea of what to anticipate from the main product.

Keeper US Pricing

However, it’s worth mentioning that features like the Keeper Concierge and Data Breach Scanner are paid extras, so this can lead to quite an expensive monthly bill.

Pros

  • Offers an excellent secure messaging service, KeeperChat
  • The concierge service is great for business password security
  • Useful emergency access feature

Cons

  • Only one device can be used on the free plan

7. Total Password – User-Friendly Password Manager

Total Password Logo

Total Password may be new to the market, but it has all the necessary functions, including password generation, auto-filling, and limitless password storage. Despite the lack of mobile apps, Total’s browser extensions offer the same functionality as mobile apps.

Users on all gadgets will enjoy the complete experience without missing out on any features. And as it’s from one of the best antivirus solutions for Windows and mobile, Total Password places a strong emphasis on security with Two-Factor Authentication, AES-256 encryption, a password generator, and breach alerts.

Total Password

What Reddit Users Love Most Starting Price Max Devices Per Subscription Free Version Compatibility Money-Back Guarantee
Secure Notes $1.99/month 1 No  Chrome, Safari, Firefox, Opera, Edge 14 Days

The Total Password password generator is a useful tool for quickly creating uncrackable passwords, and you can select the length of the password, which can range from 4 to 32 characters, letting you choose the level of security you want on your accounts as far as passwords go.

You can also use your Total Password account on as many devices as you need, and it conveniently syncs devices automatically. This password manager also contains a notes section if you need to track any additional confidential information, such as your home network password, contact information, and addresses.

Although you can’t organize notes into distinct folders as you can with NordPass, you can sort them by color, too, which is a nice touch, and for added customization, you can also arrange them according to the creation date, creation date by notes, title, or content.

Pricing

Total Password only offers one plan at the time of writing, which is disappointing because there isn’t a free alternative or free trial. A 14-day money-back guarantee allows for a risk-free purchase, though.

Total Password Pricing

Pros

  • Reddit users appreciate the excellent live chat and support options
  • Great password generator
  • Useful secure notes section

Cons

  • No mobile apps are available at the time of writing
  • Lacks password-sharing options

Avira Logo

Avira’s password manager was created with both usability and security in mind, and it does a fantastic job of securely storing passwords by utilizing high-level encryption and additional security measures like Two-Factor Authentication (2FA).

Avira also provides consumers with a transparent password security status, outlining any that are outdated, reused, or compromised. This is unsurprising, considering that, like Total Password, Avira boasts one of the most popular and highly secure free antiviruses.

Avira best password manager

What Reddit Users Love Most Starting Price Max Devices Per Subscription Free Version Compatibility Money-Back Guarantee
Built-in Authenticator $2.99/month 50 Yes Windows, macOS, Android, iOS, Chrome, Safari, Firefox, Opera, Edge 60 Days

Although Avira’s password manager isn’t the most flexible or feature-rich, non-technical users will find its easy setup process and user-friendly interface to be quite helpful. Additionally, its free plan comes with a respectable selection of services, such as file storage, limitless password storage, and multi-device syncing.

The Avira PW manager requires users to set their own “master password,” which is necessary to decrypt stored passwords and data, similar to the majority of password managers. That said, the alternatives for recovering your account with Avira are limited if you forget your master password.

Your password data recovery options include using the mobile app unlock options — fingerprint or facial recognition. What Reddit users do really like is the built-in mobile authenticator that comes with your subscription.

So, if you’re logging into popular websites like Facebook or Gmail, you can securely generate codes to the Avira authenticator and log in with ease.

Pricing

The Avira plan structure is rather simple. The Pro plan can be purchased on a monthly or annual basis, with the annual option generally turning out to be less expensive in the long term. It also comes with a sizable 60-day money-back guarantee.

Avira Pricing US

Try the free plan to enjoy the same functionality you would on a paid plan, but only for one device.

Pros

  • Includes an excellent built-in authenticator
  • Can be used on up to 50 devices with one subscription
  • Offers a huge 60-day money-back guarantee

Cons

  • Can’t fill web forms out, unlike most other providers
  • Lacks any secure sharing features

9. Dashlane – Useful Password Manager That Comes With a Free VPN

Dashlane Logo

Dashlane is a reputable password manager that protects your online personal and professional data. Your password vault is protected with Dashlane’s zero-knowledge architecture, end-to-end AES-256 encryption, and Two-Factor Authentication, making it one of the safest password managers.

Plans are available for various needs, including individuals, families, and of course, even corporations. The fantastic features offered by Dashlane include an unlimited password storage option, a secure password generator, form and payment autofill, and file sharing.

A virtual private network (VPN), which offers a more secure browsing experience, is included with all paying Dashlane accounts – something that pleased a large majority of Reddit users.

What Reddit Users Love Most Starting Price Max Devices Per Subscription Free Version Compatibility Money-Back Guarantee
Built-in VPN $2.75/month 10 Yes Windows, macOS, Android, iOS, Chrome, Safari, Firefox, Opera, Edge 30 Days

Paid options also come with dark web monitoring services that notify you if any personal data relating to your email appears there. If a known security breach ever affects an account you save on the platform, personalized security notifications will let you know.

Dashlane also comes with a 30-day money-back guarantee for its personal and family plans but not for its business plans. You can still test the business plans risk-free for up to 500 employees with Dashlane’s 14-day free trial.

With a max storage capacity of 50 passwords and account access restricted to only one device, the free plan is limited. Still, it’s on par with the features you could expect from free plans offered by other easy-to-use password managers.

Pricing

Dashlane includes a useful free plan for individual usage, but the paid plans are a little more expensive than many of the others on this list, which also include more unique features.

Dashlane Pricing

 

There are options for businesses and families, should you need more than one person or device covered, and you get the option of a monthly or yearly subscription.

Pros

  • Offers a built-in VPN for extra security
  • Great free plan for getting to grips with the platform
  • Includes a 30-day guarantee for personal plans or a 14-day free trial for business users

Cons

  • More expensive than others, with fewer features
  • No longer features an emergency access option

10. Bitwarden – Powerful Open-Source Password Manager

Bitwarden Logo

Bitwarden is an open-source password manager, and one of the many reasons it’s one of the best for protecting your online data is the end-to-end encryption, safe password sharing, cross-platform compatibility, and configurable integrations.

Because Bitwarden uses zero-knowledge encryption to protect your data, not even Bitwarden employees can access the data you store, making it one of the best password keepers. Every item in your password vault is protected by AES 256-bit encryption, which is regarded as a nearly impenetrable method of data encryption.

Bitwarden Password Manager

What Reddit Users Love Most Starting Price Max Devices Per Subscription Free Version Compatibility Money-Back Guarantee
It’s Open-Source $0.84/month 10 Yes Windows, macOS, Android, iOS, Chrome, Safari, Firefox, Opera, Edge 30 Days

You can also securely store notes, credit card numbers, and private or commercial information like addresses in your Bitwarden vault in addition to maintaining passwords and login information there as well.

But the feature that really drew applause from Reddit users was the fact that Bitwarden is open-source. It’s hosted on GitHub, and everyone is free to review, audit, and contribute to the Bitwarden code. This also means that you can host Bitwarden yourself on your own platform rather than the Bitwarden cloud.

That aside, Bitwarden has an active, loyal community, as is apparent with their help center, where you can find tons of useful guides, tips, and tricks from fellow Bitwarden users.

Pricing

As one of the most affordable password managers available, Bitwarden even offers a respectable free plan for up to one user. You can subscribe to premium for a more advanced product for just $10/year, which represents incredible value.

Bitwarden Pricing

Bitwarden has great programs for families and businesses should you need extra devices or corporate-level password and file protection.

Pros

  • Incredibly cheap plans
  • Reddit users love that Bitwarden is Open-Source
  • Secure share is available on all plans, including the free one

Cons

  • The data is stored in a country that belongs to the 5-Eyes alliance
  • Limited free trial, as it’s only 7-days

Redditors Best Password Managers Compared

To help you visualize all the information from the reviews, we’ve created a useful table where you can compare the key factors like compatibility, pricing, and what Reddit users love the most about each one:

Provider What Reddit Users Love Most Starting Price Device Limit Free Version Compatibility Money-back Guarantee
NordPass The next-gen XChaCha20 Encryption $1.49/month 5 Yes Windows, macOS, Android, iOS, Chrome, Safari, Firefox, Opera, Edge 30-days
Norton The Autochange Feature Free 10 Yes Windows, macOS, Android, iOS, Chrome, Safari, Firefox, Opera, Edge N/A
Enpass It works offline + One-time fee $1.99/month 6 Yes Windows, macOS, Android, iOS, Chrome, Safari, Firefox, Opera, Edge 30-days
1Password Travel Mode $2.99/month 5 No Windows, macOS, Android, iOS, Chrome, Safari, Firefox, Opera, Edge 30-days
RoboForm Autofill Forms $1.99/month 5 No Windows, macOS, Android, iOS, Chrome, Safari, Firefox, Opera, Edge 30-days
Keeper Keeper Chat $2.92/month 5 Yes Windows, macOS, Android, iOS, Chrome, Safari, Firefox, Opera, Edge No
Total Password Secure Notes $1.99/month 1 No Chrome, Safari, Opera, and Edge 14-days
Avira Built-in Authenticator $2.99/month 50 Yes Windows, macOS, Android, iOS, Chrome, Safari, Firefox, Opera, Edge 14-days for Monthly Plan, 30-Days for Annual
Dashlane Built-in VPN $2.75/month 10 Yes Windows, macOS, Android, iOS, Chrome, Safari, Firefox, Opera, Edge 30-days
Bitwarden Open-Source $0.83/month 6 Yes Windows, macOS, Android, iOS, Chrome, Safari, Firefox, Opera, Edge 30-days

What’s the Best Free Password Manager Reddit Users Recommend?

After scrolling through dozens of Subreddits, two password managers frequently pop up when you’re looking for the best free Reddit password manager, NordPass and Bitwarden. However, these only offer free plans, as opposed to being totally free, like Norton.

That being said, for personal use, both NordPass and Bitwarden do offer great free plans that can be used in everyday life by one person, but you should note that there are some limitations – for example, you don’t get access to features like a Data Breach Scanner or Password Audits.

Instead, we’d recommend trying a premium plan with NordPass, as this way, you can access all the top features and use it on more than just the one device the free plan allows for. It only costs $1.49/month if you opt for the two-year plan, and you can also rest assured knowing there’s a 30-day money-back guarantee.

Other Factors to Consider Before Choosing the Best Password Keeper for You

As the password manager market is so competitive, with thousands of providers craving your custom – it’s hard to know who to pick or what to look out for. To help you, we’ve compiled a list of some absolutes you should look for when picking the right provider for your needs:

  • Features — Every password manager is likely to include the basics, such as a password generator or audit tool. However, unique features are what make them – think NordPass’ XChaCha20 encryption or Bitwarden’s Open-Source platform. These are what really separate the good from the great.
  • Device Limits — Depending on how many devices you have, this one is up for debate. Most of us will have a mobile and most likely a laptop, others will have tablets and second phones. Therefore, it’s important that your provider of choice allows you to use your subscription across multiple devices.
  • Compatibility — Most password managers have apps for iOS and Android, as well as support for desktop browsers and PCs – but not all of them. For example, Total Password only works as a browser extension, which could be off-putting for some, so it’s worth checking what devices you can use.
  • Pricing — This is another big one – as you should never pick based solely on the price, as you’re likely to get a below-average tool. Instead, you want to find a provider that has a solid set of features for a good price. There are excellent free plans, but we’d always recommend a premium plan for the best usability.

Conclusion | What is the Best Reddit Password Manager in 2024?

The best Reddit password managers will keep all of your personal passwords, credit cards, and much more safe when you’re online. By using one of these tools, you eliminate the risk of having compromised or weak passwords and, thus, having your details stolen.

Reddit users are famous for their opinions on just about everything, and you can always trust them as they don’t have any affiliate links – they’re just honest users sharing their thoughts and opinions.

So after exploring multiple Subreddits, threads, and comment sections, Reddit users suggest that NordPass is the top password manager right now, thanks to its industry-leading XChaCha20 encryption and excellent overall performance. Try it risk-free now with the free plan.

FAQ

What is the best password manager Reddit?

Which of the most popular password manager was hacked?

Which password manager has never been hacked?

Should I stop using LastPass?

Is Google password manager safe?

Are there any good free password managers Reddit?

What is the best password manager for Reddit iOS?

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10 Best Gantt Chart Software Solutions Compared for 2024 https://techreport.com/business-software/best-gantt-chart-software/ Tue, 08 Aug 2023 16:13:11 +0000 https://techreport.com/?page_id=3509484 Best Gantt chart software

The top Gantt chart software solutions offer a straightforward method for managing and monitoring team members’ progress on challenging projects. As such, there’s no doubt that software for Gantt charts...

The post 10 Best Gantt Chart Software Solutions Compared for 2024 appeared first on The Tech Report.

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Best Gantt chart software

The top Gantt chart software solutions offer a straightforward method for managing and monitoring team members’ progress on challenging projects. As such, there’s no doubt that software for Gantt charts can be potent for project managers as they offer a comprehensive overview of a project’s timetable, schedule, progress, and team member assignments.

With the use of a Gantt chart, you can gain a high-level understanding of a complicated project, identify potential bottlenecks in a task timeline, and observe how changes impact the budget and timeline. That said, there are so many options on the market which can make it tough to find the one best suited to your particular needs and budget. To help, we’ve ranked, reviewed, and compared the market’s top 10 best Gantt chart tools.

The 10 Best Gantt Chart Tools Ranked

Below is a quick look at our top 10 best Gantt chart software picks, with Monday coming out on top. Here’s how each one fared in our testing, plus a quick outline of who and what they’re best suited for:

  1. Monday – Overall, the best Gantt chart tool with affordable pricing, a feature-rich free plan, a simple drag-and-drop interface, and great customization
  2. ClickUp –  The best free Gantt chart maker that offers a highly user-friendly interface that’s great for beginners and lets you manage unlimited projects
  3. Wrike Popular, budget-friendly Gantt chart tool that includes excellent collaborative features like shared docs and mention for improved workflows
  4. SmartsheetThe best option for Excel lovers thanks to its spreadsheet-style layout, which includes customized Gantt charts
  5. Teamwork – An affordable choice that offers a generous free plan for up to 5 users and includes a ton of third-party integrations and time tracking
  6. Zoho Projects – Ideal choice for creating custom Gantt charts and for those who want to use the full network of Zoho products, including the excellent CRM
  7. Quire – Includes a fantastic free plan that lets up to 10 users create Gantt charts without spending a cent; plus, it boasts 99.4% uptime
  8. Asana – A leading drag-and-drop Gantt chart maker solution with a feature-rich free plan, plus helpful guest access rights to better manage clients
  9. Microsoft Projects – A well-known Gantt chart tool from an industry giant, works best for those using Microsoft products
  10. GanttPro – Specialized Gantt chart software that offers a huge range of customization and top-notch collaborative features

What is a Gantt Chart?

A Gantt chart, which is frequently used in project management, is one of the most well-liked and practical ways to represent activities (tasks or events) against time. An appropriate time scale runs along the top of the chart, and a list of the activities is located on the left.

Example of a Gantt chart

The start date, duration, and termination date of each activity are indicated by the position and length of a bar that serves as its representation. As a result, you can quickly see:

  • What each of the activities entails
  • The start and finish of each action
  • How much time is allocated to each activity
  • Where and how much some activities overlap with others
  • The project’s start and finish dates

Why Gantt Charts Are Important for Project Tracking

There’s a huge range of potential benefits for the use of Gantt charts in project tracking, including boosting productivity and allowing for better tracking of tasks and progress. To help you understand just how vital they can be, we’ve outlined some of the top benefits below:

  • Improved Tracking – Gantt charts can be used by project managers and team members to monitor tasks, deadlines, and general workflow. The chart can highlight potential issues or limitations so that project managers and team members can make the necessary adjustments.
  • Better Productivity – A Gantt chart encourages teamwork among employees, boosting output. The clear visibility of a Gantt chart aids employees in maintaining their attention on the activities at hand, and this openness makes sure that everyone on the team is responsible for their work.
  • Set Deadlines – The tasks that a team must perform to finish a project are all listed on a Gantt chart, including connections and relationships between the various jobs. With such effective visual communication, the time required to complete the work can be estimated realistically.
  • Clear Responsibilities – A Gantt chart helps team members visualize their responsibilities. Everyone can observe how the project is going and how other team members are carrying out their tasks. Everyone will also be able to see how some tasks must wait for the completion of others.
  • Simplicity – The visual clarity of a Gantt chart can help simplify complex tasks, as it offers an easy-to-understand and straightforward overview of everything. This transparency allows team members to maintain their focus on one task and prevents them from becoming overburdened by numerous tasks.

Reviews of the Top Gantt Chart Project Management Software

Now that you know why Gantt charts are so essential for project tracking, it’s time to take a look at the top Gantt chart project management software so that you can decide which one is best suited to your needs.

1. Monday – Overall, the Best Gantt Chart Tool in 2024

Monday Logo

Monday.com offers a well-known business management software suite, Monday Projects, one of the best project management solutions. It makes it possible for people and enterprises to plan their projects and work together to complete them.

You can easily construct Gantt charts with this program by just dragging tasks into the desired position on the chart using the drag-and-drop interface. Instead of beginning over, if you need to make adjustments, you can move your project and task details whenever you want.

The Gantt chart can be used to allocate tasks to various team members and track their progress. You can establish dependencies between jobs so that one can’t begin until the completion of a certain previous task.

Monday.com Project Management Software

Cheapest Plan Free Plan Free Plan Details Compatibility
$8/month Yes 200 projects, 1 dashboard, Kanban view, access for 1-2 users Windows, Mac, Android, iOS

Moving aside from Gantt charts and onto the vast third-party integrations that are available with Monday.com, which is also a major plus, as you can connect your account with numerous other tools to add further functionality.

For example, you could integrate it with Slack for real-time collaboration or Zoom for audio and video conferencing. Monday offers one of the largest collections of third-party integrations available in project management, with endless possibilities to help manage your workflows.

In terms of other features, Monday also includes useful time-tracking functions that let you see how much time has been spent on which tasks, and it also makes billing that much easier.

Plus, Monday allows for seamless collaboration on tasks with a rich suite of tools aimed at boosting productivity and teamwork, including a custom dashboard, collaborative docs, and a convenient messaging tool that allows your team to discuss updates on individual tasks.

Pricing

Monday offers a competitive range of plans for businesses of all sizes, including a useful free plan that allows you to get to grips with the software, but it’s only aimed at serving 1-2 people.

For more users and added features like improved customer support, Gantt charts, and time tracking capabilities, you can upgrade to one of four paid plans, each increasing the number of users and file storage:

Monday Pricing

Pros

  • Includes extensive integrations with popular accounting tools and apps like Slack
  • Excellent drag-and-drop Gantt chart features allow for easy custom charts
  • Highly customizable dashboards and interface
  • Top-notch collaboration tools, including messaging and shared documents
  • Boasts a phenomenal reputation on sites like TrustPilot

Cons

  • Can get quite expensive for larger teams

2. ClickUp – A User-friendly and Reliable Gantt Tool for Beginners

ClickUp Logo

ClickUp is a popular project management software solution for designers and other creative professionals. The platform has a user-friendly interface, making it an ideal choice for project management and Gantt chart newbies.

Gantt charts can be easily created with ClickUp by using the drag-and-drop interface, which lets you add tasks and rearrange them as needed. Your tasks can be arranged according to priority, due date, and creation date, plus you can set up dependencies for certain tasks.

The Gantt chart view provides you with a thorough overview of your projects on a dashboard that’s pleasing to the eye, and it’s simple to track the development and identify any impediments before they become more problematic.

ClickUp Project Management Software

Cheapest Plan Free Plan Free Plan Details Compatibility
$7/month Yes Infinite projects, Gantt charts, 100mb file storage, unlimited free plan members, Whiteboards, collaborative docs Windows, Mac, Android, iOS

Each plan comes with a ton of features and possible integrations, including the usual suspects like Slack and Google Suite, as well as some more niche offerings like Vimeo, Figma, and Zendesk – all of which mean you can get the best out of ClickUp and your current lineup of tech apps.

In terms of the features, there’s everything you’d expect to find from one of the top project management tools out there, including excellent time management features, a huge range of custom views for tasks, and top-notch collaboration tools for working in tandem with your coworkers.

ClickUp includes a fantastic free plan that lets you can manage an infinite number of projects and get access to Gantt charts. However, if you’re handling larger projects, you’ll need to subscribe to a premium plan, as the free plan has limited storage.

Pricing

ClickUp offers a generous free plan for 2 users. The features and integrations are a little watered down, but there’s enough here to get started. For larger teams, it’s recommended to upgrade to one of ClickUp’s more premium plans, which start from as little as $5/month, which is excellent value for money.

ClickUp Pricing

Pros

  • Includes unlimited Gantt charts
  • Excellent real-time reporting features
  • Offers 15+ views, including grid, list, and Kanban
  • A massive range of third-party app integrations is available
  • One of the best free project management tools

Cons

  • Limited to 100 Gantt uses on the free plan

3. Wrike – Great Gantt Chart Tool with Useful Collaborative Features

Wrike Logo

Wrike is a well-liked platform for project management that’s used by tens of thousands of renowned businesses globally. It’s well-known for facilitating collaboration and having extremely sophisticated features.

Wrike includes a lot of customizable Gantt charts to create and assign tasks and track their progress in a way that suits your team best. The software also makes it simple, where you create the tasks in a table and have a corresponding Gantt chart generated automatically.

You can set up dependencies for tasks and automatically monitor their progress, just like with other platforms. Keep in mind that you may alter your charts using a drag-and-drop interface as well.

Wrike Project Management Dashboard

Cheapest Plan Free Plan Free Plan Details Compatibility
$7/month Yes Unlimited free plan users, task management, email integration, custom work views, templates, collaborative docs Windows, Mac, Android, iOS

You also get some excellent tools for collaboration with your coworkers, and by using a link, Wrike makes it simple to share tasks with them so that you can make changes to a task after sharing it, and the assignees will be alerted automatically.

Plus, you can manage various projects with Wrike from a single platform and even import data from other project management tools, including Microsoft Project, Asana, and Monday – this means it’s easy to switch providers should you need to.

Gantt charts aside, Wrike supports integrations with a whole host of third-party apps, including some of the most popular tools like Miro, Salesforce, and much more, so you can get the best of your current lineup of tech apps.

Pricing

Like many other top Gantt chart software solutions, Wrike offers a free plan you can use to test the service, but it’s limited to a maximum of two people. Sadly, the features are pretty limited, too, and you only get the option of Board view and table view, as well as some basic project management task tools.

For more features, users, Gantt charts, and other project views, upgrade to one of the more premium plans, with prices starting from $9.80/user/month. Here are all of your options:

Wrike Pricing

Pros

  • A huge network of integrations with the likes of QuickBooks and Salesforce
  • Highly intuitive interface with customizable dashboards
  • You can edit documents on the Cloud without needing to download them
  • Excellent Gantt chart templates for getting started

Cons

  • Expensive paid plans

4. Smartsheet – Great Option for Spreadsheet Lovers

Smartsheet Logo

Smartsheet is a web-based spreadsheet and Gantt chart tool that heavily bases its interface on a traditional Excel spreadsheet – hence the name. While it doesn’t break any new ground, it is a tried-and-true professional project management tool.

It works best for corporate planning as opposed to projects with a strong creative component, and it’s particularly adept at making it simple to create a lot of charts, including Gantt tables and pie charts, all of which are fully customizable.

On the Business plan, you’ll get 100 charts, along with unlimited reports and dashboards, resource management tracking, an activity log, group management, and support for ODBC, Skype for Business, Quip, Microsoft Power BI, Tableau, and Adobe Creative Cloud integrations.

Smartsheet Project Management Tool

Cheapest Plan Free Plan Free Plan Details Compatibility
$7/month Yes 2 sheets, 2 users, Grid, Gantt, Calendar, and Card View, 500mb attachments, many integrations Windows, Mac, Android, iOS

Smartsheet offers four basic user roles—admin, owner, editor, and viewer—each of which has a set of access levels and permissions that may be altered to meet the needs of a particular project or team.

As a user, you can assign different access permissions (see, edit, comment, etc.) for sheets to be shared with people, teams, or the entire business. By establishing roles and permissions, access expiration dates, and passwords for increased protection, you can even share sheets with external collaborators like clients or vendors.

Overall, considering what’s on offer with the free plan and the price to scale, Smartsheet continues to boast positive feedback from users for it’s interface, and although it’s great for those who love spreadsheets, it offers enough custom views to keep it competitive with the likes of tools like Monday and ClickUp.

Pricing

There are four price tiers for Smartsheet, with the free plan offering up to 10 charts and 5 dashboards, along with alerts, templates, automation, and even reminders. Pro offers good value for money for small teams, but for larger businesses, one of the top-tier plans is likely to be the most suitable.

These high-tier plans give you increased storage, an infinite number of projects, and much more. For features like infinite Gantt charts and a Salesforce connection, you’ll need to get in touch with Smartsheet for pricing information on the Enterprise and Premier subscriptions.

Smartsheet Pricing

Pros

  • Offers an infinite number of Gantt sheets on the more premium business plans
  • Intuitive layout, great for spreadsheet lovers, and offers fantastic customization
  • Enables automated workflows across spreadsheets
  • Can integrate with a wide range of third-party apps like the best CRMs

Cons

  • Can be very hard to get to grips with for beginners

5. Teamwork – Budget-friendly Gantt Chart Software

Teamwork Logo

Teamwork is another of the top Gantt chart tools and project management services out there, and it combines an attractive interface with a ton of premium features, like interactive Gantt charts and strong time management tools.

Although Interactive Gantt charts aren’t in the free tier, with it, you can quickly add tasks and milestones, update the project’s timeline, establish task dependencies, track progress with task completion (marked in percentages), change the priority level, etc.

Plus, teams can view their projects in a way that makes the most sense to them, thanks to Teamwork’s other project views. The four main ones available are List, Table, Board, and Gantt.

Teamwork Project Management Platform

Cheapest Plan Free Plan Free Plan Details Compatibility
$5.99/month Yes 5 users, integrations with Slack, Google Suite, and Microsoft Teams, time tracking, Gantt, board, table, and list views, 2 projects Windows, Mac, Android, iOS

With the use of these several views, your team can view their projects and tasks in any format they prefer, simplifying the management and tracking of progress. Because everyone can immediately grasp the status of assignments and projects, this flexibility promotes improved teamwork and communication.

We also really enjoyed the time monitoring feature, and it’s a beneficial tool for managers who work with teams and contractors to track, evaluate, and optimize time-driven tasks. Users can enter task metadata, such as anticipated hours, a description, and if a work is billable, into the time tracking engine.

That said, time monitoring and similar advanced capabilities are only available on higher-tier plans; however, a large part of why Teamwork is popular is because of how affordable it is to scale with the tool, so even if you need advanced features, you won’t be forking out a large sum for them with Teamwork.

Pricing

Teamwork offers a wide range of plans that are aimed at scaling seamlessly alongside your business. For large teams who want more storage, users, charts, and features, it’s recommended to go for the Growth plan, which offers excellent value for money and is currently the most popular plan on offer:

Teamwork Pricing

Pros

  • Simple to use and navigate, making it an excellent choice for beginners
  • Excellent interactive Gantt charts
  • Both the Deliver and Grow plans offer a 30-day free trial
  • Low-cost plans that scale with your business

Cons

  • Top features like time management are only in the Deliver plan and above

6. Zoho Projects – Smart Choice for Those Using Other Zoho Products

Zoho Logo

Zoho Projects is one of the many Zoho products. Zoho has one of the best CRM apps, and with the project management tool, they’re flexing their muscles again. With it, you can create custom Gantt charts and organize your team’s workflow from one central location.

In fact, the Gantt chart creator is one of Zoho Projects’ most notable features. Using a drag-and-drop interface, you can effortlessly create Gantt charts — simply drag the tasks into the appropriate positions on the Gantt chart, and add dependencies to prevent tasks overlapping.

Zoho Projects

Cheapest Plan Free Plan Free Plan Details Compatibility
$5.99/month Yes 3 users, 2 projects, 5GB storage, task management, Gantt charts, project feed, and basic reports Windows, Mac, Android, iOS

You can add four types of job dependencies using Zoho’s Gantt chart creator, and you can update or remove them at any moment. In the Gantt chart maker, you can even set up baselines to compare project progress over various time frames.

Beyond this, what we also loved is that you can store your Gantt charts as templates and reuse them later, which is definitely worth noting. And, to top it all off, we also liked how customizable it all is.

For example, when you log in, you’ll see an overview of the projects, statuses, and budgets that are important to you, thanks to a customizable dashboard. For instance, you could include a Task Status widget that displays the proportion of open versus closed tasks as a pie chart and a raw number count.

Pricing

The free Zoho Projects plan allows for a maximum of 2 projects and 3 plans, so not really enough to run a small business with, but a good indicator of what you can expect with the premium plans. The top plan is far more reasonable than most of the other tools on our list, and it boasts unlimited projects and users:

Zoho Projects Pricing

Pros

  • Offers a decent free plan for getting used to the service
  • Strong time management tools
  • Excellent Gantt chart creator with drag-and-drop tools
  • Affordably priced plans

Cons

  • No pre-made templates or charts

7. Quire – One of the Top Free Gantt Chart Tools

Quire Logo

Quire is a top Gantt chart software tool that offers businesses a simple and intuitive platform to organize workflows and track employees. It’s easy for new users to get started, but there are also ample customization options that make it just as appealing for experienced users.

It provides project managers with three interchangeable views so they can see their to-do list from the perspective they desire. The timeline view creates a Gantt chart-style view that allows you to watch the project progress over time and identify any potential hurdles.

This allows you to keep on top of your schedule and plan ahead. However, there’s also the popular Kanban board view that provides enhanced options for task organization based on the assignee, status, priority, etc., using a card-style task display.

Quire Dashboard

Cheapest Plan Free Plan Free Plan Details Compatibility
$7.65/month Yes 10 users, 400MB storage, Kanban board, nested list, permission control, integrations with Slack and Google Suite Windows, Mac, Android, iOS

The list view, on the other hand, makes it simple to maintain task organization and provides you with a broad overview of a project’s ultimate goal — whatever your goals, there’s something here for all teams.

We were also very impressed by the new Peekaboo feature, which helps if your task list is overloaded with non-actionable tasks that are creating confusion. With this feature, these will be temporarily tucked away to keep you organized, focused, and less stressed.

Overall, Quire boasts all the necessities to manage your projects in a format that suits your team, however, it does lack some functionality you’ll find with other solutions, such as time management, but you can integrate with software for this.

Pricing

With Quire, you get access to a decent free plan, and with it, you can add up to 10 users and work across 8 different projects – so it’s much more flexible than many of the other ‘free’ plans on this list.

If require more features, users, and so on, you can upgrade to one of the many affordable paid plans. There’s even a useful 30-day free trial for users to get to grips with the software before committing to a long-term solution.

Quire Pricing

Pros

  • Intuitive interface with a minimalistic, neat appearance
  • Easy to use, even for beginners who are unfamiliar with project management software
  • Offers stability and reliability via 99.4% uptime

Cons

  • Not as many premium features, for example, it lacks time management tools

Asana Logo

Asana is an incredibly popular Gantt chart and project management tool with a bright interface and a powerful engine. It has one of the most intuitive interfaces, and in fact, you’ll find that many other PM tools have drawn inspiration from Asana over time.

There are several features in the free edition that can simplify your workflows, for example, you can message on the site, look up records of previous projects, and have access to unlimited storage, which can be perfect for small teams.

Asana Project Management Tool

Cheapest Plan Free Plan Free Plan Details Compatibility
$10.99/month Yes 15 users, unlimited tasks, projects, messages, file storage (max 100MB per file), calendar, board, and list views, 100+ integrations including Slack, Google Suite, Teams, Adobe and Salesforce Windows, Mac, Android, iOS

Beyond this, Asana offers a variety of project views — you have the option to see tasks in Kanban-style cards, on a calendar with projects and their due dates, or as a general workload overview. Switching between these perspectives allows your team members more flexibility and enables you to involve more stakeholders.

They also include a decent Gantt chart feature that lets you visualize data in a detailed and concise manner. With it, you can easily identify critical paths, adjust timelines to your requirements and control important decisions on projects.

One other feature we really liked is the guest access function, which allows you to invite external partners like stakeholders or clients to the platform to securely share important updates on projects and tasks, all whilst allowing you to collaborate in real-time.

Pricing

Asana offers an excellent free plan for up to 15 users, and with it, you can work on a large range of projects and tasks – it’s a great way for businesses to get comfortable with the platform before potentially upgrading.

If you need more users and better support, plus more premium features like time management and guest access, the Premium plan is a good place to start:

Asana Pricing

Pros

  • Generous free version that allows you to create Gantt charts with helpful templates
  • Offers a stunning visual experience and highly user-friendly interface
  • Excellent guest access and time management features

Cons

  • Can be an expensive option for larger teams

9. Microsoft Project – Great for Microsft 365 Subscribers

Microsoft Project Logo

Microsoft Project receives bonus points for being one of the most well-known Gantt charts software in the business world and for being in use for many years. But it’s not the most user-friendly option on our list, and larger teams may find it pricey.

It features configurable Gantt charts that let you see project workflows and resources, just like any decent project management program should. You’ll be able to track all work being done as well as overarching objectives that need to be achieved.

Microsoft Project Dashboard

Cheapest Plan Free Plan Free Plan Details Compatibility
$10/month No N/A Windows, Mac, Android, iOS

It’s safe to say that you’ll feel most at home if you’re a user of other Microsoft apps like Excel, especially when you consider that they work best when used together, but it can also be integrated with a host of other third-party apps, including employee time tracking tools, as well as CRMs like Salesforce.

Other features that are noteworthy include the numerous report templates included with a subscription. Once you’ve found one that works for you, you can easily update the information in the report when new information becomes available or change how it looks to make the content easier to understand.

Beyond this, what makes Microsoft Projects popular for businesses is that there’s an option for both cloud or on-premise solutions, plus a one-time fee for the software — both of which you won’t find with many of the best project management tools. That said, it is costlier than most, but thankfully there is a free trial.

Pricing

There are numerous ways you can get your hands on Microsoft Projects. That said, each plan offers a 30-day free trial for your team to test the service out. Uniquely, you also get the option to buy a one-off license, but this can be very expensive. Here are the options on offer:

Microsoft Projects Pricing

Pros

  • You can choose between cloud-based or on-premise solutions
  • Links seamlessly with all the other Microsoft apps
  • Great advanced Gantt chart features and customization

Cons

  • Can be pricey
  • The interface could be more intuitive

10. GanttPro – Specialzied Tool for Gantt Chart Pros

GanttPro Logo

GanttPro is a dedicated Gantt chart project management tool with useful apps for mobile and desktop clients. It’s clear that the makers of this software had Gantt charts at the forefront of their minds, which is great if that’s what you need.

But as an all-in-one project management tool, it lacks some key features. That said, just like other platforms, you can add tasks to GanttPRO and assign them to team members.

GanntPro Dashboard

Cheapest Plan Free Plan Free Plan Details Compatibility
$7.99/month No N/A Windows, Mac, Android, iOS

Setting priorities helps distinguish between projects that need urgent attention, and you can easily visualize different tasks with custom colors. So overall, the Gantt chart view in GanttPRO makes it simple to keep track of your project’s progress and shows the progress percentage for each task.

You can, of course, set up dependencies if you need to ensure that there’s no overlap and that a specific task isn’t started before the completion of a previous task, which helps to drastically improve your workflow.

The absence of a free plan in GanttPRO is perhaps its most significant downside, however, the basic plan is competitively priced and there is a month-long free trial on offer, so we don’t consider this a dealbreaker.

Pricing

There are four main plans you can choose from, each offering decent value for money, plus there’s a 30-day free trial for the paid plans, so be sure to test the service before committing:

GanttPro Pricing

Pros

  • Specialized Gantt chart software, so customization and the interface is excellent
  • Great mobile apps for working on the go
  • Offers a free trial for all paid plans, perfect for testing the service

Cons

  • No dedicated free plan, only a free trial
  • Lacks some of the more advanced project management tools like time management

The Market’s Top Gantt Chart Makers Compared

To help you explore the key points of each of the tools above, we’ve compiled a useful comparison table that compares key factors like pricing, free plans, compatibility, and much more to help you decide:

Provider Cheapest Plan Free Plan Free Plan Details Compatibility
Monday $8/month Yes 200 projects, 1 dashboard, Kanban view, and access for 1-2 users Windows, Mac, Android, iOS
ClickUp $7/month Yes Infinite projects, Gantt charts, 100mb file storage, unlimited free plan members, Whiteboards, collaborative docs Windows, Mac, Android, iOS
Wrike $7/month Yes Unlimited free plan users, task management, email integration, custom work views, templates, collaborative docs Windows, Mac, Android, iOS
Smartsheet $7/month No 2 sheets, 2 users, Grid, Gantt, Calendar, and Card View, 500mb attachments, integrations with Google Workspace, Microsoft Office 365, Slack, Box, Dropbox Windows, Mac, Android, iOS
Teamwork $5.99/month Yes 5 users, integrations with Slack, Google Suite, and Microsoft Teams, time tracking, Gantt, board, table, and list views, 2 projects Windows, Mac, Android, iOS
Zoho Projects $5.99/month Yes 3 users, 2 projects, 5GB storage, task management, Gantt charts, project feed, and basic reports Windows, Mac, Android, iOS
Quire $7.65/month No 10 users, 400MB storage, Kanban board, nested list, permission control, integrations with Slack and Google Suite Windows, Mac, Android, iOS
Asana $10.99/month Yes 15 users, unlimited tasks, projects, messages, file storage (max 100MB per file), calendar, board, and list views, 100+ integrations including Slack, Google Suite, Teams, Adobe, and Salesforce Windows, Mac, Android, iOS
Microsoft Projects $10/month No N/A Windows, Mac, Android, iOS
GanttPro $7.99/month No N/A Windows, Mac, Android, iOS

How to Choose the Best Gantt Chart Tool for You

To make sure you pick the best Gantt chart tool for your business needs, we’ve highlighted some of the key factors below that you should consider before deciding:

  • Features — The best Gantt chart software should have customizable templates for you to use rather than having to make them all from scratch. But it’s also important that they get the fundamentals of project management right, too, so this includes time management, collaboration, and role assignment features.
  • Pricing — You shouldn’t just base your decision on pricing and go for the lowest cost option, as this is a recipe for disaster. Instead, look for plans that have a good feature-to-price ratio and those that offer a free plan or free trial to test before committing.
  • Scalability — It’s important that whichever tool you opt for can grow alongside your business. For example, if you start on a free plan, your business may grow, and you’ll need a plan that can support more users, has the features you need, and extra customization to get the best out of your chosen software.
  • Customization — A good Gantt chart tool and project management software solution should offer high levels of customization, from the dashboard and layout, to how the charts look. Being able to customize your program means you can tailor it to how your business works best, which improves productivity.
  • Integrations — The best tools out there will integrate seamlessly with a host of other third-party apps, like CRM tools or e-commerce apps like Shopify. If you already use programs like QuickBooks, having a Gantt chart tool that can link to them allows for better automation, improving your workflow.

What’s the Best Free Gantt Chart Software?

There are some totally free tools out there that might get the job done for a small business or entrepreneurial use, all without having to spend a penny. We’d always recommend opting for a paid plan to add more users and get access to the advanced features, but if you don’t want to spend any money, try some of the tools below:

Software Max Number of Users Paid Starting Plan Price Top Free Features

Monday

 2 Users

 $8/month (per user)

 1. Gantt Charts

2. Monday Workdocs

3. Kanban View

ClickUp

 Unlimited

 $5/month (per user)

 1. Unlimited Tasks

2. Native Time Tracking

3. Two-Factor Authentication

Wrike

 Unlimited

 $9.80/month (per user)

 1. Live Editor

2. Email Integration

3. Activity Stream

The above plans all offer some decent features, and ClickUp and Wrike even allow for unlimited users. However, you get far less storage, a limited number of projects and tasks, plus a lack of features and integrations.

Instead, we’d recommend you try a premium plan from a provider like Monday, which, beyond the forever free plan, offers a 30-day free trial on paid plans, which cost as little as $8/month per user. Try it now to see everything on offer with Monday.com.

How to Create a Gantt Chart Online | Step-by-Step

Now we’re going to walk you through the steps you need to take in order to create your own Gantt chart online, using our top pick Monday as an example. (The steps will be similar for most other providers.):

Step 1 — Create Tasks

Create new tasks on your board as the first step before creating your Gantt chart view on Monday. To do this, click “Add task” to a group that already exists or hit the “New Task” button located in the top left corner of the board.

Step 2 — Edit Your Board

Once tasks are added to your board, you can change the status, schedule, and other components in accordance with your needs for project tracking.

Step 3 — Create Your Gantt Chart

You can now create your Gantt chart by following the instructions after setting up your board. The “Gantt view” option is available when you click the “+” button next to the dashboard view. The default view will instantly change to your Gantt chart view once you click on it.

Step 4 — Customize Your Gantt Chart

You should start adding more jobs and groups with precise due dates after constructing your Gantt chart. To do this, just click on a task and complete the required fields. As your project develops, you can update the Gantt chart to reflect the current status. For instance, if a job is behind schedule, you can make it red.

Editing items in Gantt on Monday

Step 5 — Download or Share Your Gantt Chart

After the project is complete, you can download the Gantt chart by exporting it as an Excel or PDF file and share it with stakeholders or similar external or internal personnel.

That’s all you need to do – now you know how to quickly and conveniently create Gantt charts on Monday and other project management tools. It’s really easy, and you’ll get quickly accustomed to the workings of it with just 10 minutes of playing around with it.

Conclusion | What’s the Best Gantt Chart Software to Use in 2024?

The best Gantt chart software allows you to create detailed projects and charts to better improve workflows and collaboration within a workforce. It’s important to make sure the tool you pick is adept at other project management basics, too, like time tracking and plentiful integrations with external apps.

We’d recommend trying Monday, our top-rated Gantt chart tool for 2024, as it offers a generous free plan, a highly customizable interface, and a plethora of charts, views, and integrations.

FAQ

What is the best software to create a Gantt chart?

What is the easiest Gantt chart free?

Can you do Gantt charts in Excel?

What are the 3 uses of a Gantt chart?

Is there an open-source Gantt chart maker?

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Best Project Management Software: Top 10 Free & Paid PM Tools Compared https://techreport.com/business-software/best-project-management-software/ Thu, 27 Jul 2023 12:50:18 +0000 https://techreport.com/?page_id=3509108 Best Project Management Software

When it comes to project management, members of a team must maintain communication, as poor communication can result in lost income, missed opportunities for growth, and a decline in productivity....

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Best Project Management Software

When it comes to project management, members of a team must maintain communication, as poor communication can result in lost income, missed opportunities for growth, and a decline in productivity. As such, the use of one of the best project management tools is essential for any sized business, as these solutions are an asset for maintaining order, assisting in work delegation, and facilitating clear communication about the status of various projects and goals.

That said, finding the best of the bunch for your needs is no easy task. After reviewing many of the leading project management tools, we’ve developed a list of the software solutions that stand out based on criteria like their reputation, feature-to-price value, free offerings, and ease of use. In this article, we’ll review and compare the market’s top options for various needs and budgets.

The Top 10 Best Project Management Tools

Below is a quick overview of the top 10 project management tools, with the almighty Monday.com leading the way:

  1. Monday – Overall, the best project management tool in 2024, thanks to its excellent features like collaborative docs and built-in time tracking functions
  2. ClickUp – An excellent option for small businesses as it includes a generous free plan and affordably priced paid tiers, perfect for scaling with your business
  3. Wrike – Powerful project management software that features great role-based access features for assigning tasks and giving access
  4. Smartsheet – Intuitive project management tool with a unique spreadsheet-like layout and a high level of customization, great for Excel fans
  5. Teamwork – Budget-friendly option that’s great for remote working teams as it features an excellent communication app, Teamwork Chat
  6. Zoho Projects – A popular project management program that links seamlessly with other Zoho apps, like the highly-rated CRM software
  7. Quire – Dependable project management tool that offers a highly customizable and user-friendly interface, great for beginners
  8. Awork – A great choice for small teams looking for a simple-to-use project management tool with a clean interface
  9. ProWorkflow – Useful project management tool with an excellent Active Staff View feature for managing the workload of employees
  10. Asana – Simple-to-use project management solution with a ton of useful list views, including Kanban and Gantt charts

Why You Should Use Project Management Software

With the focus being on increasing productivity, communication, and output, there are a ton of reasons project management software is beneficial for businesses of all sizes. Here’s a useful list of the main advantages of using this software:

Collaboration and Communication

Project management tools make it easier to inform team members on even the most minute project plans and specifics, and since all of your information is in one location, you can effortlessly assign tasks, tag team members in comments, and take advantage of document-sharing capabilities.

Furthermore, it prevents conversations from getting lost in email threads, chat rooms on instant messaging services, or even handwritten notes. Knowing who’s responsible for what eliminates confusion, makes progress visible, and promotes task completion on schedule.

All of this keeps the project planning process organized and lessens delays brought on by a lack of structure.

Improved Analytics

Project management software also provides you with insights into a variety of your processes and projects. Most project management tools will have a comprehensive business intelligence solution and customizable dashboards for reporting at a glance (i.e., upcoming deadlines and task completion rates).

By focusing on usable data, comparing it to your KPIs, and visualizing it, you can strategize your next step based on practical insights or enhance your current procedures to cut down on wasted time and money.

Organize Data

Regardless of the type of project you’re working on, project management software allows you to securely centralize project data. As a result, there’s a well-organized informational structure that encourages transparency and enhances collaborative capabilities.

Every team member can work on the latest document version, make revisions in real time, and be certain that everyone else working on the project is aware of any changes thanks to a single source of truth.

Say goodbye to sifting through email threads and searching through each folder in search of the information you’re missing while juggling your different tasks.

Budget Management

Budget forecasting is a feature of the best project management software that analyses data from previous projects to get precise projections for ongoing and forthcoming projects. In fact, most project management solutions can be configured to provide notifications and alarms when you deviate from the planned budget.

Project management software helps decipher intricate budgeting data and present it in understandable reports that can be given to stakeholders and investors. It’s your responsibility as a PM to consistently organize and disseminate this information, and project management software can make this task quick and error-free.

Improve Processes

Your team can create, store, and search a database of workflow rules and procedures thanks to the many document and information management systems you’ll find with leading project management software.

However, more sophisticated project management tools boast capabilities like customizable project request forms, Gantt charts, and automated workflows that are triggered when a specific action (such as requesting a job or task, marking something as finished, etc.) is taken.

Reviews of the Best Project Planning Software Solutions

Now it’s time to take a more in-depth look at the top project management software by reviewing the key features, functionalities, ease of use, pricing, and much more, starting with our number one pick, Monday.

1. Monday – Overall, the Best Project Management Tool in 2024

Monday Logo

Monday is our overall top pick for the best project management software, as it’s one of the most highly customizable and easy-to-use tools out there. Better yet, it has a useful free plan that’s ideal for smaller-scale businesses or startups, which includes many premium features.

One of the most impressive features is the excellent role assignment. Each team member can be given a defined job, ensuring they have access to the tools they need to do their tasks — this maintains accountability and prevents confusion about who’s working on a project.

Another feature we particularly enjoyed is the collaborative docs function, which enables everyone to co-author documentation and link to other files within the software. Plus, you can create project views that display the data that’s pertinent to your operation using its configurable dashboards.

Monday.com Table View

Starting Price (Per User) Free Version Compatibility Top Features
$8/month Yes Windows, Mac, Android, and iOS 1. Collaborative Docs
2. Project Scheduling
3. Time Management

Alongside these outstanding features, you also get an insane amount of integrations with third-party apps like Mailchimp or Shopify. To automate and sync all your processes, you can explore the integrations by browsing through the add-ons section on Monday to connect with the tools your business already uses.

Moving to another area where Monday excels – the interface and ease of use. We found both to be excellent. For beginners, there are useful hints and a wealth of guides and videos to help you get started, and for those more accustomed to project management tools, there’s also enough here to really sink your teeth into.

However, should you get stuck during your implementation of Monday, there’s a stack of useful support options available for users, including a live chat, a ticketing system, or a deep knowledge base, including useful webinars, videos, and tips and tricks.

Pricing

Alongside a solid free plan for smaller businesses (we’re talking 1-2 people max), there are also some excellent paid plans that can scale alongside your business growth:

Monday Pricing

As a leader in the project planning space, we highly recommend trying Monday’s free plan risk-free now to see if it’s the right tool for your needs. There’s also a solid 2-week long free trial on the premium plans if you want to test Monday.com in all its glory before committing.

Pros

  • Highly customizable interface, so you can set it up how you need it
  • Supports integrations with a ton of other apps, like CRMs
  • Excellent mobile apps, great for working on the go
  • Includes a 14-day free trial for all plans, and a generous free tier

Cons

  • Can be quite pricey if you have a large business with multiple employees

2. ClickUp – A Leading Option for Small Businesses

ClickUp Logo

ClickUp is an all-in-one productivity platform that includes collaborative capabilities, project tracking tools, reporting dashboards, workflow creations, and document organization.

It’s one of the most widely used project management software systems available and includes a ton of potential integrations and some truly unique features. For example, the Whiteboards function allows you and your team to brainstorm while creating a foolproof plan.

You also get access to collaborative docs that function as a Wiki, meaning anyone can join and contribute to the discussion. Additionally, you have access to services like in-app chat and proofing that can speed up customer approvals for marketing assets.

ClickUp Project Management Software

Starting Price (Per User) Free Version Compatibility Top Features
$7/month Yes Windows, Mac, Android, and iOS 1. Whiteboards
2. Collaborative Docs
3. Custom Views

Besides collaboration tools, it also has task and time management tools, and users can create workflows using a whopping 12+ views. For example, you can select a list view for to-do lists, a board for process management, or a Gantt chart view for project timelines to organize tasks, track change, and manage your teams.

Another of the platform’s main features includes the ability to post comments on any task or document, assign comments with action items, communicate in real-time, share attachments, and uniquely, you can even create and annotate in-app video recordings, which are a great asset for training.

To support these premium features, there are also a ton of third-party app integrations available, including Calendly, Google Suite, HubSpot, and Slack, amongst many more. Also, a subscription with Zapier allows you to connect to over 1,000 additional apps.

Pricing

There’s a nice and straightforward plan structure with ClickUp, each of them offering excellent value for money. The cheapest plan (besides the generous free plan on offer) is ideal for small-to-midsize businesses.

However, the Unlimited plan does come with restrictions on custom exports, as you can only export your lists or table views as an Excel or CSV file five times. For larger teams who need more automation, whiteboards, or dashboards, we’d recommend opting for either the Business or Business Plus plans.

ClickUp Pricing

Pros

  • Includes unlimited Gantt charts
  • Offers an excellent free plan
  • Well-priced plans that can scale alongside your business
  • Excellent real-time chat for collaborating with colleagues

Cons

  • There are no reporting tools on the free account

3. Wrike – Includes Excellent Role-based Access Control Features

Wrike Logo

Wrike is an excellent project management tool that’s used by some of the world’s leading brands, like Google, to run, organize, and manage their business. It includes a ton of excellent features like role assignment and Gantt charts and even offers a generous free plan.

Real-time editing and mentions are supported by Wrike, enabling team members to collaborate on tasks and projects without difficulty. Plus, it provides activity streams where users can view real-time updates, remarks, and modifications made by team members.

Wrike Project Management Dashboard

Starting Price (Per User) Free Version Compatibility Top Features
$9.80/month Yes Windows, Mac, Android, and iOS 1. AI Project Risk Prediction
2. Wrike Lock
3. Wrike Marketing Insights

Unlike many, you can even keep track of the time spent on tasks for insights into team efficiency without the need for integration, and you can create different reports on project progress, team performance, and resource allocation using the platform’s reporting and analytics functionalities.

Although it comes loaded with functionality, it also supports a variety of third-party programs, including Microsoft Office 365, communication apps like Slack, and cloud storage services like Google Drive and Dropbox. Besides data syncing, these integration opportunities improve cross-platform communication.

In terms of security, there are strong measures available with Wrike, including data encryption, user authentication, and role-based access controls. This guarantees that private project information stays protected and is only accessible to authorized individuals.

Pricing

Wrike includes a free plan that startups, entrepreneurs, or even small businesses can use. It allows you to create an unlimited number of projects which is unique for a free plan, however, you are limited to 200 tasks and subtasks.

Wrike Pricing

That said, the paid plans are competitively priced and will give you access to the full suite of features, like Kanban, dynamic Gantt charts, and advanced analytics.

Pros

  • You can create unlimited projects in the free plan
  • Incredibly easy-to-use apps and desktop clients
  • Includes excellent marketing insight features
  • AI risk projection is extremely useful for businesses

Cons

  • Gantt chart view is only available in paid plans

4. Smartsheet – Offers a Unique and Highly Customizable Spreadsheet-Like Interface

Smartsheet Logo

Smartsheet is a cloud-based project management solution that allows teams to plan, track, automate, and report on their work. What makes it particularly unique is the way its interface looks, as it’s modeled on a spreadsheet.

It includes interesting features that make this far more powerful than a standard spreadsheet, including customizable templates, milestone tracking, and Kanban boards – all of which are common with project management software, but Smartsheet nails the basics very well.

The main standout, of course, is the view and layout of Smartsheet, and this leads many to love it or hate it. That said, it does offer other views alongside great customization capabilities to accommodate several needs and preferences.

Smartsheet Project Management Tool

Starting Price (Per User) Free Version Compatibility Top Features
$7/month Yes Windows, Mac, Android, and iOS 1. 10,000ft Management
2. Performance Dashboard
3. Milestone Tracking

It’s important to note that Smartsheet is so much more than a glorified spreadsheet and also includes useful features like collaboration tools (including live document editing) and reporting dashboards that make this a complete project management solution.

We also loved the 10,000ft management feature, which you can integrate into Smartsheet to match your projects with workforce requirements. This gives you access to a high-level picture of your team’s availability and the projects they’re engaged in.

Using this, you can select who has the availability to take on additional tasks and deliverables to maintain a smooth flow of projects through your pipeline. Smartsheet does this so well that it’s considered one of the best business resource management solutions.

Pricing

Smartsheet has a simple range of plans, including an excellent free option that includes Grid, Gantt, calendar, and card views, albeit for just one user. For more users, there’s a competitive range of plans for businesses of all sizes, each offering unlimited sheets, dashboards, and varying ranges of file storage.

Smartsheet Pricing

Pros

  • Intriguing customized spreadsheet layout, great for Excel lovers
  • Good range of third-party app integrations, including Google Suite and Slack
  • Great mobile apps for iOS and Android
  • Offers a great free plan with few limitations for one user

Cons

  • You need to pay extra for features like time tracking

5. Teamwork – Great for Remote Teams

Teamwork Logo

Teamwork, as a project management tool created with team management at the forefront of its design, lives up to its name. It provides a broad range of features that make it among the best available on the market.

From fostering collaboration to easily managing workloads to monitoring project status in real-time. It gives project managers visibility into the responsibilities of team members, expected and actual progress, and billable work hours thanks to Teamwork’s time tracking feature.

Teams can view their projects in a way that makes the most sense to them, thanks to teamwork project views. Although more than sufficient for most, you’re limited to four project views, including the popular List, Table, Boards, and Gantt.

Teamwork Project Management Platform

Starting Price (Per User) Free Version Compatibility Top Features
$5.99/month Yes Windows, Mac, Android, and iOS 1. Teamwork Chat
2. Time Tracking
3. Project Risk Management

With the use of these several views, teams can select the one that best suits their particular project and team, simplifying management and tracking of progress. Because everyone can immediately grasp the status of assignments and projects, this flexibility promotes improved teamwork and communication.

A feature we really liked seeing was Teamwork Chat, an app that gives teams a distinct platform tool for team discussions with a similar feel to Slack or Microsoft Teams. Users can share files, start new channels for user groups, and test out Teamwork’s beta video conferencing capability, all from within the app.

Even better, Teamwork integrates with a wide range of apps, including those listed above, should your business already be using them. With these, businesses can collaborate easily across applications without having to manually move between them. Popular links include Gmail, HubSpot, and some of the best accounting tools, like Quickbooks.

Pricing

Teamwork features more plans than most, including the excellent free forever plan, which is a little limited in terms of features, but does include file storage, and unlike many, it allows for up to 5 users.

Teamwork Pricing

Each of the other plans allows for seamless scaling alongside your business, with each added extra storage, more users, and an increased number of projects.

Pros

  • Free 30-day trial for Deliver and Grow subscriptions, plus a good unlimited free plan
  • Simple to use interface, great for beginners
  • Includes a good range of affordable plans for businesses of all sizes
  • Features an invoicing and billing function alongside time tracking

Cons

  • You need a minimum of three users for any of the paid-tier plans

6. Zoho Projects – Integrates Seamlessly With Other Zoho Software, Including the CRM

Zoho Logo

Zoho Projects is a top project management tool with deep features, including the ability to record billing time for various projects and Gantt charts. It even comes with outstanding built-in communication, such as live chat rooms, forum pages, and Zoho Meeting.

The extensive feature set of Zoho Projects makes it unique in a congested market. Beginning with the seamless integration with the rest of the Zoho ecosystem, which consists of apps for meetings, email, IT administration, CRM, finance, and loads more.

Zoho Projects connects with most Google products if your company uses G Suite from Google. One of the clear strengths of Zoho Project is definitely team collaboration.

Zoho Projects

Starting Price (Per User) Free Version Compatibility Top Features
$4/month Yes Windows, Mac, Android, and iOS 1. Built-in Chat
2. Resource Management
3. Time Tracking

Besides an integrated chat box for instant chatting, paying customers even have access to file attachments to avoid back-and-forth emails related to ongoing projects. Also, as Zoho offers one of the best CRM solutions on the market, you can seamlessly sync your customer data into Zoho projects.

Uniquely, you can also integrate with Zoho Meeting, which will enable you to start video conferences with coworkers directly from your task view. Plus, the program even performs a good job of tracking time, and timelines can be given to projects so that task deadlines can’t be established outside of the project dates.

Individual tasks for Express users also include a built-in time tracker so you can check whether the time is billable for that project, which makes it a popular option for freelancers.

Another feature we liked is the resource management reporting function, which managers, in particular, will be thrilled to see. These weekly reports show which employees are given too much or not enough work, as well as which tasks take up most of their time.

Pricing

Like many other project management tools on this list, Zoho Projects includes a strong free plan for up to 5 users, slightly more than most others, which usually limits you to just one or two users. That aside, there are just two other options to pick from:

Zoho Projects Pricing

Both of the paid plans offer a 10-day free trial, so you can test the Premium or Enterprise plans and all their features free for a short period.

Pros

  • The free plan can be used by up to 5 users
  • Simple and affordable paid plan structure
  • Includes time tracking for hourly billing
  • Integrates seamlessly with other Zoho apps

Cons

  • No access to any pre-made templates

7. Quire – User-friendly Project Management Solution

Quire Logo

Quire is a well-regarded project management tool that streamlines workflows and promotes interaction and teamwork. In fact, hundreds of thousands of users worldwide, including individuals from major corporations like Google, IBM, Dyson, Nasdaq, and Stanford, trust Quire.

The tool is designed for teams that struggle to break down major goals into manageable chunks and will assist you in creating and keeping track of the tasks and subtasks that make up each larger project item.

Quire Dashboard

Starting Price (Per User) Free Version Compatibility Top Features
$7.65/month Yes Windows, Mac, Android, and iOS 1. Gantt Chart Builder
2. Document Management
3. Real-time Editing

The nested task list view, the Kanban view, and the timeline view are Quire’s three primary view modes, all of which offer detailed information on tasks and can be customized fully to suit your team’s needs. Managers can assign comments and mention within these tasks and lists, making for seamless collaboration.

There’s also a good range of task management tools in Quire, including a Gantt chart builder, task templates, data search, and re-usable tags, which help you visualize your team’s performance.

Plus, there’s a configurable reporting suite, file sharing, attachment management, and real-time updates are just a few of the team communication and project management capabilities to aid you further. In fact, unlike most, Quire also lets you assign numerous assignees to a task or project.

Quire supports thousands of integrations through Zapier (premium account required), in addition to native integrations with Slack, GitHub, Google Workspace, and Microsoft, amongst many others.

Pricing

Quire includes a useful free-to-use plan that can support up to 8 projects and a generous 10 users, far more than many other providers on this list. Paid plans also all come with a 30-day free trial, so you can test out all the features before committing to a premium plan long-term.

Quire Pricing

Pros

  • Easy-to-use interface, great for new users of this software
  • Excellent document management features
  • Intuitive mobile apps for remote workers

Cons

  • Slightly expensive paid plans compared with other products

8. Awork – Great Choice for Startups or Small Teams

Awork Logo

Awork is a cloud-based collaboration tool made to simplify project management, marketing management, and even event administration. The tool enables you to delegate tasks to team members and monitor their performance throughout the project.

The tool’s adaptable Kanban boards, often known as interactive to-do lists, can be used to assign tasks. Additionally, users can create a timeline for each project, enabling them to give clients and stakeholders accurate information about projects.

You can add tasks, subtasks, and deadlines for each project on the boards to make it simpler to understand how your project is progressing. And as you’d expect, a project manager can switch between various perspectives to monitor the status of various tasks.

Awork Dashboard

 

Starting Price (Per User) Free Version Compatibility Top Features
$11/month No Windows, Mac, Android, and iOS 1. Personio Integration
2. Project Recovery
3. Time Tracking

With Awork, you can organize and exhibit every one of your actions using the Kanban boards, and users can see exactly how the team’s various projects are progressing. The drag-and-drop functionality of the platform makes moving any work simple.

For further integrations, you can link Awork to your calendar and set tasks in order of importance. This way, all of your team can be notified of who’s working on what in one central location. We also really enjoyed how clean the interface is, which is impressive for a slightly lesser-known project management tool.

It’s very simple to get to grips with, and you can learn all the intricacies in a short period. There’s even a strong support team on-hand to help you as and when you need it, and the response times are lightning-fast.

Pricing

Sadly, there’s no free plan on offer with Awork. Depending on the number of users and the features you need, these are the 3 plans you have to choose from:

Awork Pricing

Pros

  • Great support options on the higher-tier plan
  • Clean and user-friendly interface
  • Integrates with Personio for all your HR needs

Cons

  • No free plan on offer

9. ProWorkflow – Includes an Excellent Active Staff View Feature for Managing Workload

Proworkflow Logo

ProWorkflow allows you to manage time and any resources related to your business’s projects — and it lets you have as many users as you need, unlike its rivals. There’s also no cap on the number of projects you can track in ProWorkflow, regardless of the pricing tier.

Better yet, with the integrated time-tracking tool, you can monitor the amount of time spent on projects or on specific tasks without the need for a third-party app.

ProWorkflow Project Management Software

Starting Price (Per User) Free Version Compatibility Top Features
$18/month No Windows, Mac, Android, and iOS 1. Active Staff View
2. SAML-based Authentication
3. 50GB of File Storage

You can also create reports based on the distribution of the workload among your employees, and you can use that data to identify any possible issues with team members who are over or under-worked. However, the one feature that stands out is the Active Staff View on the ProWorkflow dashboard.

With it, workflow management is made simpler as you’re able to see everything you need to know at a glance. It shows you how each staff member is spending their time, breaking it down into tasks, projects, and much more.

Pricing

As is common with project management software, there are three plans to choose from, but sadly, none of them are free to use. We also think they’re a little overpriced when you look at the feature-to-cost ratio, especially when compared to other providers on this list.

ProWorkflow Pricing

Pros

  • Allows for an unlimited number of users on any plan
  • Excellent integrated time-tracking feature
  • A highly customizable interface that puts you in control

Cons

  • No free version to test the service

10. Asana – Simple-to-Use Project Management Solution

Asana Logo

Asana is a reliable, approachable project management application that’ll satisfy the demands of most users. Although it’s not quite as strong as other rivals, its user interface is a huge selling feature for folks who have never used this kind of program before.

The free-to-use Basic plan includes lists, kanban boards, and unlimited projects, tasks, and comments. Plus, it can be used by up to 15 people, which is far more than any other free plan on this list, making it an excellent option for small businesses and startups.

Asana Project Management Tool

Starting Price (Per User) Free Version Compatibility Top Features
$10.99/month Yes Windows, Mac, Android, and iOS 1. Project Status Report
2. Workflow Builder
3. Custom Fields

By removing the cap of 1,000 tasks, the more premium plans expand upon the essential Asana capabilities found in the Basic tier. Countless team members and unrestricted free visitors can be added to your projects, and you’ll get an infinite number of dashboards and Asana’s colorful timeline (Gantt chart).

Beyond this, Asana also offers powerful automation with its workflow tool, allowing you to automatically alert assignees of new tasks, send Slack messages, and similar to improve productivity and minimize back-and-forth communications.

The adaptability of Asana with its various project views is what really sets it apart. However, as with most PM tools, different perspectives are unlocked at different tiers. That said, what’s really nice is that the free Basic tier does include all the essential views, including Kanban boards, lists, and calendars.

Pricing

The free plan allows up to 15 users to test the service, and we found it to be more than generous, with no limit on the number of tasks and projects allowed. For more users and features, including time management and collaboration tools, it’s worth upgrading to the premium plan, though.

Asana Pricing

Pros

  • An excellent free plan that allows for up to 15 users
  • Integrates with a host of third-party apps like Shopify, HubSpot, and Google Suite
  • Great mobile apps for Android and iOS

Cons

  • Can get quite expensive, especially when compared to others on this list

The Market’s Top PM Tools Compared

Here’s a quick overview of each of the best project planning tools to help you easily compare key factors like pricing, compatibility, and their top features:

Software Starting Monthly Price (per user) Free Version Compatibility Top Features
Monday $8/month Yes Windows, Mac, Android, and iOS 1. Personalized Scaled Emails
2. Sales Leaderboard
3. Lead Scoring
ClickUp $5/month Yes Windows, Mac, Android, and iOS 1. Whiteboards
2. Collaborative Docs
3. Custom Views
Wrike $9.80/month Yes Windows, Mac, Android, and iOS 1. AI Project Risk Prediction
2. Wrike Lock
3. Wrike Marketing Insights
Smartsheet $7/month Yes Windows, Mac, Android, and iOS 1. 10,000ft Management
2. Performance Dashboard
3. Milestone Tracking
Teamwork $5.99/month Yes Windows, Mac, Android, and iOS 1. Teamwork Chat
2. Time Tracking
3. Project Risk Management
Zoho Projects $4/month Yes Windows, Mac, Android, and iOS 1. Built-in Chat
2. Resource Management
3. Time Tracking
Quire $7.65/month Yes Windows, Mac, Android, and iOS 1. Gantt Chart Builder
2. Document Management
3. Real-time Editing
Awork $11/month No Windows, Mac, Android, and iOS 1. Personio Integration
2. Project Recovery
3. Time Tracking
ProWorkflow $18/month No Windows, Mac, Android, and iOS 1. Active Staff View
2. SAML-based Authentication
3. 50GB of File Storage
Asana $10.99/month Yes Windows, Mac, Android, and iOS 1. Project Status Report
2. Workflow Builder
3. Custom Fields

What’s the Best Free Project Management Tool?

If you don’t want to spend any money, there are some free project management tools out there, but it’s worth noting that they come with limitations, like the number of users, limited customization, and often even a limit on the number of tasks and projects that can be done.

Below is a useful table showing the best free project management programs in 2024:

Software Max Free Users Starting Paid Plan Price Top Free Features

Monday

 2 Users

 $8/month (per user)

 1. Main Boards

2. Mentions

3. Kanban View

ClickUp

 Unlimited

 $5/month (per user)

 1. Real-time Chat

2. In-app Video Recording

3. Collaborative Docs

Wrike

Unlimited

 $9.80/month (per user)

 1. File Sharing

2. Live Editor

3. Activity Stream

These will all do the job for a small business or individual looking to plan their workload better, but generally, it’s wise to use the free versions to trial the tool, but it’s a worthy investment to upgrade to a paid plan or to at least consider the cost of scaling when the need arises.

How We Ranked the Best PM Software SolutionsTo ensure we pick the best project management solutions out there, we have strict criteria for what we look for. This includes things like features, price, compatibility, and ease of use. We’ve listed some of the key factors below to help you make an informed decision:

  • Features: The best project management tools will include important features like Gantt charts, time-tracking tools, collaboration, and file-sharing functions as standard, but some have unique features that set them apart. For example, with Monday, you can send mass personalized emails from within the main hub.
  • Integrations: It’s likely that you’re already using some tech like Google Suite or Shopify, and the best project management apps should link seamlessly to these. Therefore, it’s important to make note of what your business currently uses to make sure your preferred software can integrate with this.
  • Price: You should never purposely look for the cheapest plans, as this can lead to opting for a tool or a plan that isn’t the best fit for your needs. Instead, look for a plan that has a good feature-to-price ratio to ensure you’re getting good value for money.
  • Compatibility: The top project management software should have apps for mobile devices, like Android and iOS, as well as support for desktop clients, Windows and Mac. This means you can work on the go or with whatever equipment your business already uses.

It can be hard to know how to choose the right project management solution for you. Knowing what you need from a tool from the outset will make it easy to determine which one is best for you, plus, many offer free plans or trials, so you can shortlist your top picks and narrow down your options without paying a cent.

Conclusion | What’s the Best Project Management Software to Use in 2024?

With the best project management tools, you can quickly create a hierarchy of activities for effective and efficient completion. You can also use it to show which actions are dependent on one another and which steps need to be performed in order. In turn, this facilitates the team’s ability to complete its work.

Overall, they help businesses keep on top of workers’ productivity and allow for seamless collaboration with other team members, as well as ordering tasks, improving customer relations, and much more.

We’d highly recommend trying Monday, as it has an excellent feature-to-price ratio, offers a ton of customization options, and even has a generous free plan for small businesses to use. Get started risk-free now.

Project Management Software FAQs

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The Best Password Managers: Top 10 in India Compared for 2024 https://techreport.com/password-managers/best-password-managers-in-india/ Thu, 20 Jul 2023 15:16:59 +0000 https://techreport.com/?page_id=3508278 Best password managers in India

The best password managers in India offer top-notch encryption and safety measures to keep your passwords safe online from any potential hackers. Using one should be essential, as it also...

The post The Best Password Managers: Top 10 in India Compared for 2024 appeared first on The Tech Report.

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Best password managers in India

The best password managers in India offer top-notch encryption and safety measures to keep your passwords safe online from any potential hackers. Using one should be essential, as it also allows you to create unique and hard-to-crack passwords for all of your accounts.

As password managers become more and more popular, the market is slightly awash with a ton of different providers, each promising the most cutting-edge features — but who do you trust? Don’t worry, we’re here to help you make an informed decision. We’ve researched and tested dozens of products, and in this article, we’ll look at the market’s best India password managers, including the likes of NordPass, Norton, and Enpass.

The Top 10 Password Managers Ranked

Based on factors like security, ease of use, pricing, and free versions, we’ve ranked each of the best password managers in India accordingly:

  1. NordPass – $2.79/month – The best password manager in 2024 thanks to its industry-leading XChaCha20 encryption and the emergency access feature
  2. Norton – Free – A totally free password management solution with an excellent auto-change feature for updating old passwords in bulk
  3. Enpass – $1.99/month – Powerful password manager that can be used completely offline with no internet connection required
  4. 1Password – $1.79/month – Top choice for businesses as it has unique features like Travel Mode to keep your personal vaults safe when you leave the country
  5. Roboform – $0.99/month – Budget-friendly PW manager that includes a built-in browser for extra secure web surfing and password protection
  6. Keeper – $2.92/month – An excellent PW management tool with a ton of unique features like Trash Bin, which lets you recover deleted files and records
  7. Total Password – $1.99/month – Reliable and low-cost password manager with a useful remote access feature, so you can delete browsing history remotely
  8. Avira – $2.99/month – A popular tool that can also double as an authenticator app for popular websites, including Facebook and Gmail
  9. Dashlane – $3.75/month – Useful password management solution that includes a built-in VPN and powerful dark web scanner
  10. Bitwarden – $0.83/month – The cheapest pick with excellent secure sharing features, so you can safely share passwords and files with trusted contacts

How Do Password Managers Work?

Password managers are apps that help you generate new, strong passwords that are practically impossible to crack, plus protect your current passwords by storing them in encrypted vaults. Most will also enable you to add credit card details or other sensitive documents that you want to be secured, whether it be for work or personal use.

Besides this, they’ve adapted alongside advanced tech, so some of them allow you to use biometric logins, like Face ID or a fingerprint reader, to access your credentials. As such, instead of using your master password, you can save time and log in as you would on your iPhone, Android device, or computer.

Some of the top password managers in India will have some unique features that set them apart from the competition, such as unique encryption protocols, offline access, and a safe share option, where you can share login details with family, friends, or coworkers.

That said, besides the security and convenience aspect, the biggest benefit of using a password manager is that you only need to remember your master password rather than all the login details you use for each website.

Why Do I Need a Password Manager?

There are countless benefits to using a password manager, from saving time typing in long emails and passwords to the overall security they can offer you. Below are the main reasons you should use a password manager in India:

Generate Strong Passwords

When it comes to creating new passwords on websites nowadays, you often need to have them be of a certain length, with a combination of numbers, capital letters, and symbols becoming the best practice. These can be hard to come up with, and it’s not recommended that you repeat the same password across multiple websites.

That’s where a good password manager steps in — with most offering password generators that can create unique passwords for any new account you signup for or even update existing passwords.

Plus, you don’t need to remember them all, as you can autofill them on apps and websites by using either your master password or your biometrics.

Secure Password Sharing

Many people share account details with family members or friends. For example, it’s common to share streaming service logins if someone pays for the subscription, but sharing a password over chat is risky, as it can be easily stolen, which is especially bad if you use the same password for your banking or important accounts.

However, using a good password manager enables you to securely share a password with trusted contacts, be it family or friends, which eliminates the need to share passwords via text or email, reducing the risk of you being hacked.

Two-Factor Authentication

Two-factor authentication adds a layer of security to your already secure password manager. It means you need to enter a code either from your mobile, email or via a third-party authentication app such as Google Authenticator to sign in to your important apps and accounts.

If you have a two-factor authentication set, it wouldn’t be the end of the world even if a hacker installed one of the best keyloggers on the market and obtained your master password. You’d still be protected, and the vault would remain sealed because they’d need your device to receive the unique one-time code.

Save Time

Password managers are one of the safest methods to store passwords. You can manage all your logins from a single application if you use a trustworthy password management service, which is a saving grace for people who use a variety of websites and platforms or have multiple emails and passwords to keep track of.

On top of an effortless login process, there’s even an option for securely storing and inputting card details into forms, so you won’t have to fill out complex passwords or long emails because all you’d have to do is use your biometrics or master password to log in, and the rest is auto-filled for you.

The Top 10 Password Management Tools Reviewed

Now it’s time to take a closer look at the top 10 password management tools in India, starting with the almighty NordPass. We’ll be reviewing each one’s features, overall security, price plans, and much more to give you everything you need to know to make an informed decision.

1. NordPass – Overall, the Best Password Manager in India

NordPass Logo

NordPass boasts stellar reviews and leads the way as the top password management tool in India thanks to its use of the industry-leading XChaCha20 encryption, which is three times as fast as the industry standard set with the AES 256.

Plus, it offers a generous free plan, as well as a host of affordable, feature-rich paid options for individual or personal use. More on those features — NordPass does everything you’d expect a top password manager to do and does so incredibly well.

For example, the autofill feature works effortlessly, so you don’t need to spend time and effort typing in long passwords and email addresses every time you need to log in. You also get the option to safely store away any important files, which is especially useful for business users.

NordPass2

Cheapest Paid Plan Device Limit Free Version Compatibility Money-Back Guarantee
$2.79/month (₹.229) 6 Yes Windows, MacOS, Android, iOS, Chrome, Safari, Firefox, Opera, Edge 30-days

Alongside this, there’s space in your vault for credit card information, and NordPass can, of course, save you from typing all these details in. This works well for enterprises who perhaps have a work expense card, as it saves a physical card being passed around by numerous people.

There are also some more advanced features that set NordPass aside from its rivals, including an excellent emergency access feature, which allows you to provide secure access to your passwords and notes to family members or a friend.

For further sharing of details, there’s a secure share feature that allows you to share credentials to things like streaming sites with loved ones and, of course, shared business accounts with employees.

You also don’t need to worry about compromised passwords, as NordPass will scan the internet and dark web for any passwords that may have been hacked or stolen, and if so, it’ll generate new, unique passwords with its password generator tool.

This is more important than ever, considering that data from a staggering 600,000 internet users in India are being sold on the dark web.

Pricing

NordPass has a simple setup of plans tailored towards personal or business use. Better still, there’s a fantastic free plan you can use, and although you’re limited to one device, it stands out as you can store an infinite number of passwords. Here are all the plans on offer:

NordPass Pricing

 

Pros

  • Industry-leading XChaCha20 encryption for improved security and speed
  • An excellent free plan that lets you store unlimited passwords
  • Independently audited security, so you know it’s safe
  • Lots of cutting-edge features like a data breach scanner and NordPass Authenticator
  • Includes a 30-day free trial for the premium plan
  • Made by NordVPN, one of the best India VPNs

Cons

  • You can only use the free version on one device at a time

2. Norton – A Trusted and Completely Free Password Manager

Norton Family Logo

Norton Password Manager is an entirely free offering, with no paid option or upgrades, which may put some off – but don’t let it fool you. With it, you get all the features you’d expect with a top password manager, plus a few extras that make this an incredibly generous free offering.

Firstly, there’s the standard password generator, which is very effective at creating strong passwords for all of your accounts, as well as a password vault auditor, which informs you if any of your passwords aren’t up to scratch.

What’s especially good is what follows this — Norton’s autochange feature — with this, you can simultaneously update any weak, old, or compromised passwords at the click of a button. As a totally free solution, this is a feature that many other top password managers on this list are yet to offer, so bonus points are there for Norton.

Norton password manager dashboard

Cheapest Paid Plan Device Limit Free Version Compatibility Money-back Guarantee
Free 10 Yes Windows, macOS, Android, iOS, Chrome, Safari, Firefox, Opera, Edge N/A

There aren’t too many more cutting-edge features to shout about, but everything on offer here is done well, plus, it’s incredibly simple to use, with a clean and straightforward interface that makes it easy to use for anyone on any device. All of this makes Norton one of the best free password managers on the market.

In regards to devices, Norton is available on all popular platforms, including Android, iOS, Windows, Mac, and even a few browser extensions. For these devices, you can even replace your master password with your biometric logins, which saves you time typing in lengthy credentials.

Your biometrics can also be used to input credit card information that can be safely stored in your Norton vault, along with your passwords and account details. The autofill feature is common amongst password managers, but Norton’s is very responsive and can save you time and energy.

Pricing

As we mentioned above, there are no paid plans on offer with Norton, and this is an entirely free service. You can also get included alongside their excellent antivirus software and other bundles, but if you just want a good, free password manager, then look no further.

Pros

  • Completely free offering
  • Offers strong 256-bit AES encryption
  • Useful password auto-change feature to mass change weak passwords
  • Supports up to 10 devices

Cons

  • You don’t get 2FA on the desktop apps

3. Enpass – Powerful Password Manager That Works Seamlessly Offline

EnPass logo

Enpass is a top password manager in India that offers a range of plans, including an excellent free tier aimed at personal use. It’s also unique because it operates offline, so no matter where you are in the world, even if there’s limited or no internet, you can safely access your vaults.

Safety, in general, is assured with Enpass, as the service uses 256-bit AES military-grade encryption to keep all your data protected. Interestingly, there isn’t any 2FA on offer, but it can actually be used as an authenticator, similar to Google or Microsoft authenticator apps.

This doesn’t mean it isn’t safe. In fact, you actually get to choose how your data is stored, whether it be on a Cloud service like Google Drive or OneDrive, which in itself is an extra blanket of security.

EnPass Dashboard

Cheapest Paid Plan Device Limit Free Version Compatibility Money-back Guarantee
$1.99/month (₹.163) 1-6 Yes Windows, macOS, Android, iOS, Chrome, Safari, Firefox, Opera, Edge 30-days

So you’d need to log in to your Cloud service with your credentials, as well as your one-time code or biometrics, plus entering your master password for Enpass — so it’s very secure.

For password security, you get an excellent password generator and auditor that will scan your passwords and highlight any discrepancies and then suggest unique and tough-to-break alternatives. You won’t need to worry about remembering them either, as the autofill feature takes care of this for you.

In fact, the autofill feature even allows you to fill out forms with your details, including addresses, credit card details, and personal information. This is particularly useful for businesses that often need to fill out multiple documents with company data, and it also reduces the risk of this data being leaked, as it’s secure in your vault.

Pricing

Enpass offers a range of plans that cater to individual or enterprise use, including family plans for multi-device coverage. With the free account, unlike with NordPass, you can only store up to 25 items on one device.

Enpass Pricing

Upgrading to the Individual plan allows for infinite passwords but still just one device. For further coverage, the Family tier will allow you to install Enpass on up to 6 devices at once.

Pros

  • Excellent form-filling features to save time
  • Affordable paid plans and a generous free offering
  • Can be used as an authenticator app
  • Includes option for cloud storage, which is useful and adds an extra layer of security

Cons

  • No third-party 2FA is available

4. 1Password – Top Business Password Manager With Travel Mode

1Password Logo

1Password is a reliable password manager that has powerful apps for all devices and includes some useful features you’d expect to find in a password manager, as well as some truly unique offerings, like Travel Mode.

With Travel Mode, you can keep your vaults secure on the go, and it works by removing non-travel safe data when you cross into a new country, ensuring that the only data that border officials will be able to access is non-intrusive for you.

1password | password storage

Cheapest Paid Plan Device Limit Free Version Compatibility Money-back Guarantee
$2.99/month (₹.245) 1-5 No Windows, macOS, Android, iOS, Chrome, Safari, Firefox, Opera, Edge 30-days

Another way 1Password ensures you’re protected is with their Watchtower feature, which is basically a suite of security features that watch over your passwords and spot any weaknesses – hence the name. It can scan the dark web for any compromised or stolen passwords, as well as suggest new, strong log-ins for your accounts.

Plus, 1Password recently introduced a new feature that’s been long overdue called Psst! Password sharing is their new safe and secure way to share credentials with family members, friends, or coworkers, and uniquely, they don’t even need to be 1Password users.

The password manager app itself is very user-friendly, especially for Android, with 1Password having one of the best Android password manager apps we’ve seen. It will sync across all of your devices, so you can be protected on the go with whichever device you’re using.

Pricing

1Password has a great range of plans for work use, families, or individuals – but sadly, there’s no option for any free plan, just a 14-day free trial for all the paid tiers.

1Password Pricing

For the individual plan, you can store an infinite number of passwords on one device or up to 5 if you opt for the family plan. There are also two dedicated business plans, Teams, and Business, which offer coverage for any staff members, priced per person each month.

Pros

  • Excellent and unique Travel Mode for staying protected on to go
  • One of the best business password managers
  • Highly functional Watchtower setting for ensuring strong passwords
  • Includes 1GB of encrypted file storage

Cons

  • No free plan, just a 14-day free trial

5. Roboform – Budget-Friendly Option With a Built-In Browser

Roboform Logo

Roboform is one of the original names in the password management world, and as such, it does exactly what you’d expect to a high standard. It includes features like an excellent secure share, emergency access, and much more.

There are a lot of standard password manager features on offer with Roboform, but as an experienced player in this industry, it does all of them very well. For example, the autofill can complete long forms for you with personal details like addresses and card details.

RoboForm password protection

Cheapest Paid Plan Device Limit Free Version Compatibility Money-back Guarantee
$0.99/month (₹.81) 1-5 No Windows, macOS, Android, iOS, Chrome, Safari, Firefox, Opera, Edge 30-days

The password generator also suggests excellent, strong passwords for your accounts. These are fairly common, however, one feature that you won’t find on many other password managers is the emergency access setting.

This allows you to add trusted contacts, be it family, friends, or a coworker, to access your account in the case of an emergency. It can also be used for businesses that have had someone leave or pass unexpectedly, so you can access their work files.

Another standout feature is the TOTP authenticator, where you can use your Roboform account for TOTP (time-based one-time password), which basically means, as with Enpass, you won’t need to use a separate authenticator app, so you can access your accounts more quickly.

Pricing

We’re glad to see the inclusion of an excellent free plan with Roboform, but there are also strong paid plans for businesses or individuals. For those looking for a personal account, Roboform Everywhere is a good, budget-friendly option that covers one account.

Roboform Pricing

You can always upgrade to the family plan should you require further coverage, as this can support up to 5 devices on one subscription. There’s even a whopping 5-year plan that works out to just $0.99/month, which is great value for money if you’re happy to commit your long-term future to this provider.

Pros

  • Useful emergency access feature for adding trusted contacts
  • Simple-to-use apps and desktop client
  • Can be used as an authenticator app
  • Has an independently audited zero-knowledge policy

Cons

  • You can’t import passwords from other password managers, only CSV files

6. Keeper – A Reliable Password Manager With Unique Trash Bin Feature

Keeper Logo

Keeper password manager is another giant in the security industry that includes some impressive and unique features, such as a secure messaging service, KeeperChat. You also get the basics here as well, like password audits and generators.

The KeeperChat feature is an interesting addition to an already excellent product, and it allows users to communicate with other Keeper users in an ultra-secure way. It’s protected by a ‘self-destruct’ setting should an unrecognized person try to gain access.

You can log in to the messaging service with either your master password or biometrics, so it’s kept protected.

Keeper | best password managers for business,

Cheapest Paid Plan Device Limit Free Version Compatibility Money-back Guarantee
$2.92/month (₹.240) 1-5 Yes Windows, macOS, Android, iOS, Chrome, Safari, Firefox, Opera, Edge No

Talking of protection, Keeper employs a ton of tough encryption methods to ensure all your passwords or credit card information is stored safely in your vaults, including the use of powerful AES-256 encryption and 2FA.

Despite this, it’s still easy for you to access and use features like autofill, which can take care of long-winded forms or enter your payment information when you’re checking out. We were also impressed with the Trash Bin feature.

This allows you to recover previously deleted files and records, which can be especially beneficial to businesses that may have an employee delete files they shouldn’t, and this way, they can be easily recovered.

Pricing

There’s a free plan available so you can manage passwords without spending any money, and although it’s limited to one device, it should still offer a good insight into what you can expect from the main product.

Keeper US Pricing

 

Overall, there’s a good range of plans available, each with a 30-day free trial, so you can experience all the advanced features that Keeper has to offer.

Pros

  • Includes a ton of advanced features like KeeperChat, a secure messaging service
  • Useful Trash Bin feature for recovering deleted files
  • Comes with a decent free plan and affordable paid options
  • Good feature-to-price ratio

Cons

  • Some features are paid add-ons, like Breach Watch

7. Total Password – Easy-to-Use Password Manager, Ideal for First-Time Users

Total Password Logo

Total Password is a new service from a brand that’s synonymous with online safety — TotalAV, the award-winning antivirus solution. Previously, they offered a password manager bundled in with the antivirus, but this is a standalone product with a few intriguing features.

The first interesting feature that stands out is the remote logout function, which allows you to delete browsing history and sign out of any device in which you use Total Password. This is useful if a device you own is stolen or lost, as it prevents the potential thief from being able to view your sensitive data.

Total Password

Cheapest Paid Plan Device Limit Free Version Compatibility Money-back Guarantee
$1.99/month (₹.163) 1 No Chrome, Safari, Opera, and Edge 14-days

This works because Total Password syncs your passwords across multiple devices, meaning all of your passwords are available on any device at the click of a button. That said, there are no mobile apps for this product, instead, you’ll have to make do with desktop clients for Chrome, Safari, Edge, and Opera.

But seeing as these are some of the more popular browsers out there, it shouldn’t be much of a problem. There is a lack of advanced features here, but it’s a new solution, so in the future, we’d like to see a few more standout features.

But rest assured, it includes an excellent autofill feature for forms and so on, as well as a password generator that allows for custom rules, ideal for IT departments.

Pricing

There’s only one plan available for Total Password at the time of writing, and sadly there’s no free option available or free trial, which is a little disappointing. Thankfully, there is a 14-day money-back guarantee for a slightly hassle-free purchase.

Total Password Pricing

Pros

  • Excellent remote logout feature if your device is lost or stolen
  • Simple plan structure with an affordable paid plan
  • Syncs passwords across any device you use
  • Very user-friendly interface and desktop clients

Cons

  • No support for mobile devices, just browsers

Avira Logo

Avira is another household name that made itself known in the antivirus industry with one of the best antivirus solutions in India. Like Total Password, it’s also now offering a standalone password management solution that has a few useful features and intuitive apps for all devices.

One of those is the introduction of a built-in authenticator app, which allows you to use Avira when you’re logging in to websites like Facebook, Gmail, or Dropbox. you’ll get a code within the app that you simply enter on the website you’re logging in to, and you’re good to go.

Avira best password manager

Cheapest Paid Plan Device Limit Free Version Compatibility Money-back Guarantee
$2.99/month (₹.245) 1-50 Yes Windows, macOS, Android, iOS, Chrome, Safari, Firefox, Opera, Edge 14-days for monthly plan, 30-days for annual

It can also automatically log you into any websites where you have accounts stored on Avira, so there’s no need to type anything in, it’ll do it automatically for you. This is basically a slightly more advanced version of autofill, but the latter can still be used for filling out forms and documents.

To use autofill, there’s an option to control this with your biometric ID, whether it be a face or a fingerprint. If your device doesn’t support this, then you’ll have to make do with entering your master password.

All devices will support the account and website checkers, which scan your passwords or any websites you visit to ensure they’re safe. For passwords, it’ll then allow you to use the generator to create new, strong passwords for all your accounts.

Pricing

The plan structure for Avira is incredibly straightforward, with the Pro plan being available to buy on a monthly or annual basis, with the yearly option working out cheaper in the long run, and it includes a huge 60-day money-back guarantee.

Avira Pricing US

If you don’t want to spend any money, then you can try the free plan, which has the same features but limits the number of devices to just one.

Pros

  • Includes an excellent in-app authenticator
  • Solid free plan and low-cost Pro option
  • Works on all popular devices and browsers
  • Automatically logs you into any accounts

Cons

  • No option to securely share credentials with family, friends, or work colleagues

9. Dashlane – Strong Password Manager With a Built-In VPN

Dashlane Logo

Dashlane is a popular password management tool with some nifty tricks up its sleeve, including a built-in VPN, so both your passwords and your web browsing activities are protected.

It includes many features that you’ll find in most password managers, including a data breach scanner and password health checker. The features on offer are all good, and it does the basics very well, but the built-in VPN is an especially useful tool.

We’d love to see more password managers incorporate this into their products for added value and protection online.

Cheapest Paid Plan Device Limit Free Version Compatibility Money-back Guarantee
$2.75/month (₹.226) 1-10 Yes Windows, macOS, Android, iOS, Chrome, Safari, Firefox, Opera, Edge 30-days

Security overall is provided by multiple 2FA methods, including one-time passwords and various authenticator apps like Google, and there’s also a welcome introduction of biometric data for supported devices. This works in tandem with the excellent form-filling features that Dashlane offers.

Moreover, Dashlane can scan the depths of the dark web to find out if any of your passwords have been hacked and leaked online, and if the answer is sadly yes, it can use its excellent generator to recommend new ones.

We were also pleased to see an option where you can update hundreds of passwords in one go, a feature similar to Norton’s auto-change. This can save a lot of time and effort should the data breach scanner find compromised passwords, which can now be rectified at the click of a few buttons.

Pricing

Dashlane includes a useful free plan for individual usage, but the paid plans are a little more expensive than many of the others on this list, which also include more unique features.

Dashlane Pricing

 

There are options for businesses and families, should you need more than one person or device covered, and you get the option of a monthly or yearly subscription.

Pros

  • Includes a built-in VPN for secure web browsing
  • Excellent secure notes feature, which can be shared with family, friends, or colleagues
  • Feature-rich free plan
  • You can update multiple passwords at once

Cons

  • No longer includes an emergency access feature

10. Bitwarden – Cheap Password Manager for Those On a Budget

Bitwarden Logo

Bitwarden may be at the bottom of this list, but don’t let that fool you into thinking it isn’t an excellent password management tool. With this provider, you can generate custom reports on your passwords, as well as scan the internet for any that may have been stolen by hackers.

The report feature is detailed and incredibly valuable, especially in a business setting, so you can ensure all your accounts and passwords are up to standard. We also really like the breached databases report.

This notifies you if a business or website has been compromised way before you’ll see it on the news.

bitwarden

Cheapest Paid Plan Device Limit Free Version Compatibility Money-back Guarantee
$0.83/month (₹.68) 1-6 Yes Windows, macOS, Android, iOS, Chrome, Safari, Firefox, Opera, Edge 30-days

Security is very much at the forefront, and the Bitwarden send function is an ode to this. With this feature, you can send files, passwords, and much more, all of which are encrypted, so not even Bitwarden can see the contents.

That aside, there’s a top-notch password generator, as well as an emergency access feature that allows trusted contacts access to your vaults in the event of an emergency – a feature that’s more useful for business users.

Your vaults can be accessed via your master password or biometrics like Face ID or your fingerprint, should your device have these functions. There are also multiple 2FA methods, including SMS, Email, and authenticator apps for extra protection.

Pricing

Bitwarden is one of the most budget-friendly password managers out there and even includes a decent free plan for up to one user. For a more advanced offering, you can upgrade to premium for $10/year, which is phenomenal value for money.

Bitwarden Pricing

Should you require extra devices, or even business use, then Bitwarden has excellent plans for families and enterprises.

Pros

  • Incredibly affordable plans and an excellent free option
  • Useful reporting features for data breaches and more
  • The Autofill feature is very fast and reliable
  • Includes a good range of plans for personal, family, or business use

Cons

Comparison of the Best Password Manager Apps

Now that you’ve seen how each of the top password managers works, it’s time to compare some of the key features like pricing and device limits. Below is a useful table where you can do just that:

Provider Starting Price Device Limit Free Version Compatibility Money-back Guarantee
NordPass $2.79/month (₹.229) 6 Yes Windows, macOS, Android, iOS, Chrome, Safari, Firefox, Opera, Edge 30-days
Norton Free 10 Yes Windows, macOS, Android, iOS, Chrome, Safari, Firefox, Opera, Edge N/A
Enpass $1.99/month (₹.163) 1-6 Yes Windows, macOS, Android, iOS, Chrome, Safari, Firefox, Opera, Edge 30-days
1Password $2.99/month (₹.245) 1-5 No Windows, macOS, Android, iOS, Chrome, Safari, Firefox, Opera, Edge 30-days
RoboForm $0.99/month (₹.81) 1-5 No Windows, macOS, Android, iOS, Chrome, Safari, Firefox, Opera, Edge 30-days
Keeper $2.92/month (₹.240) 1-5 Yes Windows, macOS, Android, iOS, Chrome, Safari, Firefox, Opera, Edge No
Total Password $1.99/month (₹.163) 1 No Chrome, Safari, Opera, and Edge 14-days
Avira $2.99/month (₹.245) 1-50 Yes Windows, macOS, Android, iOS, Chrome, Safari, Firefox, Opera, Edge 14-days for Monthly Plan, 30-Days for Annual
Dashlane $2.75/month (₹.226) 1-10 Yes Windows, macOS, Android, iOS, Chrome, Safari, Firefox, Opera, Edge 30-days
Bitwarden $0.83/month (₹.68) 1-6 Yes Windows, macOS, Android, iOS, Chrome, Safari, Firefox, Opera, Edge 30-days

Free PW Managers Vs. Paid Tools: Which Should I Use?

The idea of using a free password manager is highly appealing, all those features and security without having to spend any money – who wouldn’t want that? It’s worth remembering that whilst an entirely free solution may sound good on paper, they’re often packing far fewer premium features.

For example, don’t expect to find a data breach scanner or any remote access tools. That said, we’d recommend trying a premium provider such as NordPass, which has what many consider, the best free version to trial the service.

With it, you can store an unlimited number of passwords on one device, and to upgrade to cover more devices, it costs just $2.79/month (₹.229). You’ll get access to the full suite of features, like password scanners and dark web monitors on the paid versions, as well as better access to customer support, should something go wrong.

How to Choose the Best Password Manager for You

Although each password manager on this list is excellent in its own right, you still need to consider personal preference when deciding which is best for you. For example, if you’re a business, you may benefit from multiple users and a solid business plan, or for personal use, you may look for the best feature-to-value option – the list goes on.

To help you decide, we’ve compiled a list of some of the key factors you should look for when picking your preferred password manager.

Premium Features

Nearly all the password managers on this list have the same core features, such as password generators or the ability to store credit cards. However, some have totally unique features that elevate them even further.

NordPass has excellent XChaCha20 encryption, whereas Keeper has its own secure messaging service, KeeperChat. You still need to ensure that your chosen password manager gets the basics right, but bonus features like these can really set them apart.

Max Number of Devices

A good password manager should give you access to its features across a few devices, although some free or personal plans may limit you to one, but with the option for an infinite number of passwords.

You often need to upgrade to a family plan to get access to extra devices, which will ultimately cost you more. So, you’d ideally pick a provider that lets you use the apps across around 2-5 devices.

Device Support

The best password managers will have intuitive apps for all devices like Android, iOS, Windows, and Mac, as well as browser extensions or Linux. This allows you to use them across whichever devices you have for a seamless experience.

The top password managers on this list all have compatibility with the most popular platforms, but some, such as Total Password, only support browser extensions, so this is something to bear in mind.

Overall Cost

This is usually a big one, as many users may simply look for the cheapest option available, which we wouldn’t recommend doing. All the providers on this list offer good value for money, with a ton of premium features and low monthly costs of around $2 or $3 a month.

Many even offer free plans, a money-back guarantee, and free premium trials so you can test them before you buy.

Conclusion | Which is the Best Password Manager in India?

The best password managers in India allow you to store all your account details in one secure place, eliminating the risk of them being compromised and leaked online. Furthermore, you can even store your credit card details or personal files on many of the top password managers, adding an extra layer of security to your personal data.

If you’re in the market for a reliable solution, we’d recommend trying NordPass, from the creators of one of the best VPN services on the market, they know their way around security.

With NordPass, your passwords are protected by the industry-leading XChaCha20 encryption, and you get access to all the premium features you’d expect, such as a dark web monitor and more.

There’s even an excellent free plan, or you can sign up for a premium option for just $2.79/month and benefit from the risk-free 30-day money-back guarantee.

FAQ

Which password manager can I trust?

What is the best password manager for my Android?

Is Google password manager safe? 

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Which password manager has never been hacked?

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The Best Password Manager in the UK: Top 10 Compared for 2024 https://techreport.com/password-managers/best-password-manager-uk/ Thu, 13 Jul 2023 14:12:52 +0000 https://techreport.com/?page_id=3507562 Best password managers in the UK

The best password managers in the UK will save you the hassle of having to remember different logins while keeping your personal data and accounts secure against cyber threats. You can’t...

The post The Best Password Manager in the UK: Top 10 Compared for 2024 appeared first on The Tech Report.

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Best password managers in the UK

The best password managers in the UK will save you the hassle of having to remember different logins while keeping your personal data and accounts secure against cyber threats. You can’t use the same password across all your accounts, as this would jeopardise your online safety should it get hacked, putting all your accounts at risk.

Thankfully, a good password manager stores all your details in a centralised location — plus any credit card details and other sensitive information. In this article, we review and compare the 10 best password managers in the UK, looking at important factors such as pricing, features, and security to help you make an informed decision.

Top 10 Best Password Management Solutions Ranked

Under scrutiny, here’s how each of the market’s top 10 best password management solutions in the UK fared in our ranking, with a short outline of why they made it on our list:

  1. NordPass – £1.79/month — The best password manager overall in 2024, with advanced XChaCha20 encryption and a vulnerable password detector to help you stay safe.
  2. Norton – Free — A reliable and completely free password manager with easy-to-use apps and a robust auto-change feature for updating passwords in one click.
  3. Enpass –£1.62/month — Innovative password manager that works offline so you can keep protected no matter where you are.
  4. 1Password – £3.69/month — A premium option that includes unique features like travel mode that can help keep your credentials safe when on the go.
  5. RoboForm – £1.59/month — Trusted service with an excellent built-in web browser that can sync passwords across all of your devices.
  6. Keeper – £2.29/month — A top solution for businesses as it includes a secure communications service, KeeperChat, where you can share sensitive data securely.
  7. Total Password – £1.99/month — Budget-friendly password manager that can remotely sign you out and delete your browsing history from any device.
  8. Avira – £1.99/month A popular password manager with a built-in mobile authenticator for keeping your accounts safe.
  9. Dashlane – £2.89/month — A highly-rated solution that includes a built-in VPN, fast biometric logins, and dark web monitoring
  10. Bitwarden – £0.79/month — The cheapest PW manager with a feature-rich free version with secure password sharing.

How Does a Password Manager Work?

A password manager app stores your passwords across any device or browser you use, so you don’t have to remember them. The password manager will generate and remember your passwords for all of your online accounts once you log in using your “master” password.

You don’t even need to type your passwords in each time you log in because many password managers can automatically enter them into apps and websites using a feature called autofill. Others will allow you to take advantage of biometrics such as fingerprint and Face ID.

These features offer immense convenience because instead of typing in long email addresses and complex passwords, you can have the tool automatically input them or just use your biometric data for instant access.

Better still, they allow you to store sensitive information like credit cards and private documents in secure vaults, and you only have to remember one single password.

Key Benefits of Using a Password Manager

There are numerous positives that come with using a top password manager, aside from the glaringly obvious improved security. In case you were in doubt, we’ve compiled a short list of some of the key benefits of using a UK password manager:

  • Generate Strong Passwords — Unbreakable passwords can be instantly generated at the click of a button. Their strength comes from the stream of letters, numbers, and special characters used. Thankfully, you won’t have to remember these. You only need to remember one master password.
  • Faster Access — With auto-fill and biometric logins, users can have the username and password for each access point filled in for them automatically. This is particularly useful for businesses that have multiple users with different accounts across platforms.
  • Store More — Password managers store more than just logins and passwords. For instance, most offer safe storage and access to credit card data or personal documents. You can even autofill your card details onto a website by using your master password or biometrics, saving a lot of time in the process.
  • Update Your Passwords — PW management solutions make it simple to modify or reset passwords to keep your accounts safe with the built-in password generator. Some even offer the option to instantly reset your passwords with a single click of a button.
  • Share Passwords — Passwords for joint accounts can be shared with family members, friends, or coworkers. Obviously, it’s not advised to reveal your personal passwords, but if you have shared accounts, a password manager gives you the ability to securely manage password access.

In-Depth Reviews of the Market’s Top UK Password Managers

Now it’s time to take a deeper look into the best password managers in the UK. In our reviews, we’ll look at what features stand out, if there’s a free plan, a money-back guarantee, what encryption is in place, and more to give you a complete overview of the good and any drawbacks you should know about each one.

1. NordPass – Overall, The Best Password Manager in The UK

NordPass Logo

NordPass leads the way as the top password manager in the UK for 2024 thanks to its excellent features and user-friendly interface. It’s the only one that includes advanced XChaCha20 encryption, which is used by tech giants like Google.

This cypher is considered the future of encryption because, for one, it’s around 3x faster than the AES-256 employed by most other password managers. Beyond this, NordPass offers phenomenal value for money and even offers a top-tier free plan that’s more than adequate for most.

The NordPass autofill feature is also noteworthy. It’ll fill out your personal data, such as your login credentials, on a number of forms for instant, secure access. Moreover, it also boasts a wide range of Two-Factor Authentication methods for extra security and a useful password generator to secure your accounts.

NordPass2

Free Plan Cheapest Plan Device Limit Free Trial & Money-back Guarantee Compatibility Top Features
Yes 2-year plan – £1.79/month 6 14-day Free Trial Windows, macOS, Android, iOS, Chrome, Safari, Firefox, Opera, Edge 1. XChaCha20 encryption

2. Data Breach Scanner

3. Shared Items

On the free tier, you can use NordPass on as many devices as you’d like and store an infinite number of passwords, but the catch is that you’ll need to log into each one separately because only one device can access NordPass at once.

If you upgrade to a paid plan, NordPass offers the Shared Items feature, which enables you to safely share any entries from the aforementioned categories (passwords, credit card information, and notes) with others. So, if your companion has forgotten their Disney+ login, you can quickly re-log them in.

Premium also provides a web security breach check that evaluates the security of your current passwords and has the useful option of granting friends or family access to your passwords in case of an emergency. You can use NordPass simultaneously on 6 devices which, as you’ll see, isn’t the highest, but it’s also certainly not the lowest.

If you’re organising a party, a trip, or working on a project, it allows you to categorise your login information and notes into folders to keep them nearly organised and easily found. This, paired with its ease of use and incredibly affordable plans, are why ample individuals, families, and businesses opt for NordPass.

There are desktop apps for Windows, Mac, and Linux, mobile apps for Android, and extensions for Chrome, Firefox, Edge, and Opera. The Chrome extension will function well with any of the numerous variations that use the Chrome engine, including Vivaldi and Brave.

Pricing

Similar to the company’s VPN service, which is one of the top VPNs on the market, NordPass Premium’s pricing scales with the length of your subscription. The best value plans are the two-year options:

NordPass UK Pricing

The freemium subscription will give you a solid overview of the tool’s capabilities. Scaling your plan is also dirt-cheap, considering the value the premium plans have to offer, and these include a 14-day trial. Try it free and see whether it’s your cup of tea.

Pros

  • Great value plans for individuals or families
  • Uses the industry-leading XChaCha20 encryption for bank-grade security
  • Offers a 14-day free trial and an excellent feature-rich free plan, including dark web monitoring
  • Tons of useful security features like multi-factor authentication

Cons

  • Importing passwords via CSV data sometimes needs to be done manually

2. Norton Password Manager – Reliable and Completely Free Password Manager

Norton Family Logo

Norton Password Manager is a completely free security solution that has no paid plan on offer — you get everything under one cost-free subscription, something that sets it aside from many other top providers out there.

Even though it’s free, you’ll still get cross-platform support for all popular devices and browsers, biometric login, and strong security standards from the business best known for creating one of the best antivirus products on the market.

The browser extension-based user interface is one that we really liked, as it offers a clean and intuitive way of navigating your passwords. Sites are listed in a grid or list format, and everything is well organised. Plus, all your personal information is categorised, with separate areas for logins, wallets, addresses, and notes.

Norton Password Dashboard

Free Plan Cheapest Plan Device Limit Free Trial & Money-back Guarantee Compatibility Top Features
Yes Free Plan 10 N/A Windows, macOS, Android, iOS, Chrome, Safari, Firefox, Opera, Edge 1. Autochange

2. Password Generator

3. Biometric Login

It’s one of the most user-friendly password managers. You can easily view your passwords along with their relative strength on the safety dashboard tool, where you also access important features like the password generator that can create impossible-to-crack passwords in a few clicks.

Furthermore, with the Autochange capability, you can replace the password that’s stored on a website with just one click. This is an incredibly convenient way to update old passwords in bulk — a process that would usually take hours. This is something that’s lacking with many of the providers on the market.

Besides this, the Norton Password Manager not only saves your passwords but also provides you with some basic stats on them, identifying old, duplicate, and weak passwords that you should change.

However, unlike with NordPass, there’s no way of knowing if your email or passwords have been exposed in a data breach. As one of the best antivirus solutions, we hope to see this added in the future. However, because it’s completely free, it’s hard to nitpick at flaws considering what’s already on offer.

Pros

  • A totally and quite robust free product
  • Unique autochange feature to update all passwords in one-click
  • Incredibly simple to use
  • Informs you of how secure your password is

Cons

  • Lacks premium features like a data breach scanner and two-factor authentication

3. Enpass – Intuitive Password Manager With 2FA for Extra Security

EnPass logo

Enpass, unlike most password managers, adopts a unique strategy where you have the option to retain your passwords and other crucial information on your device or in a cloud storage service of your choosing because it’s not required to store them on a centralised server.

Naturally, everything is still secure and encrypted, but you have control over where your data is stored. Your options include Google Drive, OneDrive, iCloud, Dropbox, Box, Nextcloud, and WebDAV.

Moving on to the features, Enpass has a password generator, which creates strong passwords for your accounts, auto-fill, so you can save time typing in long emails and passwords, and Multi-Factor Authentication to further secure your personal accounts – all pretty standard for a good password manager.

EnPass Dashboard

Free Plan Cheapest Plan Device Limit Free Trial & Money-back Guarantee Compatibility Top Features
Yes Individual -£1.62/month 25 Only on Business Plans Windows, macOS, Android, iOS, Chrome, Safari, Firefox, Opera, Edge 1. Safe Notes

2. Cloud Storage

3. Biometric Login

You also get biometric support should your device support it — which not all password managers offer — and this can be used to access the payment cards, IDs, and safe notes features, where you can store your most important details.

Plus, you can keep a variety of passwords, licenses, travel-related papers, and other items in Enpass’ additional folders. What users love most about Enpass is that its item forms are totally customisable, allowing you to add, remove, organise, and even make them multi-line.

The desktop version of Enpass’ free tier allows you to store an infinite number of passwords, while the mobile app can only sync up to 25. One downfall is that you need to subscribe to a paid plan in order for all of your passwords to sync to your phone.

Pricing

There are 3 main plan options for Enpass, aimed at either individual or family use, with the latter giving you access for 6 different family members. There’s also the neat option to make a one-off payment for a lifetime subscription, which we really like.

Enpass Password Manager Pricing

On top of this, Enpass also boasts business plans — in fact, it’s undoubtedly one of the best business password managers thanks to its affordable pricing, offline accessibility, and incredibly intuitive custom folder capabilities.

Pros

  • You can store data on cloud services
  • Decent free plan for desktop users
  • Excellent vault organisation features
  • Incredibly user-friendly interface

Cons

  • Doesn’t offer Two-Factor Authentication

4. 1Password – Robust Password Manager with Useful Travel Mode Feature

1Password Logo

1Password is a well-known password manager that has excellent apps for Windows, macOS, Android, and iOS. Unlike some, it offers Two-Factor Authentication alongside strong encryption to keep your logins safe — this includes a combination of your master password and a 128-bit key that’s unique to your account.

Besides this, there’s a password generator that can generate incredibly difficult log-ins, and as will all PW managers, you won’t have to remember them. However, unlike most, you can log in with just biometrics, saving you from having to type in email addresses and complex passwords.

1password | password storage

Free Plan Cheapest Plan Device Limit Free Trial & Money-back Guarantee Compatibility Top Features
No Premium – £3.69/month Unlimited 14-day Free Trial Windows, macOS, Android, iOS, Linux, Chrome, Safari, Firefox, Opera, Edge, Brave 1. Travel Mode

2. Autofill

3. Password Generator

Another unique feature you get is the collections area, where you can group specific vaults together, making it easy to switch between your personal and business accounts. There are also private and shared vaults, so you can grant others secure access to a subset of your passwords without disclosing your full list.

Travel Mode is perhaps the most interesting feature of 1Password. It works by momentarily deleting specific vaults from your device, so you can travel to locations where security personnel might force you to open it without revealing sensitive information — this is unique to 1Password, which makes it popular for businesses.

For further security, you get access to a setting called Watchtower, which basically scans the internet for any compromised passwords you might have – it’s essentially their version of a dark web monitor or data breach scanner. It’s incredibly accurate — it’ll even tell you what passwords are too simple or short, amongst others.

Pricing

Besides a 14-day free trial, 1Password has monthly and yearly plans for the following plans:

  • Premium — £3.69/month (annual)
  • Family — £6.49/month (annual) — Allows up to five users

Overall, the pricing is somewhat higher than some competitors, but it does boast some unique features not seen elsewhere, including the ability to use it on an unlimited number of devices. With the free trial, you can try it out risk-free before committing.

Pros

  • Excellent Travel Mode feature for remote workers
  • Reliable autofill feature that saves you time and effort
  • Useful password generator
  • Can be used on an unlimited number of devices

Cons

  • Email support is only a 24/7 option, and response time is slow

5. RoboForm – Affordable Password Manager with Built-in Browser

Roboform Logo

RoboForm is one of the oldest password managers and has a stellar reputation for straightforward password security. One of the earliest widely used solutions to the password issue, it slid onto computers with ease and helped consumers save time every day.

Along with the standard password features, you have the option to safely store your credit card information for convenient online shopping,  notes (these could be licence keys or other similar items), and your address and other details.

All of which can be automatically filled out for you on online forms.

RoboForm password protection

Free Plan Cheapest Plan Device Limit Free Trial & Money-back Guarantee Compatibility Top Features
Yes Everywhere – £1.59/month 5 30-day Free Trial Windows, macOS, Android, iOS, Linux, Chrome, Safari, Firefox, Opera, Edge, Brave 1. Built-in Browser

2. Autofill

3. Secure Share

The integrated browser is one intriguing feature of RoboForm. Besides auto-filling, you can create a new password right in the browser, which is useful if you need to rapidly update your account on a website. Although it may seem unnecessary, there are some situations in which having a browser within the app could be really helpful.

With a robust free plan, plus numerous paid options, RoboForm offers individuals, families, and businesses a convenient and secure means of storing passwords and data. Plus, the paid tier adds Multi-Factor Authentication, unlimited device syncing, and a secure online backup of your passwords.

Beyond this, a Premium subscription also gives you the option to share information with friends and family, as well as emergency access to your account in the event of incapacitation or other personal difficulty.

Pricing

Besides the forever free plan for one device, RoboForm offers these subscription options:

  • Everywhere — £13.25/year
  • Family — £26.50/year — 5 users

When you sign up for the free tier, you automatically get a 30-day trial with the Everywhere plan, allowing you to test it out before choosing whether to upgrade. Plus, besides these, there’s a Business tier which allows for a much higher number of users (1,000+).

Pros

  • Great form-filling feature
  • Useful built-in browser
  • Ample affordable plans
  • Excellent secure share features

Cons

  • Mobile apps are a little outdated

6. Keeper – Comes with a Secure Messaging Service, KeeperChat

Keeper Logo

Keeper is a fantastic, flexible password manager that’s great for individuals and even better for companies. Strong passwords are generated for you by the software, which also manages auto-fill and logins across platforms and on all of your devices.

One of the main features that make it popular for businesses is that it includes a sophisticated file-sharing feature that lets you store, access, and share data kept on the cloud — across devices, securely and easily.

Keeper | best password managers for business,

Free Plan Cheapest Plan Device Limit Free Trial & Money-back Guarantee Compatibility Top Features
Yes £2.29/month 5 14-day Free Trial Windows, macOS, Android, iOS, Linux, Chrome, Safari, Firefox, Opera, Edge, Brave 1.KeeperFill

2. KeeperChat

3. Two-factor Authentication

Numerous Two-Factor Authentication techniques are also supported, including SMS and Yubikey; plus, you can check the “health” of your passwords in the Security Audit area to see whether you need to update any of them right away.

Once the passwords are set up, you just need to activate KeeperFill, which is essentially autofill, and you’re ready to go. Passwords will be requested by apps and websites, and Keeper will automatically recover and add them for easy access to all of your accounts.

A useful bonus feature that’s exclusive to this provider is KeeperChat, a secure messaging service where private details can be shared and secured via tight encryption. This, paired with secure password sharing, makes Keeper the go-to solution for companies with remote workers.

Pricing

The cost is Keeper’s main drawback, as there’s no free tier option. A 14-day trial is available, but in order to continue using it, you must pay £24.99 annually or upgrade to the Family plan, which includes five accounts.

Keeper Password Manager UK Pricing

Additionally, you can purchase add-ons to increase Keeper’s feature list. These include BreachWatch (£14.99 per year), which scans the web for any security leaks related to your accounts, Secure File Storage (£6.99 for 10GB), and several more security-focused services.

Pros

  • Easy-to-use interface
  • Excellent secure communications feature, KeeperChat
  • Tells you if any passwords are duplicated
  • The Autofill feature is lightning-fast

Cons

  • No biometric authentication in Edge and Chrome browsers

7. Total Password – Easy-to-use Password Manager, Great for Beginners

Total Password Logo

Total Password is a new player in this industry, but it’s supported by the solid security and online safety credentials of TotalAV, its parent company, a titan that has cemented its position as one of the top antivirus products available.

Previously, they included a password manager in the antiviral package they were offering, but Total Password is now sold separately. To begin with, you can securely access all of your passwords from anywhere in the world because all of your devices and passwords sync while you’re on the move.

Total Password

Free Plan Cheapest Plan Device Limit Free Trial & Money-back Guarantee Compatibility Top Features
Yes £1.99/month 1 14-day Free Trial Windows, macOS, Android, iOS, Chrome, Safari, Firefox, Opera, Edge 1. Mobile

2. Breach Alerts

3. Autofill

Besides detecting weak passwords, there’s a decent password generator that can suggest and create ultra-secure passwords. You also get an intriguing remote logout feature, which allows you to remotely sign out and delete any browsing history from any device you have Total Password on.

All passwords kept in the system are encrypted using industry-standard techniques, and for additional security, Total Password uses a Two-Factor Authentication to secure your accounts and data from potential hackers attempting to access it without authority.

One drawback is that Total Password currently only supports browsers, notably Chrome, Edge, Safari, and Opera. This makes it more useful as an add-on to the antivirus, as it doesn’t offer as much flexibility as other UK password managers.

Pricing

Total Password’s pricing is nice and straightforward:

Total Password Pricing UK

There’s no free plan or free trial to test the service out, but there is a 14-day money-back guarantee should you not be satisfied.

Pros

  • User-friendly interface
  • Excellent remote logout feature to sign out of devices and clear browsing history
  • Reliable password generator
  • Good data breach scanner for identifying weak passwords

Cons

  • No mobile apps are available
  • Doesn’t offer as many features as its rivals

8. Avira – Includes a Speedy Autofill Feature for Form Filling

Avira Logo

Avira comes with a strong security profile and a variety of intriguing features like password sync that makes sure all of your passwords are secure across any device you own.

The software can create strong passwords and store them using the virtually impenetrable AES-256-bit encryption standard. As a result, you won’t need to be concerned about hackers or other nefarious individuals brute-forcing your password.

Avira best password manager

Free Plan Cheapest Plan Device Limit Free Trial & Money-back Guarantee Compatibility Top Features
Yes Pro – £1.99/month 50 60-day Money-back Guarantee Windows, macOS, Android, iOS, Chrome, Safari, Firefox, Opera, Edge 1. Remote Logout

2. Breach Alerts

3. Autofill

Users of Avira Password Manager can additionally add notes to their passwords to retain additional information or to keep track of various passwords and their intended uses, particularly useful for the forgetful types. The option to sync passwords across devices makes it all the more practical.

Furthermore, online forms have an auto-fill feature, and Avira comes built-in with a mobile authenticator, so there’s no need to use a third-party app for this. The service also provides a browser extension for even more integration and convenience.

Overall, the Avira password manager is a solid tool, and there’s a free version. That said, the free version contains a lot of advertising to upsell to customers, which does impact the user experience. Thankfully, the premium plan is incredibly cheap, and it comes with one of the longest guarantees you’ll come across.

Pricing

Besides Avira Password Manager’s entry-level package that’s completely free, the pro version is available for a pretty small fee, and you can either pay monthly or annually, with the prices listed in the picture below, with the annual plan featuring a whopping 60-day money-back guarantee:

Avira Password Manager UK Pricing

Pros

  • Easy to use and set up
  • Good apps for all popular devices and browsers
  • Operates a zero-knowledge policy
  • Includes a mobile authenticator

Cons

  • Tons of ads on the free version

9. Dashlane – Great Password Manager with Excellent Password Generator

Dashlane Logo

Dashlane is a good password manager that provides apps and extensions for many popular platforms like Windows, Mac, Android, and iOS, plus some browser support, ensuring that your credentials are accessible on any device.

It’s simple to set up, and it’ll automatically fill in logins, payment information, and form fields. You only need to log in again every so often to make sure you remember the master password.

A notification centre notifies you of any possible security lapses on websites where you have an account and also searches the dark web to check whether the same information is being shared. If something is detected, you can use the built-in password generator to ensure it never happens again.

Free Plan Cheapest Plan Device Limit Free Trial & Money-back Guarantee Compatibility Top Features
Yes Advanced – £2.89/month 50 30-day Premium Free trial Windows, macOS, Android, iOS, Chrome, Safari, Firefox, Opera, Edge 1. Payment Information Autofill

2. Secure Share

3. Password Generator

The passwords you create for websites can be absurdly complex because Dashlane will keep track of them for you. If you’d prefer, you can also use Face ID or your fingerprint if your device supports it.

In addition to passwords, Dashlane provides a digital wallet feature that can safely store your various payment methods and facilitates speedy checkout when purchasing online. This can be particularly useful for businesses that have a card for business expenses and may pass hands a few times.

There’s an ID section in the app, too, where you can save things like your driver’s license or other critical documents that you might need to quickly access, and you can add personal information to expedite filling out online forms.

Pricing

There are four different tiers from which to choose, including a free version available that allows you to use the secure sharing feature on one device and store an infinite number of passwords:

  • Free — 1 device
  • Advanced — £2.89/month — Unlimited devices + dark web surveillance
  • Premium — £3.29/month — Includes a VPN for safety online
  • Friends & Family package — £4.95/month — Gives all the benefits of Premium but for up to 10 accounts

Pros

  • Unlimited devices on the Advanced plan
  • Decent free plan with features like secure share
  • Useful 30-day free trial of the premium plan
  • Good range of affordable plans

Cons

  • The free version limits you to just one device

10. Bitwarden – A Budget-Friendly Password Manager

Bitwarden Logo

Bitwarden differs from its competitors as its code is open source, so those who can read the code can examine the specifics of how it operates, providing significant assurance that it’s secure.

More good news, Bitwarden is free to use, but some of the more advanced features, like Two-Factor Authentication, are reserved for the more premium plans. However, all the essential features are included for free users.

This includes unlimited logins, syncing across an unlimited number of devices, and the secure share feature, which allows you to safely share login details. This is incredibly generous for a free version, so we can easily see why Bitwarden is popular.

Bitwarden Password Manager

Free Plan Cheapest Plan Device Limit Free Trial & Money-back Guarantee Compatibility Top Features
Yes Premium – £0.79/month 6 7-day Family Free trial Windows, macOS, Android, iOS, Chrome, Safari, Firefox, Opera, Edge 1. Data Breach

2. Encrypted File Attachments

3. Two-factor Authentication

One feature we’d like to have seen in the free plan is the compromised password alerts that scour the internet and dark web to highlight any credentials that might have previously been stolen.  That said, the Premium plan is remarkably affordable if you want more features.

This includes advanced Two-Factor Authentication so that you keep your passwords even safer, plus, there’s compatibility with authentication services like Yubikey and FIDO 2, which are useful but not essential.

In addition to browser extensions for Chrome, Firefox, Edge, Opera, and Safari, Bitwarden apps are available for Windows, macOS, Linux, Android, and iOS. All the apps are also nice and user-friendly, making them an ideal choice for beginners.

Pricing

Alongside the generous free plan, Bitwarden also has plans available for users who want more premium features like dark web monitoring and also a family plan to cover multiple devices and users:

  • Premium — £7.75/year — Includes the authenticator app
  • Family plan — £30.95/year — Boasts all the same features, but up to 6 users

Pros

  • Strong free forever plan with core features like secure share
  • Fast and secure two-factor authentication
  • Simple-to-use apps for all devices and browsers
  • Affordable premium and family plans

Cons

  • Password importing feature can be temperamental

The Best PW Managers in the UK Compared

Below, we’ve compiled a useful table comparing all the data from the tables above, so you can quickly review the cheapest plans, which features are on offer, and more:

Provider Cheapest Plan Free Plan Device Limit Free Trial Compatibility Top Features
NordPass £1.79/month Yes 6 14-day Free Trial Windows, macOS, Android, iOS, Chrome, Safari, Firefox, Opera, Edge 1. XChaCha20 encryption

2. Data Breach Scanner

3. Shared Items

Norton Free Plan Yes 10 N/A Windows, macOS, Android, iOS, Chrome, Safari, Firefox, Opera, Edge 1. Autochange

2. Password Generator

3. Biometric Login

Enpass Individual -£1.62/month Yes 25 Only on Business Plans Windows, macOS, Android, iOS, Chrome, Safari, Firefox, Opera, Edge 1. Safe Notes

2. Cloud Storage

3. Biometric Login

1Password Premium – £3.69/month No Unlimited 14-day Free Trial Windows, macOS, Android, iOS, Linux, Chrome, Safari, Firefox, Opera, Edge, Brave 1. Travel Mode

2. Autofill

3. Password Generator

RoboForm Everywhere – £1.59/month Yes 5 30-day Free Trial Windows, macOS, Android, iOS, Linux, Chrome, Safari, Firefox, Opera, Edge, Brave 1. Built-in Browser

2. Autofill

3. Secure Share

Keeper Premium – £2.29/month Yes 5 14-day Free Trial Windows, macOS, Android, iOS, Linux, Chrome, Safari, Firefox, Opera, Edge, Brave 1.KeeperFill

2. KeeperChat

3. Two-factor Authentication

Total Password Premium -£1.99/month No 1 14-day Free Trial Windows, macOS, Android, iOS, Chrome, Safari, Firefox, Opera, Edge 1. Mobile

2. Breach Alerts

3. Autofill

Avira Pro – £1.99/month Yes 50 60-day Money-back Guarantee Windows, macOS, Android, iOS, Chrome, Safari, Firefox, Opera, Edge 1. Remote Logout

2. Breach Alerts

3. Autofill

Dashlane Advanced – £2.89/month Yes 50 30-day Premium Free trial Windows, macOS, Android, iOS, Chrome, Safari, Firefox, Opera, Edge 1. Payment Information Autofill

2. Secure Share

3. Password Generator

Bitwarden Premium – £0.79/month Yes 6 7-day Family Free trial Windows, macOS, Android, iOS, Chrome, Safari, Firefox, Opera, Edge 1. Data Breach

2. Encrypted File Attachments

3. Two-factor Authentication

Are Free Password Managers Good?

Everybody loves a free product or service. But often, when we think of free products, we automatically assume there’s a catch, or perhaps it won’t be any good, as it’s free. It’s worth noting that for enterprise use, a free password manager isn’t likely to cut it.

That said, all the free plans on offer by providers on this list, such as NordPass, all deliver a top-notch service without the need to spend a penny. You even get a lot of the features you’d expect to find behind a paywall, such as being able to store an infinite number of passwords.

However, if you want the very best password manager experience, it’s always recommended that you opt for a premium plan. By upgrading, you get access to more advanced features like dark web monitors or secure sharing capabilities where you can safely share login credentials with family members or friends.

If you’re unsure, most on this list offer some sort of free trial or money-back guarantee on paid plans, so you can try before you buy. Plus, paid plans can cost as little as £1.99/month.

How to Choose the Best Password Manager for You

With the UK market jam-packed with a ton of different password manager providers, it’s hard to know who to pick and what features you should look for. To help, we’ve compiled a useful list of key components that all the best password managers should have:

  • Advanced Features: Most have similar features across the board, including password generators and an autofill feature. However, some offer unique features, like Keepers’s very own KeeperChat, a secure messaging service for secure communication. Choose a tool that has the features you’re looking for.
  • Device Limits: Some providers will have generous device limits so you can use your password managers across any tech you might have, with some even offering an unlimited number on some devices. Look for a password manager that offers good value for money in this respect.
  • Compatibility: The best PW managers work across all major OS, including Android, iOS, Mac, and Windows, with many offering browser support too. It’s important to find a provider that has good coverage and strong clients across all these platforms.
  • Pricing: Each provider will have their own set prices, and some are perhaps unjustifiably more expensive than others, so it’s important to make sure you get a good price-to-feature ratio.
  • Security: One of the more important factors is overall security, to ensure your passwords and personal data are safe. It would be wise to avoid providers who have been breached in the past and look for those that promote a zero-knowledge policy. Bonus points for biometric login and two-factor authentication support.

We’ve taken these factors into account when ranking our list of the best password managers in the UK. All of them have something unique to offer, with their own advantages and disadvantages depending on your specific needs and preferences. That said, none of the solutions listed here have ever been breached.

Conclusion | What’s the Best UK Password Manager in 2024?

It’s nearly impossible to remember all your login details for the hundreds or thousands of websites and accounts we now have, and it’s also not recommended to employ one password for all of them to fix this, as you may put yourself at risk of a hack.

Thankfully, the best password managers in the UK can help you with these issues, with our top provider, NordPass, particularly well adept. It can help you scan the dark web for compromised passwords, and it boasts the market’s best encryption standard for top-notch, unbreakable security.

Best of all, there’s an excellent free plan on offer for you to try the service out, and paid plans start from just £1.79/month for a two-year plan, which is incredibly good value for money. Try it now risk-free.

UK PW Manager FAQ

Are password managers safe?

How much does a password manager cost?

Are there downsides to password managers?

Which password manager has not been hacked?

What’s the best free password manager in the UK?

 

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The Best Password Managers for Business in 2024: Top 10 Compared https://techreport.com/password-managers/best-password-manager-for-business/ Tue, 11 Jul 2023 12:49:45 +0000 https://techreport.com/?page_id=3507102 Best Password Managers For Businesses

By using one of the best password managers for business in , you can keep your business and staff members’ sensitive accounts and data safe while protecting your firm from...

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Best Password Managers For Businesses

By using one of the best password managers for business in 2024, you can keep your business and staff members’ sensitive accounts and data safe while protecting your firm from a host of cybersecurity threats, like former employees seeking to cause damage.

These services maintain a central, safe location where you can store all of your different shared business passwords. The best part is that some of these systems are free, with most costing only a few dollars each month.

In this article, we review the top corporate password managers, hand-picked based on their prices, features, usability, security, and compatibility. Let’s take a closer look and find the best solution for your needs.

The 10 Best Enterprise Password Management Solutions Ranked

We’ve scoured the market to find PW managers with business-specific features like secure password sharing. Here’s our list of the top enterprise password management solutions:

  1. NordPass – $3.59/user/month — Overall, the best password manager for businesses thanks to its clean interface, premium features like a data breach scanner, and affordable plans
  2. Norton – Free — A reliable and completely free password management solution with an easy-to-use interface and zero-knowledge policy
  3. Enpass – $3.99/user/month — Innovative password manager with several multi-factor authentication options and secure password sharing
  4. 1Password – $7.99/user/month — A premium password manager for companies with a unique Watchtower feature that notifies you of any hacked or weak passwords
  5. RoboForm – Custom Pricing — A budget-friendly password management tool with useful business options, including giving users the access level they need to certain accounts
  6. Keeper – $3.75/user/month — A trusted solution that includes an excellent secure messaging service called KeeperChat, where sensitive enterprise communications can be made
  7. Total Password – $1.99/month — Solid browser option for first-time password management users as it has a user-friendly UI and simple browser integration
  8. Avira – $2.99/user/month — Secure password manager for businesses with a top-notch password generator that allows admins to set guidelines for staff
  9. Dashlane – $8/user/month — Robust password manager with a ton of different plans for businesses of all sizes
  10. Bitwarden – $5/user/month — Cheap password manager for businesses that includes an excellent free-forever plan

How Do Business Password Managers Work?

A password manager is a piece of software made specifically to create, store, and manage online passwords or other personal information like sensitive documents in one secure location — an encrypted database protected with a master password.

Beyond this, some allow for the use of biometric information (fingerprint or face) in place of your master password for even greater security and convenience, and they offer businesses a secure means of sharing passwords for shared accounts.

The key benefit of employing a password manager is that it just requires you to remember one master password rather than all the login details you use for other websites. This means that you and your team can simply connect to all of your accounts with the autosave and autofill capabilities.

Why Do Businesses Need a Password Manager?

If you’re not sure why businesses might need a password manager, we’ve compiled a useful list below to highlight some of the key benefits of introducing the software into your everyday business practices:

  • Enforce Password Policies — Organizations can standardize and enforce password security rules across the business, such as requiring the use of Multi-Factor Authentication (MFA), and IT managers can make sure that all staff members are following the organization’s password policies.
  • Role-Based Access Control — This aids businesses in limiting their exposure in the event that an employee account is compromised, in addition to aiding in the prevention of insider attacks. Businesses can adopt Role-Based Access Control (RBAC) and keep an eye out for activity that points to abuse or a breach.
  • Safer Password Sharing — Businesses need to share passwords since it’s essential for tasks to be completed. With one of the best password managers, businesses can make shared folders for specific departments or project teams, allowing users to securely exchange credentials.
  • Easy Onboarding & Offboarding — Onboarding new personnel is straightforward when everyone uses the same password manager, but the biggest benefit here is that you can easily terminate access for any employees who leave because not doing so poses a significant cyber risk.

Reviews of the Market’s Top Company Password Managers

Now it’s time to take a closer look at our top 10 best business password managers on the market. Here we’ll explore their unique capabilities, pricing, and the advantages and disadvantages of using each one so that you can make an informed decision on the best one for your team.

Skip ahead to our comparison table if you don’t want to read all the nitty-gritty details, but want a neat overview of each one’s pricing, compatibility, and more at a glance.

1. NordPass – Overall, The Best Password Manager for Businesses

NordPass Logo

Nordpass is the top password manager on the market for businesses of any size. It’s a continuously developing password manager that secures your vault with several additional layers of protection, including the cutting-edge XChaCha20 encryption cipher.

This unique encryption algorithm supports two distinct key lengths, the strongest of which is 256 bits. Beyond this, there’s Multi-Factor Authentication to secure access to your business accounts with the unique code sent to your email or authenticator app.

NordPass Dashboard1

Best Plan for Businesses Free Version? Compatibility Free Trial or Money-back Guarantee
Business – $3.59/user/month Yes Windows, macOS, Android, iOS, Chrome, Safari, Firefox, Opera, Edge 14-day Free Trial

NordPass helps you create strong business passwords with the option to specify the length and add upper and lowercase letters, digits, and symbols. A Data Breach Scanner is also included, which aids in the early detection of security gaps, as is a Password Health Checker that ensures any password you create is unbreachable.

The ability to unlock your account with your face or fingerprint is one of NordPass’s best features, as it’s significantly faster and simpler than inputting the master password.

Overall, NordPass boasts the security, ease of use, and organization capabilities prized for business use, and you can sync your vault across all your devices and have employees securely share data, all at an incredibly low price point.

Pricing

Everything on offer comes at the low price of just $3.59/month for the business plan, which is fantastic value for money. Beyond this, there’s also an excellent free plan, but this is more for individual users rather than businesses, as it allows unlimited password storage but only for one user:

NordPass Business Pricing

For larger companies, there’s a custom Enterprise plan, but you’ll need to chat with the sales team for pricing. However, you can try it with the 14-day free trial to make sure it’s the right for your business needs.

Pros

  • Boasts stellar customer reviews
  • Cutting-edge XChaCha20 encryption, the market leader for encryption
  • Tons of advanced features, like a 24/7 data breach scanner
  • Useful 14-day free trial available to test the service
  • Affordably priced plans for businesses

Cons

  • Google Chrome extension can be glitchy

2. Norton Password Manager – Great, Totally Free VPN for Business Users

Norton Logo

Norton password manager is a relatively simple but incredibly secure password management tool that’ll keep your passwords and sensitive documents safe from snoopers. It’s a great all-in-one provider that also features an industry-leading antivirus and one of the best VPNs out there.

Although the password manager comes bundled with the Norton 360 security package with these add-ons, you can get it for free separate from the other products, but the bundle with the VPN and antivirus is a great option for businesses looking for total security coverage.

The Safety Dashboard in Norton Password Manager is also user-friendly and provides information about the passwords kept. For example, it’ll let you know if you’ve used the same password twice, rate its strength, and notify you if it’s out of date or it’s been archived. Plus, it enables you to modify passwords with a single click.

Norton Password Dashboard

Best Plan for Businesses Free Version? Compatibility Free Trial or Money-back Guarantee
Only Has a Free Plan Yes Windows, macOS, Android, iOS, Chrome, Safari, Firefox, Opera, Edge N/A

There’s an excellent password generator on offer, too, that can be used to create unique passwords, and as with NordPass, you can customize the length and strength of it. In terms of overall security, head-on hacker attacks won’t be a problem. Norton’s secure storage vaults use 256-bit AES encryption.

And, because Norton follows a zero-knowledge policy, you’re the only person with access to your vault. Although incredibly safe, the biggest disadvantage of this is that if you forget your master login password, no one can access your vault — and there are no account restoration options. For some businesses, this could be a deal-breaker.

On the whole, despite being completely free, Norton’s password manager solution offers incredible security that’s on par with premium solutions, but on the flip side, it of course, lacks advanced capabilities you’d find with tools like NordPass, including biometric logins.

Pricing

It’s hard to complain about Norton here, as it’s a free product, so if you own a small business with a handful of staff, it’s a completely free tool you can use to store as many passwords as you like.

Pros

  • Completely free, so ideal choice for startups
  • Adopts a zero-knowledge policy
  • Robust 256-bit AES encryption
  • Syncs across all of your devices

Cons

  • A small range of features

3. Enpass – Innovative Password Manager With a Ton of MFA Options

EnPass logo

Enpass is a fantastic password manager that has a tonne of different apps for various devices, both free and premium versions, plus a vast range of features. You can use Enpass to remember your passwords, login information, and financial details on Windows, Mac, Android, iOS, and browsers.

It includes some excellent business-specific features like automated offboarding, which automatically deletes data from user devices when they leave, ensuring no sensitive information escapes the company databases to prevent the sharing of private information with rival companies.

Enpass protects all your data with 256-bit AES military-grade encryption, and it even goes a step further by using an SQLCipher, which is a security extension to the SQLite database platform that facilitates the creation of encrypted databases, to add an additional degree of security.

EnPass

Best Plan for Businesses Free Version? Compatibility Free Trial or Money-back Guarantee
Enterprise – $3.99/user/month Free Plan Windows, macOS, Android, iOS, Chrome, Safari, Firefox, Opera, Edge 14-day Free Trial (not offered with the Enterprise plan)

It’s worth noting that although Enpass has cloud storage, it isn’t hosted on an exclusive cloud server. You upload your personal data to the cloud, a computer, or a mobile device, and if you’re concerned about losing this information, it allows you to create a backup file that’s encrypted and can only be accessed with your master password.

One helpful feature of Enpass is the Password Audit. This will detect any weak, vulnerable, or repeated passwords across multiple accounts, and if any are detected, Enpass can produce strong new password ideas for you to optimize your security, but it won’t automatically reset poor passwords.

As an added plus, your employees can also securely share passwords with Enpass.

Pricing

Besides the excellent free plan for one user, businesses with up to 10 members can get the Starter plan which offers good value for money. Below is a list of the current business plans on offer from Enpass:

Enpass Business Pricing

Pros

  • Excellent password generator
  • Dedicated business plans
  • Simple-to-use apps and desktop client
  • Great password-sharing tools

Cons

  • No two-factor authentication

4. 1Password – Solid Password Manager With Excellent Watchtower Feature

1Password Logo

1Password is among the best password managers available for several reasons. For one, it specializes in features that work across multiple platforms and devices, usability, and, most crucially, strong security. Plus, it’s affordable.

For your vault, it uses state-of-the-art encryption technology, and each user is protected by a 34-character code. Beyond this, as with rivals, there’s a password generator that lets you can set rules, such as the length, any special characters needed, and more.

Each 1Password membership also includes the Watchtower security toolkit. This notifies you of any security flaws in your ecosystem, such as weak or outdated passwords, compromised logins, and security upgrades from websites where you save your credentials.

1password | password storage

Best Plan for Businesses Free Version? Compatibility Free Trial or Money-back Guarantee
Business – $7.99/month per user No Windows, macOS, Android, iOS, Chrome, Safari, Firefox, Opera, Edge 14-day Free Trial

For remote workers and those who travel, 1Password vaults are the best option for keeping confidential data safe. In fact, employees can turn on “travel mode” when traveling across international boundaries. This deletes the vaults with “non-travel-safe data” while ensuring access to “travel-safe” data in separate vaults.

For a while now, there’s been a huge demand for trustworthy financial security. As a result, 1Password added the Privacy cards tool to its arsenal. You can use it to securely autofill the information from your virtual credit cards whenever you shop online.

Unfortunately, you’d need to make a new card for each account since each Privacy card is associated with a distinct business, but you can also establish a spending restriction for each credit card.

Pricing

1Password offers a strong lineup of business-specific plans that are aimed at filling the gap between startups all the way up to larger enterprises. Each offers a 14-day free trial, so you can test the service out before committing long-term:

1Password Business Pricing

Pros

  • Brilliant travel mode features for remote workers or work trips
  • Includes 1GB of encrypted file storage
  • Robust two-factor authentication features
  • Excellent Watchtower features for spotting bad and stolen passwords

Cons

  • No free plan on offer

5. RoboForm – Budget-Friendly Password Manager With Role-Based Access Features

Roboform Logo

RoboForm dates back to the late 1990s, making it one of the first password managers. You can store your login information for all your accounts in one safe location to protect your passwords and personal information, and it makes your life easier with services like its password-filling service.

For businesses, there are a ton of useful features aimed at keeping company data and employees safe. For example, you get role-based access permission to ensure only the relevant people have access to certain sensitive data, which helps protect from leaks.

Also, there are advanced reporting features that can be used to assess passwords and their overall safety, and for added safety, you can set as many admins as you need (a minimum of two) in case one of them leaves or forgets the details.

RoboForm password protection

Best Plan for Businesses Free Version? Compatibility Free Trial or Money-back Guarantee
Depends on Number of Employees Yes Windows, macOS, Android, iOS, Chrome, Safari, Firefox, Opera, Edge 30-day Money-back Guarantee

RoboForm can also be used to safely onboard and offboard employees — you can set relevant access and create unique passwords, plus, all data is removed from the accounts of staff members who leave.

Besides all this, what users like most about RoboForm is that there’s no limit to the number of passwords that can be kept, and your account password can be saved quickly and conveniently with just one click, whether you like to indulge in some shopping therapy or binge-watch television on Amazon or Netflix.

As you’d expect, RoboForm also has a password checker solution that displays a password’s strength as weak, medium, or strong. But even if it enthusiastically advises using the Generator, there doesn’t seem to be any clear instructions outlining what makes a password weak.

One feature we were a little disappointed with is the password-sharing function, which only allows you to securely share passwords with other RoboForm users, however, this shouldn’t be a problem if you onboard all employees onto Roboform.

Pricing

The free version of RoboForm works on par with some premium password managers, meaning that small businesses or solo entrepreneurs can use this service without paying a dime. All of RoboForm’s top features, such as unlimited logins, form filling, password auditing, and a password generator, are included in this tier.

RoboForm Business Plans

One thing we really like about RoboForm is the pricing structure for business, which allows you to select a plan based on the number of employees you have and how long you’d like the subscription for. There are a lot of different options, but below are the cheapest options per user for a 5-year subscription:

  • 1-10 users — $29.95/user/year
  • 11-25 users — $26.95/user/year
  • 26-100 users — $25.95/user/year
  • 101-1000 users — $22.95/user/year
  • 1000+ users — Contact the sales team

Considering what’s on offer and the number of users you can onboard, RoboForm offers immense value for money for businesses.

Pros

  • Great range of plans and pricing for business users
  • Intuitive and powerful mobile apps for access on the go
  • Excellent free forever plan, ideal for individual or small business use
  • No credit card is needed for the free trial

Cons

  • Live chat support only available on paid plans

6. Keeper – Includes a Secure Communications Option, KeeperChat

Keeper Logo

Keeper is one of the most trustworthy and secure password managers on the market. The tools it offers are genuinely excellent and include reliable multi-factor authentication, a tool for generating and evaluating passwords, and a data breach scanner, amongst others.

Additionally, Keeper doesn’t skimp on security; it protects all saved data with strong AES-256 encryption and offers a top-notch user experience across a variety of platforms.

Keeper | best password managers for business,

Best Plan for Businesses Free Version? Compatibility Free Trial or Money-back Guarantee
Business (billed annually) – $3.75/month per user Yes Windows, macOS, Android, iOS, Chrome, Safari, Firefox, Opera, Edge 30-day Free Trial

An independent messaging program called KeeperChat is one feature that truly sets it apart from other PW managers on the market. It’s compatible with nearly every tablet, smartphone, and desktop. With it, all business correspondence is stored in a safe vault that can only be accessed after confirming your identity.

Beyond this, Keeper’s popularity is largely due to the extent that the app allows you to customize your stored data with permission settings that can span departments, specific teams, or individual users.

Keeper’s business clients can choose between Business and Enterprise variants depending on the size of their business. Overall, this is a top solution for businesses as it offers team-specific capabilities like shared team folders for safe file sharing and unlimited device access.

Pricing

In terms of pricing, you can opt for the Business Starter plan, which covers up to 10 members of staff that work out at $2/user/month, paid annually – this is the best option for small businesses and startups.

Keeper Business Plans

For larger enterprises, we’d recommend trying the Business or Enterprise plans. For the Enterprise plan, you’ll have to reach out to the sales team to determine the overall cost. Although there is no free plan, all plans include a 30-day free trial.

Pros

  • Uses layered encryption, which heightens security
  • Useful 30-day free trial
  • Great mobile apps for workers on the go
  • Excellent range of business plans for companies of all sizes

Cons

  • No free option is available, only paid plans

7. Total Password – Easy-to-Use Password Manager For Beginners

Total Password Logo

Total Password is a new contender in this space, but it’s backed up by the strong security and online safety credentials of its parent company, TotalAV, a powerhouse that’s secured its placement as one of the best Antivirus solutions on the market.

Before, they had a password manager built into the antivirus bundle they had on offer, but now, Total Password is a standalone product. For starters, all your passwords and devices sync on the go, so wherever you are in the world, you can safely access all your passwords.

Total Password

Best Plan for Businesses Free Version? Compatibility Free Trial or Money-back Guarantee
Only One Plan – $1.99/month No Chrome, Safari, Firefox, Opera, Edge 14-day Money-back Guarantee

The software is currently available for Chrome, Safari, Opera, and Microsoft Edge, but unlike most, there aren’t any apps for iOS or Android, something we hope to see in the future. This might be a deal-breaker, but considering the price, there’s a lot on offer here.

For example, one particularly useful aspect for businesses is the ability to remotely log out and delete the browser history from any device that uses Total Password. This is ideal for enterprises with remote workforces because, in the instance that a staff member leaves, you can easily wipe the data so it’s no longer accessible.

Plus, you can expect the usual capabilities on offer with other top password managers, such as the useful password generator and autofill feature that saves you time entering long emails or complex passwords the system has generated.

Pricing

In terms of pricing, the annual plan will set you back just $1.99/month, and there’s even a 14-day money-back guarantee if you’re not satisfied. If you want to pay monthly, it’s $9.99/month, and both plans include Total Ad Block and multiple licenses.

Total Password Pricing

Pros

  • Affordably priced plan
  • Easy to use and simple set up
  • Can be used to store credit card details and sensitive documents
  • A decent unique password generator is ideal for businesses

Cons

  • No apps for mobile devices, just browser extensions
  • Only has one plan and doesn’t have as many features as rivals

8. Avira – Good Password Manager with Top Password Generator

Avira LogoThe Avira password manager was created with both usability and security in mind. It does an outstanding job of securely storing passwords by using high-level encryption and additional security measures like Two-Factor Authentication (2FA), in addition to having a very user-friendly UI.

Avira also provides consumers with a transparent security status of their passwords, outlining any that are outdated, reused, or otherwise compromised. As you’d expect, it uses bank-grade AES 256-bit encryption on a cloud storage server to store passwords.

Avira best password manager

Best Plan for Businesses Free Version? Compatibility Free Trial or Money-back Guarantee
Pro – $2.99/user/month Yes Windows, macOS, Android, iOS, Chrome, Safari, Firefox, Opera, Edge 60-day Money-back Guarantee

Avira gives you two alternatives for creating passwords when you create a new safe account. Generate Password, which uses the current settings, or Generate and Customise Password — with the latter, you can choose a password length between 4 and 30 characters and whether to add punctuation.

You only get one option for two-factor authentication, and that’s to link your mobile number. It would be nice to see a few other alternatives, but as most people tend to have their mobiles with them at all times, this should be just fine.

That said, other options on this list definitely have more enterprise-specific plans; Avira, unfortunately, doesn’t offer a dedicated plan for corporate use.

Pricing

Compared to rivals, Avira undoubtedly lacks subscription options. However, with the annual plan, you do get a 60-day money-back guarantee, which is very generous, and overall, the pricing is incredibly cheap, considering all the core capabilities are on offer.

Avira Pricing

Pros

  • Includes two-factor authentication
  • Offers simple and affordable pricing structure
  • Passwords sync across any device you use

Cons

  • No business-specific plans or features

9. Dashlane – Reliable Password Manger With a Huge Range of Business Tailored Plans

Dashlane Logo

Dashlane secures passwords using industry-leading AES encryption, biometric authentication, and ongoing reviews for vulnerabilities. However, it also boasts a built-in VPN that encrypts all of your web traffic for top-notch security.

Sadly, there are no longer any desktop applications, and it’s also pretty expensive, hence why it’s down the bottom of this list. That said, Dashlane employs a zero-trust architecture, which limits your access to your data to you.

Best Plan for Businesses Free Version? Compatibility Free Trial or Money-back Guarantee
Business (billed annually) – $8/user/month No Windows, macOS, Android, iOS, Chrome, Safari, Firefox, Opera, Edge 30-day Free Trial

256-bit AES encryption and two-factor authentication further ensure that no outsider has the slightest chance of decrypting your vault. Plus, the Dashlane password generator is also excellent, but it only comes in handy when you’re setting up new accounts or individually updating each of your current ones.

The Dashlane password changer allows you to reset all outdated or risky passwords at once, unlike some other password managers, so you won’t have to enter each account individually or alter each password.

Unlimited backup, a VPN, automatic device syncing, priority support, dark web insights and surveillance, and password sharing are features of both commercial memberships. Add to this the user-friendly admin console, and you have a solid corporate PW manager for easy access management.

Pricing

In addition to personal subscriptions, Dashlane also provides commercial plans. There are three types of business plans, as shown below:

DashLane Plans

The Starter plan is perfect for businesses that don’t want to commit straight away. However, both plans are reasonably comparable, but the Business one further provides a free Family subscription for each seat and SAML-based single sign-on, which allows you to access multiple web applications using one set of login credentials.

Pros

  • You can update hundreds of passwords at the click of a few buttons
  • Includes a built-in VPN for an extra layer of security
  • Useful options for small to large businesses

Cons

  • Only 50 passwords are allowed on the free plan

10. Bitwarden – Good Free Forever Password Manager

Bitwarden Logo

Bitwarden can be a fantastic option to keep all your passwords. This open-source password manager stores all your login information in an encrypted vault. Additionally, it provides desktop and mobile apps, as well as web and command-line interfaces.

Your passwords are encrypted on the device using the AES-256 military-grade cipher. Plus, you can create usernames and passwords using the Bitwarden password generator, and there are many solutions available to you for improving the strength of your credentials.

Bitwarden Password Manager

Best Plan for Businesses Free Version? Compatibility Free Trial or Money-back Guarantee
Bitwarden Enterprise Organization  – $5/user/month Yes Windows, macOS, Linux, Android, iOS, Chrome, Firefox, Edge, Opera, Safari, Vivaldi, Brave, Tor 7-day Free Trial

In urgent situations such as a collision or death, Bitwarden’s emergency access capability is useful for retrieving your account, and it could come in handy for businesses that have a staff member who falls ill or simply leaves the company with no prior warning.

However, as with all business password managers, there are flaws to the tool that you should consider. Bitwarden’s auto-filling mechanism is a little iffy and not particularly user-friendly. Sadly, the data is also kept in a country that participates in an alliance for data surveillance.

Overall, it may not be the finest password manager, but it does use zero-knowledge encryption architecture and it boasts all the core capabilities companies need, all at an incredibly low price, making them a worthy name on our list.

Pricing

In addition to a free-forever plan, premium, and family subscriptions, Bitwarden offers various pricing alternatives, including two business plans:

Bitwarden Business Plans

The Teams Organization plan includes the option to share private data within a team, and there’s also the Enterprise Organization that includes enterprise policies, SSO integration, and SCIM support, amongst others.

Pros

  • Great free plan, ideal for startups and small-scale enterprises
  • Affordable premium plans
  • Clean and intuitive dashboard, great for password manager newbies

Cons

  • Outdated desktop apps

The Best Business Password Manager Apps Compared

Below is a useful comparison of all the top password managers for businesses on this list. Here, you can easily compare the plans and compatibility of each one:

Software Best Plan for Businesses Free Version? Compatibility Free Trial or Money-back Guarantee
NordPass Business – $3.59/user/month Yes Windows, macOS, Android, iOS, Chrome, Safari, Firefox, Opera, Edge 14-day Free Trial
Norton Free Plan Yes Windows, macOS, Android, iOS, Chrome, Safari, Firefox, Opera, Edge Windows, Mac, Android, and iOS
Enpass Enterprise – $3.99/user/month No Windows, macOS, Android, iOS, Chrome, Safari, Firefox, Opera, Edge 14-day Free Trial (not offered with the Enterprise plan)
1Password Business – $7.99/user/month No Windows, macOS, Android, iOS, Chrome, Safari, Firefox, Opera, Edge 14-day Free Trial
RoboForm Depends on the Number of Users Yes Windows, macOS, Android, iOS, Chrome, Safari, Firefox, Opera, Edge 30-day Money-back Guarantee
Keeper Business (billed annually) – $3.75/user/month Yes Windows, macOS, Android, iOS, Chrome, Safari, Firefox, Opera, Edge 30-day Free Trial
Total Password $1.99/month No Chrome, Safari, Firefox, Opera, Edge 14-day Money-back Guarantee
Avira Pro – $2.99/user/month Yes Windows, macOS, Android, iOS, Chrome, Safari, Firefox, Opera, Edge 60-day Money-back Guarantee
Dashlane Business (billed annually) – $8/user/month No Windows, macOS, Android, iOS, Chrome, Safari, Firefox, Opera, Edge 30-day Free Trial
Bitwarden Enterprise Organization  – $5/user/month Yes Windows, macOS, Linux, Android, iOS, Chrome, Firefox, Edge, Opera, Safari, Vivaldi, Brave, Tor 7-day Free Trial

Is a Free PW Manager Enough for Business Use?

It’s standard practice for password management providers to provide their solutions for free, unlike other programs. And everyone appreciates free software, especially when it has the necessary functions.

Although they offer the capabilities needed to store your passwords safely, these free plans do, of course, have certain restrictions, such as a limited number of users and fewer features.

For businesses, it’s important to opt for a paid option unless you have just one or two employees, then you could perhaps stretch a free plan to the max, but generally speaking, you’ll get more premium features like data breach alerts and secure password sharing on a paid plan.

If you have 5 or more members of staff, a free password manager simply won’t do, as they rarely allow over 5 users. We’d recommend trying a premium service like NordPass, which only costs $3.59/user/month, and comes with a ton of business-specific features like onboarding and offboarding capabilities.

Factors to Consider When Choosing a Corporate Password Management Tool

When choosing which password manager is best for your business, there are important factors to consider, like the overall cost, as most of them are charged per user. You also want to ensure it’s compatible with your device. Below is a useful list of considerations to help you make the right choice:

  • Good Security & Encryption: Strong encryption (think 256-bit AES or greater) and two-factor authentication (2FA) are two features that a top-tier business password manager should include. To safeguard your security and privacy, they must also adhere to zero-knowledge practices.
  • Simple Set Up: Your company’s password manager must be simple to install or offer specialized system integration help. Additionally, search for user-friendly dashboards that are accessible to both technical and non-technical personnel.
  • Admin Controls: It should be possible to monitor how each employee manages their credentials and whether they’re adhering to best security practices. All the providers on this list offer some sort of administrative controls, allowing administrative staff to set permission restrictions and the required security measures.
  • Features: Look for features like auto-saving, auto-login, login security audits, and secure password sharing when selecting a business password manager. This will make life much easier and will save a lot of stress and time further down the line.
  • Pricing: A comprehensive password manager is likely to be a bit costly if you’re a large enterprise. It’s important not only to consider the price, but make sure that there’s a good feature-to-price ratio.

Conclusion | What’s the Best Password Manager Business Solution to Use in 2024?

Manual management of the numerous passwords and other credentials used in a business is practically impossible. Using a password management system will increase staff collaboration on shared accounts and strengthen security at your business.

The best password managers for businesses provide streamlined sign-ins, secure password sharing, and numerous levels of additional data security. All these benefits are available from a reputable source like NordPass. Try it now, it offers the best value for money you’ll find with PW managers.

FAQ

What is a business password manager?

Should companies use a password manager?

Which password managers have been hacked?

How much does an enterprise password manager cost?

The post The Best Password Managers for Business in 2024: Top 10 Compared appeared first on The Tech Report.

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In-Depth CyberGhost VPN Review for 2024 – Is CyberGhost Legit? https://techreport.com/vpn/cyberghost-vpn-review/ Thu, 06 Jul 2023 10:44:13 +0000 https://techreport.com/?page_id=3506698 CyberGhost review

In this CyberGhost VPN review, we delve into all the nitty-gritty details about this top VPN service, compare it to other popular options, and more — because by using one...

The post In-Depth CyberGhost VPN Review for 2024 – Is CyberGhost Legit? appeared first on The Tech Report.

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CyberGhost review

In this CyberGhost VPN review, we delve into all the nitty-gritty details about this top VPN service, compare it to other popular options, and more — because by using one of the best VPNs, you can keep yourself safe online and also use them for gaming, torrenting, and unblocking streaming sites. But is CyberGhost the best choice?

CyberGhost unblocks the majority of well-known online streaming services, including Netflix and BBC iPlayer, and supports torrenting. Plus, it runs with the WireGuard protocol and includes specialized servers for streaming, a dedicated IP address, and a 45-day money-back guarantee. But there’s more.

In this CyberGhost VPN review, we’re going to explore everything you need to know about CyberGhost, including the pros and cons, its features, pricing, security, and server options. Let’s dive right in.

What is CyberGhost VPN?

CyberGhost Logo

CyberGhost is a popular VPN service that’s renowned for being user-friendly. The company that owns Private Internet Access, ZenMate, and Kape Technologies, also owns CyberGhost, which shows that they have a strong portfolio of online safety tools.

A number of human rights issues, including the right to privacy, a free society, and unrestricted internet access, have received the company’s unwavering support, something that you want to see from a company claiming to keep you anonymous.

CyberGhost was first established in Romania back in 2011, where it immediately established a reputation as one of the top free VPN service providers available. Since then, it’s gone on to offer some top premium plans that rival some of the key market leaders in the VPN world.

Overview of the CyberGhost’s Specs

CyberGhost is well-known for having one of the largest server fleets out of any VPN service on the market right now, and it has some other pretty good specs to go alongside this, including the key metrics listed below:

CyberGhost Key Info
Number of Servers 9,700+
Number of Countries 91+
Pricing From $2.19/month
Max Devices Supported 7
Average Speeds 220-240 Mbps
Customer Service 24/7 live chat, phone, and email
Money-Back Guarantee 45 days

CyberGhost VPN Origins & 14-Eyes Alliance: What’s the Story?

A surveillance alliance is an arrangement between multiple countries to exchange their intelligence. This includes a user’s browsing history if it’s relevant to one of the member nations. Two alliances, the Five Eyes, and the Fourteen Eyes, each consist of five and fourteen nations, respectively.

These alliances have agreed to share information when doing so will benefit all parties. They still exist today; however, they were first developed during the Cold War as a way of cooperating to defeat a shared foe (the Soviet Union).

These are two of the biggest and best-known surveillance coalitions in existence and are frequently used in discussions about internet privacy. Before being sold to Kape Technologies, the same business that controls ExpressVPN and Private Internet Access, CyberGhost was first established back in 2011 in Bucharest, Romania.

CyberGhost has offices in Germany and a Romanian base, and it isn’t governed by any organization that coordinates monitoring. As a defender of civil rights, a free society, and unrestricted internet culture, the corporation views privacy as a fundamental human right, making it the perfect place for a VPN to be birthed.

Did CyberGhost VPN Leak Personal Data in the Past?

CyberGhost has a pretty impeccable past when it comes to data breaches and leaked personal data, and they have a ton of measures in place to ensure nothing goes wrong. There was one small blip with the Typeform breach, but this was on a very small scale, and the company was quick to address this and own up to any issues.

Due to the DNS and IP leak prevention available in its apps and browser extensions, CyberGhost is incredibly secure. You should keep your DNS requests and IPv6 traffic private because your ISP can use them to monitor your online activity.

In order to prevent websites from seeing your actual IP address, CyberGhost makes sure that your DNS requests are routed through its own DNS servers and that any IPv6 requests are prevented. It’s fantastic if you’re unfamiliar with VPNs because these features are already enabled.

Is CyberGhost VPN Safe?

Overall, CyberGhost is an incredibly safe and reliable VPN to use, and it has tight encryption and security protocols in place to back this up. Let’s take a quick look at the aforementioned encryption and security protocols that make up the CyberGhost system that ensures your safety when using it.

Supported VPN Protocols

VPN protocols are a technique that allows VPNs to securely transfer your data over the internet. The security and speed of the various protocols vary, and the majority of them, like PPTP or L2TP, are rarely used since they’re seen as outdated and, therefore, less safe than the newer alternatives.

Three VPN protocols are supported by CyberGhost VPN: OpenVPN, IKEv2/IPSec, and WireGuard. These protocols all offer high security and fast speeds and are the norm in most of the best VPNs on the market.

Logging Policy

Neither connection logs nor traffic data are recorded by CyberGhost, and the independent audit conducted in September 2022 by Deloitte confirmed this. In fact, CyberGhost doesn’t keep any logs at all, so hackers and ISPs have nothing to track your online activity when you’re using CyberGhost.

Overall, CyberGhost does collect basic information upon signing up, like your email, but it’s a VPN with a tight no-logs policy, and a strong stance on privacy and security.

Jurisdiction

Although Romania (where CyberGhost is based) is a part of the European Union, it is a privacy-friendly country. Romanian courts have ruled that data retention measures promoted by the EU are unlawful.

Additionally, Romania is not a member of the Fourteen Eyes information-sharing alliance, making it safe for you to use CyberGhost and one of the key reasons many opt for this VPN provider.

Encryption

Your data is changed by VPN encryption from simple plain text to difficult-to-decipher ciphertext. Because of that, it’s impossible for outsiders to decrypt. As such, cybercriminals would need to decode your data to steal it, which would take millions of years for even the best supercomputers to crack.

Simply put: CyberGhost VPN scrambles your data into a jumble of symbols by using the Advanced Encryption Standard (AES) 256-bit encryption that no one can decipher. This is the core security measure used with all leading VPNs, as it’s incredibly safe and virtually impossible to crack. In fact, banks use this encryption too.

CyberGhost VPN Features

Being one of the leading VPNs on the market, CyberGhost has all the premium features you’d expect. Below, we’re going to further analyze these features and break down what they mean and how they’ll benefit you. Let’s dive right in.

Split-Tunneling

Split-tunneling is a practical feature that lets you select precisely which apps and programs your VPN should protect and which ones shouldn’t pass through the encryption.

CyberGhost Split Tunneling

Both of CyberGhost’s desktop applications for Windows and macOS come with a straightforward split tunneling capability where you can choose which websites (but not apps) you want to block from the VPN tunnel.

The split tunneling function on Android is a little more advanced, as it allows you to also choose which applications you want to keep out of the VPN connection. This enables you to use some apps without a VPN (like your banking app) while securely routing data like websites or streaming activity through the VPN tunnel.

Kill Switch

Leak protection, a crucial component of your secure connection, is maintained by kill switches. The default setting on most OSes is to fall back to another active connection if your connection to your VPN is lost for any reason. This isn’t ideal.

CyberGhost Kill Switch

Without the security of VPN encryption, you might now be at risk of disclosing personal information to the internet if you were in the process of transferring sensitive data. Thankfully, CyberGhost employs a software-enabled kill switch that instantly stops all network activity while your VPN connection is down.

Private DNS

The DNS protocols are a group of servers with open access that keep track of the records connecting IP addresses and domain names. Unfortunately, crucial security issues like what happens if someone gives a false IP address for a domain weren’t given much thought when DNS was built.

For instance, a hacker may reroute your search for www.google.com to their virus distribution service while you’re actually looking for Google. But, by running a collection of authoritative DNS servers and using a secure connection to send DNS traffic, CyberGhost resolves this issue.

Dedicated IP Address

For an additional cost, CyberGhost provides a dedicated IP address function. Most individual VPN providers don’t offer dedicated IPs, but this is a standard feature of most commercial VPN plans. With a dedicated IP address, each time you join the VPN network, just you will be assigned a fixed IP address.

Dedicated IP CyberGhost

The majority of VPNs employ shared IP addresses by default, which means that many other VPN customers also share the IP addresses. In most circumstances, this isn’t inherently negative, but it could result in the “bad neighbor effect“.

For example, other VPN users may do things that are against the law or the terms of service of specific websites, which can result in an IP address being blacklisted. You can completely prevent this situation if you have your own dedicated IP address.

NoSpy Servers

CyberGhost’s NoSpy servers are seen as even safer and more dependable than standard servers, as they’re housed in the organization’s exclusive Romanian private data center. There are several reasons why this is advantageous.

First, because they’re physically situated in Romania — which has no regulations governing data retention — they’re immediately subject to Romanian law, which is added peace of mind on top of the fact that CyberGhost doesn’t keep any user data, anyway.

Additionally, as CyberGhost is in charge of and responsible for maintaining its own servers, any server outage may be fixed right away. Since no one else can access these systems, physical security is also increased.

WireGuard Protocol

WireGuard is a free and open-source software application and communication protocol that implements VPN techniques to create secure point-to-point connections in routed or bridged configurations.

CyberGhost uses this VPN protocol, and although it’s still considered a work in progress, it offers improved security, speeds, and reduced power consumption over older technologies like IPsec and OpenVPN. As a result, any VPN with WireGuard is a huge plus.

CyberGhost VPN Pricing

Prices for CyberGhost vary according to how long a subscription is for. Plans that are shorter cost more, and vice versa. That said, CyberGhost is among the least expensive VPNs available, plus it lets you have 7 simultaneous connections. Here are your options:

Cyberghost Pricing

Their 1-month plan is neither too expensive nor too cheap. This is the only plan with a shorter money-back guarantee policy of 14 days. All other plans have a lengthy 45-day guarantee, which is one of the most generous policies for any VPN service.

In addition to credit cards, Amazon Pay, and PayPal, cryptocurrency can now be used to make payments. The possibility to select anonymous payment methods when purchasing a membership is a wonderful touch.

Is CyberGhost VPN Free?

Although CyberGhost VPN doesn’t offer a free edition, it does offer a free trial that lasts for 1 day on a desktop, 3 days on Android, and 7 days on iOS without requiring any financial information. This is unexpected, considering that most high-end VPN service providers only provide money-back guarantees.

Of course, CyberGhost also offers a 14 or 45-day guarantee depending on the length of the plan, so trying the software is completely risk-free.

A Look At CyberGhost’s Device Compatibility

One area where CyberGhost truly excels is in its support for a huge range of devices, including the usual platforms of Android, iOS, Windows, and Mac, but also going one step further with support for Linux, Android TVs, routers, and games consoles.

CyberGhost allows you to install the app on 7 different devices, or you could just configure it onto your router to support all the devices on that network. The choice is yours. This is generous when compared to other VPN providers like ExpressVPN, which only allows for 5 simultaneous connections.

Below, we’ll take a closer look at CyberGhost’s apps for the major platforms — Windows, MacOS, Android, and iOS.

Windows App

The Windows client for CyberGhost opens with a simple, lightweight interface that has a Connect button, a list of locations, and a connection status. But don’t let that deceive you; there’s a right-hand panel that contains a tonne of capability.

All nations are listed together with their proximity to you in a location picker. A “Favorites” system makes it simple to create your own personalized list. This can be filtered by continent or to find servers optimized for gaming, streaming, or torrenting.

CyberGhost Windows App

You also have an exceptional amount of control over when the app launches, thanks to the app’s Smart Rules tab. Most VPNs offer the option to run when Windows starts, but with CyberGhost, you can also select a favorite server and launch a specific app, such as your default browser, in incognito mode, after selecting a server.

CyberGhost gives you even more control under the Wi-Fi Protection panel, where you may specify in detail what occurs when you connect to new networks. If the network is unsafe, you can set the client to automatically connect to the VPN, or you can set it to never join if the network is encrypted.

Overall, the CyberGhost Windows app is one of the most highly-customizable options out there, with a ton of useful features that make it possible for you to finely tune it to run the way you want it.

Mac App

The CyberGhost Mac app launches with a minimal mobile VPN window that only includes the location that is presently selected and a Connect button. This offers a very clean and easy-to-navigate dashboard that’s slightly more aesthetically pleasing than the Windows offering.

Unlike what we saw on the Windows app, the distance to each server isn’t listed on the Mac location list. However, it also includes a “server load” number that lets you know which areas are busy to prevent server congestion and customers experiencing slow speeds.

CyberGhost Mac App

Like most Mac VPNs, it does lack some of the functionality seen on Windows. For example, when you select Privacy Settings, the only options available are those for banning malware, trackers, and ads. There’s no automatic kill switch or adjustable DNS leak option.

The start-up guidelines are also far more straightforward than what we observed with Windows. When the app first begins, or whenever you connect to an untrusted Wi-Fi network, you can configure the app to connect automatically.

So whilst the aesthetics are certainly to be enjoyed, the Mac app does offer fewer customizations and features, but overall, it offers a pleasant experience with all the necessary features accessible easily enough.

Android App

When compared to their desktop counterparts, mobile VPN apps are frequently wimpy, yet CyberGhost’s options are surprisingly strong. The software launches with the customary very straightforward portrait layout, which includes only a Connect button and the name of the location you’ve chosen.

However, if you switch to the tablet-friendly landscape orientation, the location list and Connect button appear on the same screen, making it simpler to select the server you need and log on.

CyberGhost Android App

The app supports OpenVPN and WireGuard protocols (but not IKEv2), and you can set it to automatically connect when you connect to unsecured Wi-Fi. It also incorporates the desktop client’s ability to connect to the VPN using a random port, a handy trick that might be used to get around VPN blocking.

A content blocker enables the blocking of URLs linked to malware, advertisements, or trackers. Split tunneling is perhaps the standout feature here, allowing you to quickly select which apps use the VPN and which don’t.

All-in-all, the Android app for CyberGhost is very user-friendly and comes with some decent customization settings. Sadly, there’s no kill switch included in the Android app, something we hope will be addressed in the near future.

iOS App

The iOS app has the same appearance and feel as the Windows and Android versions, plus it’s simple to get started, simply log in, then tap Connect to access your closest location.

Even while Apple’s security approach prevents them from having the same level of control as Android VPN apps, some iOS VPN apps still provide a few handy capabilities. For instance, you can configure the app to connect automatically when you access certain networks.

CyberGhost iOS App

Alternatively, you can use a connection checker to examine your internet connectivity, determine whether CyberGhost’s VPN servers are reachable, and generally troubleshoot any issues by setting your protocol to IKEv2 or WireGuard (no OpenVPN).

Overall, all the apps for CyberGhost are user-friendly, packed with features, and also include a 7-day free trial, so there’s a lot to like here, hence why it’s one of the best iPhone VPNs.

Other Devices

The list of compatible devices doesn’t stop there, as CyberGhost is readily available on just about any piece of tech you own. To save time, we’ve compiled a useful list of all the other devices you can install this VPN on:

  • Linux
  • DD-WRT Routers
  • Apple TV (3 & 4),  Roku TV
  • Android TV, Amazon Fire TV, LG & Samsung Smart TVs
  • TomatoUSB & TomatoUSB Merlin Build
  • PlayStation 3 & 4, Xbox One, Xbox Series & Xbox 360
  • Nintendo Switch, Nintendo Wii, & Wii U
  • Raspberry Pi, VU+ Solo²
  • Synology NAS via OpenVPN
  • Google Chrome & Firefox Web Browsers

CyberGhost’s Speed — How Does it Compare to Competition?

CyberGhost boasts some of the quickest speeds we’ve seen in testing, with the average sitting between 300Mbps-450Mbps, depending on where you are in the world. It’s renowned for having some of the fastest VPN servers and among the best overall speeds for seamless streaming, gaming, and torrenting.

However, these speeds will be different for everyone, and your proximity to the server you’re connecting to plays a huge part in the speeds you’re likely to get. Let’s take a closer look at how CyberGhost speed averages compare to other top VPN providers:

Top VPNs in 2024 Average Speed (Mbps) Cheapest Plan Simultaneous Connections Server Count Server Locations
CyberGhost 300-450  $2.19/month (2-year plan) 7 9,700+ 91 Countries
ExpressVPN  350-500 $6.67/month (1-year plan) 5 3,000+ 94 Countries
NordVPN 300-400 $3.49/month (1-year plan) 6 5,700+ 60 Countries
IvacyVPN 100-200 $2.45/month (2-year plan) 10 5,700+ 68 Countries
PureVPN 150-250 $2.08/month (1-year plan) 10 6,500+ 78 Countries

Not only does CyberGhost’s speeds fare with the more expensive VPN services, but it also boasts one of the largest server fleets on offer, giving users ample options while minimizing the chances of you ending up in an overcrowded server.

Can CyberGhost Unblock Streaming Services?

CyberGhost is a great VPN for unblocking and streaming your favorite content across a range of platforms like Netflix, Hulu, and BBC iPlayer, in main thanks to the WireGuard protocol and the specialized streaming servers that are included.

Overall, it’s proven capable of unblocking any streaming service you put in its way, and there are no reported issues with any of the following websites; Amazon Prime Video, BBC iPlayer, Channel 4, Disney +, Hulu, HBO Max, Peacock, and YouTube.

That’s a pretty good list of streaming services to unblock, and it’s one of the best Netflix VPNs as it can access various Netflix libraries around the world, so you can unlock the door to a whole new world of content and enjoy it in crystal-clear HD.

Is CyberGhost VPN Good for Torrenting?

CyberGhost stands apart from the competition as one of the few VPNs with specialized P2P file-sharing servers for quick, secure, and secret file-sharing. Because of its high bandwidth support configuration, large file downloads on P2P networks are made possible, and it’s compatible with a variety of torrent clients.

To get the quickest P2P speeds, choose the optimized server that’s nearest to you by comparing the distance between them. Next, select it as a favorite by clicking the star for subsequent quick access.

CyberGhost | Torrenting Servers

Overall, CyberGhost a solid VPN for torrenting, as it’ll provide you with the protection you require. However, the servers are relatively ordinary in terms of connection speeds — comparable to those you’d experience while using Surfshark to torrent, which isn’t stellar.

Is CyberGhost VPN Ideal for Gaming?

There are several server types available through CyberGhost VPN that are suitable for various tech-based tasks, including low-latency options for gamers. The fact that not all providers take advantage of this makes it a welcome inclusion. Also, even less tech-savvy VPN customers can easily understand the features and how they work.

The servers best suited for gaming have the least latency, which roughly describes how quickly your internet connection responds. Long response times will cause lag, which will damage your online game experience and make things a little frustrating.

Overall, the CyberGhost specialized gaming servers have a positive impact on the performance of the game, reducing lag and allowing for a pleasant and stress-free gaming experience.

CyberGhost VPN’s Virtual Server Locations – Full List

Here’s a quick breakdown of all the continents and countries where CyberGhost has servers:

Europe

Americas

Asia/Pacific

Africa/Middle East

What Do Users Have to Say About CyberGhost VPN?

Like anything in the world of tech, there are bound to be differences based on personal taste and requirements, and the same can be said about VPNs. Some people may swear by one brand and hate another, so it’s tricky to know who or what to believe.

To give some perspective, we’ve scoured the internet for some recent user reviews of CyberGhost for some honest feedback. Many praise CyberGhost’s free trial, the speeds (even on the free trial), and the cheap plans. Others talked about the clean interface, the wide compatibility, and the overall ease of use of the apps.

CyberGhost Review 1

Some minor issues are also touched upon in some user reviews. For example, some mentioned that certain servers had poor speeds, which could be because of their location or the proximity between them and the server they’re connecting to.

Some other small problems people found were the limited number of servers in certain cities, which could lead to them being full and, therefore, slower. But with over 9,000+ servers at your disposal, this isn’t a common issue.

CyberGhost Review 3

Overall, the reviews from CyberGhost users are strong, they praise the diverse range of servers, decent speeds, and the clean UI on offer with the apps. Like most VPNs, there are some negative aspects, as not everyone will be satisfied with the overall service, but generally speaking, the user reviews are overwhelmingly positive.

How to Download & Use CyberGhost VPN

Downloading and installing CyberGhost is incredibly straightforward and can be achieved in just a few minutes. The setup procedure is pretty much identical for each device you use, but we’ll be using Android as our example. Here are the steps you need to take:

  1. Step 1 — Load up the Google Play Store on your Android device, then search for CyberGhost VPN
  2. Step 2 — Download and install CyberGhost onto your device.
  3. Step 3 — Launch the app, and create a new account using your current email.
  4. Step 4 — Select the plan you want, or use the 3-day free trial on Android.

That’s it. Now connect to a server and stay safe online. It’s also worth noting that installing the apps on all major platforms is really straightforward, and if you aren’t tech-savvy, CyberGhost, as with all leading VPNs, offers in-depth guides, and installation Wizard, and top-notch customer support for guidance.

CyberGhost Review Conclusion | Is CyberGhost a Good VPN to Use in 2024?

CyberGhost is a powerful VPN service with user-friendly apps. It’s one of the best options available for unblocking Netflix and other well-known streaming websites like BBC iPlayer or YouTube, and you can watch all the content you crave in HD quality without fear of lag, as CyberGhost employs WireGuard.

You can take advantage of many server locations, low costs, and excellent customer service. An odd speed dip is the only significant drawback that we can think of, but these are often down to your proximity to said server.

With a verified no-logs policy and powerful AES-256 encryption, it’s an excellent option in terms of security and privacy. Overall, despite minor flaws, we’d definitely recommend it as a top VPN to use in 2024 for streaming, torrenting, gaming, and online safety.

CyberGhost Review FAQ

Does CyberGhost Sell Your Data?

Does CyberGhost VPN Work in China?

Which is Better – ExpressVPN or CyberGhost?

Is CyberGhost VPN Legit?

Can CyberGhost Be Hacked?

Is CyberGhost Free?

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The 8 Best Parental Control Apps for iPhone and iPad in 2024 https://techreport.com/spy/best-parental-control-apps-for-iphone-and-ipad/ Wed, 05 Jul 2023 07:46:08 +0000 https://techreport.com/?page_id=3506463 The Best Parental Control Apps for iPhone and iPad

With one of the best parental control apps for iPhone and iPad, you can better understand how your children use their devices to ensure their safety online. With the means...

The post The 8 Best Parental Control Apps for iPhone and iPad in 2024 appeared first on The Tech Report.

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The Best Parental Control Apps for iPhone and iPad

With one of the best parental control apps for iPhone and iPad, you can better understand how your children use their devices to ensure their safety online. With the means to manage their screen time and the content they have access to, plus keep tabs on their physical whereabouts, these tools offer parents complete peace of mind.

Based on factors like ease of use and installation, iOS functionality, overall device compatibility, and pricing, we’ve ranked, reviewed, and compared the top 8 best parental control apps for iPhone and iPad. From uMobix to Cocospy, these are the best options on the market. Read on to find the one best suited to your needs and budget.

The Top 8 Best Parental Control Apps for iPhone and iPad

Here’s a quick overview of the top parental control applications for iPhone and iPad in 2024:

  1. uMobix – $12.49/month — The best parental control app for Apple devices as it boasts everything you’d need for peace of mind, including social media monitoring, all at an affordable price point.
  2. Cocospy – $12.50/month — The best no-jailbreak iOS parental control app as it offers phenomenal functionality without the need to override the device; plus, it has an easy setup and a simple UI.
  3. Spyic.pro – $10.83/month — A good budget option for parents that offers an affordable family plan to cover up to 3 devices, and it lets you blacklist particular terms and apps.
  4. TheOneSpy – $6.25/month — A powerful, feature-rich app that can monitor social media, deleted chats, multimedia files, and GPS location history, all at an affordable price.
  5. ClevGuard – $9.16/month — A leading choice for gaining remote access to the target Apple device, including call and screen recording for live insight.
  6. Norton Family – $49.99/year — A popular and highly-rated parental control solution that lets you track up to 15 devices, and it comes bundled with a free month-long antivirus trial.
  7. Qustodio – $8.33/month — A feature-rich parental control app for iPhone and iPad that includes pausing the internet, custom alerts, and game and app blocking.
  8. Famisafe $9.99/month — The best option for monitoring multiple devices (up to 30) on one subscription with powerful web filtering capabilities.

How Do Parental Control Apps for iPhone Work?

Although it may sound like quite a complicated process, parental control apps for Apple devices are actually quite straightforward. The most important task is to find the provider that best suits you and then get the software installed on your child’s device.

You’ll usually need physical access to the device, but in some cases, like with Cocospy, the iCloud credentials are enough. You may also need to jailbreak the device — a process that voids any warranty — to get full access to the app’s feature list — especially for the advanced capabilities, like screen recording.

That said, we’ve included several solutions that don’t require this, but these won’t include high-end features like remote access, listening in on the device’s microphone, or spying through the target device’s camera — however, they still boast everything you’d need for complete peace of mind.

This includes the likes of pinpoint location tracking, social media monitoring, and being able to check on any sent or received messages.

Reviews of the Top Parental Control Apps for iPhone and iPad

Let’s examine each service to discover what features they offer and what makes them unique from the competition. We’ll explore important elements like compatibility, cost, top features, and more. Read on to find the one best suited to your needs.

You can also skip ahead to our comparison table for a quick head-to-head overview of all the key details of the market’s top parental control apps for iOS.

1. uMobix – Overall, the Best Parental Control App for iPhone and iPad

uMobix Logo

uMobix is a fantastic parental control app that works well on iOS devices and offers ample cutting-edge features at a reasonable price. To start with, it’s undoubtedly one of the best keyloggers.

The iOS keylogger works on common browsers and, surprisingly, even in incognito modes — a key USP for opting for uMobix to ensure nothing is hidden. It even allows you to set certain keywords that you deem inappropriate and set up alerts for when they’re used.

With an easy-to-use dashboard, you get quick access to crucial details on things like call and SMS activity (plus what’s said), a summary of browsing patterns, along with the most popular websites and search terms.

uMobix | phone tracker app

 

Monthly Price Annual Price Devices Tracked Compatibility Free Version Money-Back Guarantee
$49.99/month $11.66/month 1 Android, iOS, tablets Demo 14-day refund policy

You can even view the caller’s identity, phone number, call duration, call time and date, and information about previous calls made to the target phone, including missed, dropped, and incoming calls.

uMobix syncs with the smartphone every five minutes, updating things like call logs and social media activity, giving you information that’s as close to real-time as possible, including precise location-tracking information.

The Remote Access you can have with uMobix is one remarkable feature that deserves a mention; for instance, you can block incoming calls and messages to the user’s mobile phone if you feel concerned. This makes it possible for you to adequately protect your child, especially if you believe they’re a victim of cyberbullying.

Pricing

Price-wise, uMobix will set you back just $12.49/month if you opt for the 12-month package, which makes it mid-range when compared with the other top parental control apps on this list. You also get a useful 14-day money-back guarantee bundled in for a hassle-free purchase.

uMobix pricing

 

Pros

  • Packed with premium features like remote access and one of the best keyloggers
  • Excellent iOS tracking software with practical remote controls for blocking calls and texts
  • Reasonably priced plans, especially if you opt for an annual subscription
  • Offers a simple setup procedure for most devices

Cons

  • No one-click installation feature

2. Cocospy – The Best No-Jailbreak iOS Parental Control App

Cocospy logo

Cocospy is a well-known parental control tool with a few cutting-edge features and reasonably priced annual plans. Facebook, WhatsApp, and more can all be monitored, and there’s even Tinder surveillance available, allowing you to keep an eye on your children while they’re online.

With Cocospy, you can track iPhones and iPads without jailbreaking the intended target’s device, plus, it comes with most of the monitoring features needed to keep tabs on a child. The app won’t slow down or overheat the user’s device, and the intended user won’t even be aware that it’s there.

Cocospy | parental control app for iPhone

 

Monthly Price Annual Price Devices Tracked Compatibility Free Version Guarantee
$49.99/month $12.49/month 1 Android, iOS, tablets Demo 14-day refund policy

A fantastic real-time location tracker is also accessible. It offers great precision and a timestamp so you can determine when the user was in a particular location. It’s also very user-friendly and seamlessly integrates with both Apple and Google Maps.

To top it off, you can use the specialized social media monitoring tool, which periodically takes screenshots, to keep an eye on all activity across all leading social networks. Plus, across all platforms, the keylogger will let you see what’s typed in message boxes, status update fields, or search fields.

For further protection, you can even view what pictures and videos are saved on the device to ensure no explicit material is being shared. Without needing to root or jailbreak the device, you can even browse the files remotely from your own device.

Pricing

There are 3 plans on offer with Cocospy, with a longer subscription saving you money overall. Thankfully, each of these options includes a 14-day money-back guarantee should you not be satisfied with your purchase.

Cocospy_Pricing

 

Pros

  • No need to jailbreak your Apple device to access any features
  • Well-priced plans with a strong price-to-feature ratio
  • Great web filtering and social media tracking tools
  • Useful 24/7 live support available

Cons

  • No keylogger feature for Apple devices

3. Spyic.Pro – A Good Budget Option for Covering Multiple Devices

Spyic logo

Spyic is a popular and dependable parental control tool that offers a range of options to meet all needs, whether they’re for personal or professional use. Having said that, one factor in its appeal is the lack of dependence on rooted or jailbroken devices for installation and configuration.

All you need to get set up on iOS is the target user’s iCloud credentials, which means no faffing around trying to install an app on a device without the other person knowing.

What you do get is a user-friendly interface and a number of practical features, such as the ability to read text messages and monitor social media and messenger activity on platforms like iMessage, Facebook Messenger, and WhatsApp.

Spyic dashboard | Leading parental control app for iOS and iPad

 

Monthly Price Annual Price Devices Tracked Compatibility Free Version Guarantee
Starts at $49.99/month Starts at $10.83/month 1-25 Android, iOS, Windows, Mac Demo 60-day refund policy

Additionally, Spyic uses pinpoint accuracy to help you define secure places for your loved ones via geofencing. It’s one of the top geofencing apps right now due to the accuracy of the location tracking capabilities. If they leave this safe zone, you’ll receive a notification on your phone, so you won’t need to monitor their movements 24/7.

As it can be tailored for home or business use with a wide selection of plans, Spyic’s device coverage is, without a doubt, its most appealing feature. It’s also very dependable because it tracks everything with top-notch accuracy, including the location, SMS, and social media chats of the target phone.

One more advantage of using Spyic is how quickly the data from the target phone is synchronized to your account, making all the information immediately accessible on your device. It takes a couple of minutes for iOS data to appear, which is about average for a parental control app.

Pricing

Spyic has 3 different priced plans that each offer a different level of coverage, some aimed at residential users and others for business use and families. As always, you can save money by choosing an annual plan. There’s also a huge 60-day money-back guarantee thrown in for good measure.

 

Spyic iOS pricing

Pros

  • The family plan is well-priced, and you can cover up to 5 devices
  • Highly accurate location tracker
  • No need to jailbreak your iPhone or iPad to access all of the features
  • Generous 60-day money-back guarantee included with all plans

Cons

  • Lacks remote access capabilities

4. TheOneSpy – A Powerful, Affordable Parental Control App with Cutting-Edge Features

TheOneSpy logo

TheOneSpy is a great parental control app for Apple users; however, it does require the device to be jailbroken in order to function at peak performance. That said, although there are other apps on this list that don’t require a jailbroken device, it’s still a viable option.

It has some excellent features, like powerful remote access capabilities, giving you access to another phone’s camera to take images and videos,  hack the target phone’s microphone to record background sounds, and even record calls taking place on the target device.

TheOneSpy records all the exchanges and correspondences the target person has on several social media platforms, including Facebook, Instagram, and WhatsApp. In fact, what makes this parental control tool unique from others is that it even records VoIP calls made on these apps.

 

TheOneSpy | parental control software for Apple

Monthly Price Annual Price Devices Tracked Compatibility Free Version Guarantee
Starts at $25/month Starts at $6.25/month 1 – Unlimited Android, iOS Demo 14-day refund policy

It’s renowned for being one of the best Instagram spy apps, and it performs just as well with WhatsApp and Facebook. Beyond this, it’s also one of the few parental control apps that can track phone passwords, so you can use this capability to discover someone’s phone logins if you suspect there’s something undesirable on the device.

TheOneSpy also offers an excellent position tracker that provides pin-point accuracy and enables you to create a designated safe zone for your child and receive notifications if they leave designated areas you’ve set. You can even examine the screen time and what apps your child is using — all from the easy-to-use dashboard.

Pricing

TheOneSpy offers a very straightforward plan setup which will depend on how many devices you want to be covered and what features you want to be included. All plans include a 14-day money-back guarantee.

TheOneSpy pricing

 

Pros

  • A simple pricing structure for iOS plans
  • One of the best spouse tracker apps, as it even tracks dating apps like Tinder
  • Easy-to-use apps with a simple interface
  • Useful 14-day money-back guarantee on all plans

Cons

  • Requires a jailbroken device to use remote access features

5. ClevGuard – A Leading Pick for Gaining Remote Access to the Target Device

ClevGuard Logo

ClevGuard’s flagship product, KidsGuard Pro, is a feature-rich parental control app that lets parents view their kids’ smartphone behavior from a distance — including their location, social networking app activity, and call and text history, plus much more.

However, you’ll need to jailbreak the iPhone or iPad to access the location tracking feature, WiFi locator, and remote screenshots, but this will void your warranty.

That said, you have more control over your child’s online behavior thanks to the app’s capabilities for website filtering, geofencing, and app banning. Plus, because KidsGuard Pro works in stealth mode, the target device’s user will be unaware of it while it quietly runs in the background.

 

ClevGuard Dashboard

Monthly Price Annual Price Devices Tracked Compatibility Free Version Guarantee
Starts at $39.99/month Starts at $9.16/month 1 – Unlimited Android, iOS Demo 14-day refund policy

You can also always get a complete picture of where your child’s device is by using the ClevGuard app. Parents can check the location history of their kids, track their last known and past locations, and set up geofencing alerts for when their kids enter or leave a specific region using KidsGuard Pro.

With the new remote control features, you can even access rare, advanced capabilities like call recording, remotely tapping into the camera on the target smartphone, and taking screenshots of the device’s display for live insight into the activity taking place.

From the main dashboard, you can also keep track of all images and videos sent and received on the device, and of course, as you’d expect, you can monitor any social media account your child has, including Facebook, WhatsApp, and many others, which are frequently used for bullying and spreading graphic information.

Pricing

Like most of the top parental control apps featured in our list, you get the choice of 3 payment plans, all of which include the same features, but you’ll save money by opting for a longer subscription.

KidsGuard-Pro-pricing

 

Pros

  • Affordable and simple plan structure
  • Includes premium features like remote access to the target device and powerful call and text monitoring
  • Allows you to view all sent and received texts, calls, videos, and photos
  • Incredibly easy to use and set up

Cons

  • Location tracker and remote access features require the device to be jailbroken

Norton Family Logo

Norton Family is one of the best parental control applications, its qualities and features make it excellent for iOS devices and families with numerous children because it essentially has every feature a parent could want, including the recently added geofencing.

However, Norton’s time limits only apply to its Windows and Android apps, which is why it’s lower down on this list, whereas the location tracking, time scheduling, site blocking, and monitoring elements of this service are compatible with both iOS and Android.

A lot of parental control apps give you a list of the videos your child watches, but you typically only get the titles. Norton Family makes it simple to evaluate whether there’s an issue by including a little image from the video and the explanation.

Norton Family for iPhone parental controls

 

Monthly Price Annual Price Devices Tracked Compatibility Free Version Guarantee
N/A Starts at $49.99/month 1 – Unlimited Windows, Mac, Android, iOS 30-day Free Trial 30-day refund policy

Besides all this, Norton’s feature set includes real-time location tracking with live notifications when your child enters or leaves the house, the school, or any other significant location in your life, as well as support for limiting screen time, banning undesirable websites, and restricting app use.

One feature we really like is web filtering, as it’s incredibly accurate and gives your child the option to ask their parents if they can access the website. This helps build trust and also avoids any potential blocking errors.

Through the easy-to-use dashboard, you’ll be able to easily customize the settings and get prompt updates on what your kids have recently done. Plus, it’s possible to add unlimited devices and up to 15 child profiles to a single account, which makes it the go-to solution for big families.

Pricing

Norton Family has perhaps the easiest plan structure, just the one. It’s also affordable, especially if you can get it bundled in with a Norton 360 subscription, and there’s even a 30-day money-back guarantee thrown in for a stress-free purchase.

Norton Pricing

 

Pros

  • Excellent value for money, especially if you pay for Norton 360, in which case it’s free
  • The apps are clean and simple to use on all devices
  • You can monitor an unlimited number of devices and add up to 15 children’s profiles
  • Allows you to monitor what videos are being watched on the target device by sending screenshots
  • One of the best antivirus solutions on the market

Cons

  • Doesn’t work on Macs
  • Lacks subscription options

7. Qustodio – A Feature-Rich Parental Control App for iPhone and iPad

Qustodio logo

Qustodio offers almost all the features a worried parent may require, such as powerful app banning, web content filtering, and a thorough activity log. Everything is done through the web dashboard or mobile apps, allowing you to create rules and monitor your child’s activity from anywhere.

It supports a wide range of operating systems, including Android, iOS, Windows, macOS, Kindle Fire tablets, and, most recently, Chrome OS, making it a formidable competitor in terms of complete platform coverage.

Qustodio's monitoring

 

Monthly Price Annual Price Devices Tracked Compatibility Free Version Guarantee
N/A Starts at $54.95/month 1 – Unlimited Windows, Android, iOS 30-day Free Trial 14-day refund policy

The location tracker shows your child’s current location and also a detailed history of places they have visited. Updates will ping through to the central dashboard every 5 minutes on Apple devices, and the accuracy is pretty good — plus, you can even view nearby landmarks to help pinpoint their exact location.

You can monitor what videos your child is watching and searching for on the Apple YouTube app for iPhones and iPads, as well as on the web for Macs. This useful feature helps you make sure no explicit content is being watched or searched for.

Parents can also keep an eye on their children’s calls, SMS messages, and iMessages using Qustodio. To do this, parents must either download an app from the web onto their Apple device or download a separate Qustodio Calls and Messages app to their Mac computer.

Pricing

You get two options with Qustodio, depending on the level of coverage you need and how many devices you want to install it on. For the best value for money, it’s recommended to pay annually for your subscription.

Qustodio Pricing

 

Pros

  • Highly user-friendly UI, great for first-time parental control app users
  • Covers the most popular devices like iOS, iPads, Android, Windows, Mac, and Kindles
  • Excellent call and text monitoring features for viewing incoming and outgoing communications
  • Great for setting screen time limits

Cons

  • No social media tracking, a big miss for parents

8. Famisafe – The Best Option for Monitoring Multiple Devices (Up to 30) on One Subscription

famisafe logo

FamiSafe is a reliable parental control app that offers both industry-standard features and some fun extras like reverse location tracking, which means your child can find you in the event of an emergency. It’s simple to use and includes a 7-day guarantee for a stress-free purchase.

With Famisafe, you can monitor Android, iOS, Windows, and even macOS devices. You can set a time limit for how long your kids are allowed to use their devices and monitor the usage with visual graphs to easily see their preferred apps and the times of day they use them.

Famisafe's app management

 

Monthly Price Annual Price Devices Tracked Compatibility Free Version Guarantee
Starts at $9.99/month Starts at $4.99/month 1 – Unlimited Windows, Android, iOS 3-day Free Trial 7-day refund policy

With Famisafe’s Web Filter, you can also block your child from visiting specific websites and be notified if they do. You can even block entire website categories, such as those for adult content, gambling, shopping, and drug use, and you can specifically block websites that may evade the app’s categorization because it isn’t always correct.

Beyond this, as with all the top parental control apps for iPhone and iOS, you can see your child’s live and past locations on the FamiSafe app, so you don’t always need to contact them to ask where they are.

Plus, you can monitor your child’s online behavior, including any incognito or secret searches. Because FamiSafe keeps track of information for up to three months, you don’t need to monitor their surfing habits 24/7.

Pricing

You can pay for a Famisafe subscription monthly, quarterly, or annually, but all options include the same set of features, you just save a few dollars further down the line if you signup for a year-long plan. With each plan, you get a 3-day free trial so you can test the service before committing long-term.

Also, there’s a 7-day money-back guarantee, which is a little shorter than the other providers on this list.

FamiSafe Pricing

 

Pros

  • Free trial for all plans so you can test the app before subscribing
  • Excellent location features which can even show you a history of visited places
  • Great app and website blocking features to help avoid explicit content

Cons

  • It can take up to two hours to sync data from the target device

Best Parental Control Apps for iPhone and iPad Compared

Here’s a quick overview of the top iOS parental control apps, with a table that makes it easy to compare their costs, the number of devices they monitor, and other factors:

Phone Spy Apps Monthly Price Annual Price Devices Tracked Compatibility Free Version Guarantee
uMobix $49.99/month $11.66/month 1 Android, iOS, tablets Demo 14-day refund policy
Cocospy $39.99/month $8.33/month 1 Android, iOS, tablets Demo 60-day money-back guarantee
Spyic $39.99/month $8.33/month 1-25 Android, iOS Demo 60-day money-back guarantee
TheOneSpy $25/month $6.25/month 1-Unlimited Android, iOS Demo 14-day refund policy
ClevGuard $39.99/month $9.16/month 1 Windows, Mac, Android, iOS Demo 14-day refund policy
Norton Family N/A $49.99/month 15 Windows, Mac, Android, iOS 30-day Free Trial 14-day refund policy
Qustodio N/A $54.95/month 1 Windows, Mac, Android, iOS 30-day Free Trial 14-day refund policy
FamiSafe $9.99/month $4.99/month 1 Windows, Mac, Android, iOS 30-day Free Trial 14-day refund policy

How to Choose the Best iPhone and iPad Parental Control App for You

The feature set of each parental control app will be relatively similar, but there will be key differences in factors like price, special features, and device compatibility. To help you choose which app to use, we’ve included some of the most important aspects below:

  • Feature Set: While most parental control apps have similar capabilities, some stand out. For instance, some only allow remote access to the camera and microphone of the target device or panic mode, which alerts a number of trusted devices.
  • Jailbreaking: Some of the best parental control apps require that the iPhone or iPad be jailbroken, which can be a challenging task if you’re not tech-savvy. It may also nullify the device’s warranty, making a replacement difficult in the event that something goes wrong.
  • User-friendly: Generally speaking, you want the installation and use of the app to be as simple as possible, particularly if you’re not familiar with current technology. A pleasant, clear interface and an easy-to-use dashboard are essential.
  • Pricing: It’s critical to learn how much the service will cost and how many children/devices the price plan will cover. You can monitor one device with certain providers, but some have much higher limits, depending on the plan you opt for.
  • Device Compatibility: It’s crucial that the parental control app you pick has support for all widely used platforms because it’s likely that you’ll want to install it on all of your child’s devices. On this list, all the providers offer apps for Apple Devices and Android, and some even allow app installation for Windows and Mac.

How to Set Up Parental Controls on iPhone

Getting up and running with a parental control app for an iPhone is a lot more simple than you might think, but to help you out, we’ve compiled a useful guide using our top provider uMobix as an example:

  1. Step 1 — Head over to the uMobix website, select your desired iOS plan, and complete the payment process.
  2. Step 2 — Enter your child’s iCloud login details on the Startup Wizard.
  3. Step 3 — Confirm the 2FA code that appears on the screen.
  4. Step 4 — Once this is done, a loading screen will appear as the app is installed.
  5. Step 5 — You’ll be taken to the user dashboard after the software has finished downloading to the target device.

That’s it. You can now start monitoring your child’s device from the main dashboard on your device.

Conclusion | What’s the Best Parental Control App for iOS in 2024?

Overall, there’s no doubt that uMobix is the best parental control app for iPhone and iPad for ensuring the safety of your child both online and offline; however, the other services on this list are also trustworthy, it all depends on your particular needs and budget.

That said, uMobix is suitable for various needs and budgets. For a low monthly fee, it gives you access to a tonne of premium features, including social media monitoring, call and text management, and precise location tracking – you can even use the geo-fencing feature to designate safe zones.

iOS Parental Control FAQ

What is the best parental control app for iPhone? 

How can I see everything on my child’s iPhone?

Can I restrict what children can look at on their iPhone?

Can I see my child’s deleted text messages?

Is there a free parental control app for iPhone?

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The 8 Best Parental Control Apps for Android Devices in 2024 https://techreport.com/spy/best-parental-control-apps-for-android/ Fri, 30 Jun 2023 16:12:03 +0000 https://techreport.com/?page_id=3506260 best parental control apps for Android

By using one of the best parental control apps for Android, you can have a better grasp of how your kids use the internet to ensure their safety. Besides helping...

The post The 8 Best Parental Control Apps for Android Devices in 2024 appeared first on The Tech Report.

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best parental control apps for Android

By using one of the best parental control apps for Android, you can have a better grasp of how your kids use the internet to ensure their safety. Besides helping you manage their screen time, these tools can also help you locate your child physically or even alert you if they aren’t somewhere, like at school, when they should be. Beyond this, you can block objectionable websites, in addition to revealing who they’re chatting with online.

In this article, we’ll look at the best parental control applications available right now, whether you’re a new parent planning for the future or you simply want to learn more about your children’s online behaviors to keep them safe, these are your best options.

Top 8 Best Parental Control Apps for Android

Based on factors like ease of use, affordability, Android functionality, and their overall reputation, we’ve ranked each of the best parental control apps for Android and included a short outline of why they’ve made it on our list:

  1. uMobix – $12.49/month — The best Android parental control app as it offers a wide range of features, including remote access to the target device and text management capabilities.
  2. Cocospy – $12.49/month — The best no-root Android solution for parents looking for an easy-to-use, quick-to-set-up app to keep an eye on social media and app usage.
  3. Spyic.pro – $9.99/month/$16.66 for 3 devices — A good option for families as it lets you cover more than 1 device on one subscription, and you can blacklist for particular terms and apps
  4. TheOneSpy – $6.25/month — A strong and reasonably priced app that lets you see deleted communications and gives you remote access to the device’s camera and microphone.
  5. ClevGuard – $9.16/month — The best value-for-money option as it doesn’t need rooting and has sophisticated capabilities like screen recording and microphone access.
  6. Norton Family – $49.99/year — A budget-friendly solution for filtering inappropriate material and setting screen time limits, plus you can add up to 15 users on one account.
  7. Qustodio – $4.58/month — The cheapest parental control app that lets you manage screen time and track social media activity on PCs and mobile devices.
  8. Famisafe – $4.99/month — An affordable solution offering location tracking, web filtering (and monitoring), and screen time limits.

Detailed Reviews of the Top Parental Control Apps for Android

Let’s take a closer look at each provider to see what sets them apart from the rest. To do that, we’ll look at key factors like compatibility, pricing, and their top features so that you can make an informed decision on the best one for you.

1. uMobix – Overall, the Best Parental Control App for Android

uMobix Logo

uMobix is by far one of the best parental control apps on the market. It combines a variety of cutting-edge features, like remote access to a device’s microphone, with affordable pricing, most notably on Android. To begin with, it offers a great keylogging function that functions on standard browsers and, unusually, even in incognito modes.

In terms of convenience, there’s a simple-to-use dashboard that allows you immediate access to certain important features and presents some essential information on call and SMS activity. Additionally, a handy overview of browsing habits, including the most popular websites and search phrases, is available.

In addition to this, you can check the caller’s name, phone number, call time and date, and length, plus the target phone’s call history information, including missed, deleted, and incoming calls.

uMobix | best tracking app for kids

Monthly Price Annual Price Devices Tracked Compatibility Free Version Money-back Guarantee
$49.99/month $11.66/month 1 Android, iOS, tablets Demo 14-day refund policy

It’s also important to note that every five minutes, uMobix syncs with the smartphone, updating call logs and providing information to you that’s as near to real-time as possible, including actual location data.

That said, one outstanding feature that’s worth a remark is the Remote Access you can have with uMobix; for example, you’re able to block incoming calls and texts to the user’s mobile if you feel they’re unwelcome or insulting. This enables you to protect your child well, which is especially helpful if they’re victims of cyberbullying.

Overall, although uMobix lacks features like location monitoring on iOS, it’s a fantastic option for Android parental control, especially if they’re rooted. The toolkit on offer gives parents complete peace of mind about who their children are talking to, the content they’re consuming, and their location.

Pricing

In terms of cost, uMobix is pretty level on par with most of the other providers on this list, with cheaper pricing available for those who sign up for longer subscriptions. There’s also a 14-day refund policy in place for those who aren’t satisfied with the app’s performance.

uMobix pricing

Pros

  • Strong feature-to-price ratio meaning good value for money
  • Excellent tracking app for Android users
  • Useful remote capabilities like disabling calls and texts
  • One of the best keyloggers out there, as it also tracks incognito searches

Cons

  • Lack of remote installation in Android

2. Cocospy – The Best No-Root Android Parental Control App

Cocospy logo

With cutting-edge features and a cost-effective annual plan, Cocospy is a well-known parental control app that offers everything you need for peace of mind. You can keep an eye on a variety of social networking sites, including Facebook and WhatsApp, and it even includes Tinder surveillance, allowing you to protect your children online.

The majority of the monitoring tools required to spy on someone are included in Cocospy, which can track an Android device without rooting being required for full functionality. Additionally, the user won’t be made aware that the program has been loaded as it shows no sign of its presence, so it won’t slow or overheat the device.

Cocospy | best parental control app Australia

In addition, there’s a great real-time location tracker available. It delivers high accuracy and provides a timestamp so you can see when the user was at a specific spot, and it effortlessly interacts with Google Maps and is rather simple to use.

To top it off, you can also keep a watch on any social media activity from any of the major platforms using the specialized social media monitoring tool, which periodically takes screenshots. Alternatively, you can just check the excellent keylogging feature to see what’s being entered in messages, status updates, or search fields across apps.

You can even monitor the files stored and shared to make sure your child isn’t consuming or receiving inappropriate content. In fact, with Cocospy, you can inspect any files kept on the device by browsing them remotely from your own device.

All of this and the fact that no rooting or jailbreaking is needed makes Cocospy one of the market’s best iOS spy apps and a solid Android parental control solution for hassle-free monitoring.

Pricing

You can choose from 3 subscriptions with Cocospy, and each one comes with a 14-day refund policy:

Cocospy_Pricing

Monthly Price Annual Price Devices Tracked Compatibility Free Version Guarantee
$49.99/month $12.49/month 1 Android, iOS, tablets Demo 14-day refund policy

Pros

  • Affordable pricing
  • Doesn’t require jailbreaking/rooting
  • Excellent social media monitoring tools
  • Allows remote camera and microphone access

Cons

  • Only one device monitored with the premium plan

3. Spyic.Pro – A Budget-Friendly Parental Control App for Families

Spyic logo

Spyic is a well-known and dependable parental control app that provides a variety of plans to fit all demands, whether they’re for family or commercial use. That stated, one of the things that contribute to its popularity is the fact that, as with Cocospy, installing and configuring it doesn’t require a rooted or jailbroken device.

What you do receive is a user-friendly design along with several useful fundamental capabilities, including the ability to read chat logs from standard text messages and social media monitoring for both Facebook Messenger and WhatsApp.

spyic android spy app for children and spouses

Monthly Price Annual Price Devices Tracked Compatibility Free Version Guarantee
Starts at $39.99/month Starts at $8.33/month 1-25 Android, iOS Demo 60-day refund policy

Additionally, you can designate safe areas on a map for your loved ones and get a notification on your phone if they go outside of areas; the real-time, pinpoint accuracy of this makes Spyic one of the best geofencing apps available right now for location tracking.

All things considered, the device coverage, which enables it to be customized for home or corporate use with a wide variety of plans fit for everyone, is unquestionably its biggest selling feature, but Spyic’s accuracy is among its strongest advantages.

This tool is extremely dependable because it follows everything very precisely, including the target phone’s location, SMS, and social media chats. Another benefit of Spyic is how quickly the data from the target phone is synced to your Spyic account, with all the information needed being available on the device within a few minutes.

Pricing

Unlike most, with Spyic, you can select from a range of different plans depending on what device you want to track and how many devices — including family and business subscriptions, the latter of which lets people cover 25 devices for $83.33/month:

Spyic pricing

Despite a phenomenal range of pricing options, Spyic also boasts a generous 60-day refund policy for risk-free signup.

Pros

  • Great range of plans that let you cover several devices
  • No rooting or jailbreaking needed 
  • Generous 60-day money-back guarantee
  • Accurate geofencing capabilities

Cons

  • Lacks advanced features like remote access

4. TheOneSpy – A Powerful Parental Control App with Cutting-Edge Features

TheOneSpy logo

TheOneSpy is an excellent parental control app for Android users, as it doesn’t require any rooting, unlike the iOS version, which requires a jailbroken device in order to operate — this is never ideal as rooting or jailbreaking a device comes with several risks, so this is refreshing to see that Android doesn’t have such requirements.

With the help of the software, you can remotely control the target device’s camera and discreetly take pictures and videos for live insight into their surroundings, plus, you can do the same with the target user’s microphone so you can capture background noise.

Better yet, TheOneSpy’s advanced capabilities are, in large part, why it’s renowned for being one of the best spouse spy apps, as it even lets you record phone calls that are made to and from the target device, among other things.

TheOneSpy | parental control software Australia

Monthly Price Annual Price Devices Tracked Compatibility Free Version Guarantee
Starts at $25/month Starts at $6.25/month 1 Android, iOS Demo 14-day refund policy

TheOneSpy also keeps track of all the conversations and communications the target individual has on multiple social media networks, including Facebook, Instagram, and WhatsApp. It differs from many other parental control apps in that it even records VoIP calls conducted on these sites.

This makes it easily one of the best Facebook spy apps right now and also works well with parent companies Instagram and WhatsApp. Beyond this, you can even learn someone’s phone pattern or password because TheOneSpy is one of the few spy applications that can track this.

There’s also an excellent location tracker that delivers pinpoint accuracy and allows you to set up a dedicated safe zone for your child or children. Should they stray from these areas, you’ll receive an alert on your device that’ll show you exactly where they are.

All-in-all, TheOneSpy has all of the features you’d expect to find on one of the top parental control apps, and it does have some standout features like VoIP call recording and remote access, plus it’s super easy to navigate, with all of the key metrics accessible from the home screen.

Pricing

There are 2 main plans for TheOneSpy users to pick from, both of which can be paid for either monthly, quarterly, or annually. Below are the cheapest versions of the plans you can get if you pay on a yearly basis:

TheOneSpy pricing

Pros

  • Super-simple setup on Android devices
  • Affordably priced and simple plans
  • Excellent social media monitoring features
  • 14-day money-back guarantee for all plans

Cons

  • No web filtering features included

5. ClevGuard – The Best Value-for-Money Option for Advanced Features

ClevGuard Logo

The main offering from ClevGuard — KidsGuard Pro — is a feature-rich parental control app that enables parents to remotely monitor their children’s smartphone usage. Parents can check their children’s call and text history, follow social media app activity, and keep track of their whereabouts using KidsGuard Pro.

Additionally, the app has options for website filtering, geofencing, and app banning, which give parents more control over their kids’ online behavior. Plus, it operates in stealth mode, so the user of the target device won’t know it’s running in the background.

KidsGuard | parental control software

Monthly Price Annual Price Devices Tracked Compatibility Free Version Guarantee
Starts at $39.99/month Starts at $9.16/month 1 – Unlimited Android, iOS Demo 14-day refund policy

This makes it an effective tool for keeping an eye on your kids’ app usage, call histories, and exact location without invading their privacy. That said, you’ll have a thorough overview of your child’s whereabouts — including current and last known locations, plus you can set geofencing alerts to avoid needing to constantly monitor it.

With KidsGuard Pro’s new remote control tools, you can instantly carry out a variety of stealth-mode tasks on the target device. Call recording, viewing the camera on the target device, and taking screenshots of the device’s display are the three sophisticated features it provides here.

You can even monitor new photos and videos that are taken on the device, as well as being able to browse previous ones in the media files section, all of which can be done from the main dashboard. Furthermore, you’re able to keep track of your child’s social media accounts, like Facebook, which is riddled with explicit content and bullying.

Pricing

We like how clear-cut and uncomplicated ClevGuard’s KidsGuard Pro plans are for Android and iOS:

KidsGuard-Pro-pricing

Pros

  • Simple plan structure with affordable prices for yearly options
  • A comprehensive set of features like remote access and media viewing
  • Operates in stealth mode so the target user won’t know
  • Simple interface with everything accessible from the intuitive dashboard

Cons

  • The app doesn’t support many older devices

6. Norton Family – A Budget-Friendly Solution That Let’s You add 15 Users to 1 Account

Norton Family Logo

With practically all of the capabilities a parent could ask for from one of the top parental control apps, including recently added geofencing, Norton Family’s strengths and features are great for Android (and Windows) devices, making it a top choice for families with multiple kids.

For mobile, you get the location tracking, time scheduling, site filtering, and monitoring features of this service, but Norton’s time limits are only applicable to its Windows and Android apps.

That said, the web filters are extremely effective; even on iOS, it monitors Hulu and YouTube and flags anything explicit. It also prevents children from unintentionally (or purposefully) browsing inappropriate websites. Additionally, children can request access to websites that are restricted, which is a good inclusion.

Norton Family

Monthly Price Annual Price Devices Tracked Compatibility Free Version Guarantee
Starts at $49.99/month Starts at

$49.99/month

1 – Unlimited Windows, Mac, Android, iOS 30-day Free Trial 30-day refund policy

Beyond all this, Norton Family also supports limiting screen time and app use, blocking objectionable websites, verifying your child’s live location, and receiving alerts when they enter or exit the house, the school, or any other important location you set.

Some features also have great depth. For instance, many parental control applications provide you with a list of the videos your child sees, but most of the time, you only get a title. Norton Family provides a small image from the video and the explanation, making it simple to determine whether there’s a problem.

In the Family Dashboard, you can personalize settings and receive reports on your child’s activity. The user interface is simple, with activities broken down into six categories (Web, Time, Mobile Apps, Location, Search, and Videos), each of which has a Settings icon where you can customize how it operates.

And to top it off, Norton Family lets you add 15 child profiles to a single account, all for a low annual sum, which is perfect for the always-connected generation.

Pricing

Parental control apps typically have a wide range of pricing models, but Norton Family’s plan is straightforward. With a Norton Family subscription, you can filter websites, set time limits, and track your whereabouts for just $49.99 annually.

Norton Pricing

It’s worth noting that you can get Norton Family bundled in for free with a Norton 360 Subscription as well — one of the best antivirus solutions on the market. Plus, you can test the software for free for 30 days before purchasing an annual membership.

Pros

  • Excellent web dashboard for keeping track of all data
  • Budget-friendly annual plan
  • Can monitor up to 15 children at one time
  • Easy to get set up and navigate

Cons

  • Performance can be a little unreliable at times

7. Qustodio – The Cheapest Parental Control App on the Market

Qustodio logo

Almost every function a worried parent might possibly need is available in Qustodio, including robust app blocking, web content filtering, and an in-depth activity log. The web dashboard and mobile apps are used for all settings and monitoring, allowing you to establish rules and check on your child’s activity from any location or device.

Beyond being a solid option for Android parental control, Qustodio is an incredibly strong challenger in the parental control app field when it comes to total platform coverage because it supports a variety of operating systems, including Android, iOS, Windows, macOS, Kindle Fire tablets, and, most recently, Chrome OS.

Qustodio | tracking app for parents

Monthly Price Annual Price Devices Tracked Compatibility Free Version Guarantee
Starts at $54.95/month Starts at $54.95/month 1 – Unlimited Windows, Android, iOS 30-day Free Trial 14-day refund policy

On Android, you can monitor your child’s texts and calls in the Qustodio app, and you’ll be able to view your child’s current position and location history with the location tracking feature. This occurs automatically once activated on both Android and iOS, however, iOS pings about every five minutes less frequently for location checks.

As a bonus, Qustodio also has a rare Panic Button for Android — after being activated, this can be reached by an SOS button at the bottom of the child’s app. To trigger it, your child must press both that SOS button and a circular SOS button on the following screen.

This will alert all the trusted contacts you’ve added to the app, along with the child’s current location, to an emergency. You can send this message via email and text.

Pricing

With a few significant exceptions for iOS users, Qustodio is also among the solutions with the most features. That said, it can be a bit expensive depending on how many devices you need to protect, but the basic 5-device premium plan at $54.95 per year is on par with most of the competitors.

Qustodio Pricing

Pros

  • Easy-to-use dashboard
  • Excellent time management features
  • Available on most platforms, including Chrome OS, Windows, iOS and Android
  • Extensive feature set across these devices, with features like Panic Mode and Call Monitoring

Cons

  • Quite expensive when compared to others on this list

8. Famisafe – An Affordable Solution for Location Tracking and Web Filtering

famisafe logo

Using the FamiSafe software, parents can keep an eye on their kids’ actions without violating their privacy. Since it’s simple to install, there’s no need to use any backdoors to monitor a device. However, it is lacking in several areas.

For example, it doesn’t offer call and text tracking, but it does stand out with its compatibility for both mobile and desktop, so it depends on your needs. For example, although it lacks some things, you can still limit the amount of time your children are permitted to use their gadgets.

Famisafe's app management

Monthly Price Annual Price Devices Tracked Compatibility Free Version Guarantee
Starts at $9.99/month Starts at $4.99/month 1 – Unlimited Windows, Android, iOS 3-day Free Trial 7-day refund policy

Limits may be imposed daily, weekly, or monthly. Through visual graphs, you’ll know what apps your child uses most and the overall time spent on them. Plus, you can also prevent your child from accessing particular websites with Famisafe’s Web Filter and receive notifications if they do.

You can exclude entire website categories, including adult content, gambling, shopping, and drug use. Some websites may evade the app’s categorization because it isn’t always accurate, but you can block those in particular. However, what we like most is that you can even monitor any secret incognito searches your child does.

On the FamiSafe app, you can also view your child’s past locations. It retains records of their movements, which you can view at any time. All of this activity is stored for 3 months, so you can have a good overview of everything happening.

Pricing

For both families and schools, FamiSafe offers a variety of apps and plans that can be paid on a monthly, quarterly, or annual basis. You can monitor up to five devices with the family plan, whereas the quarterly and annual plans allow you to manage up to ten devices.

FamiSafe Pricing

FamiSafe is available to all new customers for a free three-day trial. Every purchase comes with a 7-day money-back guarantee as well, which is substantially shorter than many of FamiSafe’s rivals.

Pros

  • Free trial available for all platforms, as well as a 7-day money-back guarantee
  • Reasonably priced plans to monitor 5-10 devices
  • Simple interface that’s ideal for first-time users

Cons

  • Doesn’t log calls and messages

The Best Parental Control Apps for Android Compared

Below is a head-to-head look at the providers listed above, where you can compare their pricing, how many devices they track, and much more, all in one simple-to-view table:

Phone Spy Apps Monthly Price Annual Price Devices Tracked Compatibility Free Version Guarantee
uMobix $49.99/month $11.66/month 1 Android, iOS, tablets Demo 14-day refund policy
Cocospy $39.99/month $8.33/month 1 Android, iOS, tablets Demo 60-day guarantee
Spyic $39.99/month $8.33/month 1-25 Android, iOS Demo 60-day guarantee
TheOneSpy $25/month $6.25/month 1-Unlimited Android, iOS Demo 14-day refund policy
ClevGuard $39.99/month $9.16/month 1 Windows, Mac, Android, iOS Demo 14-day refund policy
Norton Family $49.99/month $49.99/month 15 Windows, Mac, Android, iOS 30-day Free Trial 14-day refund policy
Qustodio $54.95/month $54.95/month 1 Windows, Mac, Android, iOS 30-day Free Trial 14-day refund policy
FamiSafe $9.99/month $4.99/month 1 Windows, Mac, Android, iOS 30-day Free Trial 14-day refund policy

How to Choose the Best Parental Control App for Android

Each parental control app will have a similar set of features, but aspects like price, unique features, and device compatibility are all completely different. So below, we’ve detailed some of the key factors you should look for when deciding on which app you want to use:

  • Price: It’s important to find out how much the service costs and how many kids/devices are covered in the price plan. Some providers allow you to monitor just one device, whereas others can cover several on one subscription.
  • Compatibility: The chances are that you want to install this across all of your child’s devices, so it’s therefore very important that the parental control app you use has support for all popular platforms.
  • Features: Most parental control apps have similar features, but some have unique offerings, for example, panic mode, which sends an alert to a host of trusted devices, or remote access of the target devices’ camera and microphone are specific to a certain few apps.
  • Rooting: Some of the top parental control apps require you to root the device, which can be a tricky process if you’re not tech-savvy. Also, it can void the device warranty, making it hard to replace if anything should go wrong.
  • User-friendly: Overall, you want the setup and use of the app to be as easy as possible, especially if you’re not up to date with modern technology. A nice clean interface and simple-to-understand dashboard are a must.

Are Free Android Parental Control Apps Good?

As tempting as it might seem, we’d recommend that you avoid free parental control apps, mainly because they don’t offer anywhere near the same level of coverage as a paid option.

For example, you might be able to track a device’s location, but you won’t be able to monitor calls, texts, social media, or use any premium features you might find with the likes of uMobix, like geo-fencing and web filters.

Instead, we’d recommend opting for a premium service that offers a free trial or money-back guarantee. They’re the best way to keep your children safe online, and if you signup for an annual plan, they can cost as little as $4.99/month.

How to Set Up Parental Controls on An Android Phone

Getting set up with a parental control app is much easier than you might think, as most of the providers on this list offer one-click installation. As an example, we’re going to take our top choice uMobix, and run through the steps:

  1. Step 1 — Signup for a plan on the uMobix website, complete your purchase, and receive your login details via email.
  2. Step 2 — You’ll need an APK link to download the app if your child has an Android phone. When you register for uMobix, you’ll receive this URL.
  3. Step 3 — Open the default browser on the target device, then enter the APK link sent by uMobix. The moment you arrive at the page, the app is downloaded.
  4. Step 4 — You can click the Install button after opening the file once it’s downloaded.
  5. Step 5 — You can access the app after installation and accept the terms and conditions to proceed.
  6. Step 6 — Go back and remove the file you got from the APK link if you want to make sure your child doesn’t find out you installed the app.
  7. Step 7 — Next, delete all browsing history from the browser. Make sure the target device’s Home Screen Settings are used to hide the app as well. To complete the installation, click “Complete installation.”

That’s it—you can now start monitoring all the device’s activity from your own control hub on your phone or PC.

Many of you might be wondering why Google Family Link isn’t included on this list, as it’s made by the tech giant, so surely it must be worth a try. We don’t think so.

You can modify several settings using the web app, including SafeSearch or Restricted mode on YouTube, editing the list of URLs that are banned or whitelisted, and allowing or blocking particular apps. However, you won’t be able to use the web app to do things like:

  • Limit your child’s screen time
  • See how much time they spent using their device or an app on a specific day
  • Or find out where they are

In addition, you’re not allowed to expand your family group with more parents or adults in charge. Essentially, it doesn’t have the features to truly keep your child safe, and it also allows the child to turn the restrictions off when they turn 13, so overall, it doesn’t keep them very safe or block out any negative social media messages, etc.

If you truly want to keep your children safe online, then we’d recommend using a top parental control app like uMobix, which includes geo-fencing features, remote access settings to listen in on conversations, and much more.

Conclusion | What’s the Best Parental Control App to Use for Android?

Overall, if you want to ensure your child’s safety on the internet, the best parental control app you can use for Android is uMobix, although the other providers on this list are also reliable.

With uMobix, you get a ton of premium features like social media monitoring, call and text management, and excellent location tracking — all for $11.66/month.

FAQ

Are there free parental control apps for Android?

How can I see my child’s text messages on Android?

Can I monitor my child’s Android device without them knowing?

Is there a hidden parental control app for Android?

Can I lock my child’s phone remotely?

The post The 8 Best Parental Control Apps for Android Devices in 2024 appeared first on The Tech Report.

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Best Free VoIP Phone Number Solutions Reviewed for 2024 https://techreport.com/voip-services/best-free-voip-phone-number-services/ Wed, 28 Jun 2023 15:19:12 +0000 https://techreport.com/?page_id=3505939 Free VoIP phone number

The best free VoIP phone number providers are a must-have, not only for individuals looking for a cost-effective calling solution but for businesses, too, especially for small businesses that can’t...

The post Best Free VoIP Phone Number Solutions Reviewed for 2024 appeared first on The Tech Report.

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Free VoIP phone number

The best free VoIP phone number providers are a must-have, not only for individuals looking for a cost-effective calling solution but for businesses, too, especially for small businesses that can’t afford a premium VoIP.

That said, if you limit your calls and texts to domestic lines exclusively (U.S. and Canada), the free plans won’t cost you a dime, but some affordable premium VoIPs are also well worth the consideration, depending on your needs. To help you find the best one, we’re going to run through the top free VoIP phone number solutions, as well as take a look at the best affordable premium providers who offer free numbers or trials.

What Are Free VoIP Phone Numbers?

With the help of voice-over IP software, free VoIP phone numbers give customers a second phone number that’s distinct from their home, workplace, or cell phone numbers.

Free virtual VoIP phone numbers spare you the hassle of a sign-up procedure with a premium VoIP system and spare you from having to install another landline, which takes time. In terms of features, free VoIP services have limited functionality when compared with their premium competitors, but you can expect to get:

  • Call Recording
  • Local Calls
  • Text Messages over WiFi
  • Call Forwarding
  • Call Blocking
  • Caller ID

Thankfully calls within the United States (and typically Canada) will be free thanks to the VoIP numbers’ ability to make and receive calls and texts through an internet connection rather than the PSTN network, but calls made internationally will be billed at location- and carrier-specific rates.

Pros and Cons of Free VoIPs

The fact that free VoIP phone numbers are free is, of course, their major advantage. That said, the features, quality of service, and customer support are lacking when you compare business communication tools or phone services based just on pricing. This, alone, is why we highly recommend checking out our top recommendations for affordable VoIP phone numbers.

However, free VoIP lines may be sufficient for some startups, small teams, and businesses with fewer than five employees. In general, though, it’s better to think of these numbers as either short-term business phone solutions or entirely alternative phone numbers to personal or primary business lines.

Below are a number of pros and cons that come with using a free VoIP solution:

Pros

  • A useful alternative to giving out your own personal number
  • You can make as many calls as you want for free in the United States or Canada over any wireless network
  • They tend to have user-friendly interfaces as they have limited features and bloatware
  • Allows new businesses to seem more established by having their local phone number

Cons

  • You can only select local phone number prefixes; vanity or toll-free numbers aren’t available.
  • There’s usually a limited number of features available, and you’ll be pushed toward signing up for a premium plan
  • Free plans often rely on ads to generate money, which can easily negatively impact the experience
  • Your mobile phone might not be compatible with some free number plans

The Market’s Top 3 Free VoIP Number Services

Now we’re going to take a quick look at the best free VoIP number services, analyzing their key components such as features, compatibility, and more.

1. Google Voice

Google Voice Logo

Google Voice is the most well-known cloud-based provider of free business phone numbers that also provides free domestic calls. It’s incredibly portable since it enables customers to place and receive calls using their Google number from smartphones and web browsers.

In addition to this, Google Voice customers can also set up voicemail, forward calls to several devices so that they all ring at once, and send and receive SMS text messages. You can also organize conference calls for up to 4 people, which is ideal for very small business meetings.

That said, the free voicemail transcription service offered by Google Voice is one of its best features. This is especially helpful if you need to prioritize callbacks because you get a lot of incoming calls every day.

Overall, although this can suffice for some, an affordable paid solution is a better option in most instances, not just for higher limits and unlimited potential for what numbers you can call, but also for a boatload more features like virtual receptionists, music on hold, voicemail-to-email, and Ring Groups.

Pros

  • Incredibly user-friendly interface for beginners
  • Useful voicemail transcription feature for businesses
  • Reliable call forwarding

Cons

  • No toll-free numbers
  • Advanced reporting only available on the premium plan

⚠ Read our reviews on affordable VoIP phone number solutions that offer free nationwide calling, cheap international calls, and more.

2. Skype

Skype Logo

Up to 50 individuals can use Skype’s combined audio and video conferencing platform for free while taking advantage of all of its features, which is a real statement by the Microsoft-owned service.

Although many businesses will find that Skype’s free services are sufficient, there is also the option to buy Skype Credits in the form of a one-time bundle or a monthly subscription, and with these credits, users can call both landlines and mobile phones as well as send SMS messages.

Skype has a tonne of features, and it’s continually adding fresh, cutting-edge capabilities for both individuals and organizations. Similar to many other teleconferencing services, it also lets you record calls and store the recordings for up to 30 days after the teleconference ends, which is great for employee training.

The software also makes it simple to interact with other users, share your screen, and share multimedia files. Overall, the platform’s ability to offer much more than these fundamental video conferencing functionalities is one of its greatest advantages.

Beyond all this, the latest updates to Skype include the ability to add live subtitles to video calls, end-to-end encryption for chat, and even a live translation feature that permits video calls with up to ten languages being spoken at once.

Pros

  • Easy to use and navigate
  • Real-time translation is great for overseas calls
  • Excellent audio and video quality

Cons

  • You can only send SMS messages, not receive them
  • No end-to-end encryption could lead to privacy concerns
  • Anyone can find and message you

⚠ Get more with the market’s leading affordable VoIPs — Read our reviews on the top paid VoIP phone number solutions for free nationwide calling, cheap international calls, and more.

3. 2nd Line

2nd Line Logo

2ndLine is another one of the market’s top free VoIP phone services that makes use of the internet connection on your smartphone to provide you access to a second line. Users in the US and Canada can use the 2ndLine app to make unlimited calls and texts to those countries, but there is a charge when calling abroad.

Free services like free local phone numbers, free MMS and SMS text messaging, and the ability to send emojis, stickers, GIFs, and caller ID are all advantages you’ll like. With 2ndLine’s free plan, you can also set up call forwarding, create text signatures, customize backgrounds and ringtones for specific contacts or groups, and more.

Even more security features like Google SmartLock and Passcode are available, as well as free voicemail transcription and speedy pre-programmed text responses. However, there is a big drawback to using the software — it’s only compatible with Android handsets.

Plus, you’ll, unfortunately, have to make do with some annoying ads unless you upgrade or pay to remove them.

Pros

  • Offers a private phone number that won’t show up on any phone bill
  • Unlimited free texts and calls within the U.S. and Canada
  • Voicemail feature included in the free plan

Cons

  • Only available on Android devices
  • Ads feature after every call on the free plan

⚠ Get free numbers, nationwide calling, cheap international calls, and compatibility with all major devices with the market’s leading affordable VoIPs — Read our reviews on the top paid VoIP phone number solutions for more.

Should I Use a Free VoIP?

A free VoIP service for personal use is recommended, but in most cases, the services offered for free to corporate users are severely constrained — or the service isn’t at all suitable for business use when compared to tools leading paid solutions like Ooma and Vonage.

Because of this, it’s usually advisable to choose a solution that isn’t entirely free but is still reasonably priced, has some extra features (like call recording or call transferring, for example), and has good customer service.

Even for personal usage, many services, like Skype or Google Voice, only let you call other customers of that particular product; if it’s even possible, calling a phone number usually entails some additional fees. Some free VoIP service providers apply additional restrictions (such as only permitting inbound calls).

To give you a better understanding, we’re going to review the top premium VoIP providers below, many of which offer free numbers as part of their packages or the means to use your current one, plus a boatload of advanced features to streamline your business, improve your customer service, and more at a low cost.

In fact, the below solutions are renowned for being the market’s leading providers for both residential and business use, and most come with free trials and money-back guarantees for a risk-free trial.

We’ve taken a look at some of the best free VoIP providers, but now it’s time to explore the more premium options:

  1. OomaThe best VoIP provider overall based on its premium features like Voicemail Transcription and Virtual Receptionist | Try our top pick free for 30-days with the Ooma money-back guarantee
  2. Vonage – A great option for those on a budget and includes a cutting-edge AI virtual assistant | Try it now risk-free for 30 days
  3. Nextiva – Reliable VoIP provider that can integrate with a wide range of third-party apps like Google Contacts and CRMs | You can purchase hassle-free with a 30-day money-back guarantee
  4. Phone.com – Easy-to-use VoIP service with a ton of premium features like Voicemail-to-email | Try it out free for 30-days with the money-back guarantee
  5. MightyCall – An affordable choice that lets you make conference calls with an unlimited number of contacts | Try before you buy with a 7-day free trial
  6. RingCentralPopular virtual phone number service that has an AI learning system that can recommend strategies to your sales team | Try it free for 14 days

Reviews of the Top VoIP Phone Number Providers

Now it’s time to take a deeper look into the top VoIP phone number providers in more detail, looking at the key features on offer, pricing, and much more, starting with our number one, Ooma.

1. Ooma – Overall, the Best VoIP Phone Number Provider

Ooma

Ooma is our top choice for the best VoIP company because they offer a great service for homes and companies of all sizes. Having said that, the service offers a variety of practical functions, and its cost-effective plans make it even more appealing.

Ooma’s Office plan, which is competitively priced and has a few different plan options, is a great VoIP option for small businesses or those with a large number of remote employees. A mobile app, a virtual receptionist, and call-forwarding features are also included in the base plan, making it excellent value for money.

For a more sophisticated feature set, Ooma Office Pro offers voicemail transcription so you can have voicemails routed to your mailbox rather than listening to them, as well as top-notch video conferencing facilities that accommodate 200 people.

Ooma VoIP phone number service

 

Because it offers desktop and mobile tools that let employees use their company numbers to make and receive unrestricted calls to the US or Canada, it’s also a top choice for companies with remote workers.

There’s also a valuable tool called Ring Groups that transfers a call to other employees if someone else is unavailable, which enables businesses to group extensions to ring simultaneously. All of this makes Ooma Office unquestionably an excellent choice for companies of all sizes, hence why it tops our list of the best VoIP services this year.

The Ooma Pro Plus plan is ideal if you need more advanced services and have a company with more than 20 employees because you can benefit from the top-notch video conferencing features at a reasonable price.

Pricing Free Texts Number of Calls Compatibility
Essentials $19.95
Pro $24.95
Pro Plus $29.95
Yes Unlimited in US & Canada Windows, Mac, iOS, and Android

Pros

  • Great video-calling features
  • Integrates seamlessly with third-party apps
  • Excellent customer support team
  • Affordably priced plans to suit all needs
  • Simple setup that takes just a few minutes

Cons

  • Not enough SMS options

2. Vonage – A Great Budget-Friendly VoIP Provider

Vonage

Vonage is a well-known VoIP company that boasts a 99.999% uptime guarantee and a tonne of useful services geared towards small to large businesses. As a result, you’ll never have to worry about any downtime negatively affecting your business.

With services available in over 60 different countries, Vonage is a global powerhouse. This is especially useful if you frequently contact abroad or if your company is considering becoming global.

One of Vonage’s noteworthy new features is the user-friendly AI-based virtual assistant that can understand the trends in the conduct of your employees and offer recommendations. Plus, you can streamline the entire business process by integrating third-party apps like Microsoft Teams, which is another beneficial feature.

Vonage Best VoIP Canada

Alongside the groundbreaking introduction of AI, you also get access to some other advanced features like Call Continuity, which allows you to reroute calls to a backup number in case your internet connection drops or your VoIP system malfunctions.

Plus, a business can benefit from the Simultaneous Ring feature, where five numbers can ring at one time to ensure the phone is answered. Beyond all of this, the setup process is really simple, and Vonage will handle the activation and delivery at no additional cost.

And as you might anticipate, the UI is very user-friendly, so even inexperienced VoIP software users shouldn’t have too much trouble. This makes it a useful option for residential VoIP usage, which you can get for just $12.99/month.

For home users, you can get access to the Vonage Extensions app, which means you can take your number with you on the go so that you never miss any important calls. There’s also a useful voicemail feature that can either read them out to you or have them transcribed and sent to your email.

Pricing Free Texts Number of Calls Compatibility
Mobile $19.99
Premium $29.99
Advanced $39.99
Yes Unlimited in US & Canada Windows, Mac, iOS, and Android

Pros

  • Free delivery, activation, and setup 
  • Affordably priced plans suited for all businesses
  • Global network available in 60+ countries
  • Uptime guarantee of 99.999%

Cons

  • A lot of features need to be purchased separately

3. Nextiva – Reliable VoIP Provider with a Ton of Third-Party Integrations

Nextiva Logo

If you’re thinking about using cloud-based communication for your team and clients, Nextiva offers many advantages over its rivals, including flexible pricing options and a large range of features like unlimited texts and HD-quality calls.

To begin with, you’re free to make as many calls as you want to any US or Canadian phone number. The real-time presence feature allows you to see which of your contacts are available right now, and the call queue allows you to accept calls even when the line is busy.

In addition, Nextiva allows you to share files and screens during meetings, and all the plans offer video conferencing. Beyond this, you’ll even be able to host live-streaming webinars and online events using special video tools.

Nextiva VoIP interface

Outgoing voicemails can also be recorded, and you can have them sent immediately to your email inbox, saving you time and making it simple to discover essential messages when you need them. Plus, you can also send and receive an unlimited number of faxes and text messages, which makes the deal even sweeter.

Overall, Nextiva’s service is well-designed with utility and usability in mind, segmenting its tools based on communication, sales, and service, enabling you to discover the necessary functions, like call logs, as soon as you log in.

Additionally, there are seamless connections with leading CRM services like Salesforce, HubSpot, Zendesk, Outlook, and Google Contacts that work with Vonage to make it simple to manage data across the apps that your company uses.

Despite being primarily aimed at business usage, Nextiva can be used for a home office setup, which is increasingly more popular following the pandemic. You get all the usual features you’d expect from a top-tier VoIP provider, including a virtual voicemail service, ideal for those who work from home or on the go.

Pricing Free Texts Number of Calls Compatibility
Basic $20
Pro $25
Enterprise $30
Yes Unlimited in US & Canada Windows, Mac, iOS, and Android

Pros

  • Unlimited SMS and calls
  • A 30-day guarantee for a stress-free purchase
  • HD call quality for unrivaled communications
  • User-friendly interface that’s perfect for new users

Cons

  • No 24/7 phone or email support

4. Phone.com – Easy-to-Use VoIP Provider, Great for Beginners

Phone.com Logo

The VoIP and phone service provider Phone.com has a solid reputation and caters to small businesses or individuals on a tight budget because it provides phone, contact center, and administrative services with an easy-to-use user interface at an affordable price.

This makes it one of the best VoIP providers for small businesses, and even has higher-tier plans that can scale alongside your business should you outgrow your current plan. In fact, there are several options available for both corporate and home use, including usage-based pricing on its Basic plan.

This is ideal for those who make fewer than 300 calls each month, however, if you need more, you can upgrade at any time, as the more expensive plans provide unlimited calls and texts. Phone.com gives unparalleled freedom to add, delete, or upgrade people from one plan to another for those who are only willing to pay for what they need.

Phone.com | top VoIP providers

Regardless of your subscription, all users have access to standard capabilities like voicemail to email, which includes a transcript of the voicemail message. Additionally, all packages include call routing, queuing, and scheduling, which users may use to change how and when they receive calls.

Beyond this, Phone.com offers free conference bridge numbers to each employee, enabling them to initiate calls with up to 250 people. You also won’t need to buy a new phone because it supports a range of IP phones, including traditional analog phones, in fact, Phone.com will even send you a free adapter so you can get started straight away.

Phone.com is also an excellent provider of residential VoIP solutions, with prices starting from just $12.84/month. It allows you to use a new phone number for your business, rather than your personal one, and comes bundled with a ton of premium features like Call Forwarding, should you not be able to answer, as well as a customizable caller ID feature.

Pricing Free Texts Number of Calls Compatibility
Basic $11.99
Plus $15.99
Pro $23.99
Yes Unlimited in US & Canada Windows, Mac, iOS, and Android

Pros

  • No need to buy new phones, as Phone.com supports most hardware
  • Usage-based pricing is great for small businesses
  • Base VoIP feature set included for all plans
  • User-friendly interface that’s perfect for beginners

Cons

  • Video conferencing is a paid extra for all plans

5. MightyCall – Excellent VoIP for Conference Calling

MightyCall Logo

MightyCall is a trustworthy virtual phone system with fundamental call management functions. It’s a great option for small firms and solopreneurs who require a simple communication platform. The company’s primary services include virtual phone numbers, call reporting, business messaging, voicemail transcription, and call flow.

Incoming calls from vanity, local, and toll-free numbers are handled by MightyCall, and it has all the typical features, including call forwarding, conference calling, hold music, and call screening and recording.

The multichannel activity dashboard shows texts, calls, emails, callback requests, and social media interactions together with the rep who is responsible for each task and the anticipated response timeframes.

MightyCall interface

MightyCall offers up to two toll-free lines in each of its three plans, making it one of the top virtual phone number providers on the market. Most rivals, like Ooma and Nextiva, only offer one number as standard or impose additional fees, as is the case with DialPad.

With a wide variety of VoIP capabilities, MightyCall checks all the necessary aspects for simplified corporate conversations. Talking minutes, text messages, and virtual phone numbers (local, toll-free, vanity, and international numbers) are some of these.

Email integration also enables businesses to transform emails into tasks that can be delegated to any team member. Managers can receive alerts about incoming requests and allocate them to team members using the excellent VoIP mobile app for Android and iOS smartphones.

MightyCall doesn’t have a dedicated residential plan, but the service can be used from home in the same way, although it may be more expensive than other specialized residential plans because of this.

You can access all the features above, like call forwarding and video conferencing, all from the comfort of your home, or on the go with one of the intuitive mobile apps on offer for Android and iOS.

Pricing Free Texts Number of Calls Compatibility
Small Team $15/month

Business $20/month

Enterprise $150 (flat-rate)

Yes Unlimited in US & Canada Windows, Mac, iOS, and Android

Pros

  • Excellent mobile apps for keeping teams connected on the go
  • Unlimited call recording
  • The Interactive Voice Response feature is included across all plans
  • Includes 2 toll-free lines on each of its plans

Cons

  • Integrations with CRM tools aren’t available in the basic plan

6. RingCentral – Top VoIP for Sales Teams

RingCentral Logo

For managing all of your corporate communications, including audio talks and team chats, RingCentral is a useful and effective solution. Additionally, it provides high security and a variety of software integration, but it isn’t the most cost-effective choice.

However, RingCentral is aware that a growing number of meetings now take place digitally rather than in person. Up to 100 participants can join video conferences or meetings starting with the Standard plan (200 for the Premium and Ultimate plans). Meetings are password-protected for security, and the HD video is stunningly clear.

The new AI system uses machine learning to track conversations between salespeople and clients during calls and text chats, and it can even give suggested strategies. This is just one innovative feature that distinguishes this VoIP company as one of the best.

RingCentral interface

The RingCentral Automator can be installed to automatically respond to incoming SMS messages, and there’s an app gallery where you can link to OneDrive, Salesforce, Google Workspace, Trello, and Microsoft Teams in addition to the core functions.

Additionally, when you miss a call or leave a message on voicemail, the visual voicemail enables you to respond to your messages in the order of your choice. And you can download any texts you want to keep.

RingCentral also excels for individual usage and is one of our top picks for the best VoIP services for home thanks to its professional features, including Video conferencing options and excellent customer support.

Pricing Free Texts Number of Calls Compatibility
Essential $19.99
Standard $27.99
Premium $34.99
Ultimate $49.99
Yes Unlimited in US & Canada Windows, Mac, iOS, and Android

Pros

  • AI-backed transcription and call analysis
  • Seamless integration with third-party software
  • Excellent call and video quality
  • A 14-day free trial to test the service

Cons

  • Plans are more expensive than most providers

Compare the Best VoIP Phone Number Providers in 2024

Below is a useful table that compares the key features of each of these VoIP providers at a glance so you easily compare factors like pricing:

Provider  Pricing Free Texts Number of Calls Compatibility
Ooma Essentials $19.95 
Pro $24.95 
Pro Plus $29.95 
Yes Unlimited in US & Canada Windows, Mac, iOS, and Android
Vonage  Mobile $19.99
Premium $29.99
Advanced $39.99
Yes Unlimited in US & Canada Windows, Mac, iOS, and Android
Nextiva Basic $20
Pro $25
Enterprise $30
Yes Unlimited in US & Canada Windows, Mac, iOS, and Android
Phone.com  Basic $11.99
Plus $15.99
Pro $23.99
Yes Unlimited in US & Canada Windows, Mac, iOS, and Android
MightyCall Small Team $11.99
Business $20.00
Enterprise $150 (flat-rate)
Yes Unlimited in US & Canada Windows, Mac, iOS, and Android
RingCentral Essential $19.99
Standard $27.99
Premium $34.99
Ultimate $49.99
Yes Unlimited in US & Canada Windows, Mac, iOS, and Android

How to Choose the Right Free VoIP Phone Number Provider for You

It can be difficult to choose the best VoIP company for your needs. Although we’ve included our favorite free VoIP services in this article, you should still think carefully about certain important aspects and your own personal preferences before choosing. Here are some important things to take into account while picking a VoIP provider:

  • Free Plan: All VoIP services we looked at must provide a truly free way to call others using a smartphone or desktop application. Having a generous free plan or trial allows users to try out the service before potentially committing to a higher-tier plan.
  • Affordable Upgrades: It’s not only important to offer a free plan, but the best VoIP providers must also allow for affordable upgrades to higher-tier plans. If your business is growing, then you need a VoIP partner that can scale alongside you without a huge rise in cost.
  • Unlimited Texts & Calls: The best free VoIP phone number providers will allow you to make unlimited calls and texts, usually within the US and Canada. Also, they should offer low-cost international calls in case your business has clients in other areas of the world.
  • Compatibility: You would ideally want your free VoIP service to offer apps for all the major platforms, including Mac, Windows, iOS, and Android, plus bonus points for browser integrations. This allows you to use the service on the go or on any device you might be using.
  • Call Quality: Even though they’re free, you should still expect to get crisp audio and call quality with a free VoIP provider. All the services on this list offer crystal clear audio and excellent call quality, although sometimes, your internet connection can make a difference.
  • Customer Support: In the world of tech, things can often go wrong, and this can be said about VoIP services. If they do, then you want to make sure that there’s a strong customer support network to guide you through any issues. Look out for 24/7 live chat, email, and phone support options on your provider of choice.

Precautions to Take Before Using a Free VoIP Number Service

As appealing as a free VoIP service may seem, there are some notable drawbacks that can influence the overall performance of your VoIP system, such as a lack of premium features like video conferencing. Below is a list of precautions you should keep in mind:

  • Limited Plans: Free VoIP companies typically only offer a few calling plans that include the essential VoIP functions, making it difficult for businesses to discover a flexible solution that’ll best meet their needs. Therefore, it can be easy to outgrow these plans pretty quickly or struggle to get by when using them.
  • Users: Free VoIP providers must set a monthly cap on the number of users for each client because they have a large number of customers. Larger businesses may be left wondering how to offer essential features to their clients and staff as a result of these constrained features.
  • Location: Free VoIP services give minimal calling options that are related to the office location, so businesses can only reach their clients and customers if they’re in their offices.
  • Features: You’re unlikely to get many premium features with a free VoIP, including the likes of auto attendant, call forwarding, video conferencing, and much more, including security. Here are the common VoIP security threats you need to be aware of if you opt for a free solution.

Conclusion

Despite our detailed list, you should still assess any business or individual needs before proceeding to signup with a free VoIP provider, as the features you need may not be on offer.

For those who are committed and know what they need, we’d recommend trying Ooma, our top pick for the best free VoIP provider — it gives you 2 free numbers, and all of the plans are incredibly affordable. Plus,  they have a great set of features like Ring Groups and integrate well with third-party applications — all without breaking the bank.

FAQ

Can you get a VoIP number for free?

Can a VoIP number be traced?

Do VoIP phones have caller ID?

Can I use my smartphone as a VoIP?

How to Get a Virtual Phone Number at No Cost?

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Best Free CRM for Startups: Top 7 in 2024 to Boost Your Sales https://techreport.com/business-software/best-free-crm-for-startups/ Fri, 23 Jun 2023 13:43:08 +0000 https://techreport.com/?page_id=3505801 Best Free CRM for Startups

If you want to be a successful startup, developing and maintaining customer relationships and interactions is essential. Without a CRM, it’ll be challenging to stay on top of your customer...

The post Best Free CRM for Startups: Top 7 in 2024 to Boost Your Sales appeared first on The Tech Report.

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Best Free CRM for Startups

If you want to be a successful startup, developing and maintaining customer relationships and interactions is essential. Without a CRM, it’ll be challenging to stay on top of your customer data and their needs while keeping a profitable relationship with them.

That said, picking a CRM that fits both your needs and budget as a startup can be an incredibly challenging task. To help, we’ve sourced, reviewed, and compared the best free CRM software solutions on the market that offer invaluable tools for startups.

The Best Free CRM Software for Startups in 2024

Below is a quick look at our top picks for the best free CRM software for startups, with HubSpot coming out on top. It caters to businesses of all sizes, not just startups, and the premium features it includes blow the competition out of the water. Here’s the full list:

  1. HubSpot — Overall, the best free CRM for startups based on its feature-rich free plan that allows unlimited users.
  2. Monday Sales — A popular freemium CRM solution that can be customized to fit in with any business’s requirements.
  3. Zoho CRM — An excellent choice for businesses looking for a system that can scale alongside them, thanks to its wide range of flexible and affordable plans.
  4. Freshsales — Top free solution for sales and marketing teams as it boasts an excellent built-in phone system.
  5. Salesforce — The best choice for a premium CRM with a ton of advanced features like personalized sales pipelines. It offers a month-long free trial.
  6. Pipedrive — Superb for sales and marketing teams thanks to features like mass emailing that can include up to 1,000 customers at a time. Try it free for two weeks.
  7. Maximizer CRM — An incredibly user-friendly CRM that’s great for first-time users. Try it risk-free for a full month with the free trial.

Why Do You Need a CRM Software for Your Startup?

For startups looking to enhance communication with clients, consumers, and even within their own organization, a CRM is a must-have solution. By monitoring customer interactions across channels, CRMs can increase client retention. Here’s why:

  • Customers won’t have to wait for answers if teams from various departments have fast access to data.
  • Employee productivity can be increased while also enhancing the client experience.
  • They aid in assigning responsibility to tasks that improve productivity and your processes to bolster your startup’s growth.

Using historical data in personalized reports, you can keep track of tasks and assess the overall performance of your business. By having the means to pinpoint areas of improvement, you’ll have everything you need at your fingertips to catapult your business’ sales, customer satisfaction, and employee performance.

How to Choose the Best Free CRM Software for Your Startup

There are some crucial factors you should consider, such as ease of use or connectors, to make sure you get the best CRM app for your business needs. We’ve created this list of everything you should keep in mind when choosing the best one for your needs:

  • User-friendliness — Your CRM software should be just as easy to use as your email client — especially in terms of routine chores like updating contact information or keeping track of sales.
  • Scalability — Startups are always expanding and changing, so you need a CRM that can scale with you as your business moves from the pre-seed stage to the seed stage and finally to the growth stage. Pick a CRM tool for startups that has a range of affordable pricing plans where you can expand beyond the fundamentals.
  • Analytics — Customer metrics like purchase history, demographics, and customer care interactions are included in most of the free CRMs on this list, but for more advanced analytics, you may need to upgrade your plan. With that being said, the best free CRMs will offer some valuable insight into customer behavior and trends.
  • Integrations — By integrating your CRM with other applications you already use, you’ll be able to save a boatload of time and money. Most CRMs on this list can link with tools like Slack, Microsoft Office, and Google Suite. However, for more advanced integrations, you may need to upgrade to a higher-tier plan.

The Best Free CRMs for Startups Reviewed

Let’s take a deeper look at the top free CRM for startups in 2024, with HubSpot leading the way for businesses around the world, no matter what size or scale. We’ll review the key features, integrations, scalability, and more, including the key advantages and disadvantages of each one so that you can make an informed decision.

1. HubSpot — Overall, the Best Free CRM for Startups

HubSpot CRM solidifies its position at the top of our list by providing a solid platform for small and midsize businesses looking to combine their capabilities for sales, marketing, and customer service. It truly is the best free-forever CRM on the market right now to streamline your business thanks to the free features on offer.

Besides being an incredibly reliable, easy-to-use CRM software, the free bundle provides what you need for handling new leads using a variety of complimentary CRM, marketing, sales, and customer support solutions, such as dashboard reporting, deal tracking, and pipeline management.

In fact, the functionality included in the free plan is the key factor that sets HubSpot apart from its competitors. For instance, the shared inbox feature, which gathers all incoming emails and live chat correspondence in one place, makes it easier for the entire team to access client information to ensure accurate data and timely support.

HubSpot Sales Hub CRM

Starting Price of Paid Plans Free Version Integrations Supported Devices Top Features
$30/user/month Free Forever Plan 300+ Windows, Mac, Android, and iOS 1. Website Activity Tracking

2. Email Integration & Tracking

3. Opportunity Pipeline

Email templates can also be swiftly created and sent, saving you time for other tasks, and you can easily import contacts from other mail providers and then design your email using one of five templates. Beyond this, as part of the free plan, a support form and tracking code can be placed on your website so you can:

  • Keep tabs on visitor activity
  • Automatically store their data in your database, and
  • Track interactions with them over time

Teams seeking more specialized capabilities can upgrade to the CRM Suite bundle or the Starter package for individual hubs, which offers more powerful features. For instance, using segmented lists and the Starter plan of the Marketing hub, you can easily develop branded, personalized email campaigns to bolster their success.

To further optimize your efforts, you can also observe how and when your customers are responding to your emails. Similar feature upgrades are available with the CRM Suite Starter subscription, including extra ad account possibilities, meeting scheduling, two deal pipelines, and 5,000 email templates.

All the free tools come with enhanced limits when you upgrade to the Starter plan, and the HubSpot branding is removed from services like forms, landing pages, and live chat. Overall, the free tools are the best you’ll find, and scaling is effortless and affordable with HubSpot.

Pros

  • Offers a feature-rich ‘free forever’ plan
  • Incredibly user-friendly, great for first-time CRM users
  • Allows for integration with over 300 third-party applications
  • Can integrate with leading VoIP software solutions for sales teams

Cons

  • No telephone support on free plans, so wait times can be longer

2. Monday Sales — A Highly Customizable CRM for Startups

Monday is among the most adaptable customer relationship management platforms. Your team can customize Monday to their own needs because of its extensive customizability possibilities — from personalized reporting to ample column types, you can make Monday your own.

However, the free plan is best for individuals, as it allows for only one user. That said, it’s fantastic for small startups or users looking to try most of the premium features on offer before upgrading. It lets you create Unlimited boards, use the software on the go with the mobile apps, and you’ll get a generous 5GB of storage, all for $0.

This plan also provides you with a ton of core features that most CRMs would charge a hefty price for, including 200+ templates, 20 column types for customization, web-to-lead capture, two-factor authentication, and 24/7 customer support.

Beyond this, Monday’s popularity is also largely due to how affordable it is to have this tool scale with you.

Monday Sales CRM Dashboard

Starting Price of Paid Plans Free Version Integrations Supported Devices Top Features
$30/month Free Forever Plan 50+ Windows, Mac, Android, and iOS 1. Personalized Scaled Emails

2. Sales Leaderboard

3. Lead Scoring

For companies with specific sales processes and close-knit departmental interactions, Monday’s Standard plan is a great option because it provides fully customized dashboards, templates, workflows, forms, quotes, and widgets, plus personalized labels and items.

Along with offering essential capabilities like sales pipeline and contact management to effectively monitor and manage your customer journey, workflow automation to streamline processes, and easy email synchronization, Monday enables sales teams and managers to customize almost every part of the CRM.

Unlike some CRMs that offer predefined automations, Monday lets you create custom workflows using IF/THEN equations to reduce the time spent on mundane tasks, like assigning work or offering updates; plus, it promotes efficient teamwork on projects and streamlines customer communication by automating tasks like emails.

Beyond all this, Monday is incredibly easy to use and set up. Try the free plan to see if Monday is the best fit for your needs, and upgrade to one of the many budget-friendly paid plans if you need more functionality.

Pros

  • Highly customizable interface
  • Very user-friendly, great for beginners in CRM
  • Decent free plan for small businesses
  • Offers highly customizable in-app automations
  • Renowned for being one of the best project management solutions

Cons

  • The free plan allows for just one user

3. Zoho CRM — Solid Free CRM That’s Great for Affordable Scaling

As one of the best small business CRMs, Zoho expands with your needs, and it’s a top choice for startups seeking a straightforward, cost-free method of storing contacts and monitoring leads.

With the free plan, up to three users can track customers, leads, accounts, and deals without spending a cent. For easier customer relationship management, you can also record calls, events, and notes to ensure nothing gets lost and your team knows where each lead is in their customer journey and what to do next.

Plus, to automate particular actions, such as reminding sales to email prospects on a specific date, you can define workflow rules. So, you can set up task reminders, and it even lets you build up a lead, account, and deal management pipeline and store all the necessary documents related to each one.

Zoho Projects

Starting Price of Paid Plans Free Version Integrations Supported Devices Top Features
$20/month Free Forever Plan 150+ Windows, Mac, Android, and iOS 1. Sales Automation

2. Mobile Apps

3. Inventory Management

That said, the social tabs for Facebook and Twitter aren’t available on the free plan, and you’re unable to accept calendar bookings from your website into your CRM. As such, although the free plan is an excellent place to start for many new users or small organizations, you’ll likely rapidly outgrow this plan.

However, upgrading to a subscription plan for more advanced features is affordable with Zoho, and it’ll open up ample more services, including automating marketing tasks and lead scoring that will allow your team to prioritize certain leads depending on their interactions with your business.

Lead scoring also ensures contacts are forwarded to the relevant teams. With Zoho, every one of your leads has a tag that lets you know:

  • If contact has been made
  • If more action is needed, or
  • If the lead has been lost

Furthermore, Zoho CRM provides seamless integrations with other Zoho tools, like the help desk and project management software, and hundreds of other third-party programs you might be using, like as MailChimp, Google Analytics, and QuickBooks.

Overall, Zoho CRM is a more effective tool than just a simple CRM for managing contacts and leads, even on its free plan. The sales automation solutions aid in producing leads that are instantly added as contacts in your CRM through forms on your website, social media, and email.

Pros

  • Excellent free plan with a ton of premium features like deal and account management
  • Affordably priced paid plans for when you’re ready to upscale
  • Easy-to-use mobile and desktop apps
  • Offers a 45-day money-back guarantee on paid plans

Cons

  • Limited integrations on the free plan

4. Freshsales – Reliable Free CRM for Sales and Marketing Teams

Freshsales is one of the best cloud-based CRMs for small businesses since it includes a highly functional, perpetually free plan and fairly priced premium alternatives. It’s free to use for up to three individuals, and it’s a one-stop shop where you can start up your expanding small business for nothing.

It’s also easy to use and reasonably priced for small businesses looking to make a wise financial decision when it’s time to scale. That said, the free plan is an excellent place to start; you can handle transactions, analyze and track business success, send emails, and much more with free sales and marketing tools.

And to top it off, signing up doesn’t require a credit card, and you can open a new account if you already have an account to use the free version. Plus, although only three users and 1,000 marketing contacts are included in the free version, you can pay a small fee to add more users, contacts, and add-ons at any time.

Freshsales Popular CRM

Starting Price of Paid Plans Free Version Integrations Supported Devices Top Features
$15/month Free Forever Plan 50+ Windows, Mac, Android, and iOS 1. AI-powered Lead Scoring

2. Custom Dashboards & Reports

3. Built-in Phone

Freshsales distinguishes itself from its competitors with its AI-powered contact and deals scoring, customization, and built-in marketing, chat, and phone functionality. Plus, as you can add as many users and support personnel as you wish, it’s a top choice for growing sales teams.

Besides this, the free plan gives you access to features like contact scoring and connection with Freshdesk for streamlined customer support, and beyond being affordable to scale, you can also upgrade to a premium account without losing your data.

Overall, Freshsales offers a variety of tools to support the growth of your business. You can obtain important information regarding your contacts, accounts, and deals, and you can use it to gather leads from website visitors and learn how to effectively engage more potential customers.

Additionally, you’ll get extensive analytics, transaction monitoring, and complete reporting features for accurate revenue forecasting. In fact, you can build detailed reports on sales activities, measure crucial metrics like conversion rates, and get real-time data on performance to make improvements based on informed judgments.

Pros

  • Incredibly easy-to-use dashboard and interface
  • Great free plan and affordable paid subscriptions
  • Excellent custom dashboards and reports
  • AI-powered lead scoring on all paid plans

Cons

  • Customer support only available on weekdays

5. Salesforce — The Best Premium CRM for Startups With a Free Trial and Advanced Features

Salesforce CRM is a market leader for a wide range of requirements thanks to its powerful sales automation across various industries. That said, it functions best for sales teams and big or expanding businesses that need a highly customizable solution.

Unfortunately, there’s also no free plan, which is why Salesforce isn’t ranked first on our list as the best CRM overall for startups. However, it does offer a generous 30-day free trial which gives you ample time to try the service to see whether you think upgrading is a good choice for your business.

It works well for established firms looking to optimize their sales processes, integrate many platforms into one CRM, or both. As such, a large sales staff will particularly benefit from Salesforce’s many advanced capabilities, such as the numerous opportunities for customization and integration.

Salesforce Best CRM for Construction

Starting Price of Paid Plans Free Version Integrations Supported Devices Top Features
$25/month 30-Day Free Trial 3,000+ Windows, Mac, Android, and iOS 1. Forecast Management

2. Marketing Campaign Management

3. Lead Auto-assignment

Salesforce offers a wide range of services, including simple lead management, complicated workflows, and personalized sales pipelines. And despite it being not the easiest CRM to use, it’s certainly among the most intuitive, and with time and practice, it’ll prove to be a vital tool for many businesses.

Unlike many CRMs that are difficult to use since they can’t be completely tailored to your pipeline, one of Salesforce’s great advantages is its flexibility to customize almost every aspect of your sales process, which opens a world of opportunity in how you accomplish your goals.

For example, you can get leads distributed automatically as they come in with Salesforce, and it also offers a wide range of other automation options to streamline your customer relationship management processes.

The vast array of third-party integration options also makes it excellent for businesses that need to put together various solutions. With over 3,000 integrations, Salesforce enables you to easily ensure effortless cross-compatibility with different tools your businesses use — this includes apps like Slack, LinkedIn, and DocuSign.

Pros

  • Highly customizable interface
  • Generous 30-day free trial to test the service
  • Integrates with over 3,000+ services
  • Powerful reporting features, including summary formulas and historical trend reporting

Cons

  • No free plan is available, only a free trial

 6. Pipedrive — Great Option for Securing New Sales Leads Thanks to its Excellent Email Marketing Software

Pipedrive is a well-known CRM that was developed by and for sales teams, and as its name suggests, it primarily focuses on sales pipelines. Despite the lack of a free plan, it’s a solid choice for small businesses because it’s affordable and easy to use, plus, it comes with a 2-week-long trial that doesn’t require any credit card details.

With it, you can process incoming leads quickly with forms, and the platform can be completely customized to meet the unique workflows used by your team. By keeping track of important contacts and comments as a lead moves through the sales process, the CRM aids sales teams in tracking leads efficiently to bolster revenue.

However, cheaper plans have a lot of limitations, so if you’re willing to pay for a high-tier plan, you’ll get the most for your money.

Pipedrive free CRM for startups

 

Starting Price of Paid Plans Free Version Integrations Supported Devices Top Features
$12.50/month 14-day Free Trial 400+ Windows, Mac, Android, and iOS 1. Customizable Workflows

2. Chatbots

3. Machine learning-powered sales assistant

Overall, Pipedrive shines as a sales-focused CRM, and the capabilities it offers are consistent with this. For example, contacts may be created and tracked all the way through the sales pipeline, from the first conversation to the last transaction and beyond.

Automation helps eliminate a lot of the tedious busywork that would otherwise take up employees’ time and allows each step of the process to be customized to the needs of certain teams.

One of the key advantages is the customized chatbot that companies can place on their website to gather new leads that are quickly integrated into the sales funnel. This introduces a critical technique that firms may use to acquire warm and hot leads that don’t fall through the cracks while people surf the internet.

Despite Pipedrive offering a completely functional CRM out of the box, you can expand its functionality by adding third-party apps. It can be integrated with over 400 third-party applications, including Leadfeeder, Zoom, Calendly, and Zapier.

Pros

  • Affordably priced plans
  • Built-in telephony feature on most plans
  • Unlimited, customizable sales pipelines

Cons

  • No free plan
  • No phone support on free or lower-tiered plans

7. Maximizer CRM — Decent Choice For CRM Beginners

Right now, one of the most reliable solutions for Sales Leaders is the all-around strong Maximizer CRM. It gives you an advantage over the competition by combining both leading and lagging indicators so you can more precisely predict and influence future sales success.

You have exceptional visibility into the activities of your salespeople, making it easier to keep track of and analyze important data and monitor and manage them in real-time. Maximizer includes capabilities for sales management, CRM marketing automation, customer service and support, and corporate productivity.

A wide range of productivity tools is also included with Maximizer, making it simple to track important sales, locate pertinent information quickly, and send automated emails. Plus, it also integrates with Microsoft Office programs, such as Outlook, Word, Excel, and SharePoint.

Maximizer sales reps Analytics

Starting Price of Paid Plans Free Version Integrations Supported Devices Top Features
$55.50/month 30-day Free Trial 500+ Windows, Mac, Android, and iOS 1. Contact Management

2. Third-party Integrations

3. Sales Forecasting

The marketing automation component of the product includes email marketing campaigns, integrated campaign planning, and marketing analytics. Users can also search and filter customer data using list management tools based on pre-set criteria, targeted leads, and customers to save time.

Beyond this, you can use the powerful analytics features to discover more about the performance of your business. These technologies enable you to monitor and assess activity in real time, enabling you to quickly decide how to proceed and adjust your plans as necessary.

By having the ability to create both standard and customized templates, you can also reduce the time it takes to send messages while ensuring their accuracy. And although there isn’t a free plan available, you can take advantage of the lengthy 30-day free trial or the 60-day money-back guarantee.

Pros

  • Generous 60-day money-back guarantee
  • 30-day free trial on offer
  • Excellent online customer support resources

Cons

  • No free plan

Comparison of the Best Free CRM Software in 2024

Now that we’ve reviewed all of our top picks, it’s time to compare key features like pricing and compatibility. Below is a useful table you can use to find the best CRM for your startup:

Software Starting Price of Paid Plans Free Version Integrations Supported Devices Top Features
HubSpot $30/month Free Forever Plan 300+ Windows, Mac, Android, and iOS 1. Website Activity Tracking

2. Email Integration & Tracking

3. Opportunity Pipeline

Monday Sales $30/month Free Forever Plan 50+ Windows, Mac, Android, and iOS 1. Personalized Scaled Emails

2. Sales Leaderboard

3. Lead Scoring

Zoho CRM $20/month Free Forever Plan 150+ Windows, Mac, Android, and iOS 1. Sales Automation

2. Mobile Apps

3. Inventory Management

Freshsales $15/month Free Forever Plan 50+ Windows, Mac, Android, and iOS 1. AI-powered Lead Scoring

2. Custom Dashboards & Reports

3. Built-in Phone

Salesforce $25/month 30-Day Free Trial 3000+ Windows, Mac, Android, and iOS 1. Forecast Management

2. Marketing Campaign Management

3. Lead Auto-assignment

Pipedrive $12.50/month 14-Day Free Trial 400+ Windows, Mac, Android, and iOS 1. Customizable Workflows

2. Chatbots

3. Machine learning-powered sales assistant

Maximizer CRM $55.50/month 30-Day Free Trial 500+ Windows, Mac, Android, and iOS 1. Contact Management

2. Third-party Integrations

3. Sales Forecasting

A Quick Guide On How to Use a CRM

Early on, using a CRM can be somewhat tricky, but once you’ve figured it out, they’re the perfect solution to automate your processes, improve your customer support, and gain invaluable insights to catapult your startup.

For this guide, we’ll be using HubSpot as our example, but it works the same for pretty much any other CRM software you might decide to use.

Add Users

Adding new staff members to your HubSpot account is pretty straightforward, just follow the simple steps listed below:

  • Click the settings icon in the main navigation bar of your HubSpot account.
  • Go to Users & Teams in the left sidebar menu and click Create User in the upper right corner.
  • Add a user by entering their email, if there are multiple users, make sure to leave a space.

Automate Workflows

There are so many options for automation. For example, you can choose what happens after a form is submitted by visiting the Automation tab of the form. Activate basic automation functions, including sending a contact a follow-up email.

  • Navigate to Marketing > Lead Capture > Forms in your HubSpot account.
  • To add follow-up emails or create a new form, click Edit next to the name of an existing form.
  • Click the Automation tab in the forms editor.

HubSpot Automated Workflows

Import Data

Startups managing prospects and opportunities using a different CRM or spreadsheet can import this data by uploading a CSV file. To ensure that your data transfers between your old and new systems without any errors, each column in your spreadsheet should correspond to a contact property in the CRM.

Below is an example of how to import files, the steps are pretty much the same as if you wanted to import multiple or single files:

  • Click the settings icon in the main navigation bar of your HubSpot account.
  • Go to Import & Export in the left sidebar menu, then click Go to import.
  • Tap Start an Import on the Imports screen, choose File from the computer, and then select Next.
  • Now choose Next after selecting One File/Multiple items.
  • Click Next after selecting the items and actions in your import file.
  • For each object or activity, select Choose a file, then pick your import file.
  • Click the Choose how to import [objects/activities] dropdown menu for each object/activity and select how to import your data
  • Finally, select Create new contacts only.

HubSpot Import Data

Integrations

If your business currently uses other apps like Google Suite, Shopify, QuickBooks, and so on, you can link them to your CRM to streamline your processes. Choose tools that are already connected to your preferred CRM (check out the integration partners for your CRM), or use Zapier to connect them.

For instance, you might configure a Zap to send entries from Google Forms directly to your CRM. Below is an example of how to integrate a third-party app, in this case, QuickBooks. It works the same for most external apps, so just follow these steps for the program you need:

  • Select App Marketplace by clicking the marketplace symbol in the main navigation bar of your HubSpot account.
  • To find and choose the QuickBooks Online integration, use the search bar. Click “Install app” in the upper right corner.
  • Use your QuickBooks Online credentials to log in.
  • The connected integration will appear in your area of connected apps once it has been connected successfully.
  • By going to the Marketplace icon in the main navigation bar, you can connect numerous accounts. Then click Connected Apps under Manage.
  • Click Connect QuickBooks account in the upper right after choosing QuickBooks Online. By choosing Disconnect, you can also terminate your account.

Reports

You spend a lot of time looking at data as a sales manager. However, your representatives ought to be out there selling as much as they can. Making daily, weekly, monthly, and/or quarterly email reports is an excellent idea because of this.

The reports also allow you to oversee the performance of staff, a product, and so on, and provide an easy way to provide feedback on working performance and sales behavior. The processes for creating a report in the custom report builder are as follows:

  • Choose the HubSpot data types that will be included in the report’s data sources.
  • Select the specific property, event, and activity data to report on by adding fields to the report.
  • Create your own report filters by defining upper and lower bounds for the additional fields.
  • Configure report visualization by selecting the data display options.
  • Make your report accessible to you and others by saving or exporting it to remove your data from the internet.

HubSpot Custom Reports

All of the tools we’ve reviewed in this article offer excellent customer support, plus in-depth help articles populated by images and short videos to help you get accustomed to the software, and thankfully most are incredibly intuitive to use.

It’s just a matter of playing around during the free trial or on the free plans to determine whether the one you’re using is a good fit for your business.

Conclusion | What is the Best Free CRM to Use in 2024?

When assessing the best free CRMs for startups, we took several factors into consideration, including functionality, customer service, usability, user experiences, and third-party integrations.

Overall, HubSpot is undoubtedly the top pick for the top free CRM for startups since it offers a feature-rich free forever plan that permits several third-party connections and includes a tonne of premium features like Website Activity Tracking, Email Integration, and a fantastic Opportunity Pipeline tool.

It’s also a fantastic choice if your company has to scale up because it offers a selection of plans that come loaded with added functionality that’ll help bolster your startup to a booming business.

FAQ

What CRM software is best for a small startup?

Why is CRM important for startups?

What is the best free CRM for one person?

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Is HubSpot CRM really free?

 

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The 10 Best CRMs for E-Commerce Reviewed for 2024 https://techreport.com/business-software/best-crms-for-e-commerce/ Fri, 16 Jun 2023 19:05:43 +0000 https://techreport.com/?page_id=3505325 CRM

The aim of increasing client retention, sales, and automation to enhance corporate growth is a common goal throughout the many industries that employ CRMs. The best e-commerce CRM software can assist...

The post The 10 Best CRMs for E-Commerce Reviewed for 2024 appeared first on The Tech Report.

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CRM

The aim of increasing client retention, sales, and automation to enhance corporate growth is a common goal throughout the many industries that employ CRMs. The best e-commerce CRM software can assist in achieving these objectives while also enhancing teamwork and collaboration.

CRMs are an incredibly important tool for helping e-commerce businesses better understand their customer’s behavior, browsing, and spending patterns, enabling them to increase their chances of making a sale.

To help you find the best of the bunch for your needs, we explore the market’s 10 best CRMs for e-commerce, looking at a variety of factors like features, integrations, and price.

The Best CRMs for E-Commerce In 2024

Below is a quick glance at our top 10 list. We’ll be reviewing all the providers below shortly. As you can see, Salesforce has come out on top, and we particularly like the wide range of features on offer, alongside some truly competitive pricing:

  1. Salesforce Overall, the best CRM for online stores as it boasts a ton of third-party integrations and premium sales and marketing features
  2. PipedriveIncludes a host of advanced features like Shopify support, detailed analytics, and customized dashboards
  3. Zoho CRM –  Leading budget-friendly CRM with a range of affordably priced plans and powerful e-commerce-focused features like sales forecasting
  4. Monday Sales CRM – A reliable and user-friendly CRM system that’s great for first-time users
  5. HubSpotOne of the best free CRMs for e-commerce businesses as the free forever plan boasts unlimited users
  6. FreshsalesTop choice for sales teams as it includes a built-in phone system for monitoring sales calls
  7. ZendeskA customer-focused solution that comes with a helpdesk solution that’s ideal for remote working e-commerce businesses
  8. Maximizer CRMOffers excellent sales and marketing features aimed at catapulting online sales
  9. Less Annoying CRM – One of the most simple CRM systems to use, ideal for startup e-commerce businesses and CRM newbies
  10. Act! – A solid CRM platform that offers excellent 24/7 customer service, automation, and great customization capabilities

Reviews of the Best CRM for E-Commerce in 2024

Now let’s take a look at the top 10 providers in more detail, starting with our number one pick, Salesforce, which is the best overall CRM provider for 2024.

1. Salesforce – Overall, the Best CRM for Online Stores

One of the most widely used CRM solutions in both B2B and B2C sectors is Salesforce. It’s made to assist companies in uniting their sales, marketing, IT, commerce, and service teams so that everyone can operate smoothly and work collaboratively from any place.

Through a wide range of tools for sales, marketing, and customer service, the software effectively links teams with customers, leads, and partners. Companies in both the B2B and B2C sectors can effortlessly manage their sales and marketing pipelines, target their target markets and cooperate internally with the help of Salesforce CRM.

The software is adaptable and simple to use, making it the perfect CRM option for expanding online retailers and e-commerce companies.

Salesforce Best CRM for Construction

Users get access to pertinent client data using Salesforce CRM, including contact details and correspondence history, which aids customer care and support staff in maximizing their interactions with loyal and repeat customers.

The cloud-based software also enables users to maintain track of ongoing negotiations and their various stages while viewing a complete timeline of their client’s behavior. Beyond this, sales teams can create and manage quotations and orders.

According to key performance indicators (KPIs) and other valuable information, the program can offer various estimates for sales, subscriber retention, email engagement, and revenue. Plus, companies can build workflows for automated business operations that include human tasks like writing unique proposals.

To top it off, there’s an extraordinary amount of third-party connections available, and it’s simple to look for add-ons or other platforms that you may connect to. Today, Salesforce has over 3,000 integrations, allowing you to find alternative platforms that can improve your business operations.

Salesforce has the ability to link with the top platforms uses for the majority of objectives, from marketing automation to scheduling software. The likes of Slack, Calendly, DocuSign, QuickBooks, LinkedIn, HubSpot, and much more are all available at the click of a few buttons.

Pricing

There are a few different price plans on offer from Salesforce that make them suitable for e-commerce businesses of all sizes and scalability, with the cheapest being the Essentials plan, which starts from just $25/month:

Salesforce pricing

 

If your e-commerce business grows, it’s important that your CRM has the ability to grow alongside you. Salesforce has a number of upgrade options that include premium features like customer journey analytics, advanced reporting, and custom code development.

Starting Price Free Version Integrations Supported Devices Top Features
$25/month No 3,000+ Windows, Mac, Android, and iOS 1. Forecast Management

2. Marketing Campaign Management

3. Lead Auto-assignment

Pros

  • A huge range of integrations with third-party apps
  • Affordably priced plans for businesses of all sizes
  • Widely customizable dashboards and interface
  • Useful 30-day free trial to test the service out
  • Excellent lead management and scoring features

Cons

  • No free plan is available, only a free trial

2. Pipedrive – Feature-Rich Sales CRM, Perfect for E-Commerce Businesses

While Pipedrive is primarily a sales CRM and deal monitoring system, it can be used for a variety of purposes that are pertinent to an online e-commerce organization. For recording sold items and their data, such as unit prices, category, tax rates, and any other custom fields you want to add, the products catalog is very useful.

This is especially helpful for tracking consumer behavior, such as previous purchases, to help with personalized promotions or recommendations. As a sales-focused CRM solution that has an easy-to-use interface, it enables you and your team to get practical information and send personalized messages with ease.

This is particularly important for smaller e-commerce firms. In fact, Pipedrive is one of the best contact management software solutions for individuals that require sophisticated data management solutions in their e-commerce CRM.

Pipedrive best CRM app

Teams can automatically add internet data to their customer profiles, look for duplicate records, keep tabs on interaction and purchase activity, connect pertinent files, and check customer locations on Google Maps inside a contact record.

But don’t be fooled by its apparent simplicity; Pipedrive is one of the most complete CRM solutions available, and with more than 150 apps and integrations, it’ll almost certainly function without a hitch with your current setup.

Pipedrive shines as a sales-focused CRM, and the capabilities it offers are consistent with this. Contacts may be created and tracked all the way through the sales pipeline, from the first conversation to the last transaction and beyond.

Automation helps eliminate a lot of the tedious busywork that would otherwise take up employees’ time and allows each step of the process to be customized to the needs of certain teams.

Pricing

Pipedrive offers one of the most budget-friendly and comprehensive CRM software solutions for businesses of all sizes. With four different plans to choose from, there’s something for everyone:

Pricing

Pipedrive offers a number of different price plans should you need to upgrade to fit your e-commerce business demands. With the higher tier plans, you can get access to more advanced features like API access, custom integrations, and 24/7 customer support.

Starting Price Free Version Integrations Supported Devices Top Features
$12.50/month No 400+ Windows, Mac, Android, and iOS 1. Customizable Workflows

2. Chatbots

3. Machine learning-powered sales assistant

Pros

  • Well-priced plans to suit a range of businesses
  • The useful Chatbot feature is great for use in e-commerce
  • Includes a built-in product catalog to track items you sell on your website
  • Highly customizable system to tailor for e-commerce informational requirements

Cons

  • No free plan

3. Zoho CRM – Leading Budget-Friendly CRM for Online Stores

Zoho CRM is an ideal e-commerce CRM which unifies customer, marketing, and inventory management. Users that combine it with e-commerce applications like Shopify have access to crucial capabilities for launching campaigns, keeping track of inventory, processing orders, and monitoring customer behavior.

It’s designed to be an all-in-one sales, service, and marketing platform as it interacts with Shopify to synchronize customer data between the two platforms and provides an integrated project management tool for organizing campaigns, product launches, or the processes involved in developing new products.

Zoho CRM Dashboard

It offers an integrated inventory management system in addition to its numerous modules and integration possibilities. Since you can manage orders, vendors, product lines, and inventory stock in the same interface where you’re conducting your marketing campaigns and sales outreach, this functionality is very helpful for e-commerce.

Any third-party software you may already be using, such as Mailchimp, Google Analytics, and QuickBooks, can be seamlessly integrated with Zoho CRM, and it supports a ton of integrations with popular e-commerce software, accounting software, and so much more.

Also, there is an excellent sales automation tool that helps you generate leads using forms on your website, social media, and email, and these prospects are then included as contacts in your CRM. We believe that Pipeline is one of the top CRM marketing automation tools out there.

Pricing

Below are four main paid plans that can be used if you need to upgrade or scale your e-commerce business. Plus, there’s a generous 45-day money-back guarantee for those who signup for a paid plan. The other plans are as follows:

Zoho CRM Pricing

Zoho CRM has a host of plans to fit all business needs, and when the time comes for your business to grow, they’ve got you covered. The more premium plans include useful features like Google Suite integrations, lead scoring, and sales signals that’ll give your e-commerce platform more room to grow and scale up.

Starting Price Free Version Integrations Supported Devices Top Features
$20/month Free Forever Plan 150+ Windows, Mac, Android, and iOS 1. Sales Automation

2. Mobile Apps

3. Inventory Management

Pros

  • All-in-one sales, marketing, service, and project management system
  • Has a Zoho-Shopify extension that syncs Shopify customers to Zoho records in the CRM
  • Includes an inventory management tool for tracking orders, creating product logs, and managing vendors
  • Great 24/7 customer service

Cons

  • Social media management is a paid add-on

4. Monday Sales – A Reliable and User-Friendly CRM System

Monday Sales CRM may lack integrated operations management tools for keeping track of inventories, handling payments, and tracking orders, however, it’s extremely versatile and can be used across various industries.

The flexibility that’s on offer is just one of the reasons why we ranked Monday Sales as one of the best CRMs for small businesses. Online shops can use this CRM for data storage, task automation, and communications thanks to its email tools, no-code automation, and basic data management features.

You can store an unlimited number of items, such as customer records, in Monday Sales CRM and see them on any type of board view, such as a table, Kanban, Gantt, or timeline. As long as the data is kept in the CRM, users can also design dashboards to suit any purpose.

In order to manage orders, clients, and revenue on a single CRM dashboard, you can do this by applying reporting to e-commerce activities.

Monday.com CRM marketing automation

Given that it enters and manages data in a spreadsheet format similar to Excel, Monday Sales CRM is an incredibly useful tool. Additionally, it provides no-code automation features that let users create automatons by choosing triggers, actions, and data records from prepared workflows.

This enables you to automate important data updates and drip email nurturing chores. Along with offering essential capabilities like sales pipeline and contact management, workflow automation, and email synchronization, Monday enables sales teams and managers the opportunity to customize almost every part of the CRM.

In addition to connecting to a number of connectors and the native API, this enables users to ensure that the CRM satisfies the unique requirements of their business. Plus, there’s also a respectable free forever plan that you can use to create rudimentary boards.

However, the free version is primarily intended for tiny enterprises or for a maximum of one or two users. Three boards, a Kanban view, an activity record for up to a week, and a few other fundamental functions are available.

Pricing

The free plan includes one dashboard for data visualization, up to two users, 1,000 contacts, 500MB of file storage, Kanban view, and access to online lead collection forms for up to two users. Paid options begin at $30 per month for the Basic option, with numerous other tiers available after that.

The price of the plan varies depending on the number of users (minimum of three) and the plan tier, and you may choose between monthly or annual billing. Join a 14-day free trial to gain a feel for the software. The whole list of plans is detailed below:

Monday Sales Pricing

Alongside the excellent free plan on offer from Monday Sales is a number of more premium-priced plans. These are ideal for growing e-commerce businesses, right up to large corporations. For the extra monthly cost, you’ll get more storage, customizations, and integrations with other third-party software.

Starting Price Free Version Integrations Supported Devices Top Features
$30/month Free Forever Plan 50+ Windows, Mac, Android, and iOS 1. Personalized Scaled Emails

2. Sales Leaderboard

3. Lead Scoring

Pros

  • Outstanding no-code automation tools for email outreach and data management workflows
  • Simple product with spreadsheet-style data entry and board customization features
  • Dependable dashboard reporting tools to track critical parameters and receive real-time performance information
  • Excellent free forever plan that’s ideal for smaller e-commerce businesses

Cons

  • Lacks e-commerce operational tools, including a module for inventory management and payment processing

5. HubSpot – One of the Best Free Ecommerce CRMs

HubSpot is a well-known brand in the marketing and e-commerce industries, and it provides a comprehensive set of free CRM tools and software that nearly entirely meet your needs for expanding your company.

For larger e-commerce enterprises willing to advance their business objectives, the premium version offers more potent features.

Without the inconvenience of moving between apps and paying several monthly payments, you’ll have access to things like project management, forecasting, contact tracking, scheduling, lead management, and financial CRM with Hubspot.

HubSpot dashboard overview

 

Users can collect and track digital payments in the HubSpot Sales Hub and CRM Suite, which expands the sales CRM with marketing and customer service tools. One choice is built-in processing, which enables automatic clearing house (ACH) payments for invoices.

For managing credit payments, Stripe is directly integrated as well. Beyond this, HubSpot is renowned for its straightforward CRM usage. It makes use of a contemporary interface and simple features to enable users of any technical skill level to rapidly understand and use the system.

Once they’re at ease, e-commerce teams may automate customer journeys from a single system, interact with e-commerce systems like Shopify, and build and deploy marketing campaigns.

Pricing

In contrast to other CRMs, which only offer a free trial, HubSpot offers a very generous free edition.

The only drawbacks that can be identified are the one-user account restriction and the absence of complex capabilities (teams, document storage, and website integration at the low end and automation and analytics at the high end). The other list of plans and costs can be found below:

Hubspot Pricing

HubSpot can be pretty expensive if you opt for the more premium packages, but it’s important to remember that they offer a full sales and marketing suite alongside the CRM, and for large businesses who want all the cutting edge-features like detailed user analytics and sales forecasting, it’s a no brainer.

Starting Price Free Version Integrations Supported Devices Top Features
$25/user/month Free Forever Plan 300+ Windows, Mac, Android, and iOS 1. Website Activity Tracking

2. Email Integration & Tracking

3. Opportunity Pipeline

Pros

  • List segmentation, Facebook Messenger integration, and bulk email marketing are included in the free plan
  • Includes integrated Stripe connectivity and built-in payment processing facilities
  • Incredibly easy to use thanks to a user-friendly interface
  • Integrates with a ton of third-party apps for an excellent e-commerce experience

Cons

  • No inventory management features

6. Freshsales – Solid Pick for Sales Teams as it Includes a Built-In Phone System

Freshsales CRM is a great option for e-commerce organizations that want to manage their customer interactions and marketing from a single control panel because it is an all-in-one platform. It enables you to provide a personalized experience, keep track of consumer dialogues, and create contact databases.

It’s an easy-to-use CRM tool that is reasonably priced for small businesses that need to make wise financial choices. The free plan is an excellent place to start, and as your business grows, you can upgrade to one of the paid plans for more features.

Additionally, Freshsales provides AI-powered contact scoring and sales forecasting tools that let you track revenue growth in real time and make precise predictions about what will happen.

Freshsales Popular CRM

In order to track and increase their LTV from customers, the platform enables companies to establish customer lifecycle stages depending on the data and behavior of their customers.

Also, Freshsales can be tailored to reflect the local currency, which benefits global brands, and it can be applied to a variety of channels, such as WhatsApp, live chat, email, and the phone, to increase client interaction and reach.

A variety of third-party tools and platforms are available for integration with Freshsales. This enables you to have all of your client information in one location. There are integrations with marketing automation programs like HubSpot and Marketo, as well as email syncing options with Gmail, Outlook, and other email clients.

By integrating Slack, Gong, Google Workspace, and many more into the Freshworks platform, you can grow it as well. This makes integrating Freshsales with other software and devices you might already be using simple and straightforward.

Pricing

Freshsales offers a free version of its popular CRM software, plus three paid plans that are tailored to fit the needs of different businesses:

Freshsales pricing

Freshsales offers four affordable plans that aim to grow alongside your business depending on your needs. In the more premium Pro and Enterprise plans, you’ll get access to 24/7 customer support and a ton of useful integrations with key e-commerce apps like Shopify.

Starting Price Free Version Integrations Supported Devices Top Features
$15/month Free Forever Plan 50+ Windows, Mac, Android, and iOS 1. AI-powered Lead Scoring

2. Custom Dashboards & Reports

3. Built-in Phone

Pros

  • Incredibly easy-to-use dashboard and interface
  • A useful free plan that’s ideal for smaller businesses or entrepreneurs
  • Various integrations with third-party apps to improve functionality
  • AI-powered lead scoring on all paid plans

Cons

  • Customer support isn’t as good as it could be

7. Zendesk – Superb Tool for Customer Service

Zendesk Sell is a well-known CRM tool that gives companies the ability to plan, control, and improve their sales operations. Users can engage with their contacts by email, phone, or text while also being able to track prospects and sales tasks conveniently.

The teams who use direct sales strategies as part of their overall business plan benefit the most from using this CRM software.

Zendesk CRM software solutions

It’s a powerful, feature-rich platform to optimize sales and customer service procedures. The platform is made to be straightforward, user-friendly, and configurable so that your employees can interact with customers more successfully.

Zendesk makes it simple to build self-help sections and answer bots, view your customer care team, and track productivity all from a single interface. Using the Zendesk Sell mobile app, your sales force can access customer information and finalize deals while on the move.

Additionally, they may keep an eye on and track emails and get instant alerts when a prospect clicks or reads one.  Your sales team can make the best judgments by remaining on top of the sales funnel since they have all the necessary information at their fingertips.

Pricing

Zendesk offers a decent range of plans for e-commerce businesses of all sizes, with the most basic offering starting at $19/month for one user. The rest of the plans are listed below.

Zendesk Pricing

Zendesk has a wide range of plans to support small, medium, and large e-commerce businesses, all of which integrate with the company’s helpdesk service. The more premium plans include useful sales and marketing features like customer behavior reports and detailed buyer analytics.

Starting Price Free Version Integrations Supported Devices Top Features
$19/month 30-day Free Trial 50+ Windows, Mac, Android, and iOS 1. Smart Lists

2. Help Desk

3. Explorer Reports

Pros

  • Integrates well with Zendesks virtual desk support
  • Easy-to-use interface
  • Has a host of third-party integrations available

Cons

  • Confusing price plans

8. Maximizer CRM – Top Choice for Sales and Marketing to Boost Online Revenue

Maximizer CRM excels in many different tasks. With three decades of knowledge and a vast array of online support services, it knows how to keep your business running smoothly. Its deployment is flexible, it is loaded with capabilities, and your staff will like its straightforward simplicity.

The negative? However, compared to some of the more lively, colorful dashboards of Zoho or Freshworks CRM, its interface does appear a touch dated. Additionally, Maximizer’s pricing options aren’t the most affordable ones available, which may eventually strain the finances of smaller companies.

Maximizer CRM Software for Small Construction Businesses

Maximizer CRM offers solutions for sales management, marketing automation, customer service, and support, as well as business productivity. It also interfaces with Microsoft Office programs like Outlook, Word, Excel, and SharePoint.

The marketing automation component of the product includes email marketing campaigns, integrated campaign planning, and marketing analytics. Users can search and filter customer data using list management tools based on pre-set criteria, targeted leads, and customers.

Use the powerful analytics features of Maximizer to discover more about the performance of your business, as it enables you to monitor and assess activity in real time, so you can quickly decide how to proceed and adjust your plans as necessary.

Pricing

Maximizer CRM Pricing

Pricing for Maximizer CRM is geared toward companies of all sizes. The Base Edition is a cost-effective option for companies just starting started with CRM and includes the necessary functionality to help you get going right away.

The Sales Leader Edition is a fantastic choice for more experienced customers and comes with extra features like automated lead tracking, sales analytics, and improved customer segmentation. Teams aiming to advance their sales process should use this strategy.

Starting Price Free Version Integrations Supported Devices Top Features
$55.50/month 30-day Free Trial 500+ Windows, Mac, Android, and iOS 1. Contact Management

2. Third-party Integrations

3. Sales Forecasting

Pros

  • Generous 60-day money-back guarantee
  • 30-day free trial on offer
  • Excellent online customer support resources

Cons

  • No free plan

9. Less Annoying CRM – One of the Most Simple CRM Systems

Less Annoying CRM is an ideal solution for small to midsize organizations or even startups. It is one of the most affordable options available and was created primarily to fulfill the needs of smaller businesses. It has a substantial feature set, an easy-to-use user interface, and great platform compatibility.

This platform boasts one of the most intuitive user interfaces in CRM, albeit lacking some advanced features and a dedicated mobile app. In terms of the software, it offers a simple dashboard with contacts, a calendar, tasks, and pipelines all in one place.

Less Annoying customer relationship management

Any customization you like can be made to fields and pipelines. You may also integrate the essentials, such as Mailchimp, Google Contacts, Outlook, and Google Calendars, with Less Annoying CRM. Only a few outside apps are available for you to connect to.

less irritants Additionally, CRM will provide you with in-depth lead reports so you may always have a current overview of all the lists in your pipeline. You can then rapidly arrange the list by a lead's priority and status, and you can browse through any notes you took during that lead's most recent discussion.

Even though it is exceptionally clear-cut and easy to use, you can also add custom fields to your contacts and pipelines to improve the efficiency of your process. You can easily save, track, and organize your e-commerce platform in one place.

Pricing

Less Annoying CRM strives for simplicity, which is reflected in the transparent cost of the product. There is only one plan available at a monthly cost of $15 per user. Contacts are limitless under the plan. You can easily enjoy a 30-day trial with all the features without having to submit your financial information.

Less Annoying Pricing

Starting Price Free Version Integrations Supported Devices Top Features
$15/month 30-day Free Trial 100+ Windows, Mac, Android, and iOS 1. Unlimited Pipelines

2. Task Management

3. Email Logging

Pros

  • The newly redesigned interface is more intuitive
  • Wide range of help and support options
  • Great mobile website implementation

Cons

  • Basic reporting features

10. Act! CRM – Solid CRM for Automation and Customization

Act! is aimed at small and midsize businesses looking to increase sales, increase customer loyalty, and improve marketing efficiency. It's a powerful e-commerce CRM and Marketing Automation tool in one platform.

Even though the Act! the program has evolved into a cloud application with a browser-based front end, but its user interface is still incredibly outdated.

Act!'s integrated email marketing tools may be exactly what your small to mid-size business needs to reach out to customers if you're ready to put up with its steep learning curve for the user interface.

Act! CRM

 

Although some of its competitors prebuilt report templates are more aesthetically pleasing, the 30 that come with this one can be fully customized. The Marketing Automation option gives you access to email marketing software that is fully integrated into the Act! UI.

You may create digital marketing campaigns with the use of email templates, autoresponders, bulk monthly mailing schedules, and a visual workflow designer to automate each step. Customer management skills are another crucial factor.

ACT! gives businesses all the resources need to effectively manage their client relationships. This has a relationship history that allows companies to customize interactions with each individual customer and a powerful search that makes it simple to locate the customer's information quickly.

The software provides centralized customer data, where all client information is gathered in one place. Thanks to iOS and Android's offline and mobile access, you can even work while on the road.

Pricing

The plan pricing for Act! is pretty straightforward, and you get the choice of a cloud-based or on-premise option. Act! Premium Desktop for the cloud starts at $36/month, whereas the on-premise plan is $40/month. There are a number of paid add-ons, like Marketing Automation, Custom Tables, and Dual Access (Desktop Cloud Sync.)

Act Pricing

Starting Price Free Version Integrations Supported Devices Top Features
$36/month 14-day Free Trial 150+ Windows, Mac, Android, and iOS 1. Email Marketing

2. Custom Dashboards

3. 24/7 Support

Pros

  • Useful integrated email marketing features are solid
  • Decent marketing automation workflow builder
  • Relaible 24/7 customer support

Cons

  • For Email integration, you need an external email client
  • A slightly outdated interface can be clunky and confusing

Comparison of the Best Ecommerce CRMs

Below is a useful comparison table that allows you to easily see the key features, pricing, and device compatibility in one convenient location:

Software Starting Price Top Features Free Version Compatibility
Salesforce $25/month 1. Forecast Management

2. Marketing Campaign Management

3. Lead Auto-assignment

No Windows, Mac, Android, and iOS
Pipedrive $12.50/month 1. Customizable Workflows

2. Chatbots

3. Machine learning-powered sales assistant

No Windows, Mac, Android, and iOS
Zoho CRM $20/month 1. Sales Automation

2. Mobile Apps

3. Inventory Management

Free Forever Plan Windows, Mac, Android, and iOS
Monday Sales $30/month 1. Personalized Scaled Emails

2. Sales Leaderboard

3. Lead Scoring

Free Forever Plan Windows, Mac, Android, and iOS
HubSpot $25/month 1. Website Activity Tracking

2. Email Integration & Tracking

3. Opportunity Pipeline

Free Forever Plan Windows, Mac, Android, and iOS
Freshsales $15/month 1. AI-powered Lead Scoring

2. Custom Dashboards & Reports

3. Built-in Phone

Free Forever Plan Windows, Mac, Android, and iOS  

 

Zendesk $19/month 1. Smart Lists

2. Help Desk

3. Explorer Reports

Yes Windows, Mac, Android, and iOS
Maximizer CRM $55.50/month 1. Contact Management

2. Third-party Integrations

3. Sales Forecasting

30-day Free Trial Windows, Mac, Android, and iOS
Less Annoying CRM $15/month 1. Unlimited Pipelines

2. Task Management

3. Email Logging

30-day Free Trial Windows, Mac, Android, and iOS
Act! CRM $30/month Contact Management 14-day Free Trial 1. Email Marketing

2. Custom Dashboards

3. 24/7 Support

What is An E-Commerce CRM?

A CRM system is a hub or piece of software that you may use to store information about clients, accounts, leads, and other facts that can be used to support future sales possibilities.

Some e-commerce CRM solutions are advantageous for both small and large enterprises because they firmly store customer information in the "cloud," where it can be accessed by numerous users from a variety of mobile devices at any time, anywhere.

CRM is more crucial than ever for the mobile developer who has invested time, effort, and money into creating a responsive mobile e-commerce website. Sales on an e-commerce website with integrated CRM will aid in your understanding of your cross-channel clients and the factors that influence their purchasing decisions.

Key Benefits of CRM Software for Online Stores

There are a number of benefits of using CRM software for those in the e-commerce industry, including improved workflows and overall simplicity of sales. Below are a few of the other important factors.

  • Simplicity: By creating a single location for customer information, communications, and sales data, you can streamline your sales process. Your sales team may be able to close deals more quickly and proficiently as a result.
  • Collaboration: Data and communications about customers can be easily shared between teams and departments. This can enhance teamwork and guarantee that all parties are in agreement when it comes to consumer encounters.
  • Automation: Automate a number of processes, including email sending, appointment setting, and lead follow-up. By doing so, you can save time and concentrate on activities that are more crucial
  • Personalization: Utilise client data to segment and target your marketing initiatives for more individualized and successful campaigns. The more personal a campaign or email, the more likely you are to hook a customer and secure a sale.
  • Support: By giving you access to client history and communications, you may better serve customers by responding to their wants and complaints in a timely and efficient manner.

Key Factors to Consider When Choosing the Best Ecommerce CRM

There are some key characteristics and functionalities you should consider, such as ease of use or connectors, to make sure you get the finest insurance CRM software for your business needs. We have created a list of things to watch out for to offer you some ideas:

  • Ease-of-use: Your CRM system should be simple to use, much like your email application. Additionally, basic chores like updating contact information or monitoring sales should be simpler to complete.
  • Manage Leads: You may track and identify your leads as they move through the sales cycle by using a lead management function. You can convert some leads into customers by rating your prospects and, if necessary, transferring them to another member of your team through the lead management process.
  • Reporting & Analytics: Consumer analytics enables the comprehension of customer data. Such information is crucial since it can inform your choices on the categories of goods and services, marketing campaigns, and all other interactions with your clients.
  • App Integration: You may be able to save a tonne of time and money by linking your CRM software with other programs you already use. The challenge is finding one that works with your current apps and is simple to operate. Most CRM software offers integration with hundreds of other tools for e-commerce.

Conclusion | What's the Best E-commerce CRM in 2024?

When assessing the best CRM software for e-commerce, we considered a tonne of different important aspects, such as functionality, customer service, usability, user experiences, and third-party connections. Overall, we think Salesforce is the best e-commerce CRM software available right now.

This is because it has a feature-rich plan that enables several third-party connections with programs like Shopify and Stripe and offers a tonne of premium features like Account and Case Management and Detailed Reports.

It's also a fantastic choice if your company has to scale up because it offers a selection of plans that develop together with your company.

FAQ

Do e-commerce brands need a CRM?

What are the 4 types of CRM

What is the difference between CRM and eCommerce?

What are the components of CRM in e-commerce?

What's the best CRM for small online stores?

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10 Best Insurance CRM Software 2024: Review, Comparison, and Pricing https://techreport.com/business-software/best-insurance-crm-software/ Wed, 14 Jun 2023 17:45:04 +0000 https://techreport.com/?page_id=3505193

The use of customer relationship management (CRM) software by insurance agents is essential since it streamlines everything from lead generation and workflow automation to activity monitoring, analytics, and reporting. Insurance...

The post 10 Best Insurance CRM Software 2024: Review, Comparison, and Pricing appeared first on The Tech Report.

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The use of customer relationship management (CRM) software by insurance agents is essential since it streamlines everything from lead generation and workflow automation to activity monitoring, analytics, and reporting.

Insurance companies can help overcome inefficiency, boost productivity, and improve ROI through workflow automation. The management team may also analyze tactics and make data-driven decisions based on what works and what doesn’t by analyzing important CRM KPIs and identifying crucial insights.

The very best CRM software for insurance is one that can assist you in automating worker procedures and removing manual repetitious daily activities, regardless of how big or how small your insurance business is.

In this article, we’re going to review our top 10 for you, looking at key factors such as features, pricing, and much more.

The Best Insurance CRM Software Options for 2024

If you’re in a hurry to know our favorite, below is a quick glance at our top 10 list, with Salesforce coming out on top. We love this feature-packed CRM provider with its excellent third-party integrations and affordable pricing. Our top 10 list is as follows.

  1. Salesforce – The Best Overall Insurance CRM Software With Ultra-premium Features and a Host of Third-party Integrations
  2. Pipedrive – An Excellent CRM Provider With Plenty of Insurance Focused Features Like Smart Docs and E-signature
  3. Zoho CRM – The Best Budget-friendly CRM Provider With a Ton of Customization
  4. Monday Sales – A Reliable CRM Provider Thats Excellent at Nurturing Leads
  5. HubSpot – A Popular CRM With A Market-leading Free Forever Plan
  6. Freshsales – Useful CRM for Commerical Insurance Thanks to Features Like a Built-in Phone System
  7. Zendesk – Strong Choice for Small or Medium Sized Businesses As It’s Very Easy-to-use
  8. Maximizer CRM – One of the Best For Marketing and Sales Teams
  9. Less Annoying CRM – A Simple-to-use CRM That’s Great for First-Time CRM Users
  10. Act! –  A Decent CRM With Strong Customer Support Options

Reviews of the Best Insurance CRM Software for 2024

Now it’s time for us to take a deeper look into the best insurance CRM software, exploring each provider’s key features, pricing, and much more.

1. Salesforce – The Best Overall Insurance CRM Software With Ultra-premium Features and a Host of Third-party Integrations

Salesforce CRM is a market leader for insurance providers that you can use for a wide range of requirements, like sales automation across a wide range of industries. It functions best for sales teams and big or expanding insurance businesses that need a highly customizable solution without compromising on quality, which is why it consistently places high on our lists of the best CRM software.

Salesforce Opportunities Dashboard

Salesforce can offer an all-inclusive management solution for insurance agencies through third-party and native connections. Teams can transform their sales system into a business management platform that manages claims, policy acquisition, and carrier premium quotes with the help of more than 140 insurance-related software alternatives.

It works well for established firms looking to optimize or enhance their sales processes, integrate many platforms into one CRM, or both. A large sales staff will particularly benefit from Salesforce’s many amazing capabilities, such as the numerous opportunities for customization and integration.

Salesforce offers a wide range of services, including simple lead management, customizable workflows, and personalized sales pipelines. It’s not the easiest CRM to use, but it might be the most intuitive, and with time and practice, it can become a vital tool for many businesses.

One of Salesforce’s great advantages is its flexibility to customize almost every aspect of your sales process. Many CRMs are difficult to use since they can’t be completely tailored to your pipeline.

Leads can be distributed automatically as they come in with Salesforce, but it also offers a wide range of other automation options. A lot relies on how you can use the program to accomplish your goals because the processes are flexible. For both of these features, Salesforce offers a developer sandbox so that your tech team may continue with ongoing development.

The vast array of third-party integration options makes it an excellent alternative for individuals who need to put together various solutions. With more than 3,000 integrations available today, Salesforce enables you to uncover substitute platforms that can enhance your company’s operations.

Starting Price Best For Free Version Compatibility
$25/month Third-party Insurance Integrations No Windows, Mac, Android, and iOS

Pros

  • Integrates with a host of third-party insurance software
  • A solid range of affordably priced plans
  • Useful 30-day money-back guarantee to try the service
  • Includes account and case management to track insured customer activity
  • Excellent features for managing sales teams and territories

Cons

  • No free plan is available, only a free trial

2. Pipedrive – An Excellent CRM Provider With Plenty of Insurance Focused Features Like Smart Docs and E-signature

A well-known CRM called Pipedrive was developed by and for sales teams, and as its name suggests, it primarily focuses on sales pipelines. Despite the lack of a free plan, Pipedrive is a wonderful choice for small businesses because it is affordable and easy to use.

Pipedrive Insurance CRM

You can process incoming leads quickly with Pipedrive because of its straightforward style and optional form-filling. The platform can be completely customized to meet the unique workflows used by your team, and anyone interested in trying it out can do so with a 14-day, credit card-free trial.

By keeping track of important contacts and comments as a sales lead moves through the sales process, the CRM aids sales teams in tracking leads efficiently and increasing revenues. However, cheaper plans have a lot of limitations, so if you’re willing to pay for a high-tier plan, you’ll get the most for your money.

One of the key advantages is the customized chatbot that companies can place on their website to gather new leads that are quickly integrated into the sales funnel. This introduces a critical technique that firms may use to acquire warm and hot leads that don’t fall through the cracks while people surf the internet.

Pipedrive’s features are consistent with its focus on being a sales-focused CRM. All the way through the sales pipeline, from the initial conversation to the final transaction and beyond, contacts can be generated and tracked. Automation enables each step of the process to be tailored to the needs of certain teams while removing much of the tiresome busy work that would otherwise consume people’s time.

Pipedrive comes with a completely functional CRM out of the box, but you can expand its functionality by adding third-party apps, including some tailored for insurance or Real Estate Agents. Your CRM may be integrated with more than 400 third-party applications, including Leadfeeder, Zoom, Calendly, and Zapier.

Starting Price Best For Free Version Compatibility
$12.50/month Improving Sales Pipelines No Windows, Mac, Android, and iOS

Pros

  • Well-priced plans for businesses of all sizes
  • Easy to use and highly customizable interface
  • A great host of third-party integrations is available
  • Scales alongside your business seamlessly

Cons

  • Lack of phone support on lower-tier plans

3. Zoho CRM – The Best Budget-friendly CRM Provider With a Ton of Customization

The excellent CRM software Zoho CRM expands with your business when you need it most and is best suited for smaller insurance companies. Or, if you’re a startup seeking a straightforward, cost-free method of keeping contacts and monitoring leads, then you can benefit from the company’s free CRM package too.

Zoho CRM | Best CRM for Construction Companies

For those looking for cost-effective options with free and scalable plans, Zoho CRM is a great choice. The key benefit of this solution is its ability to be customized, which enables agencies to change data fields, sales pipelines, layouts, and even entire modules to manage insurance activities.

Using case and account management tools, you can keep an eye on leads and deals as well as customer support activities after binding a policy.

This excellent insurance CRM includes features that make automating marketing tasks and keeping track of clients and contacts simple. Furthermore, Zoho CRM provides seamless integrations with other Zoho tools and any other third-party programs you might be using, like as MailChimp, Google Analytics, and QuickBooks.

Lead scoring guarantees sure contacts are routed to the relevant teams, reducing time and effort. Each of your leads is given a tag that informs you whether a contact has been established, whether more action is necessary, or whether the lead has been lost.

With the free plan, you may develop the most fundamental leads, accounts, and deal management. You can also create and store documents, set up task reminders, and connect via feeds. Unfortunately, there are no social tabs for Facebook or Twitter, and your website cannot accept calendar reservations for your CRM.

Starting Price Best For Free Version Compatibility
$20/month Insurance Companies on a Budget Free Forever Plan Windows, Mac, Android, and iOS

Pros

  • Free and affordable plans to help with business scalability
  • Accounts and deal management included on the Free plan, along with documents storage
  • Excellent customization options to convert into an insurance agency CRM
  • Market-leading free forever plan

Cons

  • This is not an insurance CRM and therefore lacks policy management and underwriting features

4. Monday Sales – A Reliable CRM Provider Thats Excellent at Nurturing Leads

Monday is among the most adaptable insurance CRM platforms, as the team and sales managers can customize Monday to their own needs, thanks to its extensive customizability possibilities.

Monday Sales CRM Construction

For companies with specific sales processes and close-knit departmental interactions, Monday is a great option because it provides fully customized dashboards, templates, workflows, forms, quotes, and widgets, in addition to personalized labels and items.

Along with offering essential capabilities like sales pipeline and contact management, workflow automation, and email synchronization, Monday enables sales teams and managers the opportunity to customize almost every part of the CRM. In addition to connecting to a number of connectors and the native API, this enables users to ensure that the CRM satisfies the unique requirements of their business.

Monday gives sales managers the ability to create custom workflows using equations that may be adjusted to reduce administrative labor, promote teamwork, and facilitate customer communication, in contrast to certain CRMs that have a predefined list of automation.

One of the pillars of a successful CRM is making sure the program is easy to use, regardless of the user’s technical prowess or past CRM expertise. Beginning on Monday, this is done in spades as customer information is organized into folders that can represent different departments or phases of the sales process.

There is also a respectable free forever plan that you can use to create rudimentary boards, but it is primarily intended for tiny enterprises or for a maximum of one or two users. Three boards, a Kanban view, an activity record for up to a week, and a few other fundamental functions are available.

Starting Price Best For Free Version Compatibility
$30/month Personalized Scaled Emails Free Forever Plan Windows, Mac, Android, and iOS

Pros

  • Highly customizable and intuitive
  • A great choice for CRM beginners thanks to the ease of use
  • Has plans for businesses of a scale and size
  • Decent free forever plan

Cons

  • Limited integrations with third-party apps

HubSpot CRM is a CRM platform that provides business owners with a centralized, user-friendly interface to manage clients, comprehend their behavior, and boost retention rates. It offers solutions for managing leads, emails, social media, and pipelines. It works well for companies searching for a feature-rich CRM solution that is free or reasonably priced.

HubSpot CRM software for business

HubSpot is unique in its ability to manage content and market. When an agency has to mass-deploy campaigns to bigger audiences and its book of business consists mostly of personal lines of coverage, this is a top choice.

Because of the platform’s lightweight yet highly functional free-forever plan, HubSpot is a great choice for businesses searching for reliable, easy-to-use CRM software.

This free bundle provides a helpful platform for handling and keeping new leads using a variety of complimentary CRM, marketing, sales, and customer support solutions from HubSpot. These consist of dashboard reporting, deal tracking, and pipeline management and may be accessed through a simple and user-friendly interface.

As the free forever plan has so many bundled-in features, it’s a great all-around CRM solution for startups and small businesses, as you don’t have to pay a penny to benefit from the service.

With the use of HubSpot CRM’s connectivity features with numerous third-party programs, you may synchronize the platform with all of your client data. These include keeping track of insight trends, managing social media initiatives and accounts, and increasing general productivity. It interacts with a number of apps for project management, e-commerce, analytics, lead creation, and sales.

Starting Price Best For Free Version Compatibility
$30/month Website Activity Tracking Free Forever Plan Windows, Mac, Android, and iOS

Pros

  • Generous free plan for unlimited users
  • Easy to navigate, making it great for beginners
  • Excellent 24/7 customer service
  • Can integrate with thousands of third-party apps

Cons

  • Not an industry-specific CRM; lacks built-in underwriting and policy management tools

6. Freshsales – Useful CRM for Commerical Insurance Thanks to Features Like a Built-in Phone System

Freshsales is a cloud-based CRM platform and also one of the top insurance CRMs out there. It offers both affordable premium options and a highly functional forever-free plan.

Freshsales contact management

Freshsales distinguishes itself from its competitors with capabilities for AI-powered contact and deals scoring, customization, and built-in phone functionality.

Freshsales might have been higher on this list if it has built-in policy procurement, binding, and management tools. Because of its strong deal management tools, which include performance indications, deal insights on closing probabilities, and suggested next-best activities, it’s a perfect product for administering the business insurance sales process.

Full teams can be assigned by agencies to deals to facilitate collaboration; this is good for sales possibilities with potentially high premium amounts.

Freshsales is an easy-to-use CRM tool that is reasonably priced for small businesses that must make wise financial choices. The free plan is an excellent place to start, and as your business grows, you can upgrade to one of the paid plans for more features.

Freshsales’ key distinction is that it is an all-in-one CRM platform with chat, an integrated phone, and chat and marketing features. With its robust free plan, you can add as many users and support personnel as you wish. It works best for incredibly successful and growing sales teams.

Starting Price Best For Free Version Compatibility
$15/month Commercial Insurance Sales Free Forever Plan Windows, Mac, Android, and iOS

Pros

  • The free plan includes unlimited users, account management, and a built-in phone system
  • Scalable and budget-friendly paid plans
  • AI-powered lead scoring on all paid plans
  • High-quality reporting and powerful custom dashboards

Cons

  • Certain services like invoices and onboarding documents are paid add-ons

7. Zendesk – Strong Choice for Small or Medium Sized Businesses As It’s Very Easy-to-use

Zendesk is a reliable CRM that combines financial data services with powerful CRM capabilities. Your prospects and customers will always be reachable thanks to omnichannel communication solutions that link to social media and your call center.

Zendesk CRM software solutions

Zendesk provides features that are perfect for insurance companies in addition to being applicable to any form of business. These consist of call script recommendations, sales goal tracking and KPIs, and fully automated sales tools used throughout the sales pipeline to help agents keep track of their leads.

Hundreds of third-party software programs and apps are also integrated with Zendesk, so no matter how complicated your tech stack is, connecting your data to your CRM is simple.

With its wealth of features and productivity capabilities, Zendesk may help your company outperform revenue projections. You may sync your current email, create customized email sequences, develop targeted prospect lists, and use the task player to keep track of a particular job, lead contract, or sale.

Zendesk gives you a complete customer perspective from a single centralized platform for a better customer experience, and you’ll have full pipeline visibility with precise forecasting, pipeline analysis, and advanced analytics. Activity reporting, performance metrics, and personalized dashboards are further capabilities.

Starting Price Best For Free Version Compatibility
$19.00/month Sales Management Yes Windows, Mac, Android, and iOS

Pros

  • Simple to use interface, great for first timers
  • Helpful native integration with a support tool
  • Built-in phone and call recording features
  • Integrates with a host of third-party apps

Cons

  • No free plan is available
  • Certain advanced features are only available with higher-tiered plans

8. Maximizer CRM – One of the Best For Marketing and Sales Teams

Maximizer CRM is a solid insurance CRM that incorporates both leading and lagging indications, enabling you to get a head start on the competition and more accurately predict and shape future sales performance.

Maximizer CRM Software for Small Construction Businesses

You have superior insight into sales rep activities, making it easier to keep track of and analyze important data while also being able to monitor and manage your sales reps in real time.

Maximizer CRM offers capabilities for corporate productivity as well as sales management, marketing automation, customer service and support, and integration with Microsoft Office programs like Outlook, Word, Excel, and SharePoint.

The marketing automation component of the product includes email marketing campaigns, integrated campaign planning, and marketing analytics. Users can search and filter customer data using list management tools based on pre-set criteria, targeted leads, and customers.

You can use the powerful analytics features of Maximizer to discover more about the performance of your business. These technologies enable you to monitor and assess activity in real time, enabling you to quickly decide how to proceed and adjust your plans as necessary.

A wide range of productivity tools is also included with Maximizer, making it simple to track important sales, locate pertinent information quickly, and send automated emails.

Starting Price Best For Free Version Compatibility
$55.50/month Contact Management 30-day Free Trial Windows, Mac, Android, and iOS

Pros

  • Integrates with a ton of third-party insurance applications
  • Useful 30-day free trial to test the service
  • Reliable apps for both Mobile and Desktop

Cons

  • Quite expensive when compared to other providers on this list

9. Less Annoying CRM – A Simple-to-use CRM That’s Great for First-Time CRM Users

Less Annoying CRM has a particular focus on small to midsize businesses or even startups. It is specifically designed to meet the requirements of smaller businesses and is one of the most cost-effective options out there. It boasts a clean yet straightforward user interface, a sizable feature set, and excellent platform compatibility.

Less Annoying customer relationship management

Although it lacks some sophisticated capabilities and a dedicated mobile app, this platform has one of the most user-friendly interfaces you can find in CRM.

Regarding the software itself, it provides a straightforward dashboard with contacts, a calendar, tasks, and pipelines all in one location. Fields and pipelines can be tailored however you like. Additionally, you can link the necessities with Less Annoying CRM, like Mailchimp, Google Contacts, Outlook, and Google Calendars. There are only a small number of third-party apps that you can connect to.

Less Annoying CRM will also give you thorough lead reports, ensuring that you always have a current list of all the lists in your pipeline. The list may then be quickly sorted by lead priority and status, and you can look through any notes you made during a particular lead’s most recent chat.

It is incredibly straightforward and simple to use, but it also allows you to optimize your workflow by adding custom fields to your contacts and pipelines. This way, you can quickly save, track, and organize all the data you need to keep your company operating smoothly.

Starting Price Best For Free Version Compatibility
$15.00/month Lead Management 30-day Free Trial Windows, Mac, Android, and iOS

Pros

  • The newly redesigned interface is more intuitive
  • Wide range of help and support options
  • Great mobile website implementation

Cons

  • Basic reporting features

10. Act! – A Decent CRM With Strong Customer Support Options

Act! Premium is a robust insurance CRM and Marketing Automation tool in one platform, ideal for small and midsize businesses wishing to market more effectively, sell more products, and gain loyal customers.

Act! CRM

The Act! software has grown into a cloud app with a browser-based front end, but its user interface is still very archaic. If you’re willing to put up with its high UI learning curve, Act!’s integrated email marketing tools can be just what your small to mid-size business needs to reach out to clients.

Although its 30 prebuilt report templates aren’t as visually appealing as some of its rivals, you can change them. You may run a report with a single click by going to the Reports page. You can also store your favorite reports on the screen’s top. The drawback is that you can’t create a brand-new report without contacting Act!’s customer care staff.

You can access email marketing technology that is completely integrated into the Act! UI through the Marketing Automation tab. With email templates, autoresponders, bulk monthly mailing schedules, and a visual workflow designer to automate each step, it enables you to set up digital marketing campaigns.

Another important aspect is customer management capabilities. Businesses are provided with all the tools necessary by ACT! to properly manage their client connections.

This contains a relationship history that enables businesses to tailor interactions with each individual customer and a strong search that makes it easy to find the customer’s information quickly. The software offers centralized client data, where all data is arranged in a single location. You can even work while on the go, thanks to offline and mobile access for iOS and Android.

Starting Price Best For Free Version Compatibility
$30.00/month Contact Management Yes Windows, Mac, Android, and iOS

Pros

  • Useful integrated email marketing features are solid
  • Decent marketing automation workflow builder
  • Relaible 24/7 customer support

Cons

  • For Email integration, you need an external email client
  • A slightly outdated interface can be clunky and confusing

Comparison of the Best Insurance CRM Software for 2024

To help you take a closer look at all of the important features, we’ve compiled all the key data into a simple-to-view table.

Software Starting Price Best For Free Version Compatibility
Salesforce $25/month Third-party Insurance Integrations No Windows, Mac, Android, and iOS
Pipedrive $12.50/month Improving Sales Pipelines No Windows, Mac, Android, and iOS
Zoho CRM $20/month Insurance Companies on a Budget Free Forever Plan Windows, Mac, Android, and iOS
Monday Sales $30/month Personalized Scaled Emails Free Forever Plan Windows, Mac, Android, and iOS
HubSpot $30/month Website Activity Tracking Free Forever Plan Windows, Mac, Android, and iOS
Freshsales $15/month Commercial Insurance Sales Free Forever Plan Windows, Mac, Android, and iOS  

 

Zendesk $19/month Sales Management Yes Windows, Mac, Android, and iOS
Maximizer CRM $55.50/month Contact Management 30-day Free Trial Windows, Mac, Android, and iOS
Less Annoying CRM $15/month Lead Management 30-day Free Trial Windows, Mac, Android, and iOS
Act! CRM $30/month Contact Management Yes Windows, Mac, Android, and iOS

What is Insurance CRM Software?

Insurance companies can manage sales leads, manage underwriting tasks, and buy and administer insurance policies all in one system with reliable CRM software. The best CRM for insurance agents will include reasonably priced solutions for managing deals, helping insured clients, and establishing a brand through marketing initiatives.

The entire insurance workflow is automated and made simple by an insurance CRM program. Insurance agents are able to use their time more productively because it removes data entry and the requirement to transport physical case folders.

Insurance CRMs also assist insurance agencies in organizing their leads and claims, automating duties and assigning them to the appropriate individuals, and managing various policies in a single system.

How Does Insurance CRM Software Work?

CRM software’s ability to centralize all client interactions can have a substantial impact on workflow organization. It makes it unnecessary to use multiple platforms to track phone calls, emails, and other client-agent communications.

Insurance agents may avoid any gaps in the sales process by staying organized and on top of every area with the aid of this client management tool.

It should completely capture all inquiries, given the variety of sources that leads are coming from, including social media, website queries, phone calls, and referrals. CRMs assist you in organizing your strategy to contact these prospects by consolidating all of your communication channels onto a single dashboard.

You should be able to rank each lead according to importance with the help of CRM software. For instance, you can rank leads according to their financial status, their source, or any other predetermined criteria that will provide the most benefit.

If you want to increase sales, knowing where to focus your efforts first is essential, and good CRM software can assist you in this.

Why is CRM Software Important for Agents and Brokers?

An excellent CRM system can have many benefits for insurance agents and brokers, including time-saving and streamlining work processes. Below is a list of key factors as to why it is so beneficial.

Productivity and Efficiency

The best CRMs prioritize fostering client relationships while increasing your business’s productivity and efficiency through automation and targeted data.

CRM software can assist you in lead creation by enabling you to create precise criteria for classifying potential leads and creating focused marketing campaigns for each category. Additionally, your team will receive a thorough analysis of the leads with the highest conversion rates.

Additionally, you can plan email marketing campaigns and send them via the CRM, freeing up your team to concentrate on other tasks that will aid in turning prospective leads into sales.

Data Centralization

With the use of CRM software, you can consolidate all client data into a single system that any team member can access at any time. That includes fundamental information like client names and contact details.

Offering policyholders great customer service, it can also capture prior customer contacts with agents and sales teams.

Improved Security

Data security precautions are included in modern insurance CRM solutions. In order to access or modify client data, insurance agents must also adhere to a number of security protocols.

A good insurance CRM program virtually eliminates the possibility of unauthorized access or data modification.

Build Relationships

A CRM system keeps up-to-date client lists with comprehensive personal data, demographic tracking, records of previous transactions with clients, and other crucial information.

As a result, you’ll always have access to the client information you need to guarantee client pleasure and foster positive client relationships. In order to avoid making customers wait a long time to receive assistance when they call your business, CRM software can also automate some customer care jobs.

Increased Sales

CRM tools streamline the sales process by automating time-consuming chores and analyzing sales, which helps insurance businesses increase their sales and revenue.

Agents can use this information to spot important market trends and forecast upcoming sales. As a result, companies can review such reports and modify their procedures to ensure that their objectives are met.

Factors to Consider When Choosing Insurance CRM Software for Your Business

To ensure you pick the best insurance CRM software for your business needs, there are some important features and functionalities you should look for, like ease of use or integrations. To give you an idea, we’ve compiled a list of what to look out for.

  • User-friendly: Just like your email app, your CRM system should be easy to use. Additionally, it should be easier to conduct routine tasks like updating contact information or keeping track of sales.
  • Lead Management: Using a lead management feature, you may track your leads’ progress through the sales cycle and identify them. Through the lead management process, you can rate your prospects and, if necessary, pass them along to another member of your team in order to turn some leads into clients.
  • Analytics: Understanding customer data is made possible by consumer analytics. Such information is essential because it can guide your decisions about the types of products and services, marketing initiatives, and all-around interactions you provide to your customers.
  • App Integration: By integrating your CRM software with other applications you already use, you could be able to save a boatload of time and money. Finding one that is easy to use and compatible with the applications you use is the trick. The majority of CRM programs provide interfaces for external software.

Conclusion | What’s the Best Insurance CRM Software in 2024?

We looked at a ton of different key factors when evaluating the top insurance CRM software, including the likes of functionality, customer support, usability, user experiences, and third-party integrations.

Overall, we believe that Salesforce is the best insurance CRM software right now, as it has a feature-rich plan that allows for multiple third-party integrations with other insurance apps such as Veruna and Velocity and has a ton of premium features like Account and Case Management and Detailed Reports.

It’s also a great option should your business need to scale, as it offers a variety of plans that grow alongside your business.

FAQ

What is the best CRM for insurance agencies?

Why do insurance companies need CRM?

What’s the best free CRM for insurance agents?

What CRM does the insurance industry use?

The post 10 Best Insurance CRM Software 2024: Review, Comparison, and Pricing appeared first on The Tech Report.

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How to Spy on Spouse Phone Without Them Knowing On Different Devices https://techreport.com/spy/spy-spouse-phone-without-them-knowing/ Tue, 13 Jun 2023 01:42:34 +0000 https://techreport.com/?page_id=3504036 How to Spy on Spouse Phone Without Them Knowing On Different Devices

At the time of the wedding, couples make commitments to one another that they will remain faithful to one another. But after a while, they find their spouse ignoring them,...

The post How to Spy on Spouse Phone Without Them Knowing On Different Devices appeared first on The Tech Report.

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How to Spy on Spouse Phone Without Them Knowing On Different Devices

At the time of the wedding, couples make commitments to one another that they will remain faithful to one another. But after a while, they find their spouse ignoring them, which causes uncertainties in their marriages. However, cutting-edge modern technology has also provided remedies for that.

Spy apps can be downloaded and installed on a smartphone to monitor the usage of the phone across social media, calls, and texts. It’s the easiest way to catch a cheating spouse, as you can install these on a device and monitor calls and texts, and track live locations. There are tons of these apps on the market, some far better than others, so in this article, we’re going to show you our top 10.

Read this article to find out the best apps for spying on your spouse, what features they include, how much they cost, and much more.

The Best Apps To Spy On a Spouse

  1. mSpy – Our Top Pick Overall For The Best App To Spy On a Spouse Due to Its Impressive Range of Features
  2. EyeZy – A Reliable Spy App That Has Some of The Best Location Tracking Features Available
  3. Umobix – The Best Spy App For Android Users As It Doesn’t Require a Device To Be Rooted
  4. Cocospy – A Solid Spy App That Can Monitor Multiple Devices On One Single Subscription
  5. Hoverwatch – Budget-Friendly Spy App That Offers Great Features At An Affordable Monthly Price
  6. XNspy – A Great Spy App With a Market-Leading Keylogging Feature That Can Flag Inappropriate Words
  7. Spybubblepro – A Useful Spy App That Can Be Installed in Just 5 Minutes With Physical Device Access
  8. Geofinder.mobi – One The Best Tracking Apps Which Can Pinpoint an Exact Location With Excellent Accuracy
  9. Spyic – A Decent Option For First Time Spy App Users Thanks to its Easy-to-use Interface and Simple Setup
  10. Spyera – Popular Spy App That Allows You To Monitor and Record VoIP Calls Alongside Normal Calls

To make sure there is something for everyone, we compared each app on our list based on a few important criteria, including cost, usability, key features, and personal preferences. Therefore, you may locate the appropriate option regardless of whether you’re a watchful parent, wary partner, or business owner.

Our top choice for the best phone tracker app is mSpy because of its quick setup—which takes only five minutes—and its essential collection of features, including GPS tracking and online monitoring of social media accounts, calls, and text messages.

Top Apps To Spy On a Spouse

1. mSPy – Our Top Pick Overall For The Best App To Spy On a Spouse Due to Its Impressive Range of Features

mSpy is a powerful phone surveillance tool that can keep tabs on almost all of your spouse’s online activities as well as some of their offline ones. You can track calls, texts, and even social media activities with the help of a keylogging tool.

How to Spy on Spouse Phone Without Them Knowing On Different Devices

After completing the setup, you’re presented with a very user-friendly interface that puts all the important information at your fingertips, including location, messages, call records, and so on. Although there is a lot going on, you should soon begin to understand how everything functions.

The great thing about mSpy is that it is damn near impossible to detect, as it runs in stealth mode, meaning your partner will have no idea the app is installed and collecting important data.

On that note, mSpy allows you to monitor calls, texts, social media accounts, and even online searches, you can really keep tabs on everything in one convenient location. Perhaps one of the more standout features that set it aside from many of its competitors is its ability to record and monitor VoIP calls on platforms like Skype, WhatsApp, and Facebook Messenger.

Should you wish to know your spouse’s whereabouts, there is a useful GPS tracking tool that allows you to set certain safe areas, a feature known as geo-fencing. Then, if your spouse strays outside of your set zone, you will get an alert to your phone showing their live location.

In terms of pricing, mSpy is one of the more expensive options on this list, but with an annual plan, it works out at $11.66/month, which, when coupled with its advanced feature set, still makes this great value for money. Should anything go wrong, they have a dedicated team of support specialists on hand to help you 24/7.

Pros

  • Logs SMS and instant messages for easy reviewing
  • Location history and geofencing features are very accurate
  • Allows you to view browsing history and bookmarked pages
  • Provides detailed reports each month for easy viewing
  • One of the best spy apps for Android

Cons

  • Each device requires its own subscription
Monthly Price Annual Price Devices Tracked Compatibility Free Version Guarantee
$48.99/month $11.66/month 1 Android, iOS, tablets Demo 10-day refund policy

2. EyeZy – A Reliable Spy App That Has Some of The Best Location Tracking Features Available

EyeZy is another effective spy tool that can be installed covertly without a spouse being notified. You can use a number of monitoring features, such as the ability to track the whereabouts of the target individual, check their search history, keep an eye on their text and call logs, and much more.

How to Spy on Spouse Phone Without Them Knowing On Different Devices

The data eyeZy collects will not be misused and will be kept private between you and the target person. Your spouse won’t be aware that a spy app has been installed on their phone, which also lets you observe them secretly.

There are some strong features that provide the user complete control; for instance, you can view a screen recording of the target device, which is particularly helpful if you feel they are engaging in inappropriate behavior.

There is also a tab called “Social Spotlight,” which offers a number of useful features like social media monitoring, which enables you to keep tabs on all of the major platforms, real-time call and text log viewing, as well as downloadable reports, and keystroke capture, which enables you to mark specific terms that are important to you.

Because of Pinpoint Location Accuracy, you can also follow the user’s whereabouts if they have an internet connection. From here, you can view the user’s GPS location in real-time and establish safe areas, such as your home or the homes of friends, and You’ll be immediately informed if they stray from these boundaries.

EyeZy is one of the more affordable tracking apps out there, and they offer three pricing plans for you to choose from. Better still, you can try a free demo, plus a useful 14-day refund policy if you’re unsatisfied. The cheapest plan is available if you sign up annually, and this works out to cost just $9.99/month.

Pros

  • Affordable plans if you subscribe quarterly or yearly
  • Excellent Social Spotlight tab that tracks all calls, texts, and social media
  • Useful location tracker with strong accuracy
  • The screen recording feature is ideal for parents

Cons

  • Requires a jailbroken device to work properly
Monthly Price Annual Price Devices Tracked Compatibility Free Version Guarantee
$47.99/month $9.99/month 1 Android, iOS, tablets 3-day trial + demo 14-day refund policy

3. Umobix – The Best Spy App For Android Users As It Doesn’t Require a Device To Be Rooted

Another great spy app that combines a variety of cutting-edge features, particularly on Android, with affordable rates is uMobix. It includes a great keylogging feature that operates in both incognito and standard browser modes.

How to Spy on Spouse Phone Without Them Knowing On Different Devices

There is an intuitive dashboard that displays some fundamental call and SMS data and offers you immediate access to some crucial features at the click of a button. Additionally, a handy overview of browsing habits, including the most popular websites and search phrases, is available.

Using the Call History Monitoring feature, you can access the target phone’s call history data. All calls, including missed, dropped, and incoming ones, will be listed on the screen. The caller’s name, address, phone number, call duration, and call time and date are also shown.

uMobix syncs with the smartphone every five minutes, updating call logs and providing information about occurrences as near to in real-time as possible. Additionally, because it frequently syncs to display a real-time view of the target user, this offers excellent live location data.

uMobix is perfectly suited for use on Android smartphones, especially if they are rooted, as was previously noted. Although there is an iOS app, it lacks certain essential features like precise location tracking and a few other important bits.

The ability to remotely access a user’s smartphone with uMobix is a noteworthy feature that deserves to be mentioned. For instance, you can block incoming calls and messages to the user’s mobile if you believe they are undesirable or from a suspected admirer.

uMobix is very competitively priced at just $11.66/month when you pay for an annual subscription when compared with the majority of the other providers on this list. If you’re not happy with how the app performs, you can get a refund within 14 days.

Pros

  • Strong feature-to-price ratio meaning good value for money
  • Excellent tracking app for Android users
  • Useful remote capabilities like disabling calls and texts
  • One of the best keyloggers out there

Cons

  • Poor performance and fewer features on Apple devices
Monthly Price Annual Price Devices Tracked Compatibility Free Version Guarantee
$49.99/month $11.66/month 1 Android, iOS, tablets Demo 14-day refund policy

4. Cocospy – A Solid Spy App That Can Monitor Multiple Devices On One Single Subscription

Popular spy app Cocospy offers cutting-edge functionality with cost-effective annual plans. In order to fully monitor your spouse, it even enables you to keep an eye on a variety of social media sites like Facebook, WhatsApp, and Tinder.

How to Spy on Spouse Phone Without Them Knowing On Different Devices

It employs an iOS app that only requires the target user’s Apple ID credentials, or it uses an Android app that requires installation on both devices.

Without rooting or jailbreaking the target device, Cocospy can track both Android and iPhone devices and comes with all the monitoring tools required to spy on someone. The targeted user won’t know the software has been installed, and there will be no slowing down or heating up of the user’s device.

There is also a very accurate real-time location tracker available, and Cocospy even added a time stamp so you could see when the user was at a specific location and at what specific time. It works seamlessly with Google Maps and is incredibly simple to use, even for beginners.

Using the specialized social media monitoring tool, which periodically takes screenshots of all activity on the major platforms, you can keep a watch on any social media activity from your spouse, or you can just check the keylogger to see what’s being published.

You can keep an eye on shared images and videos to be sure nothing explicit is being shared for added peace of mind. By remotely browsing the files from your own user device, you can check any that are saved on the device, too, even if they are trying to be hidden.

Depending on the device you wish to track, you can select one of two Cocospy plans, each of which has a 14-day refund period. Prices for Android and iOS devices start from just $12.49/month.

Pros

  • Affordable pricing
  • Doesn’t require jailbreaking/rooting
  • Excellent social media monitoring tools
  • Allows remote camera and microphone access
  • One of the best iOS spy apps

Cons

  • Fewer features on Apple devices
Monthly Price Annual Price Devices Tracked Compatibility Free Version Guarantee
$49.99/month $12.50/month 1 Android, iOS, tablets Demo 60-day refund policy

5. Hoverwatch – Budget-Friendly Spy App That Offers Great Features At An Affordable Monthly Price

Hoverwatch is a reliable spying app that can be installed on a variety of devices such as phones, tablets, and computers. It has a ton of advanced features like real-time location tracking and message storage, all at a relatively affordable price.

Hoverwatch Dashboard

You can choose from various subscriptions that offer total device coverage, so you can keep track of your spouse for a more affordable price. This also means you can install the app on all of your partner’s devices, not just their phones.

You can view a live image of what the user is doing at any given time using the helpful screenshot tool. You will be notified, for instance, if the user receives a message by SMS or social media, allowing you to confirm that it is not suspicious. Additionally, if your spouse enters a keyword that has been flagged while using social media, you will be notified and made aware of this and can view any messages sent and received.

You can keep an eye on the front-facing camera of the targeted individual thanks to a helpful bonus feature. Every time the phone is unlocked, a screenshot is taken from the front-facing camera, so you can ensure that no one besides your spouse is using the phone at any time.

Hoverwatch comes with three tiers of pricing, but for those who want to keep tabs on their spouse on just one device, we’d recommend the personal plan, which costs $24.95/month. If you wish to install the app on up to 5 other devices, you could opt for the professional plan at $9.99/month per device.

Pros

  • Useful plans that offer coverage on all user devices
  • A unique front-facing camera monitoring feature
  • Has excellent screen recording capabilities
  • Affordable prices for a premium service

Cons

  • You need physical access to the target user’s device to install
Monthly Price Annual Price Devices Tracked Compatibility Free Version Guarantee
$24.95/month $6/month/device 25 Android, iOS, tablets Demo 60-day refund policy

6. XNspy – A Great Spy App With a Market-Leading Keylogging Feature That Can Flag Inappropriate Words

With XNspy, you can see your spouses’ SMS, emails, contacts, and much more for a reasonable cost. Also, you can set up alerts if an unknown number calls them and always know where they are because of its great location monitoring and geofencing features.

xnspy screen record

The Surround Recording mode on the app allows you to listen in on the microphone, which is a very cool feature that could be useful for when your partner is around friends, allowing you to listen in to their conversations to make sure nothing bad is being said.

The app also has a top-notch keylogging setting that allows you to pre-enter any words you like, and then, when they are typed, searched for, etc, you will receive an alert, and you can then view the screen of their device.

This feature can be very useful for those who don’t have time to sit and monitor a dashboard looking for suspicious activity. Instead, you can just sit back and let the keylogger work its magic and flag anything you deem inappropriate.

It also enables you to track locations in real-time and establish so-called ‘safe areas‘ that will give you an alert should your spouse leave the preset zone.

In regards to pricing, an annual subscription works out at just $7.50/month, making XNspy great value for money when you consider the premium features that are included with this spy app.

Pros

  • Monitors up to 12 social media accounts at one time
  • Surround recording is a great bonus feature
  • Allows you to flag inappropriate search queries
  • Budget-friendly annual plan

Cons

  • No demo or free trial is available
Monthly Price Annual Price Devices Tracked Compatibility Free Version Guarantee
$35.99/month $7.50/month 1 Android, iOS No 10-day refund policy

7. SpyBubble Pro – A Useful Spy App That Can Be Installed in Just 5 Minutes With Physical Device Access

SpyBubble Pro is one of the top phone spy applications for keeping tabs on an unfaithful partner, and unlike many others on this list, it was created particularly with the intention of catching a cheating partner.

SpyBubble Pro

There is a location monitoring app you may use to view your spouse’s current location if you have difficulties believing them when they tell you where they are.

You also have access to their SMS and WhatsApp conversations, so you can check to see if they’re talking to any ex-girlfriends or ex-boyfriends. In both of these situations, you may even examine all shared media files and hidden or deleted chats, including both incoming and outgoing messages.

You need to get access to your partner’s device first, which can be tricky if they genuinely are being unfaithful, as they’re unlikely to leave it laying around– but once installed, it’s super easy to set up and start monitoring. Once installed, the target user won’t know that a spy app is installed, so you don’t need to worry.

If you’re concerned with the social media activity of your partner, you can also monitor the accounts and messages on all major platforms. This means you can read messages, and view sent photos, and much more.

Depending on how long you want to continue spying, there are three methods to pay for the app., with the cheapest being the annual plan, which works out at just $10.62/month. You have up to 14 days to ask for a refund if you decide the app is not for you.

Pros

  • You can view deleted text messages
  • Simple setup and the app can’t be traced
  • Excellent social media monitoring abilities
  • Offers decent value for money

Cons

  • Requires physical access to the device
Monthly Price Annual Price Devices Tracked Compatibility Free Version Guarantee
$42.49/month $10.62/month 1 Android OS 4+, iPhones and iPads Free Demo 14-day refund policy

8. Geofinder.mobi – One The Best Tracking Apps Which Can Pinpoint an Exact Location With Excellent Accuracy

The setup for Geofinder.mobi, a somewhat different take on a phone spy tool, is much simpler and only requires the recipient’s phone number.

Geofinder.mobi

 

It’s important to note that this is not an intrusive app, and the targeted user will be notified if sharing their current location is something they are fine with. Instead of tracking or spying on an unaware user, the platform places a greater emphasis on building trust.

The target device’s precise location can be determined via location tracking, and this is highly precise. It connects with Google Maps, allowing you to find the other person with ease. If you get lost, you can even explore nearby landmarks to help you find your partner.

One sneaky feature you do get is VPN detection. Lots of people use a VPN to hide their true location, and it can be pretty difficult to navigate around this. Geofinder.mobi will be able to flag hidden Wi-FI addresses, making it easier to discover the true location of the target.

The interface is very user-friendly, and you should have little-to-no problems navigating it, and the setup procedure takes a matter of minutes.

You can trial the service for 48 hours for just $1, so you can decide if this is the right kind of spy app for you. Moving forward, you only have the option to pay for the service monthly, and that’ll set you back $39.99/month. We think that’s a bit of a rip-off when you consider the feature list on some of the other providers on this list.

Pros

  • Can detect if the targeted user is using a VPN
  • No need to install the app on a user’s device
  • Works on pretty much any phone
  • Highly accurate live location data

Cons

  • Expensive considering the lack of features
  • No free trial
Monthly Price Annual Price Devices Tracked Compatibility Free Version Guarantee
$39.99/month No Annual Plan 1 Any browser, Android, iOS $1 for 48 Hours 14-day refund policy

9. Spyic – A Decent Option For First Time Spy App Users Thanks to its Easy-to-use Interface and Simple Setup

The well-known and dependable phone spy app Spyic provides a variety of solutions to meet every demand, whether it is for personal or professional use.

Spyic’s ability to be installed and set up without requiring a rooted or jailbroken device is one of the reasons it is so well-liked. Nevertheless, compared to some of the top phone tracker apps on this list, it doesn’t have quite the same range of sophisticated features needed to spy on a spouse.

What you do receive is a user-friendly UI along with some useful fundamental functions like the capacity to read chat logs from standard text messages and social media monitoring for both Facebook Messenger and WhatsApp.

Additionally, there is the Geo-fencing feature, which enables you to designate secure areas for your loved ones. You will get a notification on your phone if they leave this perimeter, and you can then follow their whereabouts in real-time.

There aren’t a lot of standout features, but it does what it needs to quite well, but there are better options on this list for less money.

Despite this, there are a few different plans that you can pick from that do offer a good variety. The Premium plans cover one device and cost $9.99/month on Android and $10.83/month on iOS devices.

For further coverage on multiple devices, you could upgrade to Family, with an Android plan covering 3 devices setting you back $16.66/month, or 5 devices on iOS costing $33.33/month.

Pros

  • Great range of plans
  • Can cover up to 25 devices on the business iOS plans
  • No rooting or jailbreaking needed 
  • Generous 60-day money-back guarantee

Cons

  • Not as many advanced features as other products on this list
Monthly Price Annual Price Devices Tracked Compatibility Free Version Guarantee
Starts at $39.99/month Starts at $8.33/month 1-25 Android, iOS Demo 60-day refund policy

Spyera earns its position despite being one of the most expensive options on our list by being effective for organizations, kids, or untrustworthy relationships. It has a ton of key features, including VoIP spying, which enables it to connect to both VoIP and regular numbers and track conversations and texts.

Spyera one of the best phone spy apps' dashboard

This means you can listen in and record your spouses’ calls on apps like Facebook Messenger, WhatsApp, and Skype, a feature currently unique to Spyera only. This can be particularly useful, as usually, these apps are much harder to record data on than other spy apps, but Spyera allows you to monitor everything in one place.

You can also make use of the fantastic Remote Access feature, which enables you to remotely access the target device’s camera and microphone. This feature enables you to take pictures, videos, and audio recordings without the target person being aware of it.

The price is perhaps its biggest flaw, especially if you just want to monitor one of your spouse’s devices, with a smartphone subscription covering just a phone setting you back $32/month. There is enough to like here that makes Spyera an excellent spy app, but for monitoring a spouse without them knowing, there are better options on this list for less money.

Pros

  • Can monitor calls made on VoIPs
  • Compatible with all devices
  • The remote access feature is very powerful 
  • Can also be used for tracking children or partners

Cons

  • Jailbreaking/rooting is needed for the advanced features of mobile
Monthly Price Annual Price Devices Tracked Compatibility Free Version Guarantee
$49-$89/month $32/month 1 Android, iOS, tablets, PC No 10-day refund policy

How To Spy On Your Spouse’s Phone Without Them Knowing?

The best way to spy on your spouse without them knowing is to use one of the top spy apps we’ve mentioned in our list above. You would need to have physical contact with the device in order to install the app, but once it’s installed, it will run in the background without them knowing.

We should add that it is illegal to install a spy app on someone over the age of 18’s device without their consent, so we wouldn’t recommend that you do that.

If you manage to get that app installed, you can then monitor social media accounts, call and text logs, as well as their actually live location. The top spy apps like mSpy allow you to monitor all of this, plus remote access to the cameras and microphone of the device, all from one simple-to-use dashboard.

Tips For Spying On Your Spouses’ Cell Phone

If you start to suspect that your spouse is having an affair or doing something inappropriate, it might be time to take matters into your own hands. If you don’t have a top spy app like mSpy installed, which allows you to monitor the target user’s device from your own smartphone, tablet, or computer, then below are tips on what you should do.

Look At Their Text Messages And Email

Firstly, you should look at their text message or email accounts, as this can be where a lot of illicit messages take place. Some cheating spouses might use email instead of text messages as they are harder to find, and people don’t often think to look there.

Load up the email app on their device, and look for the sent messages section. You can also search for emails at the top of the screen, so you can enter names or keywords, and the email provider will show any emails that contain that word.

For text messages, locate the messenger app that the phone uses and scroll through to see who they’ve been speaking with. It might be that they haven’t saved the number in the phone, so be sure to look at message exchanges with those who just appear as a mobile number.

Check Their Social Media Accounts

Most people communicate via some sort of social media account nowadays, and it’s an easy way to find and meet new people. To make sure your spouse isn’t talking to anyone they shouldn’t be, look through popular social media apps like Facebook Messenger, WhatsApp, Snapchat, and Instagram.

mSpy, the best secret screen recorder app in action

These are the most likely destination for a cheating spouse to communicate with someone else, but you can easily search within these apps for certain words. WhatsApp, in particular, has a function where you can search for a sentence or individual words, and then it will give you a list of all the messages that contained the entered word.

Ethical Considerations When Spying On A Spouse’s Phone

There are, of course, some ethical considerations you need to take into account before spying on a spouse’s phone, for example, you might find that they are not cheating, and you just simply had a lack of trust or faith in them. Below are some other things you should consider.

Invasion Of Privacy

Firstly, spying on someone’s phone or reading through emails or messages is a complete invasion of privacy and mostly illegal. Nowadays, phones are likely diaries, they contain personal information and messages that are intended for the user only, and reading through this information is unfair.

People might often share personal messages with friends and family members, sometimes even at your expense – but this is just the way it is, and there is no need to get upset or offended by casual exchanges between loved ones.

Before looking through a spouse’s phone, consider how you’d feel if someone went through your device and started looking at pictures, messages, and social media accounts. It wouldn’t feel good, would it?

Outcome

Picture this, you decide to go through your spouse’s phone, and then you see something you don’t like, what next? Do you tell them what you saw and essentially confess that you went through their phone? Whatever the outcome is, the trust is gone, and it’s likely that it will drive you apart.

Worst still, if you go through their phone and you see that they are not doing anything inappropriate, how will you feel? You essentially had no trust in them or thought they were acting suspiciously when they weren’t.

You need to consider all of the outcomes, you might see something that upsets you or nothing at all, whatever it is, you need to be prepared to make deal with the consequences of your actions.

Final Thoughts

The best spy apps for monitoring your spouse allow you to access every part of their phone, whether it’s call logs, messages, or social media accounts – you get total control. If you suspect your partner is acting suspiciously or having an affair, they can be a great way to gather the evidence you need to support your accusations.

mSpy is our top pick for this, as it has some cutting-edge features, like allowing you to remotely access your spouse’s device’s microphone and camera, thus allowing you to listen and see into any conversations they have.

You can get your hands on mSpy for $11.66/month if you signup for an annual plan and take advantage of all of its premium features to successfully spy on your spouse.

FAQ

How can I track my partner’s phone without them knowing?

How do you check your husband’s phone to see if he is cheating?

How to catch a cheating spouse on his phone?

How do you track a cheating spouse without them knowing?

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7 Best Free CRM Software to Streamline Your Business 2024 https://techreport.com/business-software/best-free-crm-software/ Sat, 10 Jun 2023 05:49:14 +0000 https://techreport.com/?page_id=3504782 7 Best Free CRM Software to Streamline Your Business [cur_year]

Sales teams can manage their customer interactions using customer relationship management (CRM) software. It enables salespeople to keep track of all communications with clients, such as contact details, calls, emails,...

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7 Best Free CRM Software to Streamline Your Business [cur_year]

Sales teams can manage their customer interactions using customer relationship management (CRM) software. It enables salespeople to keep track of all communications with clients, such as contact details, calls, emails, and meetings. CRMs also have tools for managing opportunities and deals, and although it may seem pricey, there is a variety of reasonably priced options and even free choices accessible.

In this article, we’ll be exploring the best options for those on a budget or who don’t want to spend a penny, as well as having a look at some of the more premium paid plans out there, so you can understand what the best option for your business is.

The Best Free CRM Software

Below is a look at the best free CRM software at a glance for those who might be in a hurry. We’ve picked HubSpot as our top choice, an incredibly popular provider that has helped thousands of businesses around the world already. Read on for our detailed reviews of each provider and to find out why HubSpot is our number one.

  1. HubSpot – We rank this as the best free CRM on the market, with a huge range of marketing and sales features, access for unlimited users, and excellent customer support
  2. Monday Sales – An excellent and highly customizable CRM provider that’s ideal for first-time users
  3. Zoho CRM – This free CRM is perfect for a growing business and can scale up alongside you
  4. Freshsales – With an included phone system, this CRM is the perfect option for sales and marketing teams who rely on calling customers
  5. Salesforce – Top choice for established businesses thanks to its powerful set of features and host of third-party integrations
  6. Pipedrive – A highly customizable CRM that provides detailed reports and analytics for sales teams
  7. Maximizer CRM – This user-friendly CRM offers a simple-to-use dashboard and a host of useful features like call recording

 Best Free CRM Software Reviews

Let’s take a deeper look at the top free CRM software in 2024, with HubSpot leading the way for businesses around the world, no matter what size or scale. We’ll review the key features, including cost, scalability, and much more. Read on for the full list of reviews.

1. HubSpot – Best Overall Free CRM With a Ton of Integration Options

For small and midsize organizations wishing to combine their sales, marketing, and customer care capabilities, Hubspot CRM offers a potent platform that’s both simple to use and intuitive, solidifying its place on our list of the best CRM software.

HubSpot CRM software for business

HubSpot is an ideal option for companies looking for robust, simple-to-use CRM software, and the platform is accessible to smaller or more start-up companies thanks to the lightweight but very functional free-forever plan.

Through a number of complimentary CRM, marketing, sales, and customer support tools from HubSpot, this free package offers a useful platform for managing and maintaining new leads. These can be accessed through a straightforward and user-friendly interface and include dashboard reporting, deal tracking, and pipeline management.

The number of features included in the free plan is an element that distinguishes HubSpot from its rivals. For instance, the team as a whole has easier access to customer communication thanks to the shared inbox function, which collects all incoming email and live chat correspondence in one location.

It doesn’t take long to create and send email templates either, as you can quickly import contacts from outside mail providers and then design your email using one of five templates, freeing up time for other chores.

A support form and tracking code can be added to your website as part of the free plan so you can monitor visitor activity, save their information in your database, and monitor interactions with them over time.

It’s important to keep in mind that the free plan has a restricted number of customer service options, so you won’t have access to in-app chat or phone help. Additionally, even though HubSpot customers can integrate their accounts with hundreds of third-party applications, some of them do necessitate upgrading to a paying plan.

There are several alternatives available if you want to upgrade with each of the five HubSpot hubs; Sales, Marketing, Customer Service, CMS, and Operations. All offer a Starter, Professional, or Enterprise paid plan and are divided into their own set of tools. Alternatively, you can combine components from each Hub with the CRM Suite upgrade bundle, which starts at $30 per month.

Pricing

HubSpot features a surprisingly generous free version, unlike the majority of CRMs that just provide a free trial. The one-user account restriction and lack of sophisticated functionality (teams, document storage, and website integration at the low end, and automation and analytics at the high end) are really the only cons to be seen. Below is the other list of plans and prices.

HubSpot Pricing New

 

 

HubSpot can be pretty expensive if you opt for the more premium packages, but it’s important to remember that they offer a full sales and marketing suite alongside the CRM, and for large businesses who want all the cutting edge-features like detailed user analytics and sales forecasting, it’s a no brainer.

Starting Price Free Version Integrations Supported Devices Top Features
$25/user/month Free Forever Plan 300+ Windows, Mac, Android, and iOS 1. Website Activity Tracking

2. Email Integration & Tracking

3. Opportunity Pipeline

Pros

  • Offers an excellent ‘free forever’ plan with some killer features
  • Incredibly user-friendly, great for first-time CRM users
  • Can integrate with over 300 third-party applications
  • Integrates with VoIP software

Cons

  • No telephone support on free plans, so wait times can be longer

2. Monday Sales – An Excellent and Highly Customizable CRM Provider

One of the best customizable customer relationship management (CRM) systems is Monday. The most noteworthy feature of Monday is its vast customizability options, which let the team and sales managers personalize the program.

Monday Sales CRM Dashboard

Monday is an excellent choice for businesses with particular sales processes and close-knit departmental contacts, offering personalized labels and items in addition to fully customizable dashboards, templates, workflows, forms, quotes, and widgets.

Monday gives sales teams and managers the ability to customize nearly every aspect of the CRM in addition to providing core features like sales pipeline and contact management, workflow automation, and email sync. This allows them to make sure the CRM meets their company’s specific requirements while also connecting to a variety of integrations and the native API.

Unlike some CRMs that have a predefined list of automation, Monday enables sales managers to build unique workflows using formulae that can be changed to lessen administrative work, foster teamwork, and make client communication easier.

Making sure the software is simple to use, regardless of the user’s technical prowess or prior CRM expertise, is one of the cornerstones of a successful CRM installation. Monday does that in abundance right out of the gate, as customer information is neatly sorted into folders that can symbolize various departments or stages of the sales process.

There’s also a decent free forever plan available that allows you to create basic boards, but it is really aimed at small businesses or for one or two users maximum. It offers three boards, a Kanban view, an activity log for up to one week, and a few more basic features.

Ultimately, it’s worth a shot whilst your business is scaling, but you will need to upgrade to a paid plan when you have more than 4/5 employees.

Pricing

The free plan gives up to two users access to online forms for lead collecting, up to 1,000 contacts, 500MB of file storage, Kanban view, and one dashboard for data visualization are all included in this package

Paid plans start from $30/month for the Basic option, with several more tiers following this. You can pick between monthly or annual billing, and plan prices vary depending on the number of users (minimum of three) and the plan tier. To get a feel for the software, join up for a 14-day free trial. Below is the full list of plans in detail.

Monday Sales Pricing

  • Free: Up to two users, online forms for lead capture, up to 1,000 contacts, 500MB of file storage, Kanban view, and one data visualization dashboard are all included in the free plan.
  • Basic: This subscription costs $30 a month and offers 5GB of file storage in addition to unlimited read-only viewers, contacts, and configurable pipelines.
  • Standard: For $42 per month, this plan offers everything in basic along with Gmail and Outlook two-way email sync, quotes and invoices, Gantt, timeline, and calendar data views, guest access, and up to 250 automations and 250 integrations per month. It also offers 20GB of file storage.
  • Pro: This plan offers everything in Standard for $72 per month in addition to private boards, sales forecasting and CRM data, time tracking, chart and workload views, email monitoring, up to 25,000 automations and 25,000 integrations per month, and 100GB of file storage.
  • Enterprise: You must contact for an estimate for this plan, which adds enterprise-grade security, extensive CRM reporting, lead scoring, team quotas, up to 250,000 automations and 250,000 integrations per month, and 1TB of file storage to everything in Pro.
Starting Price Free Version Integrations Supported Devices Top Features
$30/month Free Forever Plan 50+ Windows, Mac, Android, and iOS 1. Personalized Scaled Emails

2. Sales Leaderboard

3. Lead Scoring

Pros

  • Highly customizable interface
  • Very user-friendly, great for beginners in CRM
  • Decent free plan for small businesses
  • Offers in-app automations

Cons

  • Confusing prices for plans

3. Zoho CRM – Best Free CRM Software For Scaling Your Business

The outstanding entry-level CRM platform Zoho CRM grows with your small business. The company’s free CRM package is well-liked among startups searching for a simple, cost-free approach to tracking leads and managing contacts.

Zoho Projects

Users can always switch to a subscription plan for more sophisticated capabilities, which will unlock a number of services like automating marketing chores and tracking client and contact information. Additionally, Zoho CRM offers seamless interfaces with additional Zoho tools and any other third-party applications you may currently be using, including MailChimp, Google Analytics, and QuickBooks.

Even on its free plan, Zoho CRM is a more potent tool than just a straightforward CRM for keeping track of contacts and leads. Through forms on your website, social media, and email, the sales automation technologies assist you in generating leads that are immediately added as contacts in your CRM.

Lead scoring makes sure contacts are routed to the appropriate teams, preventing time and effort wastage. Each of your leads is given a tag that informs you whether a contact has been made, whether further action is required, or whether the lead has been lost.

The excellent free plan allows up to 3 users and includes important features such as Lead Management, Deal and Account Management, 10GB of storage, and up to 5000 records. Whilst it might not hit the dizzying heights of HubSpots excellent free plan, there is more than enough here to make this a valuable free tool.

You can build up basic leads, accounts, and deal management with the free plan. Additionally, you can set up task reminders, generate and store documents, and connect via feeds. The social tabs for Facebook and Twitter are not available, unfortunately, and you are unable to accept calendar bookings from your website into your CRM.

Pricing

Below are four main paid plans that can be used if you need to upgrade or scale your business away from the free offering. Plus, there’s a generous 45-day money-back guarantee for those who signup for a paid plan. The other plans are as follows.

Zoho CRM Pricing

Zoho CRM has a host of plans to fit all business needs, and when the time comes for your business to grow, they’ve got you covered. The more premium plans include useful features like Google Suite integrations, lead scoring and sales signals that will give your e-commerce platform more room to grow and scale up.

Starting Price Free Version Integrations Supported Devices Top Features
$20/month Free Forever Plan 150+ Windows, Mac, Android, and iOS 1. Sales Automation

2. Mobile Apps

3. Inventory Management

Pros

  • Excellent free plan with a ton of premium features like deal and account management
  • Affordably priced paid plans for when you’re ready to upscale
  • Easy-to-use mobile and desktop apps
  • Offers a 45-day money-back guarantee on paid plans

Cons

  • Limited integrations for free plan

4. Freshsales – Wallet-friendly CRM, Ideal For Small Businesses on a Budget

Freshsales is a cloud-based CRM platform that forms part of Freshworks, a bigger collection of tools that all function together fluidly. Freshsales is one of the best CRMs for small businesses, as has a highly functional forever-free plan and reasonably priced premium options.

Freshsales contact management

Freshsales stands out from its rivals thanks to its AI-powered contact and deal score tools, customization, and integrated phone features.

Freshsales is a simple-to-use CRM application that is affordable enough for tiny enterprises that must make careful financial decisions. The free plan is a fantastic starting point, and you can upgrade to one of the paid plans for greater functionality as your business develops.

The main distinction with Freshsales is that it is an all-in-one CRM platform, including chat, built-in phone, and chat and marketing capabilities. You can add as many users and support staff as you like with its powerful free plan. It works best for highly effective and expanding sales teams.

Therefore, Freshsales’ free plan gives you access to features like contact scoring, integration with Freshdesk, and more if you are a startup trying to scale your business. The best thing is that you may upgrade to a premium Freshsales plan without losing your data as your company grows.

Freshsales provides a wide range of features to help your business flourish. You may get crucial data about your contacts, accounts, and deals using Freshsales.

You can use it to collect leads from website users and gain knowledge on how to interact with more prospects. Additionally, Freshsales provides comprehensive reporting, advanced analytics, and deal-tracking features that let you forecast revenue.

Users may measure important performance indicators like conversion rates and deal phases, create thorough reports on their sales activity, and get real-time feedback on how they are doing. This enables companies to increase efficiency, optimize their sales process, and make data-driven decisions.

Pricing

Freshsales offers a free version of its popular CRM software, plus three paid plans that are tailored to fit the needs of different businesses:

Freshsales pricing

Freshsales offers four affordable plans that aim to grow alongside your business depending on your needs. In the more premium Pro and Enterprise plans, you’ll get access to 24/7 customer support and a ton of useful integrations with key e-commerce apps like Shopify.

Starting Price Free Version Integrations Supported Devices Top Features
$15/month Free Forever Plan 50+ Windows, Mac, Android, and iOS 1. AI-powered Lead Scoring

2. Custom Dashboards & Reports

3. Built-in Phone

Pros

  • Incredibly easy-to-use dashboard and interface
  • Great free plan and affordable paid prices
  • Excellent custom dashboards and reports
  • AI-powered lead scoring on all paid plans

Cons

  • Customer support only available on weekdays

5. Salesforce – Top Choice for Established Businesses Thanks to its Powerful Set of Features

Salesforce CRM is a market-leading platform that you can use for many various types of sales automation requirements across many industries. It works best for sales teams and large or scaling enterprises that require a highly configurable solution. Sadly, there is no free plan on offer, which is why it isn’t at our number one spot, but there is a generous 30-day free trial.

Salesforce Best CRM for Construction

It is best for established businesses that seek to consolidate numerous platforms into one CRM or streamline or improve their sales processes. The many wonderful features that Salesforce provides, such as the numerous possibilities for customization and integration, will be especially useful to a large sales team.

Salesforce provides everything from straightforward lead management to sophisticated workflows and customized sales pipelines. Although it’s not the simplest CRM to use, it may be the most intuitive, and through time and practice, it can be an essential tool for all businesses.

Salesforce’s capability to customize virtually everything in your sales process is one of its true advantages. Since many CRMs can’t be fully customized to your pipeline, they can be challenging to use.

Salesforce provides a wide range of automation options, not just the ability to allocate leads automatically as they come in. The workflows are adaptable, and a lot depends on how you can use the software to meet your goals. Salesforce provides a developer sandbox for both of these capabilities so that your tech team may work on ongoing development.

It is a fantastic option for those who need to piece together different solutions due to the sheer number of third-party integration choices available. Today, Salesforce has more than 3,000 integrations, allowing you to find alternative platforms that can improve your business operations.

Salesforce has the ability to link with the top platforms uses for the majority of objectives, from marketing automation to scheduling software. Slack, Calendly, DocuSign, QuickBooks, LinkedIn, HubSpot, and other applications are a few of the most often-used integrations.

Pricing

Salesforce would be at the top of our list of the best CRM software if it had some sort of free plan, but sadly, that isn’t the case. However, the range of features, functionality, and customization on offer here make it a more than attractive option for businesses of any scale. Below is a full list of their current plans and prices.

Salesforce pricing

 

If your e-commerce business grows, it’s important that your CRM has the ability to grow alongside you. Salesforce has a number of upgrade options that include premium features like customer journey analytics, advanced reporting and custom code development.

Starting Price Free Version Integrations Supported Devices Top Features
$25/month No 3000+ Windows, Mac, Android, and iOS 1. Forecast Management

2. Marketing Campaign Management

3. Lead Auto-assignment

Pros

  • Highly customizable interface
  • Generous 30-day free trial to test the service
  • Integrates with over 3000+ services
  • Powerful reporting features

Cons

  • No free plan is available, only a free trial

6. Pipedrive – Great Option For Businesses Focusing On Improving Sales Pipelines

Pipedrive is a popular CRM system that was created by and for sales teams, and as implied by the name, this CRM is mostly focused on sales pipelines. Pipedrive is a good option for small businesses because it’s economical and simple to use, despite the absence of a free plan.

Pipedrive | what is a CRM software

The easy style and optional field completion that Pipedrive offers are standout features that help you quickly process incoming leads. You can fully customize the platform to fit the specific workflows used by your team, and those who wish to try it out can do so with a 14-day free trial that doesn’t require a credit card.

The CRM helps sales teams track leads effectively and boost revenues by documenting crucial contacts and feedback as the sales lead progresses through the sales process. Lower-cost plans, however, have a lot of restrictions, so you’ll get the most for your money if you’re prepared to pay for a high-tier plan.

Pipedrive excels as a CRM that is sales-focused, which is what makes it one of the top real estate CRM systems out there, and the features that are offered reflect this. All the way through the sales pipeline, from the initial meeting to the final transaction and beyond, contacts can be generated and tracked. Each phase of the procedure may be tailored to the requirements of specific teams, and automation assists get rid of a lot of the boring busywork that would otherwise take up employees’ time.

The customizable chatbot that businesses can install on their website to collect fresh leads that are immediately added to the sales funnel is one of the important features. This introduces a crucial method for businesses to obtain warm and hot leads that don’t slip through the gaps while customers browse the internet.

Pipedrive is a fully functional CRM out of the box, but you can add third-party apps to make it more versatile. More than 400 third-party programs, such as Leadfeeder, Zoom, Calendly, and Zapier, can be integrated with your CRM.

Pricing

Pipedrive offers one of the most budget-friendly and comprehensive CRM software solutions for businesses of all sizes. With four different plans to choose from, there’s something for everyone:

Pricing

Pipedrive offers a number of different price plans should you need to upgrade to fit your e-commerce business demands. With the higher tier plans, you can get access to more advanced features like API access, custom integrations and 24/7 customer support.

Starting Price Free Version Integrations Supported Devices Top Features
$12.50/month No 400+ Windows, Mac, Android, and iOS 1. Customizable Workflows

2. Chatbots

3. Machine learning-powered sales assistant

Pros

  • Affordably priced plans
  • Built-in telephony feature on most plans
  • Unlimited, customizable sales pipelines

Cons

  • No free plan
  • No phone support on free or lower-tiered plans

7. Maximizer CRM – A Great CRM For Marketing and Sales Leads

Maximizer CRM is now the best option out there for Sales Leaders. By incorporating both leading and lagging indications, Maximizer enables you to get a head start on the competition and more accurately predict and shape future sales performance.

Maximizer CRM Software for Small Construction Businesses

You get an excellent insight into sales rep activities, making it simpler to monitor and manage your sales reps in real-time as well as track and analyze critical data.

Sales management, marketing automation, customer service and support, and corporate productivity tools are all included in Maximizer CRM, which also integrates with Microsoft Office applications, including Outlook, Word, Excel, and SharePoint.

Email marketing campaigns, integrated campaign planning, and marketing analytics are all part of the solution’s marketing automation application. Users can use list management tools to search and filter customer data according to pre-defined criteria, target leads, and customers.

To learn more about your company’s success, make use of Maximizer’s robust analytics capabilities. These technologies give you the ability to keep an eye on and evaluate activity in real-time, assisting you in making quick decisions and modifying your plans as needed.

Additionally, Maximizer comes with a comprehensive set of productivity features that make it simple to track significant sales, find relevant information fast, and send automatic emails.

You can save time and assure accuracy in your messages by having the flexibility to generate both standard and customised templates.

There is no free plan on offer, but you can benefit from the 30-day free trial or 60-day money-back guarantee. The plans themselves are quite affordable, but there are definitely better options on this list for both premium and free plans.

Pricing

Maximizer CRM Pricing

Pricing for Maximizer CRM is geared toward companies of all sizes. The Base Edition is a cost-effective option for companies just starting started with CRM and includes the necessary functionality to help you get going right away.

The Sales Leader Edition is a fantastic choice for more experienced customers and comes with extra features like automated lead tracking, sales analytics, and improved customer segmentation. Teams aiming to advance their sales process should use this strategy.

Starting Price Free Version Integrations Supported Devices Top Features
$55.50/month 30-day Free Trial 500+ Windows, Mac, Android, and iOS 1. Contact Management

2. Third-party Integrations

3. Sales Forecasting

Pros

  • Generous 60-day money-back guarantee
  • 30-day free trial on offer
  • Excellent online customer support resources

Cons

  • No free plan

Comparison of the Best Free CRM Software in 2024

To help you compare the best features along with the price, integrations and much more, we've produced a useful table for you.

Software Starting Price Free Version Integrations Supported Devices Top Features
HubSpot $45/month Free Forever Plan 300+ Windows, Mac, Android, and iOS 1. Website Activity Tracking

2. Email Integration & Tracking

3. Opportunity Pipeline

Monday Sales $30/month Free Forever Plan 50+ Windows, Mac, Android, and iOS 1. Personalized Scaled Emails

2. Sales Leaderboard

3. Lead Scoring

Zoho CRM $20/month Free Forever Plan 150+ Windows, Mac, Android, and iOS 1. Sales Automation

2. Mobile Apps

3. Inventory Management

Freshsales $15/month Free Forever Plan 50+ Windows, Mac, Android, and iOS 1. AI-powered Lead Scoring

2. Custom Dashboards & Reports

3. Built-in Phone

Salesforce $25/month No 3000+ Windows, Mac, Android, and iOS 1. Forecast Management

2. Marketing Campaign Management

3. Lead Auto-assignment

Pipedrive $12.50/month No 400+ Windows, Mac, Android, and iOS 1. Customizable Workflows

2. Chatbots

3. Machine learning-powered sales assistant

Maximizer CRM $55.50/month 30-day Free Trial 500+ Windows, Mac, Android, and iOS 1. Contact Management

2. Third-party Integrations

3. Sales Forecasting

What is a CRM Application?

Many of you may be thinking, what exactly is a CRM? Well, Customer relationship management, or as it is also known as CRM, is a piece of technology used to control communications with current and potential clients. Organizations may increase sales, enhance customer service, and boost profitability by using a CRM system to develop customer relationships and streamline procedures.

A CRM system is a tool used for contact management, sales management, agent productivity, and other purposes, this is what we often mean when we talk about CRM. The aim of a CRM system is pretty simple, and that is to expand your business and strengthen your commercial contacts. Throughout the whole customer lifecycle and at each marketing, sales, e-commerce, and customer care interaction, CRM technologies assist you in managing customer connections.

How Does Free CRM Software Work?

CRM software enables marketers and salespeople to manage and analyze interactions with the company's real and potential clients on the most fundamental level. It makes it possible to keep track of every encounter a consumer has with the business and gathers data on them. The marketer will then constantly be aware of the customer's identity and their relationship with the business when speaking with them. This improves the interaction's personalization, raises conversion rates, and fosters consumer loyalty and trust.

CRMs have features that let you follow customer and business interactions across all relevant touchpoints, such as those from:

  • Contact forms
  • Search engines
  • Emails
  • Phone calls
  • Social media

The software handles some activities; it can automate monotonous operations for marketers, make reminders for significant occasions, and show notifications when something really demands attention. Some CRMs also have analytics features, enabling you to monitor the effectiveness of different marketing initiatives to produce leads and conversions.

Sales and marketing teams are given a set of tools to handle the full sales and marketing funnels, from lead qualification to opportunity management, forecasting, and deal closure, thanks to CRM software and marketing automation.

Marketing automation (top of the funnel) and CRM features (bottom of the funnel) systems work together to manage the sales funnel from beginning to end. As a trend, many well-known CRM platforms are either acquiring or creating their own marketing automation systems to provide the capability. Both are provided by HubSpot, for instance, while other CRMs make it simple to integrate them with other marketing automation platforms.

Difference Between Free vs. Paid CRM Software

The majority of free CRMs give you the ability to manage marketing, sales, and customer service. While this might be all your business requires right now, bear in mind that extra capabilities, like marketing automation or sophisticated data analysis, will probably come at a cost because more complex services are typically charged. In the long run, you might find that you're paying exactly as much, if not more, as your firm expands and your demands change.

It's crucial to assess your present demands and establish a long-term strategy for your business before deploying any new solution. Consider how soon you could require these extra features and how delaying their implementation may result in greater disruption in terms of change management, configuration time, and data migration.

Because of this, choosing a free alternative might not be the best course of action in the long term because you might grow weary of its limitations and limited capabilities sooner rather than later.

Paid CRM solutions are adaptable and versatile, with a range of pricing options to suit varied requirements and price ranges. An implementation professional can assist you in understanding the various price plans and choosing the one that best suits your short- and long-term requirements.

Why Should I Use CRM Software?

Implementing CRM into your everyday business life can be hugely beneficial for both yourself and any staff you might have. It allows you to offer better customer service, improve customer retention, and much more. Below is a list of reasons why you should use CRM to streamline your business.

Improved Customer Service

All of your contacts are managed by a CRM, which also collects crucial customer data like demographics, purchase histories, and previous messages across all channels and makes it readily available to anybody in your company who needs it. This guarantees that your staff has all the information they require about the client at their fingertips and can offer a better customer experience, which usually increases client happiness.

Boost Sales

By streamlining your sales process, creating a sales pipeline, automating crucial processes, and gathering all of your sales data in one location, a CRM platform may help you boost productivity and sales. With the aid of a CRM, you can create a step-by-step sales procedure that your staff can adhere to consistently and that you can simply modify as problems emerge.

Customer Retention

It's crucial to work hard to keep customers and foster consumer loyalty once you've acquired and converted leads. Use your CRM and the information it offers about your customers to promote repeat business because a high customer churn rate can have a number of detrimental repercussions for your company, such as decreased revenue or disturbed cash flow.

The CRM will offer sentiment analysis, automatic ticketing, automated customer assistance, and tracking of user behavior to assist you in identifying issues and resolving them with your customers.

Analytics

Having a ton of consumer data is one thing, but you also need to understand what it means and how to use it. CRM software often includes analytical features that contextualize data, dividing it into useful metrics and actionable things. You may assess the performance of a marketing campaign and adjust your optimization strategies using metrics like click-through rates, bounce rates, and demographic data.

How Do I Choose the Best CRM Software?

To ensure you pick the best CRM software for your business needs, there are some important features and functionalities you should look for, like ease of use or integrations. To give you an idea, we've compiled a list of what to look out for.

  • User-friendly – Your CRM system should be as simple to use as your email programme. Additionally, repeated tasks like updating contact information or keeping track of sales need to be simpler to complete.
  • Lead ManagementYou can identify your leads and the steps they have taken in the sales cycle with the use of a lead management function. You can score your prospects through the lead management process and, if necessary, filter them off to another member of your team to convert some leads into customers.
  • Analytics – Customer analytics provide an understanding of customer information. Such data is crucial since it can help you decide regarding the kinds of goods and services, marketing campaigns, and general communications you offer to your clients.
  • Third-party Integrations –You may save a tonne of time and money by integrating your CRM software with other programmes you already use. The trick is finding one that is simple to apply and compatible with the software you employ. Most CRM programmes offer third-party software connectors.

Conclusion - What is the Best Free CRM to Use in 2024?

We looked at a variety of aspects when evaluating the top free CRM programs, such as functionality, customer support, usability, user experiences, and third-party integrations.

Overall, we decided that HubSpot is the best free CRM software, as it has a feature-rich free forever plan that allows for multiple third-party integrations and has a ton of premium features like Website Activity Tracking, Email Integration, Tracking, and an excellent Opportunity Pipeline feature.

It's also a great option should your business need to scale, as it offers a variety of plans that grow alongside your business.

The post 7 Best Free CRM Software to Streamline Your Business 2024 appeared first on The Tech Report.

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How To Read Text Messages From Another Phone Without Them Knowing For Free https://techreport.com/spy/read-text-messages-from-another-phone/ Wed, 07 Jun 2023 20:06:53 +0000 https://techreport.com/?page_id=3504190 How To Read Text Messages From Another Phone Without Them Knowing For Free

Reading someone’s messages without their phone is no longer a difficult process. With today’s technology, it is possible and practical to remotely monitor someone else’s messages, calls, and social media...

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How To Read Text Messages From Another Phone Without Them Knowing For Free

Reading someone’s messages without their phone is no longer a difficult process. With today’s technology, it is possible and practical to remotely monitor someone else’s messages, calls, and social media accounts.

Now, with the use of spy apps, concerned parents can monitor that their kids aren’t being bullied or engaging in any inappropriate activity online. Or, for suspicious partners who fear their better half might be cheating, you can use these apps to monitor who they speak with and where they are.

With the growing demand for these types of spy apps, it’s no surprise that the market is awash with thousands of different providers, all claiming to be the best at what they do.

So how do you really know who’s best? That’s where we step in. We’ve done the research and legwork for you and can safely say that mSpy is the best spy app for reading text messages without people knowing. However, these types of apps are never free, and if they are advertised as so, it’s likely to be a scam.

Instead, we’d recommend using a spy app like mSpy and taking advantage of the free trial on offer to see if it’s the right choice for you. Better still, they offer a 14-day money-back guarantee should you not be satisfied with the performance.

Top 5 Best Tools To Read Someone’s Message Without Them Knowing

To ensure we only pick the very best apps for reading someone’s messages without them knowing, we have strict criteria in place that looks at all the key factors. Those are price, features, device compatibility, and overall performance.

Below is a quick look at our top 5;

  1. mSpy – Our Top Pick Overall For The Best App To Read Someone’s Text Messages Due to Its Impressive Range of Features
  2. uMobix – The Best App For Android Users To Spy On Text Messages As It Doesn’t Require a Device To Be Rooted
  3. Hoverwatch – A Budget-Friendly Spy App That Offers Great Features At An Affordable Monthly Price
  4. KidsGuard – The Best Choice For Parents Who Want to Monitor Their Children’s Text Messages
  5. Flexispy – A Reliable Option For Apple Users Thanks to its Wide Range of Spy Features

Best Text Message Spy Apps List in 2023 – A Professional Insight

Now we’re going to take a closer look at the best spy apps for reading text messages on someone’s phone without them knowing, running through the key features, pricing, and much more.

1. mSpy – Our Top Pick Overall For The Best App To Read Someone’s Text Messages Due to Its Impressive Range of Features

mSpy is a powerful phone surveillance tool that can keep tabs on almost all online activities as well as some offline ones, including text and call logs. You can track calls, texts, and even social media activities with the help of a keylogging tool and even monitor real-time location.

mSpy | Read someones text messages

After completing the setup, mSpy presents you with a very user-friendly interface that puts all the important information at your fingertips, including location, messages, call records, and so on. Although there is a lot going on, you should soon begin to understand how everything functions.

You can even view bookmarks, browsing history, and Wi-Fi networks that have been used to access the internet with mSpy. By categorizing websites, the Android app restricts access to them, and setting up keyword alerts lets you keep tabs on who is reading inappropriate content.

You can keep track of all the applications you’ve installed using MSpy’s superb app manager, and you can block explicit apps or use a screen recorder and keylogger to keep tabs on the target devices’ activity.

This is especially helpful if you want to read someone’s messages, as you can either view text logs and social media accounts or use the keylogger to monitor what is being typed. Either way, it’s the best way to read someone’s messages without them knowing and ensures you won’t miss a thing.

For further security, there is a useful feature referred to as ‘geo-fencing,’ which basically allows you to set up a custom zone that is deemed safe, and should this person stray away from this zone, you will receive an alert on your own device.

Head to Our In-depth review of mSpy

Pricing

In terms of pricing, mSpy isn’t exactly cheap, but if you want the best way to read someone’s messages without them knowing, then this is your best bet. There is a useful free demo you can try, in order  Below is a list of prices you can expect to pay:

  • 1 Month – $48.99/month
  • 3 Months – $27.99/month
  • 2 Months – $11.66/month

As evident by the pricing plan, signing up for an extensive plan offers the best value for money. While these amounts may seem high, it’s important to remember the feature set you get with a mSpy plan.

Pros

  • Logs SMS and instant messages for easy reviewing
  • Location history and geofencing features are very accurate
  • Allows you to view browsing history and bookmarked pages
  • Provides detailed reports each month for easy viewing
  • One of the best spy apps for Android

Cons

  • Each device requires its own subscription
Monthly Price Annual Price Devices Tracked Compatibility Free Version Guarantee
$48.99/month $11.66/month 1 Android, iOS, tablets Demo 10-day refund policy

2. uMobix – The Best App For Android Users To Spy On Text Messages Without Rooting To a Device

uMobix is another great tool for reading text messages, and it combines a variety of cutting-edge features with affordable pricing, especially on Android. It includes a great keylogger that operates in both incognito and standard browser modes.

uMobix | phone tracker app

An intuitive dashboard that displays some fundamental call and SMS data and offers you immediate access to some crucial features. Additionally, a handy overview of browsing habits, including the most popular websites and search phrases, is available.

Using the Call History Monitoring feature, you can access the target phone’s call history data. All calls, including missed, dropped, and incoming ones, will be listed on the screen. The caller’s contact information, phone number, call time and date, and length are also displayed.

uMobix syncs with the smartphone every five minutes, updating call logs and providing information about occurrences as near to in real-time as possible. Additionally, because it frequently syncs to display a real-time view of the target user, this offers excellent live location data.

uMobix is perfectly suited for use on Android smartphones, especially if they are rooted, as was previously noted. Although there is an iOS app, it lacks certain essential capabilities like precise location tracking and other things.

The ability to remotely access a user’s smartphone with uMobix is a noteworthy feature that deserves to be mentioned. For instance, you can block incoming calls and messages to the user’s mobile if you believe they are undesirable or insulting. This enables you to protect your child well, which is especially helpful if they are the target of bullying.

Navigate to our detailed review of uMobix

Pricing

uMobix’s pricing is generally comparable to the majority of the other service providers on this list, with lower rates offered to customers who commit to longer subscription terms. Additionally, there is a 14-day return policy in place for users who are dissatisfied with the operation of the app.

  • Monthly — $49.99/month
  • Quarterly — $27.99/month
  • Annual — $11.66/month

Pros

  • Great at monitoring text messages from an easy-to-use dashboard
  • Excellent tracking app for Android users
  • Useful remote features allow you to disable incoming calls and texts
  • Features one of the top keyloggers of any spy app

Cons

  • Poor performance and fewer features on Apple devices
Monthly Price Annual Price Devices Tracked Compatibility Free Version Guarantee
$49.99/month $11.66/month 1 Android, iOS, tablets Demo 14-day refund policy

3. Hoverwatch – A Budget-Friendly Spy App That Offers Great Features At An Affordable Monthly Price

Hoverwatch is a popular and robust app that can be used to reads text messages on another device. It can also track locations and social media activity across a range of devices, including phones, tablets, and computers.

Hoverwatch Dashboard

You can view a live image of what the user is doing at any given time using the helpful screenshot tool. You will be notified, for instance, if the user receives a message by SMS or social media, allowing you to confirm that it is secure.

Additionally, if a user enters a keyword that has been detected while browsing the web, you will be notified and made aware of their behavior. This aids you in preventing your youngster from viewing pornographic material online that may have evaded your ISP’s SafeSearch filters.

You can even keep an eye on the front-facing camera of the targeted individual, thanks to a helpful bonus feature. Every time the phone is unlocked, you will receive an alert with a picture of who tried to unlock the device, great for countering theft and ensuring no one else is reading texts.

Pricing

You can choose from three tiers of pricing, depending on the number of devices you need to be covered. Plus, there is an excellent 14-day free demo available, so you can try it before you buy. Below is a list of plans you can pick from:

  • Personal (1 Device) — $24.95/month
  • Professional (5 Devices) — $9.99/device/month
  • Business (25 Devices) — $6/device/month

Pros

  • You can record calls and SMS, tracks incoming/outgoing calls
  • A unique front-facing camera monitoring feature
  • Has excellent screen recording capabilities
  • Affordable prices for a premium service

Cons

  • You need physical access to the target user’s device to install
Monthly Price Annual Price Devices Tracked Compatibility Free Version Guarantee
$24.95/month $6/month/device 25 Android, iOS, tablets Demo 60-day refund policy

4. KidsGuard – The Best Choice For Parents To Monitor Their Children’s Text Messages

KidsGuard is yet another reliable spying app that will allow you to monitor texts, calls, and much more remotely without the target user being aware. It’s reasonably priced, quick to set up, and easy to navigate, thanks to its user-friendly interface.

KidsGuard | social media monitoring

There’s a lot to like about this spy app aside from its cost-effective pricing. For example, it has an excellent call-monitoring feature that alerts you when an incoming or outgoing call is being made. Then, you can remotely listen in without either user knowing you’re there.

For further monitoring, there is an excellent real-time location tracker that allows you to set safe zones. If the target device then wanders out of the preset zone, you will receive an alert, great for suspicious partners or concerned parents alike.

If you’re a concerned parent, there are also a load of useful features that can help you ensure your child is behaving themselves online. One of these is photo syncing which, at the click of a button, allows you to view all photos stored on the device, so you can make sure there is nothing inappropriate being shared.

There are also useful keylogging features for further monitoring of texts and social media messages, as well as some nifty tools to monitor search history and browser patterns online, all of which can be tracked on the main dashboard.

Pricing

You get the option of three different price plans, each varying based on the term you agree to signup for. The cheapest plan starts at $9.16/month if you pay annually. There is even a 30-day money-back guarantee and a free demo for a hassle-free purchase. The rest of the plans are as follows:

  • One-month plan — $39.99/month
  • Three-month plan — $19.99/month
  • One-year plan — $9.16/month

Pros

  • Doesn’t require a rooted or jailbroke device to function properly
  • Excellent value for money and a generous free demo
  • You can view messages and call logs from the user-friendly dashboard
  • Allows you to view photos from the target device

Cons

  • Only syncs data over Wi-Fi
Monthly Price Annual Price Devices Tracked Compatibility Free Version Guarantee
$39.99/month $9.16month 1 Android, iOS, tablets Demo 30-day refund policy

5. Flexispy – A Reliable Option For Apple Users Thanks to its Wide Range of Spy Features

Flexispy is another considerable option if you want to read someone’s text messages from another phone, as it has a ton of premium features like Spoof SMS, which allows you to send a text to someone from another person’s number. There’s also a VoIP call recording feature and a lot more to like here.

FlexiSpy GPS Location Tracking

A useful perk with Flexispy is that you don’t need to root an Android device in order for it to function properly. All of the premium features you get work across the device straight from the get-go. Sadly, this isn’t the case for iOS, and Apple users will have to jailbreak a device in order for it to work, which can immediately ruin a device’s warranty.

With that being said, we still think this is a great app for iOS users, and once the simple steps of jailbreaking a device are complete, you’ve got a truly powerful spy tool that allows you to read all of the messages on the target device, intercept incoming or outgoing calls, and so much more.

The location tracking feature is also pretty nifty, and it allows you to establish safe zones, a feature commonly referred to as geofencing. If the target device leaves the safe zone you’ve input, you’ll receive an alert to your device notifying you of its whereabouts.

Pricing

There are a few different price plans you can pick from with Flexispy, and they depend on the device and level of features you require. The main plans are for Android and iOS, but you can pay $79/month for an iPad or PC plan. You can test the service for free with the useful free demo. Below is a breakdown of what you can expect to pay:

Android / iOS

  • Lite — $29.95/month
  • Premium — $79 for one month, $119 for three months & $179 for 12 months
  • Extreme — $119 for one month, $239 for three months & $419 for 12 months

Pros

  • Doesn’t require a rooted Android device
  • Unique features like call intercept and spoof SMS are very good
  • Easy to set up and navigate all of the features
  • Good range of plans for all uses

Cons

  • Quite expensive when compared to other spy apps
Monthly Price Annual Price Devices Tracked Compatibility Free Version Guarantee
Lite – $29.95/month
Premium – $79/month
Extreme – $119/month
Premium – $179/year

Extreme – $419/year

1 Android, iOS, tablets, and computers Demo 30-day refund policy

Can You Really Spy On Someone’s Texts Without Installing Any Software?

Truth be told, there is no effective technique for spying on text messages without using an app or piece of spy software. If you do see this service offered somewhere, there’s a high likelihood that it’s a scam or they’re trying to defraud you.

In order to work properly, you will need physical access to the target user’s device, and you’ll need to install a reliable spy app like mSpy if you want to successfully read someone’s messages without them knowing.

The only other way it can be done is for you to physically go through their phone yourself, but if you do suspect someone is up to no good, the chances of them leaving their personal device laying around are pretty slim.

So, if you want to read someone’s text messages, you will need to install a spy app, and once this is done, you can monitor texts, calls, social media accounts, and even their actual location, all from your own device. You should note that installing a spy app on a device without the user’s consent is illegal unless you are their legal guardian.

Are There Different Text Message Spy Apps For iPhone And Android?

Most spy apps are available for both iPhones and Android devices, it’s rare that you get one made exclusively for either platform. But with that being said, the performance of certain spy apps can certainly be better or worse, depending on the device.

For example, some spy apps require a device to be rooted for Android or jailbroken for iOS. Now, whilst this is a pretty simple process, and most phone shops can do this for you, it does void the device warranty, so keep that in mind.

Some spy apps will require a rooted or jailbroken device to work properly or to get the best out of the more advanced features, like remote access to a device’s camera or microphone.

All of the spy apps we reviewed above can be used on both Android and iPhones without much fuss, but do be sure to check the requirements of whichever spy app you go for before you purchase a subscription.

Many people are unaware of this, but it is, in fact, illegal to read through someone’s personal messages and emails or listen to their voicemails without consent. If you’re caught, you could be punished by law, so there are better ways to go about it.

Installing a spy app on someone’s device without their consent is also illegal unless they are under 18 and you are their legal guardian.

So, if you want to read through someone’s text messages, we wouldn’t advise doing so unless you’ve established some ground rules with the other person and you get consent to either install the app or read through their personal messages.

How To Ensure The Safe Use Of Spy Apps For Text Messages?

If you decide to proceed with a spy app, there are a few things you can do to ensure the process goes as smoothly and is as safe as possible. For example, only use spy apps from trusted sources like mSpy, or other providers on this list. For a more extensive guide on the best spy apps for text messages, check out this article.

Purchase From Trusted Sources

There are a lot of fake spy apps on the market that promise great things but ultimately do not deliver. Therefore, it is important that you stick to the well-known and well-reviewed spy apps on the market.

If not, you could find yourself forking out a lot of money for an app that either doesn’t work or one that could be harmful to another user’s device.

We’d recommend using mSpy, it’s an established phone spy app that has a ton of premium features that allow you to read the target device users’ messages, listen in on calls and even track their actual location.

App Compatibility

The best spy apps will have apps compatible with a number of different devices and software, like iOS, Android, tablets, and PCs. This is particularly useful nowadays, as people tend to have more than one device in which they communicate, with some phones even syncing up to laptops and tablets.

Therefore, it is important that whichever spy app you decide to use in order to read text messages is compatible with the device you want to spy on.

All of the apps we’ve listed in this article are compatible with both iOS and Android, with the best ones, like mSpy, also working on tablets, such as iPads.

Read The Apps Terms Carefully

We all know that reading terms and conditions is a boring practice, and many people just skip through it and assume all is well. However, we’d recommend you take the time to read about a spy app’s terms before committing.

For example, it’s good to know what the refund policy is, as there’s a chance you might not be satisfied with your purchase and will want a refund. As spy apps are quite expensive, you should ensure that you are happy with everything noted in the terms.

As mentioned previously in this post, there are some serious legal considerations you have to take into account before proceeding with spy apps and using them within their limits is top of that list.

An example of straying outside of legal limits would be stalking, an offense punishable by law, and you should never use a spy app to follow, harass or intimidate someone.

Another good example would be blackmail and gathering evidence on someone in an unlawful manner, such as using a spy app.

Final Thoughts

The best spy apps will easily allow you to read someone’s text messages without them knowing, as well as give you access to important details like live location and call logs.

Whilst this isn’t an entirely free process, there are some decent free demos out there that you can use to see if the service is right for you, with many of the best spy apps even offering 30-day money-back guarantees.

Our top pick is mSpy, an all-in-one spy app that allows you to read text messages, record calls, monitor social media accounts and track the target users’ live location.

There’s a great free demo you can try out before you make the switch to the main app.

Is it possible for someone to read my text messages from another phone?

Can you read a text without someone knowing?

Is there an app that reads text messages for free?

What is the app that reads text messages on another phone?

The post How To Read Text Messages From Another Phone Without Them Knowing For Free appeared first on The Tech Report.

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Best VPN Service: Top 11 Reviewed + Compared for 2024 https://techreport.com/vpn/best-vpn-service/ Wed, 07 Jun 2023 16:05:52 +0000 https://techreport.com/?page_id=3504561 Best VPN Services

With the best VPN service, you’ll have the means to safeguard your online identity while maintaining your privacy — this is undoubtedly more crucial than ever. These apps shield your...

The post Best VPN Service: Top 11 Reviewed + Compared for 2024 appeared first on The Tech Report.

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Best VPN Services

With the best VPN service, you’ll have the means to safeguard your online identity while maintaining your privacy — this is undoubtedly more crucial than ever. These apps shield your internet activities and conceal your location from hackers, your ISP, and government agencies. This makes them a must-have, not only for privacy but for complete online freedom to unblock streaming services and websites blocked in your home country.

Although VPNs may appear complicated, they’re now easier to use than ever. They almost all offer straightforward, powerful apps for a variety of devices, and you can connect to a server anywhere in the world with just one click. Here, we review and compare the market’s top 11 best VPN services you can use for top-notch speeds, security, and unblocking power.

The 11 Best VPN Services Ranked

Below is a quick glance at the top VPNs for 2024, with ExpressVPN coming out on top as it offers staggering speeds due to its Lightway protocol, unrivaled security, and a boatload of servers around the globe. Here are the market’s best picks ranked on factors like server count, speeds, security, and overall value for money:

  1. ExpressVPN — The Best VPN Overall in 2024 Thanks to its Lightning-Fast Speeds, No-Nonsense Approach to Security, and Unrivaled Unblocking Power
  2. NordVPN — An Excellent Option That Combines a Ton Of Cutting-Edge Features and Excellent Server Speeds for Just $3.29/month
  3. IvacyVPN — A Budget-Friendly VPN That Costs a Mere $3.29/month That Can Consistently Unblock a Load of Major Streaming Services
  4. PureVPN — A Reliable Pick With a Strong Feature-to-Price Ratio That Offers Great Value for Money at Just Over $2/month
  5. Surfshark — One of the Best VPNs for Streaming, and it Offers Unlimited Simultaneous Connections for Just $2.30/Month
  6. CyberGhostOne of the Fastest VPNs With a Huge Range of 8,900+ Servers With Many Optimized for Streaming and Torrenting
  7. PrivadoVPN — One of the Best Free VPNs and a Top Choice for Apple Users As it Has a Powerful and User-Friendly iOS App
  8. Strong VPNA Decent Option for Torrenting as P2P Activity is Supported on All of its Servers
  9. AtlasVPN — The Best ‘Freemium’ VPN Plan on the Market, Great for Those On a Budget
  10. IPVanish — A Good Pick for Android Users, and it Offers Great Value for Money by Permitting Unlimited Simultaneous Connections
  11. Norton Secure VPN — A Great Choice for Those Who Want Total Device Protection as it Boasts a Powerful Antivirus

Reviews of the Best VPNs

Now it’s time to take a more detailed look into our top VPNs for 2024, comparing features like security, server speeds, pricing, and much more.

1. ExpressVPN – The Best VPN Overall in 2024

ExpressVPN is our top pick for the best VPN in 2024, thanks to its lightning-fast speeds on its unique Lightway protocol, its excellent security features, and the impressive range of servers on offer. It currently boasts over 3,000+ servers spread across 94+ countries, giving you the ability to easily bypass any geo-locked content.

If you want to do some P2P file sharing while torrenting, ExpressVPN is also an excellent choice for this. The service allows torrenting on all servers, ensuring that you receive your files quickly and securely.

You can also enable the Threat Manager tool to safeguard yourself against malware like viruses. Plus, additional protection is on offer with zero-knowledge architecture, 256-bit encryption, and private DNS and DNS leak protection on each server. All this ensures the safety of your activity and prevents any leaks of your data.

ExpressVPN

Cheapest Plan Free Version Server Count Average Speed Simultaneous Connections Money-Back Guarantee
$6.67/month No 3,000+ servers in 94 countries 480Mbps 5 30-day

Additionally, ExpressVPN makes use of its proprietary TrustedServer technology to guarantee that no data about you or your activities are stored on its RAM-only DNS servers. In a nutshell, ExpressVPN is quick and safe, and a recent upgrade gave iOS a much-needed kill switch.

Easy-to-use apps are also available for all the major operating systems, including Windows, Mac, Android, iOS, and Linux. Plus, Chrome and Firefox browser extensions are available.

The ability to unblock popular streaming sites like Hulu, BBC iPlayer, and Netflix US also works well, and you can easily bypass geo-locked content on any device. Beyond this, it’s one of the best gaming VPNs, too, as it has minimal lag compared to other providers.

Despite the fact that ExpressVPN only allows for the simultaneous use of five devices, you can add more connections by configuring the VPN on your router. Or, you can use the MediaStreamer feature instead, so you can stream content on gadgets that aren’t built to support VPNs.

To make this easier, ExpressVPN features a library of troubleshooting instructions that’ll frequently resolve any issues without the need to speak to an expert, but should you need to, the support staff is also available round-the-clock via email or live chat if you require more help.

Overall, it is one of the more pricey VPNs available, with monthly plans starting at $6.67, but we still think ExpressVPN offers excellent value for the money due to its general performance, feature set, and security protocols. Take advantage of the provider’s 30-day money-back guarantee and try it yourself.

Pros

  • Super-fast performance
  • Independently audited
  • Unblocks most streaming platforms
  • Outstanding 24/7 customer support team
  • Excellent for torrenting

Cons

  • A little expensive

2. NordVPN – An Excellent VPN That Combines A Ton Of Cutting-edge Features

NordVPN comes in a close second place, and this provider just seems to do everything well. It can easily bypass geo-locked content on a host of popular streaming sites, keep you safe online when browsing, and everything in between.

It also practically ensures a fast server wherever you go, with over 5,500 servers in over 59+ countries. Plus, you’ll get to use Nord’s proprietary NordLynx protocol, which is a modified version of WireGuard, to connect to those servers.

nordvpn mac dashboard

Cheapest Plan Free Version Server Count Average Speed Simultaneous Connections Money-back Guarantee
$3.29/month 7-day Free Trial 5,700+ servers in 60 countries 320Mbps 6 30-day

Split tunneling, an efficient kill switch, AES-256 encryption, and even some bonus features like Onion over VPN and Double VPN that are intended to make your online browsing even safer are all included. Threat Protection is another intriguing feature, but while it’s a good addition, specialized tracker blocks do operate more efficiently.

Meshnet, however, is the most intriguing brand-new component of Nord. This creates its own safe network and enables users to connect devices from anywhere in the world using encrypted NordVPN connections. It’s still in the early stages, but this is definitely a feature well worth looking closer at in the future.

However, NordVPN really shines when it comes to streaming, as you can unblock a ton of Netflix regions, as well as iPlayer, Disney+, Amazon Prime, and much more. Also, thanks to the excellent speeds on offer through the Nordlynx protocol, you can enjoy all this new content in crystal-clear HD without fear of lag or buffering.

All of this comes at a very attractive price of just $3.29/month if you opt for an annual plan, which we believe is exceptional value for money. Furthermore, you can try the service completely free for 7 days, and if you like what you see, you can signup for a paid plan hassle-free by taking advantage of the provider’s 30-day money-back guarantee.

Pros

  • Useful 7-day free trial
  • Excellent overall performance
  • Solid, independently audited security features
  • Superb speeds thanks to the Nordlynx protocol
  • Huge range of servers scattered across the world

Cons

  • Weaker performance on iOS devices

3. IvacyVPN – A Budget-Friendly VPN That Can Unblock A Load Of Major Streaming Services

The VPN market has only recently seen the entry of IvacyVPN, but nevertheless, it scores highly on our list, particularly due to its extraordinarily low costs and unblocking skills. Plus, no matter where you’re located, your connection will be very stable as this service offers an incredible 5,700+ servers in 100+ countries around the world.

This means that unblocking geo-locked content has never been easier — it does this well on popular streaming platforms like Netflix, BBC iPlayer, Hulu, and much more. The provider also uses the WireGuard protocol, which contributes to the performance being good.

Strong download and upload speeds allow for easy streaming of HD video, and in the event that WireGuard causes you any problems, you can always switch to OpenVPN and see if that solves the problem.

Ivacy VPN

Cheapest Plan Free Version Server Count Average Speed Simultaneous Connections Money-back Guarantee
$3.29/month 7-day Free Trial 5700+ servers in 60 countries 320Mbps 6 30-day

IvacyVPN excels in terms of security and encryption and employs military-grade encryption, known as the AES 256-bit cipher. To protect against malware and viruses corrupting files, you also get a kill switch, leak prevention, a no-logs policy, a dedicated IP, and a secure download option.

For all popular platforms, including Windows, Mac, Android, and iOS, there are intuitive and powerful apps available, and IvacyVPN takes a step further by offering compatibility for Android TV and Amazon Fire devices in addition to Chrome, Firefox, and Edge browser extensions.

In fact, due to the Android TV support and powerful app, IvacyVPN is one of the top Android VPNs. That said, perhaps the biggest selling point of all, though, is the price. If you signup for a 5-year plan, you’ll pay just $1/month.

Features like Port Forwarding or a Dedicated IP come as add-ons, but these are also affordable at just $1 & $1.99/month, respectively. Not only is this truly brilliant value for money, but it blows a lot of other competitors out of the water, and you even get access to a 30-day money-back guarantee for peace of mind.

And if you experience any issues, there’s a ticket-based email system and a live chat function available around-the-clock, plus useful instructions and FAQs.

Pros

  • Incredibly cheap if you signup for a long-term plan
  • Unblocks a ton of streaming services like Netflix and Disney+
  • Massive server fleet for a guaranteed good connection
  • Decent speeds thanks to the WireGuard protocol

Cons

  • No app for Linux users
  • Iffy kill switch when using WireGuard

4. PureVPN – A Reliable VPN With a Strong Feature-to-Price Ratio

PureVPN provides strong encryption protocols alongside its fast VPN servers, which allows for uninterrupted torrenting and stress-free viewing, two areas where this provider truly excels.

Over 6,500 servers, spread across 78+ countries, are available through the PureVPN network, which means that there’s a good chance you’ll have decent speeds wherever you’re trying to connect from. And because this service uses the WireGuard protocol, streaming performs incredibly well.

The large server count also makes bypassing restricted content a breeze, and this is another area where the provider is outstanding. You can unblock tons of popular streaming sites like Netflix, Amazon Prime Video, and HBO Max and enjoy as much HD content as you like without any annoying buffering.

Pure VPN | best vpns

Cheapest Plan Free Version Server Count Average Speed Simultaneous Connections Money-back Guarantee
$2.08/month No 6500+ servers in 78 countries 210Mbps 10 31-day

Since it was the first VPN with an Always-On-Audit, it earned its reputation as a service that you can count on to ensure your online data is always protected. To do this, it also includes crucial security features, such as a dependable kill switch, DNS leak protection, Split-tunneling, and Port forwarding.

PureKeep, a password organizer that comes with your membership, is one of the special features that PureVPN also has up its sleeve. This lets you store your bank information, passwords, and any other private information you want to remain hidden securely in a vault as with all the best password manager tools.

All of this costs just $2.08/month, which is excellent value for money, especially as you can also benefit from the provider’s generous 31-day money-back guarantee for a stress-free purchase.

Pros

  • Great for torrenting
  • Budget-friendly plans
  • A generous 31-day money-back guarantee
  • Includes a password manager add-on
  • AES-256 encryption for the best security

Cons

  • Linux apps are quite poor
  • Not all features work with WireGuard

5. Surfshark — One of the Best VPNs for Streaming With Unlimited Simultaneous Connections

Surfshark is another top reliable VPN service that allows unlimited simultaneous connections on one subscription and offers excellent speeds, all for a ridiculously affordable price. This makes it top choice for families and businesses looking to cover ample devices without breaking the bank.

This provider has a solid 3,200+ servers in over 60 countries around the world, so wherever you are, you’ll have a reliable server speed, especially as it uses the WireGuard protocol, so you can enjoy lag-free streaming. It’s also able to unblock a ton of streaming services like ITV Hub, Peacock TV, and various Netflix libraries, which is a plus.

Surfshark VPN

Cheapest Plan Free Version Server Count Average Speed Simultaneous Connections Money-back Guarantee
$2.30/month No 6500+ servers in 78 countries 210Mbps Unlimited 31-day

There are a number of strong security features as well, including defense against DNS, IPv6, and WebRTC breaches, plus 256-bit AES encryption and an automatic kill switch (which instantly halts all internet traffic when you lose connectivity).

Additionally, users can allow specific apps to completely skip the VPN or automatically block advertisements and malware. Surfshark also doesn’t record any personally identifiable information, making it impossible to link your online activity to you.

Beyond unlimited connections, Surfshark is compatible with all major devices like Windows, MacOS, Android, iOS, and Linux. So whatever your gadget, Surfshark has got you covered.

This wide range of features and impressive speed comes at a price of just $2.30/month, which is excellent value for money, with Surfshark being one of the best cheap VPNs on the market. You can also try it free for 7 days or take advantage of the 30-day money-back guarantee on offer when you signup for a paid plan.

Pros

  • Unlimited simultaneous connections
  • Fast WireGuard protocol performance, ideal for streaming
  • Unblocks most streaming platforms
  • Useful 7-day free trial

Cons

  • No split tunneling on iOS devices
  • Iffy performance on Apple devices

6. CyberGhost – Robust VPN With a Huge Range of Servers With Many Optimized for Streaming and Torrenting

Another established brand in the best VPN industry is CyberGhost. Over the years, it’s earned a reputation for anonymity, streaming efficiency, and torrent-friendly servers. In fact, it undoubtedly offers one of the largest server networks in the sector, with over 8,900 servers distributed throughout 91 countries.

The apps for CyberGhost also had a redesign last year, so the user experience is significantly more streamlined and contemporary. However, you may only install it on seven different devices at a time. After that, you can no longer log out of one device and use another, as practically all other providers do.

CyberGhost VPN Disney+

Cheapest Plan Free Version Server Count Average Speed Simultaneous Connections Money-back Guarantee
$2.19/month No 8,900+ servers in 91 countries 460Mbps 7 45-day

To keep you safe online, CyberGhost adheres to a strict no-logs policy. You also get leak protection, a kill switch, and split tunneling for further security when you’re browsing the internet or doing anything else.

Moreover, the dedicated streaming capabilities on offer, such as Netflix and iPlayer-optimized servers, are incredibly helpful. It’s more than capable of unblocking popular streaming services, including BBC iPlayer, Netflix,  and Amazon Prime. Sadly, it struggled to consistently unblock Disney+, which could be down to trial and error.

All of this comes in at an affordable monthly package costing $2.19/mo. This provider also offers a very generous 45-day money-back guarantee for 6-month plans or a 14-day money-back guarantee for those who sign up for a monthly subscription.

Pros

  • Huge range of servers, so you can guarantee a good connection
  • Very generous 45-day money-back guarantee for a hassle-free purchase
  • Streaming-optimized servers are excellent
  • Accepts popular cryptocurrencies as payment, including Bitcoin

Cons

  • A few issues with WireGuard on Mac devices
  • Performance on Apple products, in general, is slightly worse

7. PrivadoVPN – One of the Best Free VPNs

Privado is a VPN service based in Switzerland that places a lot of emphasis on security and privacy, and as a result, it has a great privacy policy. It also supports the highly secure VPN protocols OpenVPN, IKEv2, and WireGuard, respectively.

The network has ‘hundreds of servers’ spread out over 46 different nations — this is by no means the best, but it offers enough to ensure stable connections on most of its servers. Plus, it can unblock the most popular streaming services on the paid plan, including the likes of Amazon Prime Video, BBC iPlayer, and Channel 4.

Privado VPN

Cheapest Plan Free Version Server Count Average Speed Simultaneous Connections Money-back Guarantee
$4.99/month No 328+ servers in 48 countries 400Mbps 10 30-day

Windows, Mac, Android, iOS, Fire TV, and Android TV are all covered by a broad variety of apps, and you’re less likely to encounter device restrictions thanks to support for up to 10 simultaneous connections, even though competing services like AtlasVPN, IPVanish, Surfshark, and others have no restrictions at all.

That said, plans from Privado begin with a strong free alternative, which is rare. This offers twelve locations to choose from and a monthly data cap of 10GB, but it only covers one device and does away with SOCKS5 (although P2P is still supported). It’s a solid free plan that outperforms many well-known brands.

The monthly subscription will set you back $4.99 and provides you with unlimited data, the SOCKS5 proxy, and support for up to 10 simultaneous connections. We think other providers on this list offer better value for money, but the free plan alone is a real selling point, plus there’s a decent 30-day guarantee on offer too.

Pros

  • Market-leading free plan with a generous 10GB data allowance
  • Decent speeds are on offer thanks to WireGuard
  • Unblocks a ton of streaming sites like Netflix, Disney+, and Amazon Prime Video
  • Excellent and effective kill switch on all devices
  • The best free VPN

Cons

  • Average OpenVPN speeds
  • No WireGuard support on Mac devices

8. StrongVPN – A Decent Option for Torrenting as P2P Activity is Supported on All of its Servers

StrongVPN started providing VPN services in 2005, and as of now, it has over 950 VPN servers scattered over 59 cities and 30 countries. This wide variety of locations helps to make up for the shortfall. It offers reliable speeds, good security measures and can even unblock a few streaming services like Netflix and Amazon Prime Video.

A stringent code of privacy is followed by StrongVPN, meaning your IP address, bandwidth use, timestamps, or online activities aren’t recorded by the provider. In fact, the only personal data the VPN asks for when you establish an account is your email address and your payment details.

The VPN service is also an excellent option for novices because of its strong no-logs policy and user-friendly native apps. It provides a kill switch and a stealth protocol for Android, Amazon Fire TV, and all PC users. Unfortunately, neither the kill switch nor port forwarding is accessible on mobile devices.

strongvpn iphone interface

Cheapest Plan Free Version Server Count Average Speed Simultaneous Connections Money-back Guarantee
$3.66/month No 950+ servers in 42 countries 100Mbps 12 30-days

One thing this provider does offer that many others struggle with is fast speeds outside of Europe and the Americas, with the WireGuard protocol allowing for a pleasant experience. This means you can watch as much HD content as your heart desires without any fear of being interrupted by lag or buffering.

It also offers a strong torrenting experience with P2P support, and we found no issues here. With the use of StrongVPN’s kill switch, your real IP address won’t be revealed, and your online traffic won’t be diverted through any third-party servers because it employs AES-256 encryption and runs its own DNS servers.

At $3.66/month, this is a relatively fair price, although we believe you get more value for money with other providers on this list. There is a useful 30-day money-back guarantee thrown in for good measure.

Pros

  • Torrenting & P2P allowed on all servers
  • No-logs & no IP, DNS, or WebRTC leaks
  • Up to 12 simultaneous connections on one subscription
  • Unblocks a few streaming sites like Netflix and Hulu

Cons

  • A pretty small network of servers
  • Based in the USA, famed for being unfriendly regarding privacy

AtlasVPN is an excellent choice for people who want to get around streaming services geo-locks without paying a penny. This is thanks to the provider’s excellent freemium plan that offers some generous features. It also has leak protection and a no-logs rule to keep you safe online.

The provider offers 750+ servers in 37+ countries, so you should be able to bypass geo-locked content easily enough. Both the free version and the paid plans have access to various Netflix libraries and can even unblock Hulu, HBO Max, and much more.

atlasvpn dashboard

Cheapest Plan Free Version Server Count Average Speed Simultaneous Connections Money-back Guarantee
$2.05/month No 1000+ servers in 42 countries 210Mbps Unlimited 30-days

Also, thanks to the WireGuard protocol, you can stream HD content from anywhere in the world, and some servers are dedicated to streaming for the very best watching experience.

The ‘freemium’ plan is an area where Atlas truly excels, with a generous 10GB data allowance, unlimited simultaneous connections, and a server fleet similar to the premium offering. It really is a market leader when it comes to a free VPN service, and it doesn’t contain any ads or limit your overall speeds.

Currently, Windows, Android, Linux, macOS, iOS, Amazon Firestick, and Android TV devices are compatible with AtlasVPN, so you stream Australian Netflix from any of those devices.

The provider makes up for the fact that it can’t be configured on a router by allowing an infinite number of connections at once, and besides the phenomenal free plan for those who don’t want to spend their hard-earned money, the paid plan is exceptionally cost-effective at just $2.05/mo.

Pros

  • Great freemium plan
  • Unlimited connections to enjoy it across all your devices
  • Unblocks most streaming sites like Netflix, BBC iPlayer, and Hulu
  • Decent range of streaming servers for the best viewing experience

Cons

  • Doesn’t work with routers
  • A smaller fleet of servers than many other providers on this list

10. IPVanish – A Good VPN for Android Users Thanks to its Excellent Android App Performance

IPVanish is a feature-rich and user-friendly VPN that unlocks pretty much any geo-locked content you can think of. It has a huge range of servers based in countries all over the world, making it a reliable VPN for a range of uses.

With 2,000+ servers spread over 75+ locations, it has a respectable-sized network — even though many of the best VPN services offer more. With this fleet of servers, you can expect decent speeds, as the company uses the WireGuard protocol.

This means a joyous streaming experience is more than possible, and accessing the likes of Netflix, BBC iPlayer, or any other geo-locked content is a breeze, and you can do so without being interrupted by painstaking buggering.

ipvanish VPN

Cheapest Plan Free Version Server Count Average Speed Simultaneous Connections Money-back Guarantee
$3.99/month 7-day Free Trial 2,000+ servers in 75 countries 150Mbps Unlimited 30-days

You’re free to install, configure, and set up as many devices as you like with just one subscription, as IPVanish has no set limits on the number of simultaneous connections you can have at one time.

It has always had a lot of good security options, too, including leak protection and a reliable kill switch. But it has bumped up overall confidence in its privacy ability thanks to an independent audit of its anti-logging policy

A variety of apps are available for Windows, Mac, Android, iOS, and even Amazon Fire TV. In addition, IPVanish offers numerous setup instructions for routers, Linux, Chromebooks, and other platforms.

Prices start from around $3.99 per month if you commit to an annual plan, which is just below average. The value for money here is okay, but again, there is better out there with the other providers higher up on this list.

Pros

  • Has an independently audited no-logs policy
  • The annual plan includes an advanced antivirus
  • Unblocks most streaming services like HBO Max and Paramount+
  • Allows for unlimited simultaneous connections

Cons

  • Above-average renewal prices
  • Customer service was slow and not as good as it could be

11. Norton Secure VPN — A Great Choice for Those Who Want Total Device Protection

Although Norton Secure VPN is exceptionally quick and performs admirably as a straightforward add-on to the Norton 360 security suite — one of the best antivirus solutions on the market — it, unfortunately, lacks the strength, functionality, and unblocking capabilities of other top VPN solutions.

That said, nowadays, it seems like all the major security providers have a VPN, but Norton Secure VPN is better than others because it’s simple to use, has more capabilities than you might anticipate, and is surprisingly reasonable considering security is its core focus.

However, only 29 nations are available in Norton’s network, and there are no city-level options, and although there are servers in Australia, Brazil, Hong Kong, Israel, Japan, Mexico, New Zealand, Singapore, and South Africa, the majority are in Europe and North America.

Norton VPN

Cheapest Plan Free Version Server Count Average Speed Simultaneous Connections Money-back Guarantee
$3.33/month 45-day Free Trial 2000+ servers in 29 countries 193Mbps 10 45-days

For Windows, Mac, Android, and iOS, there are apps. Depending on your plan, you can connect one, five, or ten devices at the same time. Plus, P2P is supported, though not everywhere, and the Norton software will connect to the closest torrent-friendly area if you select the ‘Torrent-Optimized Region’ option.

Starting at just $4.99 per month for a single device license, Norton Secure VPN costs are very affordable considering that the VPN comes alongside Norton 360 Deluxe (for up to 5 PCs, Macs, smartphones, or tablets), parental controls, a password manager, 50GB of cloud backup space, and a firewall for PCs and Macs.

Although it’s not the best option for streaming, it’s a phenomenal solution if you’re after top-notch security — both online and offline.

Pros

  • Surprisingly fast server speeds
  • Incredibly easy to use on all apps and desktop
  • Good value when you buy with Norton 360 security suite
  • Unblocks most popular streaming services, including Netflix, Amazon, and Hulu

Cons

  • Small server network compared to most providers
  • Renewal prices are pretty high

Compare the Market’s Top VPN Services

Now that you’ve seen our top 11 best VPNs in 2024, we’ve made life even simpler for you to compare all of the important features. Below is a table that highlights key factors like the server count, average speed, and more:

VPN Cheapest Plan Free Version Server Count Average Speeds Simultaneous Connections Money-back Guarantee
ExpressVPN $6.67/month No 3,000+ servers in 94+ countries 480Mbps 5 30-day
NordVPN $3.29/month 7-day Free Trial 5700+ servers in 60 countries 320Mbps 6 30-day
IvacyVPN $3.29/month 7-day Free Trial 5700+ servers in 60 countries 320Mbps 6 30-day
PureVPN $2.08/month No 6500+ servers in 78 countries 210Mbps 10 31-day
Surfshark $2.30/month No 6500+ servers in 78 countries 210Mbps Unlimited 30-day
CyberGhost $2.19/month No 8900+ servers in 91 countries 460Mbps 7 45-day
PrivadoVPN $4.99/month No 328+ servers in 48 countries 400Mbps 10 30-day
StrongVPN $3.66/month No 950+ servers in 42 countries 100Mbps 12 30-day
AtlasVPN $2.05/month No 1000+ servers in 42 countries 210Mbps Unlimited 30-day
IPVanish $3.99/month 7-day Free Trial 2000+ servers in 75 countries 150Mbps Unlimited 30-day
Norton Secure VPN $3.33/month 45-day Free Trial 2000+ servers in 29 countries 193Mbps 10 45-day

How Do VPNs Work?

A Virtual Private Network (VPN) passes your traffic through a VPN server before transmitting your internet traffic—such as your online searches, uploads, and downloads—directly to your Internet Service Provider (ISP). In this manner, your data looks to have originated from the VPN server and not your personal device when it is finally delivered to the internet.

Without a VPN, the whole web can see your IP address, a distinctive number exclusive to your home network. By serving as an intermediary and rerouting your traffic, a VPN hides your IP address. As you connect, it also adds encryption or a tunnel around your identity to prevent your ISP, governments, hackers, and anybody else from watching how you use the internet.

Why Do I Need a VPN?

There are a number of reasons why you need a VPN, for example, if you want to access public Wi-Fi safely, without fears that hackers or snoopers might steal your data, a VPN prevents this. Below are some of the other reasons why implementing a VPN into your daily life is beneficial:

Stay Safe on Public Wi-Fi

Public Wi-Fi is useful, but security suffers as a result, as someone might be watching your online behavior while you’re checking emails at a nearby coffee shop or mindlessly scrolling through social media at the airport.

By disguising your browser history, financial information, account passwords, and more from malicious online strangers when you’re using other networks, a VPN secures your data.

Stay Hidden From Your ISP

You’re less likely to be attacked by strangers at home than you are when using public Wi-Fi, but your data is still in danger. All of your internet data is accessible to your ISP or internet service provider, whoever it might be, or any other business you pay each month for Wi-Fi. When, where, and how you browse are all visible to your ISP.

Even if you’re using the “incognito” or “private” browsing mode, this data can still be gathered and sold to marketers and could be harmful if it falls into the wrong hands in the event of a data breach. Your IP address can be hidden from your own ISP with the aid of a VPN.

Accessing New Content

One of the most common uses of a VPN is to bypass geo-locked content on streaming sites and other platforms. For example, a certain TV show or movie might be on UK Netflix but not in your home country’s library.  So, you could use a VPN to mimic your location to one in the UK, thus unlocking a whole new library of content.

ExpressVPN works particularly well with bypassing geo-locked content, as it has a ton of servers all over the world powered by the company’s own Lightway protocol, so you can watch as much HD content as you like.

Work Remotely More Securely

The data encryption capabilities of a VPN are one key advantage, and you can protect sensitive data via encryption, which is the process of putting data into a coded format that obscures its meaning.

If you’re an individual considering purchasing a VPN for your business, one advantage is that employees can access your office network and view confidential documents on their personal devices while they’re not at work. This will help to keep sensitive information protected off-site.

Save Some Cash

A VPN’s ability to disguise your location can help you save money if you’re willing to do some research. Airlines and subscription services are just two examples of several business types that charge various fees for the same amenities or goods. You can make significant savings if you change your location to where services are provided at a lower cost.

For example, YouTube Premium is much cheaper in Argentina than, say, the US. So if you regularly use YouTube and want to save some money on your monthly subscription, a VPN can be a great asset.

Are Free VPNs Worth it?

We wouldn’t recommend using a free VPN for a number of reasons, for example, they’re often littered with annoying pop-up ads and scams that can potentially give your device malware. They also often have data caps, so you wouldn’t be able to watch an episode of your favorite show or a full movie anyway.

Plus, they have far fewer servers than premium plans, and this leads to them being blocked quite quickly. Some claims even suggest that free VPN providers have sold customer data to third-party organizations and advertisers – the complete opposite of what they claim to do.

Of course, the free versions recommended here are reputable and offer the same security as their premium counterparts, however, they still come with fewer servers, lackluster unblocking power, and data caps.

Instead, we recommend using a premium provider like ExpressVPN, as the plans start from just $6.67/month, and it guarantees you lightning-fast speeds, excellent security and encryption, and so much more.

How Do I Choose a VPN Provider? Key Factors to Consider

There’s a lot to consider before signing up for a plan with a VPN provider, and a lot of it depends on what you’ll use it for. To help you, there are some important factors you should consider listed below:

Server Count and Speed

Nothing is more annoying than a slow internet connection, especially when downloading or streaming videos. Although a VPN will inevitably cause your connection to slow down, some providers permit a very slight change in speed so that you can still have quick, dependable connectivity.

ExpressVPN Servers

You ideally want the WireGuard protocol as a minimum, although ExpressVPNs Lightway protocol and NordVPNs NordLynx are incredibly reliable and speedy alternatives. Also, you want to make sure the provider has servers all over the world.

The more servers there are closer to you, the better your connection will be, and it also makes unblocking geo-locked content easier in more countries, which is a win-win.

Security and Encryption

The end result of a VPN is to offer a secure connection with less risk. This is why features like OpenVPN capability and AES-256 encryption should be on your radar. Additionally, you might want to check for VPNs that offer anonymous payment methods and use open-source software. An audited no-logs policy is also a huge plus.

User-Friendliness

You probably have a hectic schedule and don’t have the time to spend learning about how to use a VPN. The good news is that user-friendly VPN interfaces are widely available with most of the top providers. Even if you’re not tech-savvy, you should be able to use them without any trouble.

Device Compatability

The VPN you select should support all of your devices if you use a lot of them. It should provide excellent connectivity on your PC, laptop, and smartphone. Limiting oneself to a VPN that just supports one device is a mistake, given the variety of situations in which VPN access will be useful.

Support Team

Customer assistance is crucial unless you’re tech-savvy or have in-depth knowledge of VPNs. Find a VPN that provides helpful information that can assist you if you get stuck, if at all possible. Excellent assistance is indicated by a comprehensive, frequently asked questions (FAQs) section, live chat, and committed personnel.

Price

A top VPN shouldn’t break the bank, and it’s important to look at the features you’re getting and make sure the price aligns. All of the providers on this list offer good value for money, as they have strong security, fast speeds, and so on. Be wary of free VPNs, as they can often cause worse than they do good.

best vpn price

Conclusion | What is the Best VPN Service to Use in 2024?

There are some excellent VPNs on this list, all with strong features and reliable household names, but only one can come out on top. Our top pick is ExpressVPN, as it has some of the fastest speeds of any VPN service out there, mainly thanks to the company’s own Lightway protocol.

It also offers military-grade encryption, user-friendly apps for all popular devices, and can unblock pretty much every streaming service you can throw at it. Try ExpressVPN free for 30 days thanks to the provider’s generous money-back guarantee, and if you’re happy with the service, it costs just $6.67/month thereafter.

VPN FAQ

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7 Best 100% Free VPNs for Firestick Compared for 2024 https://techreport.com/vpn/best-free-vpns-for-firestick/ Tue, 06 Jun 2023 15:42:26 +0000 https://techreport.com/?page_id=3504331 Best Free VPNs for Firestick

More people than ever are using VPNs, largely due to the increased worry over online privacy. It’s easy to think that any VPN is preferable to none at all, but...

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Best Free VPNs for Firestick

More people than ever are using VPNs, largely due to the increased worry over online privacy. It’s easy to think that any VPN is preferable to none at all, but this is simply untrue; numerous free VPNs lack the speed and adaptability needed for routine tasks like streaming. Even worse, these service providers frequently purposefully leave their logging rules unclear, putting you in doubt about how safe your actions actually are.

That’s not to suggest that all free VPNs are bad, you just need to do your research and make an educated choice. That’s where we step in — We’ve chosen 7 providers that are more than capable of assisting you in safely streaming on your Amazon Firestick. The list of our top free VPNs for Firestick is summarized below, but scroll down for a closer examination of each.

The Best Free VPNs for Fire Stick Ranked

  1. ProtonVPN — The Best Free VPN for Fire Stick Overall Due to its Unlimited Data and Fast Speeds
  2. PrivadoVPN — A Reliable Free VPN That Can Unblock a Host of Different Streaming Sites
  3. AtlasVPN — One of the Fastest 100% Free VPNs With WireGuard Support
  4. Avira Phantom — A Decent VPN That Offers Unlimited Simultaneous Connections, So You Can Cover All of Your Devices
  5. TunnelBear — An Excellent Free VPN With a Large Fleet of Servers for Accessing Content From Anywhere
  6. Hide.me — A Solid Free Service With Apps for All Major Devices, Including Browser Extensions
  7. Windscribe — One of the Best Free Solutions for Mobile Users Thanks to its Powerful Apps

Reviews of the Top Free Firestick VPNs

Now let’s take a deeper look into these 7 excellent free VPNs for the Amazon Firestick so that you can make an informed decision on the best one for you.

1. ProtonVPN – The Best Free VPN for Fire Stick

ProtonVPN is truly a unique free VPN provider as it gives you a free plan with unlimited bandwidth, something that very few can compete with. It’s also based in Switzerland, outside of the Five Eyes Alliance.

Even though there are only three server locations available (the US, the Netherlands, and Japan) and only one device can be connected at once, this package is still incredibly good, given the lack of cost.

That said, being the top free choice for Fire Stick users, you won’t have any difficulties streaming either, thanks to the VPNs uncanny ability to bypass geo-locked content and the decent speeds on offer with the WireGuard protocol.

ProtonVPN Free Fire Stick VPN

Number of Servers Average Speed Data Allowance Services Unblocked
23 Servers in 3 Countries 200Mbps Unlimited Netflix, YouTube, BBC iPlayer, Channel 4

Both the paid version and free plan constantly score highly on speed tests, and it’s proven to be more than capable of handling HD content without any annoying lag or buffering. Plus, you should be able to bypass some geo-locked content in the US, Netherlands, and Japan using the small fleet of servers available to you.

Numerous devices are compatible with ProtonVPN, regardless of the operating system, so you can install it on Mac, Linux, and PCs, as well as Android or Apple devices. ProtonVPN’s free edition does, however, only allow for one connected device at once.

All of this VPN’s security measures are accessible to free users without any restrictions, including a kill switch, 256-bit encryption, DNS and IPv6 leak protection, NetShield, and an ad, malware, and tracker-blocker. Also, ProtonVPN adheres to a strict no-logs policy for further user protection.

However, if you’re looking to torrent, then you can’t do this on Proton’s free VPN server. For this, you’ll need to signup for a paid plan. It’s also worth noting that there is no ProtonVPN app for the Fire Stick, so you’ll need to side-load this in order for it to work.

Overall, ProtonVPN is undoubtedly the best free solution for Fire Stick users – it offers solid speeds, good security, unlimited bandwidth, and reliable streaming, all for nothing.

Pros

  • Offers unlimited data for free
  • Excellent speeds for streaming
  • A reliable and secure kill switch
  • Excellent user-friendly apps for most major devices
  • Based in Switzerland, which has strong user-focused privacy laws
  • One of the top Netflix VPNs

Cons

  • No P2P support
  • The free version struggles to unblock a lot of steaming services

2. PrivadoVPN – A Reliable Free VPN That Can Unblock a Host of Different Streaming Sites

PrivadoVPN is a relatively new provider in the VPN market with an HQ in Switzerland, but don’t be fooled by that. Its free VPN service is among the best, and despite a few minor flaws and restrictions, we think it’s worth checking out.

With P2P-friendly servers available in nine countries around the world, including France, Mexico, and the US, there are many options to choose from. Additionally, PrivadoVPN Free allows you to unblock TV streaming services like Netflix, Disney Plus, and Amazon Prime, a feature typically only found in premium plans.

PrivadoVPN Best Free Fire Stick VPN

Number of Servers Average Speed Data Allowance Services Unblocked
9 Servers in 3 Countries 200Mbps 10GB Netflix, Disney Plus, Amazon Prime

Each month, PrivadoVPN Free offers 10GB of encrypted internet access, which lets you watch 20 hours of television or browse the internet, or work for around 120 hours. When you reach this cap, you won’t be completely disconnected; however, you’ll only be able to connect to a single Dutch server at substantially slower speeds.

PrivadoVPN also provides its users with multiple levels of security. It doesn’t track or save any of your internet activities because it adheres to a rigorous no-log policy. Any VPN service must have this feature because it ensures that no one, not even the provider, can access the information you browse with.

It includes security features frequently missing from other free services. This includes a kill switch, split tunneling, and support for the WireGuard and OpenVPN protocols, making your information impossible to trace or decipher should it be intercepted.

However, contrary to some other providers, PrivadoVPN’s no-log policy hasn’t yet undergone an independent audit as of the time of writing. Beyond this, apps are available on all major platforms, like Mac, Windows, Android, and iOS, but sadly, there’s no Linux support, which should only be an issue for a minority group.

Pros

  • A decent set of premium features like a kill switch and leak protection
  • Unblocks US Netflix, Disney Plus, Amazon Prime Video, Player
  • 10GB of data every 30 days, more than enough to stream on a Fire Stick
  • User-friendly apps that are perfect for first-time users
  • The best free VPN for Android

Cons

  • Inconsistent unblocking power on the free plan

3. AtlasVPN – One of the Fastest 100% Free VPNs With WireGuard Support

AtlasVPN is a strong contender and a much-loved provider, popular with those who want to watch geo-locked content without paying a dime. This is due to the great, feature-rich freemium plan offered by the supplier, alongside an excellent premium version.

You should have no trouble getting around geo-restricted content because the service has 750+ servers spread over 37+ countries, with ample amounts in Italy, the UK, or Japan. You don’t need to pay anything to watch your favorite shows either, as these servers are available on both the free version and the subscription plans.

atlasvpn dashboard

Number of Servers Average Speed Data Allowance Services Unblocked
3 Servers in 2 Countries 200Mbps 10GB Netflix, BBC iPlayer, YouTube

Additionally, you can stream HD content from anywhere in the world with the help of the WireGuard protocol, which allows for a buffer-free streaming experience. For optimum performance, we’d suggest choosing one of the servers specifically designed for streaming.

With the servers on offer, you can easily unblock some of the top streaming services, like BBC iPlayer, Netflix, and YouTube. And there are also decent user-friendly apps for pretty much all major devices, including Android, iOS, Windows, and Mac.

In terms of security and encryption, AtlasVPN currently uses the AES-256 cipher, which is currently the industry standard for data protection and is employed by many governmental and financial institutions. In order to provide next-generation security, they’ve also deployed the ChaCha20 cipher with the Poly1305 authenticator.

The free plan stands out, however, with a paid account, you can have unlimited simultaneous connections, so you and the family can all enjoy AtlasVPN with one affordable subscription, which is a rarity with most premium VPNs. 

Pros

  • Unlimited simultaneous connections, so you can cover all your devices
  • Unblocks most streaming sites, including Netflix and BBC iPlayer
  • Generous 10GB data cap every 30 days
  • Useful streaming servers for an excellent streaming experience

Cons

  • Not compatible with routers

4. Avira Phantom – A Decent VPN That Offers Unlimited Simultaneous Connections

Avira Phantom promises to turn you into an ‘online phantom’ with its all-in-one VPN solution, and it does a pretty decent job of doing so. It has a user-friendly interface, offers decent speeds, and can unblock a couple of streaming services on its free plan.

Despite having servers in just 33 countries, the overall server speeds on offer are stable, and they’re more than capable of streaming your favorite movies and shows in HD. On that note, it’s more than adept at unblocking popular streaming sites, including Hulu, Netflix, and Amazon Prime Video, making it a decent choice for Fire Stick users.

Avira Dashboard

Number of Servers Average Speed Data Allowance Services Unblocked
47 Servers in 33 Countries 73Mbps 500MB Netflix, YouTube, Hulu, Amazon Prime

Some of the most well-known operating systems, including Windows, macOS, Android, and iOS, are covered by Avira Phantom VPN, which also includes a Chrome plugin. Unfortunately, Linux-based routers, media streamers, and other hardware aren’t supported.

Avira’s VPN can also be used on an unlimited number of devices with a single subscription, although using it on devices that don’t support VPN apps natively is difficult due to the lack of router compatibility and a Smart DNS solution.

As a renowned antivirus, to keep you safe, Avira Phantom uses top-notch DNS and IPv6 Leak Protection and AES-256 Encryption, which is known for being unbreakable and incredibly secure.

Although this free VPN is famed for its torrenting, you won’t be able to download too much, as there’s a pretty minute 500MB data cap you need to adhere to on the free plan. Because of this, we’d recommend trying it risk-free and upgrading if you’re happy with the service.

Pros

  • No payment information is needed on the signup
  • User-friendly apps for most devices
  • Unlimited simultaneous connections
  • Decent for streaming

Cons

  • No WireGuard protocol, so speeds are slower
  • Only offers a 500MB data allowance

5. TunnelBear — An Excellent Free VPN With A Large Fleet of Servers For Accessing Different Content

Tunnelbear gets the basic principles of a VPN spot on. It’s easy to use, offers decent speeds, and can unblock Netflix in the US, although this can be temperamental. That said, the major limitation is the tiny 500 MB monthly data cap that can only be increased if you tweet about the company.

On a more positive note, Tunnelbear is available in 48 countries and has over 3000+ servers and free users get practically the same access to all these servers as a paid member would — which we think is pretty great.

Its speeds are decent too, and it has zero problems streaming content or downloading files from one of its many servers — but if you’re a free user, we’d recommend avoiding downloads, given the small 500MB data cap you’re slapped with.

Tunnel Bear

Number of Servers Average Speed Data Allowance Services Unblocked
500+ Servers in 23 Countries 55Mbps 500MB Netflix (US), BBC iPlayer, YouTube

Tunnelbear does also allow you to access streaming platforms such as BBC iPlayer, YouTube, and the US Netflix (sometimes), but no other major services are available. With the smaller data allowance, you should still be able to finish a film or a few episodes of your favorite show on your Fire Stick.

So while the basics are all ticked off, that data limit is making it hard to recommend it above the other free providers. You can get access to the US Netflix, which is a plus, but reports recently suggest that this is often down to trial and error.

The apps are pretty simple to use and navigate, and they’re available on most major devices, although, as Tunnelbear doesn’t support router configuration, and there’s no app for the Fire Stick, you’ll have to install it via the Downloader app.

Additionally, TunnelBear includes a feature for Windows, Mac, and Android called VigilantBear, which functions something like a kill switch by cutting off your connection to safeguard your sensitive data. This is intended to identify IPv6 and DNS leaks to protect your data in the event of a breach.

Pros

  • Adheres to a strict no-logs policy
  • Decent speeds on the servers
  • Offers premium security features on the free plan
  • Unlimited device connections

Cons

  • No refunds or money-back guarantee
  • Customer support is pretty poor

6. Hide.me — A Solid Free VPN With Apps for All Major Devices and Browser Extensions

Hide.me is an experienced provider in the VPN space that offers a decent free plan, as well as a good paid option. It has a generous data cap and even unblocks some streaming sites, making it a good free VPN for Fire Stick.

The free plan limits your data usage to 10GB per month, but that’s still better than most companies (some on this list only offer 500MB) and this will be enough to keep you safe for several hours of browsing or streaming.

However, the free plan only allows you access to five locations: the East and West coasts of the US, Canada, Germany, and the Netherlands, whereas paid clients receive access to 70 locations. Not bad, but not as many as some of the other providers we’ve reviewed.

Hide.me VPN User interface

Number of Servers Average Speed Data Allowance Services Unblocked
Not disclosed 19Mbps 10GB YouTube

There’s also a good selection of apps, including Chrome and Firefox browser extensions and clients for Windows, Mac, Android, iOS, and Linux. Although Hide.me can be installed on as many devices as you wish, the free plan only allows for the connection of one device at a time.

On the features front, we start with some bad news: The quick WireGuard protocol is no longer supported in Hide.me’s free plan. However, IKEv2, OpenVPN, SoftEther, SSTP, and other protocols are still available, but none of them can equal the speed of WireGuard.

Beyond this, the fact that Hide.me’s free package excludes its streaming-optimized servers is a clear indication that you shouldn’t get your hopes up for Netflix. Tests confirmed this, with the service failing to unblock US or Canadian Netflix, Amazon Prime, or Disney +.

Pros

  • Generous 10GB data allowance
  • P2P support for a great torrenting experience
  • Excellent mobile apps
  • Superb customer support

Cons

  • No WireGuard, so below-average speeds
  • Struggles to unblock most streaming sites

7. Windscribe — One of the Best Free Options Due to its Generous 10GB Data Cap

Windscribe offers users a very generous 10GB monthly data allowance with its free plan, which is pretty good when compared with most other free VPN providers. The speeds aren’t what you’d get with a premium service, but with unlimited connections and Netflix unblocking possibilities — there’s a lot to like here.

Beyond this, there are a few benefits that we found helpful in using Windscribe Free, including a DNS blocker. This function’s main usage is to block adverts, trackers, and even viruses, but it also contains internet filtering to block unwanted content, such as adult websites and social networks.

windscribe vpn main page

Number of Servers Average Speed Data Allowance Services Unblocked
14 Servers in 11 Countries 96Mbps 10GB Netflix, BBC iPlayer, YouTube, Channel 4

As this is a free VPN, the server list is much smaller than other paid providers, but you still get access to 14 servers in 11 countries, which is more than enough for using the VPN on a Fire Stick and enjoying some content.

On that note, the speeds are more than capable of streaming content in crisp HD, but with a data cap in place, you may want to avoid downloads. Should you only use Windscribe for streaming content, you can do so without lag — just keep an eye on your usage.

It can also unblock a few other streaming providers, such as BBC iPlayer and YouTube, but it isn’t able to get into other services like Hulu or Disney+. This is a pretty generous offering for a free VPN, but do be aware that unblocking these sites can be trial and error, as servers are often blocked and blacklisted by streaming providers.

Overall, as a free VPN, this is a solid offering, as you get a decent amount of data each month, unblocking capabilities, and multi-device use, although it works best on iPhones and Android, as the mobile apps are excellent.

Pros

  • Includes a decent firewall for added protection
  • Decent speeds on the servers
  • Can unblock several streaming sites
  • Unlimited device connections

Cons

  • Average servers speed
  • Tricky-to-navigate apps

Comparison of the Market’s Best Free VPNs for Firestick

To help you compare each one head-to-head, here’s a nifty table:

Provider Number of Servers Average Speed Data Allowance Services Unblocked
ProtonVPN 23 Servers in 3 Countries 200Mbps Unlimited Netflix, YouTube, BBC iPlayer, Channel 4
PrivadoVPN 9 Servers in 3 Countries 200Mbps Unlimited Netflix, Disney Plus, Amazon Prime
AtlasVPN 3 Servers in 2 Countries 200Mbps 10GB Netflix, BBC iPlayer, YouTube
Avira Phantom 47 Servers in 33 Countries 73Mbps 500MB Netflix, YouTube, Hulu, Amazon Prime
TunnelBear 500+ Servers in 23 Countries 55Mbps 500MB Netflix (US), BBC iPlayer, YouTube
Hide.me Not Disclosed 19Mbps 10GB YouTube
Windscribe 14 Servers in 11 Countries 96Mbps 10GB Netflix, BBC iPlayer, YouTube, Channel 4

Should I Use a Free or Paid VPN?

Although there are some strong free VPN providers on this list, they still fall way short of the services provided by their more premium upgrades. That being said, they’re a great way to test a service before your signup for a paid plan, and they might also be more than enough for what you intend to use it for.

However, as is evident from our list, they do have some major drawbacks, including small data caps, slower speeds, fewer servers, less security, and the inability to unblock most streaming services. Overall, you’re going to have a better all-around experience with a premium plan, and we’d always recommend using one.

To help you pick, we’ve shortlisted our top 5 for you:

  1. ExpressVPN – The Best Premium VPN Thanks to its Lightning-Fast Server Speeds; it Costs Just $6.67/month
  2. IvacyVPN – The Best Value for Money Premium VPN Costing as Little as $1.19/month
  3. Surfshark – An Affordable VPN That Allows Unlimited Simultaneous Connections for a Mere $2.30/month
  4. NordVPN – A Great All-Round VPN With Excellent Speed and Security With a Price Tag of $3.29/month
  5. CyberGhost VPN – A Reliable VPN With Dedicated Streaming Servers and the Best Speeds for $2.19/month

Each of these also comes with lengthy money-back guarantees that you can use to try the tools risk-free. For more, we recommend checking out our page on the best budget VPNs, as premium VPNs like these far surpass any free offering, but that doesn’t mean you need to risk a boatload of money.

How to Choose the Best Fire Stick VPN

To ensure we only pick the best Fire Stick VPNs, we have certain criteria and a set of features we look for, including speed, compatibility, and so on. Here are some of the factors you should take into account when picking a VPN for your Firestick:

Speed

Excellent speeds and support for cutting-edge tunneling protocols like WireGuard are two features that the best VPNs for Fire TV devices must have. With this, you can enjoy buffer-free, continuous streaming without being interrupted.

Generally speaking, free VPNs don’t offer the best speeds, even if WireGuard is used. This is because most offer few server locations and a select few options, which results in server congestion and slow bandwidth.

That said, leading paid providers like ExpressVPN use their own Lightway protocol, which offers unrivaled speeds, and with thousands of servers all around the globe, server congestion isn’t an issue you’ll have with a provider like this.

Unblocking Abilities

You can unblock popular streaming services like Netflix, Hulu, HBO, and others using the best VPNs for Firestick — however, free VPNs do tend to struggle to bypass geo-locked content, as they have a small number of servers and fewer IPs in rotation for free users which increases the chance of these services picking up the use of a VPN.

That said, although it can be a matter of trial and error, the best providers on this list will offer access to new Netflix libraries and some other online content from streaming services like YouTube and Prime, for example.

Dedicated Fire Stick App

Free VPNs are unlikely to offer a dedicated Firestick app, but we do recommend looking for a VPN that supports this. For instance, ExpressVPN and NordVPN provide specific Firestick apps that support various Fire TV devices, including those that are 4K or 2nd and 3rd generation.

If you opt for a free one, a workaround, such as setting up a VPN for your router and then connecting your smart TV with a Firestick to the Wi-Fi connection, will be required if you want to install a VPN on an Amazon Fire Stick.

Servers

Having multiple servers in countries all over the world means you can unblock a wealth of content on sites like Netflix, HBO Max, and BBC iPlayer. So, make sure your Fire Stick VPN has a wide variety of servers in various regions if you want to watch both local and international content.

This is especially important with free VPNs — as this takes us back to the issue of server congestion and speeds — the more servers, the merrier.

Price

There are a ton of excellent cheap VPNs on the market, and it’s hard to know what sets one apart from another. Some VPNs cost a lot more than others but don’t actually have the feature set to back this up.

Therefore, it’s important to find a VPN that offers a good features-to-price ratio. Because of the limitations of free plans, we recommend comparing the best premium VPN services, as you can get a solid VPN for under $2 a month with unlimited data, thousands of servers, and reliable unblocking power.

How Do I Connect My Free VPN to My Firestick?

There are a few different ways you can get your VPN up and running on your Fire Stick, and we’re going to walk you through the easiest method:

Step 1 — Allow Unknown Sources

On your Fire Stick, navigate to the settings tab, then device, and locate ‘developer options.’ From here, toggle on ‘allow unknown sources’ and ‘ADB debugging.’

Unknown Sources

Step 2 — Install the Downloader App

  1. On your Fire Device, search for ‘Downloader’ in the search bar (the one with the orange logo.)
  2. Launch Downloader, then enter the APK file’s direct download URL for the VPN app.
  3. After the download is complete, you’ll be asked to install the application. If not, click the APK file by opening your downloads in the Downloader app.
  4. That’s it — you can now use the VPN on your Fire device.

Downloader App

Step 3 — Connect Your VPN

  1. Go back to the main menu on the Fire device
  2. Head to Settings, then Applications
  3. Select Manage installed applications
  4. Find and select your VPN app
  5. Select Launch application
  6. Enter your VPN provider’s login credentials

Other Methods

With some premium VPN providers like ExpressVPN and NordVPN, you can connect them to your router and therefore cover all devices that are connected to it, such as a Fire Stick. Each router and VPN provider has a different way of doing this, so we recommend following the steps on the provider’s website to configure it.

Alternatively, it may be as easy as just searching for your VPN provider on your Fire Stick, as some (including our top pick for the best free VPN for Fire Stick, ProtonVPN) have apps dedicated to the Fire Devices, and you can install them in just a few clicks directly onto your device.

Conclusion | What’s the Best Free VPN for Firestick in 2024?

Free VPNs are particularly alluring because, well, they’re free. If you can access some new Netflix content and keep yourself safe online for a bit, then all is well. However, despite the temptation, free VPNs do have some major drawbacks that make them very hard to recommend.

For example, they frequently have small data caps, which means watching a full-length film on your Fire Stick might not be possible, or they have a limited number of servers that make bypassing geo-locked content near impossible.

Some free providers, like ProtonVPN, offer unlimited data, and it can unblock some Netflix libraries, all whilst keeping you safe online — Try it free now.

Free Firestick VPN FAQ

Is ExpressVPN free?

Is there a truly free VPN?

Is there a free VPN that actually works?

Why won’t my VPN work on my Firestick?

What is the most recommended free VPN?

The post 7 Best 100% Free VPNs for Firestick Compared for 2024 appeared first on The Tech Report.

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10 Warning Signs Your Girlfriend is Cheating: Uncover the Truth https://techreport.com/spy/warning-signs-your-girlfriend-is-cheating/ Tue, 06 Jun 2023 06:46:36 +0000 https://techreport.com/?page_id=3503886 10 Warning Signs Your Girlfriend is Cheating: Uncover the Truth

You can often pick up some warning signs that suggest your girlfriend is cheating, but proving it outright is a difficult task to manage and can often lead to further...

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10 Warning Signs Your Girlfriend is Cheating: Uncover the Truth

You can often pick up some warning signs that suggest your girlfriend is cheating, but proving it outright is a difficult task to manage and can often lead to further problems.

Maybe you think she’s becoming more distant, or perhaps she spends more time on her phone or social media – either way, it can be a gut-wrenching feeling.

In this article, we’re going to explore the tell-tale signs that your girlfriend is cheating and what you can do to identify these and ultimately act accordingly.

Look Out For Common Signs Your Girlfriend Is Cheating On You

It can be a very traumatic experience to suspect your girlfriend is cheating on you, but it’s better to address the issue rather than avoid it.

To help you out, we’ve compiled a list of common signs that might suggest your girlfriend is being unfaithful.

  • She wants more alone time
  • She hides her phone from you
  • She becomes more private on social media
  • She often seems distracted
  • She becomes less caring toward you
  • She frequently accuses you of cheating
  • She seems very unhappy in your relationship
  • She doesn’t want to spend time with you
  • She comes home late and won’t tell you her whereabouts
  • She often hangs out with friends you’ve never met

Common Signs Your Girlfriend Is Cheating

Below, we explore the common signs your girlfriend is cheating in more detail.

1. She Wants More Alone Time

Spending time apart is good and common in a relationship, but if you suddenly realize that your partner requires more alone time than usual, it may be a sign of trouble.

If your girlfriend also stops returning your calls, she may be using this time as an opportunity to visit or chat with her partner. Or maybe she is taking more trips away alone and stops inviting you to events, but either way, it’s a red flag.

2. She Hides Her Phone From You

Your girlfriend may be concealing an affair if you discover a passcode on her phone when she has never used one. Sometimes it’s as simple as turning it screen down so notifications don’t show or just not being on it around you in general.

Maybe she used to be completely transparent, but these days she hides her phone and doesn’t text while you’re around. Perhaps she even takes it in the toilet with her and spends longer than usual there.

3. She Becomes More Private on Social Media

If your girlfriend suddenly stops posting to her social media accounts, that is another classic indication that she is cheating. She stops talking about your relationship on her social media accounts or deletes pictures of you two together, and you’re not sure why.

This is her attempt at damage control to keep you and her extramarital lover from learning about one another.

4. She Often Seems Distracted

A more covert indication that your girlfriend is cheating is if she frequently appears to be elsewhere whenever you are together. She remains glued to her phone and doesn’t appear to be listening to a word you say instead of genuinely being interested in your day.

5. She Becomes Less Caring Toward You

A truly devoted girlfriend is caring and considerate of your demands. If you notice that your partner seems emotionally distant and cold towards you, it’s a negative sign.

She has little energy left for you as a result of her affair, and you’ll notice a change in her previously compassionate demeanor.

6. She Frequently Accuses You of Cheating

Does your partner make constant accusations that you are cheating on her? Don’t discount the chance that she might be the unfaithful one; she might just feel uneasy.

A common approach for cheaters to express their shame about their infidelity is to accuse their partners. They think you’re cheating on them because they know they’re capable of doing so.

7. She Seems Unhappy in Your Relationship

Your relationship with your girlfriend used to be fulfilling, but now she frequently appears dissatisfied with it. She no longer has the same radiance in her eyes, and you’re unsure of what went wrong.

It’s possible that she is seeing someone else and has the “grass is greener” mentality if nothing in your relationship has changed to warrant her new attitude.

8. She Doesn’t Want to Spend Time With You

Don’t ignore the obvious indicator of infidelity if your girlfriend makes up reasons to avoid spending time with you or is unenthusiastic to see you.

She might be bored, as harsh as that sounds. Cheating partners frequently neglect your relationship since they are so engrossed in their new affair.

9. She Comes Home Late and Won’t Tell You Her Whereabouts

It may become routine for a partner who is cheating to return after nights out with friends late. She will be evasive and hazy about her whereabouts when you inquire as to why she was late.

You shouldn’t disregard this suspicious behaviour because it’s there. You’ll want to find out what your girlfriend is hiding if she can’t be truthful about where she is and what she’s doing.

Apps like mSpy can help with this, as you are able to see the live location of the target device, in this case, your girlfriend. If they consent to it, you could install mSpy on their device so you can ensure their safety and actual location.

There’s also a useful feature known as geofencing, which allows you to set a designated safe zone, and should your girlfriend leave this zone, you will receive an alert on your device immediately.

10 Warning Signs Your Girlfriend is Cheating: Uncover the Truth
MSpy Location Tracker

10. She Often Hangs Out With Friends You’ve Never Met

Although hanging out with pals isn’t necessarily a bad thing, it could be a sign that something else is going on if your girlfriend is frequently seen with someone you’ve never met.

In a reliable relationship, your partner should want to introduce you to their friends and family, and if they don’t, this is a common sign that they are cheating.

What Is Considered Cheating

In a nutshell, cheating, or adultery, as it is known in law, is being emotionally or sexually disloyal to your monogamous partner. Cheating is typically defined as having a close emotional or sexual relationship with another person.

There is no definitive, all-encompassing definition of what constitutes cheating, despite what some people claim when you get more precise and discuss various actions and behaviours.

Cheating is somewhat of a grey area in the sense that everyone has a slightly different understanding and set of rules that they adhere to. It’s always wise to speak to your partner and set some ground rules early on, as for some, what might seem like harmless flirting might qualify as cheating in their eyes.

What Should You Do If You Suspect She Is Cheating?

It can be very emotionally draining and upsetting to confront your girlfriend if you suspect she is cheating, and if you device to do so, there are a few things you need to consider. Firstly, make sure you’re sober and not under the influence of any alcohol or drugs, as this can make the situation much more unpleasant.

Below are some tips you should take on board if you suspect she is cheating.

Keep Calm And Find Evidence

Take a step back and consider the matter honestly before making any decisions, and make sure to do this with a clear mind, no alcohol or drugs. Consider the idea that you could be worried or paranoid and carelessly make unfounded allegations as a result.

You might not be able to think or see things properly, which makes this challenging. Suspicion and jealousy skew views, so instead, you need to gather evidence, even if it’s circumstantial, before addressing your partner.

Finding evidence can be difficult, especially if they are becoming more and more private. Apps like mSpy allow you to monitor social media accounts and read text messages, which could help you get the evidence you need. It even has a cutting-edge keylogger that allows you to monitor what was typed on various websites and on a browser.

It is worth noting that installing a spy app without permission is a criminal offence, so you’ll have to establish some boundaries first.

mSpy dashboard

Consult With Your Partner

It may be appropriate to face her if you are certain that she is guilty or if your intuition is screaming. Even if she is cheating, you have no right to be harsh, either physically or emotionally, therefore, control your emotions first. Hope for the best while preparing for the worse.

Consider the result once you’ve brought up the subject. Did she offer logical justifications? Or were they even more unbelievable? Did she come clean? Your next move depends on how she responds.

Choose What You Desire

The most important thing for you to do is decide. Can you forgive her for cheating? Is it time for a breakup? Or is the bond strong enough to stand up for itself?

Only you can balance those things against the transgression; many considerations, including family status and resources, will influence your decision. Just make sure you consider your options carefully. It’s acceptable to be furious and indignant, but don’t be hasty or naive when issuing your final ruling.

Communicate Openly and Honestly

Whether she admits it or not, be clear about your opinions. Does it really matter? Is there any going back after this?

Some people now ask for a break from the partnership to assess the issue. It’s an opportunity to “try on” separation and assess whether the relationship can be saved.

Does the pain become better over time to the point where you love them more? Or does it appear as though a burden has been lifted?

Focus on Self-Care

Whatever you decide, now is the time for some self-love and self-care. Go and see your friends or family, socialize as you normally would. It’s important that you don’t isolate yourself and try and deal with everything internally.

Then, if you’re ready, speak with your partner again after you’ve had time to think and assess the situation. Sometimes, time can be a very good healer, and you may be thinking more clearly.

Final Thoughts

It can be a really uncomfortable and upsetting process if you suspect your girlfriend is cheating, and knowing how to spot it, handle it, and recover are all important steps.

If you are worried, discuss using an app like mSpy, where you can keep an eye on your partner’s messages and social media. You could both install the app on your devices for peace of mind, and it’s also worth noting that it is illegal to install a spy app on a device of anyone over 18 without their consent.

FAQ

Can you physically tell if your girlfriend is cheating?

What are the common signs of cheating?

How do you know if your girlfriend likes another guy?

 

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Facebook Parental Controls: Must-Know Parental Control Tips and Tricks https://techreport.com/facebook-parental-controls-must-know-parental-control-tips-and-tricks/ Thu, 25 May 2023 15:27:09 +0000 https://techreport.com/?page_id=3503859 With over 3 billion users across the world, Facebook has become part and parcel of our daily lives. But with its meteoric rise comes increased levels of scrutiny and fears...

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With over 3 billion users across the world, Facebook has become part and parcel of our daily lives. But with its meteoric rise comes increased levels of scrutiny and fears for the online safety of children everywhere. It’s, therefore, crucial that parents fully understand how they can help safeguard their children against the various threats that it could pose.

Thankfully, there are Facebook parental controls you can use, including making all the profiles of users under 18 private, meaning only friends and friends-of-friends can see the poster’s profile. For more advanced coverage, we’d suggest using a parental spy app such as mSpy, which allows you to monitor all of your children’s social media accounts in one place. In this article, we’re going to give you some of the top tips and tricks to help you keep your child safe when using Facebook.

What Security is in Place On Facebook?

Despite needing to be 13 to create a Facebook account, the social media giant has no way of actually verifying the age of the account creator, so it’s often up to parents to impose some restrictions. Here are some of the core safeguarding tools you can use on Facebook:

  • Passwords — The initial level of Facebook security and privacy is setting a password to safeguard your account and prevent hackers from accessing your personal details and profile, so by using a strong password, you’re covered on the first step.
  • Using Two-Factor Authentication — This is another privacy and security tool on Facebook. Every time a new device is used to log into your account, a login approval code is required and sent to your device.
  • Account Alerts — When a user logs in from a new device or when there’s suspicious activity taking place in the account, Facebook sends notifications to the account owner.
  • Information Request — Facebook values the security and privacy of its users. Therefore, when a request for user information is made, Facebook pushes back or notifies you if the situation permits it.
  • Safe Browsing — This is another privacy and security safeguard that serves as a means of preserving user data. Your actions on the app or website are encrypted and can’t be seen by anyone else without your consent.

How to Set Up Parental Controls On Facebook

Next, we’re going to run through how you, as a parent, can check the privacy and security settings on your child’s account. Just follow these simple steps:

1. Check Privacy and Security Settings

This setting allows you to control who can see, comment or share a particular post. For children whose profiles say they’re under 18, this is set to “Friends” and “Friends of Friends” only. However, as Facebook can’t verify ages, it’s good practice to check this yourself. Here’s what to do:

  1. Click on the menu option in the top right-hand corner of the screen, and scroll down until you see the Privacy tab.
  2. Here, you’ll see who has access to your child’s account and posts and how others can reach them on Facebook (by friend request, email address, or phone number.)
  3. Additionally, you can secure the account by changing the password and activating notifications.

Facebook Privacy and Security Settings

2. Disable Location Tracking

Facebook users can share their current location with their friends or in posts, and the Facebook parental control settings can be started by disabling this. Only Facebook app users on iOS and Android smartphones have access to the Facebook location service.

Disabling on Android:

  • On the home screen of the smartphone, select “setting.”
  • Select “Apps” and then “Facebook.”
  • From there, select “permission” and then “location.”
  • There are three choices: ask each time, don’t ask, and allow only when using the app.
  • Pick the solution that best suits your needs.

Turn off location

Disabling on iOS:

  • You can access “location service” from the home screen.
  • Toggle the location switch on or off.
  • By scrolling through the apps under “location service,” you can customize the setting.
  • Click on “Facebook” to set it as your preferred option

If you want to track your child’s location on iOS, you can always use one of the market’s top spy apps for iPhones, where you can create your own customized safe zones for your child and get alerts when they enter or leave these designated areas.

3. Enhance Password Security and Login Measures

Having a strong password will secure an account and stop unwanted access — hence why many opt to use a leading password manager to generate and store all of their passwords — which is especially helpful for parents looking to manage their children’s online accounts.

A hack can mean someone accessing everything there is about your child online and on their devices just by gaining access to their Facebook account.

Another good way to enhance security and login measures is to set up Two-factor Authentication, which means you receive a code to a registered device or email address. You’ll need to enter in order to log in, so make sure it’s an up-to-date number or email.

If you don’t know the account password or forget the new one, just click ‘Forgot Password’ and follow the prompt. Here’s how you do it:

  • In the top-right corner of the Facebook app, tap the menu symbol.
  • Go to “settings and privacy” by scrolling down, and click “Settings.”
  • Choose “password and security” and then “tap change password.”
  • Enter the current password on the account.
  • To verify the new password, type it again to ensure it matches.
  • To save the changes you’ve made, select “save changes.”

4. Limit Audience for Your Child’s Posts

You can restrict who can view your child’s posts, both past and present, using these settings. You can either set this to all posts or older posts to limit who can see them.

For a Single Past Post:

  • In the top right corner of the Facebook app, tap the menu option.
  • Find the post you want to edit by scrolling down.
  • At the upper right of the post, click the three-dot. Then click “change audience.”
  • Change the post’s visibility to only me, friends, or the general public.

To Restrict Who Can See All Past Posts:

  • Choose “settings” from the menu.
  • In the “Audience and visibility” section, scroll down and click “posts.”
  • Click “Limit who can view previous posts.”
  • Select “limit old posts” and then confirm your selection.

To Restrict Who Can See the Present Posts:

  • Select “settings,” and then “audience and visibility.”
  • Click on “profile and tagging.”
  • Select “who can see what others post on your profile.”
  • Decide on a target audience and confirm the location.

Limit audience

5. Manage Profile Visibility

Follow these steps to ensure only the people who need to see the profile can:

  • Tap the top-right corner of the Facebook app to access the menu. To view your profile, tap your name.
  • Click on “see more about yourself” and then “contact info.”
  • To change who can change a phone number, email address, website, or address, tap “add.”
  • To choose a different audience for your profile, use the drop-down menu and select an option that suits you.
  • The profile can also be locked. On these, the shared stories, cover photos and photo posts are only visible to friends.
  • The previous post’s privacy setting will be changed to friends.

6. Regulate Screen Time

With this setting, you can restrict or schedule screen time for your child to ensure a healthy digital balance. Do this by:

  • At the top-right of the Facebook app, tap the menu (three horizontal lines).
  • Then select “settings and privacy.” In the “settings” menu, choose “your time on Facebook.”
  • Navigate to “manage your time” and select “see tools.”
  • To activate the quiet mode or set a screen timer, toggle the switch next to it.
  • To the daily time reminder, click “Next.”
  • Set the reminder after selecting the duration.

7. Monitor and Control Contacts for Your Kids

To make sure nobody unwanted can contact your children, you can control who has access to their profiles and who can send them messages:

  • Go to the “Privacy” tab within the settings pages, and locate “How people find and contact you.”
  • Then, you’ll see a list of options, starting with “Who can send you friend requests.”
  • Change them all to “friends” or “friends of friends” to stop strangers from contacting them.

Friend Request Access

8. Report Users Engaging in Inappropriate Behavior

If something or someone doesn’t look right, you can report it to Facebook, which will then review and remove it. This is something you might be compelled to do if you find someone is talking inappropriately with your child or that they’re posting concerning content online.

  • Go to your feeds (search for them) and click on the user you wish to report.
  • In the top right corner, click the “minus (-)” sign.
  • Decide whether to “find support or report.”
  • To report unsuitable users, follow the command prompt instructions.

That said, a post, message, page, group, photo, comment, or Facebook advertisement can also be reported.

9. Block Troublesome Users

You can also stop someone from bothering your child on Facebook by going to the “Main Menu,” selecting “Settings,” choosing “Blocking,” and then entering the problematic person’s profile name.

This means they can no longer view your child’s profile or contact them on Facebook. That said, it’s wise to block them from any other social media platforms they may be on too to ensure the problem is solved.

Block user

10. Restrict Access to Inappropriate Games and Websites on Facebook

By turning off Facebook integration, any inappropriate games or websites are no longer accessible. When you log into these apps or websites using Facebook, you might have connected your account to them, and they may appear on your account. To stop this, simply:

  • Select “Settings.” and click on “Permission.”
  • Click on “apps and website” from the security menu.
  • Remove apps from “Applications & Websites” to stop them from publishing automatically to your child’s profile.

11. Control Content Exposure on Facebook

By moderating a Facebook page, you can limit certain content that’s shown and prevent specific words from showing up on your page;

  • Tap the three horizontal lines in the page’s upper right corner.
  • Click “Settings” and choose “page moderation.”
  • Then, save the modifications after entering the words you want to block.
  • The obscene language filter can also be activated.
  • Enter “setting” and select “profanity filter.” The filter can be set to medium or strong.
  • Save your changes.

Block Obscene Language

Is Facebook Dangerous For Young Kids?

​​Every day, millions of children use Facebook to connect with friends and stay up to date on events in their community. Being informed of what’s happening in their friends’ lives, on the one hand, appears convenient and can help them socialize.

On the other side, youngsters are exposed to Facebook’s risks — such as the rise of cyberbullying and the increasing threat of predation on social media — which can have a detrimental impact on them. Beyond this, children might befriend someone who harms them, makes fun of them in public, or steals their information.

That said, Facebook is undoubtedly a great platform to speak with friends, join groups and ultimately have fun, and thankfully, Facebook does have some parental controls and settings that can help you keep it a safe and fun place for your child to explore.

However, there’s only so much the built-in settings can do — and often, these most certainly aren’t enough. This is why many end up opting for tools like mSpy instead or in conjunction with using Facebook parental controls to ensure their child’s online safety.

With a tool like mSpy, you’ll be able to have peace of mind on what your child is up to, who they’re talking to, what they’re saying, where they are, and the content they’re engaging in — by seeing all of this from your own device.

Top 6 Risks: What Are the Security Dangers of Using Facebook?

As we’ve just discussed, there are, of course, risks that come with using a platform like Facebook, and each of them has genuine security risks, especially with children using the platform. Below is a list of dangers you should be aware of:

Cyberbullying

Cyberbullying is on the rise thanks to the growing usage of social media services, and it can be tricky to detect. You might notice your child is acting off or getting upset easily. It’s one of the most prevalent social problems that youngsters encounter online.

Bullies target victims more viciously than they would in real life because they’re aware that no one will punish them for hurting their peers, as they can torment victims privately and publish hurtful comments behind a keyboard, which can lead to very severe risks like suicide.

In fact, in the US alone, about 37% of young people have been bullied online, with over 30% saying it has happened more than once.

Online Predators

Everyone is aware of pedophiles who target kids online. However, only a small percentage of people are aware that abusers can groom your child even if both of you remain at home – these are known as groomers.

In fact, according to the FBI, over 500,000 cyber predators are active on the Internet, and unfortunately, a lot of them use Facebook and other social media outlets to entice children into their traps.

Plus, in order to make friends with your child online, they occasionally adopt teen personas. Although, they don’t even have to pretend, as in the majority of cases. The likelihood of being groomed rises as more children voluntarily interact with strangers on Facebook.

Unfortunately, unless you use a top Facebook spy app like mSpy, it’s nearly impossible to detect an online predator — and unfortunately, there’s little that Facebook’s built-in parental controls can do to guarantee their safety on the platform.

Catfishing

Catfishing is one of Facebook’s trickier threats, and kids are unlikely to recognize it. The person pretends to be the victim’s sweetheart in order to obtain money from them or to take advantage of them in some other way, sometimes just to be cruel.

On Facebook, they look for single teenagers and take advantage of their need for affection, with their sole objective being to defraud someone for money, claiming it’s for travel so they can come and visit the victim.

Even while catfishing rarely results in serious injury, the victim may nonetheless feel rather depressed or embarrassed by the situation.

Sexting

Young people have a serious problem with sexting on Facebook — which is basically sharing nude or explicit photos and messages with another person via a messaging app. And sadly, very few teenagers are aware of the potential repercussions.

Teenagers can send nude photos to each other for amusement, but this could result in their images being posted all over the Internet. A private message’s recipient might find it amusing to forward it to others, or a hacker could gain access — ultimately resulting in devastating social exclusion, depression, bullying, or public humiliation.

Beyond this, teenagers can also engage in sexting with predators who pose as their friends or an interested party. If left unattended, this could result in them experiencing sexual abuse.

Identity Theft

Children are vulnerable to potential security risks because they have a tendency to overshare personal information on platforms like Facebook. This can, in some circumstances, lead to identity theft. Scammers, therefore, may target them in an effort to steal their identities.

Cybercriminals can use scam messages and websites that contain phishing to obtain children’s credit card information by preying on their naivety. When a child clicks on the malicious link, the scammer can immediately gain their Facebook login information and exploit it to obtain information.

Social Isolation

You can try using the Messenger Kids app in order to prevent your child from being scammed, bullied, or taken advantage of by strangers. It’s child-friendly and has certain restrictions in place to enable you to protect your child online.

However, we’d recommend you use a spy app like the renowned mSpy or EyeZy with an excellent keylogger so that you can keep an eye on any messages being sent from your child’s device, as your child can delete them.

That said, this alone is undoubtedly unable to shield kids from the risk of social isolation, which is becoming a more prevalent issue than ever. In fact, researchers in psychology found that children who use Facebook frequently have trouble communicating in person.

Online communication encourages children to be more honest and open. But in actuality, it results in a lack of real-world communication and emotional expression. For this, a combination of Facebook and an app like mSpy’s screen time management is crucial to ensure a healthy digital balance.

Must-Know Facebook Safety Tips and Tricks for Safe Surfing

There are further steps you can take to ensure a safe experience for yourself or your children when on Facebook. Below are some of our top safety tips and tricks for safe surfing:

Protect Your Password

For your account, create a secure password — there are even popular free password managers that can help with this to ensure it includes at least 8 characters, including capital and lowercase letters, as well as special characters.

Also, be sure to never give anyone your password, even a friend, and when you’re finished using Facebook, always log out.

Post Mindfully

Think twice before posting anything on Facebook. Ask yourself these fundamental questions:

  • Will this comment harm or offend anyone? If so, avoid publishing it.
  • Would I say it out loud to someone? Don’t write it if it isn’t.
  • What if it’s read by your parents or teachers? Don’t publish anything if you’d feel ashamed of it.

Customize Privacy Settings and Regularly Review Them

Ensure that your posts and profile are private or just visible to friends or friends of friends. You don’t want any random stranger to see your personal posts or profile, as they can then easily contact you or your friends.

Beyond this, only accept friend requests from familiar individuals that you know, and never accept a duplicate invitation if it comes from someone you’re already connected to, as it’s likely to be a scam.

Report Suspicious Activity

Keep in mind that online, anyone can claim to be someone else. Don’t chat with anyone if you have any worries about their identification; instead, tell your parents, your teacher, or any other trusted adult.

That said, as a parent, be sure to educate your children on common flags they should keep an eye out for so that they know when they need to raise any concerns.

How to Disable Parental Controls On Facebook

There isn’t a button you can click to automatically disable parental controls, but if you’re happy for your child to start using Facebook responsibly, or they’re at an age where it’s more familiar, then you can undo some of the steps previously listed.

For example, you can change your profile to public and allow other users to see your posts by updating your privacy settings, but we wouldn’t recommend doing this.

Your child’s experience with Facebook won’t change if they have a private profile or if their posts can only be seen by their friend list, so it’s best to keep the settings we’ve mentioned above the way they are to ensure total safety.

Final Thoughts

All in all, it’s well worth setting up these parental controls on your children’s Facebook accounts. With the rise of cyberbullying, online grooming, and social isolation, it really is crucial that we all try and keep youngsters safe on social media.

That said, often, these measures aren’t enough, and you might need a tool that can do it all. We recommend trying mSpy, a popular parental spying app that allows you to monitor your child’s social media accounts and ensure they aren’t speaking with anyone they shouldn’t be.

It gives you the peace of mind that your child is having a safe and enjoyable experience on social media and beyond — which is what it should be all about.

FAQ

Does Facebook have a kid mode?

How do I restrict inappropriate content on Facebook?

The post Facebook Parental Controls: Must-Know Parental Control Tips and Tricks appeared first on The Tech Report.

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Spyera Review 2024: Expert Insights and Unbiased Opinion https://techreport.com/spy/spyera-review/ Wed, 24 May 2023 15:23:42 +0000 https://techreport.com/?page_id=3503803 Spyera Review

Spyera is one of the most cutting-edge spyware programs available right now, and it gives you all the tools you need to secretly spy on someone from a distance. In...

The post Spyera Review 2024: Expert Insights and Unbiased Opinion appeared first on The Tech Report.

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Spyera Review

Spyera is one of the most cutting-edge spyware programs available right now, and it gives you all the tools you need to secretly spy on someone from a distance. In fact, the app is available for various devices, including Android, iPhone, Mac, and Windows — so no matter the device, you can use Spyera to track it.

That said, it has some truly advanced features that set it aside from some of its rivals, including the ability to record VoIP calls, but of course, as with all apps, there are also downsides. To help you make an informed decision, this Spyera review will cover its pricing, features, pros and cons, and more. Let’s dive right in.

What is Spyera?

Spyera is an all-in-one spy tool that allows you to discreetly monitor a target user’s device without them knowing, as well as keep tabs on their live location thanks to GPS tracking. It’s one of the best spy apps for Android, as you can access most of the best features without needing to root the device.

That said, it’s popular with parents, as it allows them to view social media accounts, text messages, and phone calls and also flags inappropriate search terms on web browsers. If you’re the child’s legal guardian, there’s no law saying you can’t install an app like Spyera.

Suspicious partners may also consider installing it on their boyfriend or girlfriend’s phone if they suspect they’re having an affair. However, this is usually illegal unless you get explicit consent from the person — in fact, this is generally the case for employers as well, so we’d recommend checking your local laws before installing the app.

How Does Spyera Work?

The Spyera app functions in stealth mode — which means it hides as a normal app and shows no evidence of it working in the background — and once installed, it records all activity on the target device and syncs that activity to your Spyera account, which you can access remotely on your own tablet, phone, or computer.

Spyera | How it works

However, you must first install the Spyera software on the target device. To do this, you’ll need physical access to the device — just a few minutes — which can be pretty straightforward if it’s your child’s device but trickier if you’re a suspicious partner.

The setup varies depending on the device, and Spyera is compatible with most major providers, including Android, iOS, MacOS, Windows, and even tablets — however, the Setup Wizard will help guide you step-by-step to ensure a seamless installation. It’s really easy, we’ll give you a quick guide on how to do it below.

Pros and Cons of the Spyera App

Now, let’s take a closer look at the pros and cons of Spyera so that you see the main advantages of using this spy tool and any drawbacks the service comes with:

Pros

  • Offers advanced features like call recording
  • It’s compatible with all core hardware and operating systems
  • Unlimited device swaps if the user changes devices
  • Stealth mode makes it run undetectable on the target device
  • There’s a risk-free 10-day money-back trial period
  • One of the best parental control apps on the market

Cons

  • There’s no free demo on offer
  • Some features require jailbreak/rooting
  • It’s expensive compared to spy apps like mSpy

Features of Spyera – Expert Insights

Spyera boasts a ton of premium features that truly set it aside from the other top spy apps. For example, you can remotely access the target users’ microphone and camera, allowing you to listen in on their conversations. Below are some of the other exciting features you get with a Spyera subscription:

Record VoIP Calls

With Spyera, you can record VoIP phone calls alongside regular phone calls, which can be especially useful for businesses that often rely on the use of VoIP technology for incoming or outgoing calls. It’s also especially useful for parents who want to monitor calls on apps like Skype, Facebook Messenger, and Snapchat.

VoIP Call Logging

With most other spy apps, you can only monitor cellular calls, so this extra feature allows you to monitor all of your child’s or employees’ activities.

Remotely Access a Device

Another standout feature is the ability to remotely access a target user’s microphone or camera on their mobile phone. This allows parents to listen in on their child’s surroundings when they’re at a party or with friends to avoid any explicit conversation or to pick up on bullying.

Only the top spy apps will have this feature, and most require a rooted device in order for it to work properly. That said, with Spyera, this feature doesn’t require any rooting or jailbreaking of devices, which can be quite a complex process, and it runs the risk of removing the warranty and making the device vulnerable to malware.

Record Calls

This is another uncommon feature amongst spy apps, and it’s sought after as it offers complete peace of mind on what the target user is up to. With the intuitive Spyera dashboard, you’re alerted to any incoming or outgoing calls, and you have the ability to listen in or have them saved so you can play them back later.

This means that if you aren’t available to listen in to a live call, you can play it back via the Spyera app at a later date and raise any concerns you might have. Not only is this fantastic for parents, but this is great for employee call training or customer complaints.

Location Tracking

As is the case for all the leading spy apps, Spyera excels at location tracking. The accuracy is excellent, and its seamless integration with Google Maps allows you to track a user down to their exact location in real time.

Spyera Location Tracker

Beyond this, there’s also a geofencing feature that allows you to create a dedicated safe zone, and if the target user strays outside of this area, you’ll receive an alert on your device. This is incredibly useful, as you don’t need to keep the app open and track every movement.

Live Screen Viewing

For further access, you can even view screen recordings of the target users’ devices, either preset times or a live feed of what they’re doing. This feature is particularly helpful if you suspect they’re doing something they shouldn’t be, and works in tandem with the keylogger and other features to offer complete insight and peace of mind.

Social Media Monitoring

With social media giants playing a prevalent role in the lives of most people today, there are growing concerns about what a child might stumble across. It’s also part of the reason cyberbullying has increased so drastically in the past few years.

That said, Spyera allows you to monitor the messages exchanged by your child with their friends or strangers, allowing you to ensure that they’re not being groomed or approached by people with ill intent on the internet and that they’re viewing and engaging with age-appropriate content.

You can even read messages exchanged on dating apps — a rarity in the spy scene. In fact, Spyera is one of the best Tinder spy apps.

Factors to Consider Before Buying Spyera App or Spy Software

Before purchasing a subscription with Spyera, there are some important factors you need to keep in mind, like whether it’s legal to spy on the intended target and device compatibility. We’ve highlighted some of the key things to consider before signing up:

Device Compatibility

Before proceeding, you need to make sure that the device you want to track is compatible with Spyera. Thankfully, this isn’t usually an issue, as Spyera works on most major devices, such as Windows, MacOS, Android, and iOS. However, if the device falls outside of this software, then you won’t be able to use it.

Pricing

It’s worth noting that spy apps aren’t usually that cheap, and if you need multiple devices covered, the cost can get pretty high. Therefore, you have to make sure it’s worth your money by comparing the need for such an app, alongside the features it contains, and how many devices you want to be tracked.

Spyera | Pricing

As an example, Spyera costs $89/month to spy on one Android or iOS device, which is over $1,000 a year. For coverage on a phone, tablet, and laptop, you’re looking at $479 a year, payable upfront.

Of course, you can’t put a price on peace of mind, but for some families, this is just too great an expense to allow, and it might be that you seek alternative means.

Spyera is entirely legal to use as long as you do so in the correct manner. For example, if you’re the child’s legal guardian, and you have genuine concerns about their online safety, then you don’t need to ask for their consent to install Spyera on a device you’ve likely supplied them with.

However, if you’re a suspicious partner and suspect your other half is having an affair, this is where the legal concerns come in. You can’t install Spyera or any spy app on the device of a user over the age of 18 without their consent, and doing so may be a crime, depending on where you are based.

So, as a tool to monitor the online activity of your child, Spyera is okay to use, but for those wanting to track the movements of an adult, you must tell the user that you want to install Spyera before proceeding further.

Customer Support

As with anything tech related, there’s a lot of room for errors, and that can be pretty frustrating for anyone, especially given such sensitive and important information is on the line. Therefore, it’s crucial that the spy software you use has a 24/7 customer support network on hand to help you fix any issues.

Spyera has an excellent support team who typically replies within 5 minutes on the live chat feature and within 4 hours if you contact them via email.

User Experience

Last but by no means least is the user experience, and this can be very important. The Spyera dashboard is simple to use, and everything is easy to find on the main home screen. You want the spy software you use to be simple to navigate, especially if you’re someone who doesn’t have a great relationship with technology.

That said, all the features on Spyera are easy to find, and the layout means you can easily toggle between call logs and location tracking with the click of a button.

Spyera's dashboard

How Does Spyera Compare to Other Top Spy Apps?

There’s no doubt that Spyera is an excellent spy app, but how does it compare to some of its rivals on the market, like mSpy, uMobix and EyeZy? To help decide which is best for you, we’ve included a useful comparison table in our Spyera review to help you compare the key factors:

Phone Spy Apps Monthly Price Annual Price Devices Tracked Compatibility Free Version Guarantee
Spyera $49/month $32/month 1 Android, iOS, tablets, PC No 10-days
mSpy $47.99/month $11.66/month 1 Android, iOS, tablets Demo 10-days
uMobix $49.99/month $11.66/month 1 Android, iOS, tablets Demo 14-days
EyeZy $47.99/month $9.99/month 1 Android, iOS, tablets 3-day trial + demo 14-days

1. mSpy – The Best Set of Features on a Spy App

mSpy is well-known for its killer set of features like geofencing, reliable location tracking and its advanced keylogger, all packaged up at an affordable price, starting from just $11.66/month — read our full mSpy review for more.

And unlike Spyera, you also don’t need to root or jailbreak the device in order for these features to function properly — however, it doesn’t offer advanced features like call recording, which is on offer with Spyera.

Pros

  • Logs SMS and instant messages for easy reviewing
  • Location history and geofencing features are accurate
  • Allows you to view browsing history and bookmarked pages
  • Provides detailed reports each month for easy viewing
  • Doesn’t require rooting or jailbreaking

Cons

  • Each device requires its own subscription

2. EyeZy – The Best Choice for Those on a Budget

As you’ll see in our in-depth EyeZy review, it has all the premium features you’d expect from a solid spy app, and it’s also one of the most affordable options out there, with prices starting from just $9.99/month, plus there’s a solid 14-day guarantee also thrown in for good measure.

Pros

  • Affordable plans if you subscribe quarterly or yearly
  • Excellent Social Spotlight tab that tracks all calls, texts, and social media
  • Useful location tracker with strong accuracy
  • The screen recording feature is ideal for parents

Cons

  • Requires a jailbroken device for advanced features

uMobix is another excellent spy app, particularly for those who use Android devices, as its more advanced features are available here. For example, you can listen in on the targeted devices’ microphones and access the front-facing camera remotely, allowing you to listen in to their conversations and see who’s using the device.

Beyond this, you also don’t need to root the device in order for any of the advanced features to work. You can read our full review of uMobix here, but here’s an overview of its key pros and cons:

Pros

  • Strong feature-to-price ratio meaning good value for money
  • Excellent tracking app for Android users
  • Useful remote capabilities like disabling calls and texts
  • One of the best keyloggers out there

Cons

  • Poor performance and fewer features on Apple devices

How to Install Spyera

Installing and setting up Spyera is a piece of cake as long as you can gain access to the target user’s device. Below, we explain the steps you need to take in order to install Spyera on an Android device:

Step 1 — Turn Off Play Protect

It’s crucial that the target phone’s Play Protect feature is disabled before beginning the installation procedure because if it’s left on, the device owner may receive a message that an unknown program has been installed.

  1. Launch the Google Play Store and click the menu button at the top left corner.
  2. Select the ‘Play Protect’ button from the list of options.
  3. Click the gear icon located in the top right corner of your screen.
  4. Then, just click the toggle button that says ‘Scan apps with Play Protect’ to turn this setting off.

Turn off PlayProtect

Step 2 — Allow Unknown Sources

Unknown Sources is the next essential setting that must be adjusted for Spyera to successfully install. Without turning this off, it’s simply impossible to download the software on the target phone. Here’s how you do it:

  1. Locate the Additional Settings option in the Settings app on the target smartphone.
  2. Choose the Safety & Privacy option under Additional Settings.
  3. Now all you have to do to install the Spyera app or any other unknown app on your phone is to toggle on the Unknown Sources option.

Allow unknown sources

Step 3 — Turn Off Play Store Notifications

Next, you need to disable Play Store Notifications on the target users device. Once this has been switched off, the user won’t receive any notifications from the Play Store alerting them to the Spyera app.

  1. Open the settings app on the target user’s phone and scroll down and click on ‘Notification & Status Bar.’
  2. Next, click on ‘Notification Manager’ and toggle off the button that says ‘Allow Notifications.’
  3. You’re now all set to download and install Spyera onto the device.

Turn off notifications

Step 4 — Downloading and Installing Spyera

The next step is to download and install the Spyera app onto the target user’s device. Just follow these simple steps:

  1. Using the targeted phone, go to the Spyera app installation page and select the option “I am a customer, and I have a license code”.
  2. Click the ‘View all software’ button to proceed, and choose the operating system. We’re going to choose the Android option in this instance.
  3. The app will begin downloading after this. When the file has been downloaded, tap it to begin the installation.
  4. Access will be requested by Sync Services (Spyera) in order for the application to install successfully. Give permission by selecting Allow.
  5. Read and accept the license agreement to proceed.
  6. Click ‘Activate’ in the top right corner to activate administrator settings.
  7. In order for the app to work 24/7, click the ‘Ignore’ button when the battery optimization prompt appears.
  8. Enter the license key that Spyera emailed to you and press ‘Activate’.
  9. You’ll then receive several prompts asking for access to features like call history, SMS monitoring, etc. Click allow on all of them.
  10. Lastly, when the ‘Hide App’ prompt appears, select ‘Yes’ in order for the app to be hidden on the target user’s device.

That’s it — you can go to the Spyera portal login page and monitor the device from there.

Spyera Review — Final Thoughts

Overall, Spyera is a very good spy app with a ton of premium features like VoIP recording and excellent location tracking, but this does come at quite a considerable cost, especially when compared to its main rivals.

If you’re looking for a spy app to monitor multiple devices, like a phone, tablet and laptop, then Spyera might be the best choice for you, as its annual plan allows you to cover all of these devices for $479/year.

The specific requirements you look for in a spy app will ultimately determine whether Spyera is the best option for you. It supports a wide range of devices and platforms and offers a solid range of features, including some more advanced options that other apps lack.

FAQ

How much does Spyera cost?

Does Spyera require jailbreak?

Can Spyera be detected?

Can I install Spyera remotely?

Is it illegal to jailbreak a device?

The post Spyera Review 2024: Expert Insights and Unbiased Opinion appeared first on The Tech Report.

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The 7 Best Employer of Record (EOR) Services for International Hiring https://techreport.com/business-software/best-employer-of-record-services/ Thu, 18 May 2023 16:43:40 +0000 https://techreport.com/?page_id=3503625 best employer of records service EOR

Businesses all over the world no longer worry about the actual location of their employees and remote work is often encouraged as long as the key objectives are hit. Sadly,...

The post The 7 Best Employer of Record (EOR) Services for International Hiring appeared first on The Tech Report.

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best employer of records service EOR

Businesses all over the world no longer worry about the actual location of their employees and remote work is often encouraged as long as the key objectives are hit. Sadly, hiring new employees from different countries can be a stressful and complicated task – this is why many organizations are turning to Employer of Record services to help them.

Having a reliable EOR service can be a massive benefit to all businesses looking to scale or grow their popularity around the world, as many of the best providers include global payroll solutions, benefits packages, and integration with a host of third-party systems. In this article, we look at the top 7 best EOR services for international hiring — their features, pricing, and everything in between.

The Best EOR Services Shortlisted

Later on in this article, we’ll take a deeper look into the 7 best Employer of Record services, but for now, here are our top picks at a glance:

  1. Deel — The Best EOR Service for Controlling Compliance Concerns, Payroll Taxes, and International Hiring
  2. Multiplier — An Excellent EOR Service for Managing Payroll in 120+ Countries Worldwide
  3. Remofirst — A Great EOR Provider With an Incredible 24/7 Customer Support Network
  4. Papaya — The Best EOR Service for Employee Benefit Packages and Workforce Management
  5. Oyster — A Solid Service that Offers Seamless Integration with a Host of Third-party Applications, Like Xero and QuickBooks
  6. Rippling — A Reliable Platform that Offers All-in-One HR, Payroll, and IT Services in One Place
  7. Atlas HXM – A Decent EOR Service with Coverage in Over 160+ Countries Around the World

Reviews of the Top Employer Of Record Solutions

Below, we take a deeper look into the top EOR services, exploring each one’s key offerings, like the feature set, pricing, available locations, and much more.

1. Deel – The Best EOR Service Overall for Controlling Compliance Concerns, Payroll Taxes, and International Hiring

Deel is a well-known employer of record platform that enables businesses to hire individuals quickly in over 150 countries. This means that you can take advantage of the talents and experience of a global workforce by expanding abroad without ever having to set up a new company.

In fact, you can estimate the cost of an international worker using Deel’s free calculator tool and examine the required benefits and withholdings by comparing the expenditures of other countries.

Beyond this, Deel will also ensure all legal requirements are completed on your behalf by using local legal professionals to create compliant contracts and keep track of regulatory changes.

Deel | Best Employer of Record Service

Over the past year, this company has introduced several new products, including global payroll, support for global mobility, integrated Slack tools, and advanced integrations.

Their global payroll solution leverages internal expertise, which can significantly assist businesses with pre-existing payroll setups to streamline their accounting and reporting processes. That said, fast and accurate support is a hallmark of Deel, with live chat and 24/7 customer service available to all users.

Deel also distinguishes itself from other EOR services with local country experts who offer advisory techniques for each place you recruit from, and many well-known businesses, such as Reddit, Coinbase, and Dropbox, use the platform.

Beyond this, Deel offers end-to-end management for your global staff, including onboarding and termination services, and another benefit of choosing this EOR service is that their web application is simple to use and offers many features to assist organisations in properly managing their workforce.

These include contract management, overseas benefits, and expense tracking. Plus, sophisticated adaptations, including stipends, signing bonuses, and stock options through their integrated contract management feature.

Pros

  • Available in over 150+ countries, meaning you can find global top talent
  • Free for businesses with less than 200 employees
  • Excellent and knowledgeable support team
  • They use local legal professionals to ensure a high-quality service
  • Offers excellent hassle-free global payroll in 90+ countries

Cons

  • Each device requires its own subscription
Best For Free Version Paid Plan Starting Price Number of Countries
Managing global hiring, payroll taxes, and compliance risks Free Demo $599 90+

2. Multiplier – An Excellent EOR Service for Managing Payroll in 120+ Countries Worldwide

Multiplier is an excellent employer of record service that specializes in providing HR and payroll services to businesses, allowing them to outsource these responsibilities to a single provider. You can create contracts in only a few minutes, manage payroll in over 120 countries, and give equity to employees through stock option schemes.

With this EOR provider, businesses can save time and costs while lowering their exposure to the legal and financial risks connected with hiring employees in many jurisdictions by outsourcing their key HR activities to Multiplier.

In fact, besides payroll, Multiplier can also assist firms with managing employee benefits, onboarding, and ensuring compliance with local laws and regulations.

Multiplier EOR Dashboard

Multiplier is renowned for its technologically advanced approach to payroll and HR services — and despite this, the platform is simple to use, making managing your global workforce a breeze.

Also, in addition to assuring adherence to local rules and regulations, their team of professionals offers continuing support and direction to businesses, helping them overcome any obstacles they may encounter.

And beyond all this, the service offers a simple employee onboarding solution, where Multiplier will send the employee an email requesting them to self-onboard, asking them to supply their banking information and KYC information and to sign the automatically prepared contracts — a process that takes around 3-5 minutes.

Multiplier even supplies the new employee with all the tools they need to get started, including a laptop for work and any other tools they need to work efficiently. Plus, your employees will have one centralized location to access payslips, offer letters and contracts, manage expense reports, view bonuses, and view any benefits.

Pros

  • Supports payments in multiple currencies
  • You get access to payroll, compliance, timesheets and onboarding in one place
  • Includes a useful free demo to get to grips with the service

Cons

  • Limited integrations with third-party apps
Best For Free Version Paid Plan Starting Price Number of Countries
Simple Onboarding Procedures Free Demo $300 150+

3. Remofirst – A Great EOR Provider With an Incredible 24/7 Customer Support Network

Remofirst is a global EOR service provider that has a goal of breaking down regional barriers for businesses so they can easily access talent worldwide. Their platform is designed to make it easier for you to hire and manage full-time employees or international contractors.

In fact, it permits you to hire talent in over 150 countries without the need to establish a local corporation in each nation where you want to do recruiting.

That said, Remofirst offers international payroll and invoicing administration, global benefits management (including insurance and equity plans and time-off management), and employee support with visa and other immigration documents requests in addition to their EOR services.

Remofirst EOR

Through the use of a secure dashboard and a staff of legal and HR specialists, they’ll guarantee that your company’s activities are always in conformity with evolving international laws. If you require more assistance, their customer support service is also accessible around-the-clock.

Another bonus is that each client has a personal account manager as their primary point of contact. With their help, you can streamline the entire external payroll procedure. So, instead of making many individual payments, you can combine and aggregate your invoices into one payment.

They’ll also automatically compute your team’s hours, time off, holidays, bonuses, and commissions automatically, so you don’t have to. Instead, you only need to review and approve their monthly invoice.

Pros

  • Dedicated personal account manager for each client
  • Affordable pricing compared with other EOR providers
  • Access to an excellent customer service team 24/7
  • A decent ‘free forever plan’ for smaller-scale businesses is available

Cons

  • Not as many premium features as others on this list
Best For Free Version Paid Plan Starting Price Number of Countries
Excellent 24/7 Customer Support Free Forever Plan With Limited Features $199 150+

4. Papaya – The Best EOR Service for Employee Benefit Packages and Workforce Management

Papaya is an automated SaaS platform available worldwide that offers a complete labour management solution, assisting recruiters in removing obstacles to international employment. Their software has functions for enrolling users and processing cross-border payments in countries worldwide.

In fact, it assists companies in over 160+ countries with employee hiring and onboarding without the need for entity establishment.

It offers businesses country-specific onboarding workflows, compliance with regional labour rules, an intelligent onboarding status tracker, aids in easing employee relocation, and offers immigration services to ease the creation of work permits.

Papaya Interface

Beyond this, the platform connects with all management systems, supports all employee kinds (payroll, EOR, and contractors), and employs cutting-edge technologies to guarantee compliance and avoid errors. Plus, it has a highly visible system for monitoring business intelligence (BI) and payroll expenditures in real-time.

On the whole, by using Papaya Worldwide, your business can streamline remote person management. Its cutting-edge automation, security, and BI are available to businesses without requiring them to change their current payroll software.

And to sweeten things further, you get a neat lineup of premium features like advanced compliance, liability protection, employee contract lifecycle management, immigration and Visa support, data security monitoring, and much more.

Plus, regardless of the company’s size, Papaya Global assists businesses in providing competitive benefits packages to overseas personnel. So without having to find local benefit providers in every nation, open up local accounts, or have a certain number of employees, the company can set up health insurance, disability, vision, dentistry, and maternity leave.

Pros

  • Gives you access to hiring and payroll services in 160+ countries
  • An exceptional support network that is available 24/7
  • Ultra-secure payment processes since it complies with GDPR and SOC standards
  • Offers excellent benefits package support

Cons

  • Very expensive compared to other major EOR providers
Best For Free Version Paid Plan Starting Price Number of Countries
Workflow Management & Benefits Packages Free Trial Available $770 160+

5. Oyster – A Solid Service that Offers Seamless Integration with a Host of Third-party Applications

Oyster was created expressly with the remote worker in mind as it allows managers and HR teams to manage payroll, onboard contractors and workers practically anywhere on the planet, and provide benefits like paid time off, local health insurance, and other perks, all from a single platform.

In fact, you can do all this in over 180 nations — hence why over 1,400 clients have used it, successfully onboarding over 4,500 workers. Thanks to a team scattered across 70 countries, Oyster is a globally dispersed company in its own right, and it has in-depth expertise in emerging markets and places 25% of its personnel there.

It offers full-service online platforms, international and local benefit plans, and services for full-time employees and contractors.

Oyster Interface

A benefits adviser tool is available in Oyster to assist businesses in identifying the most appealing perks for each job. It provides a range of compliant essential benefits packages and other incentives like health, pension, and allowances to assist firms in luring top employees.

The website also has a “virtual hiring assistant”, which helps to hire managers and makes contract recommendations depending on the local labour market and legal requirements. Plus, additional country guides are available for a deeper look at the labour regulations in any jurisdiction.

With the Oyster platform, there’s also seamless integration with a host of third-party tools like CRM software and accountancy apps like Xero, QuickBooks, Greenhouse, Bamboo HR, and Oracle Netsuite. Plus, for programmers who want to incorporate these EOR capabilities into their applications, Oyster is putting together an API.

And to top it off, employees can use the portal to seek time off, view contracts and payslips, request reimbursements, and make their benefits selections.

Pros

  • You get high-quality protection against legal and compliance risk
  • Provides huge international coverage in over 180+ countries
  • Integrates with a host of other third-party apps

Cons

  • Lacks a few additional HR features, like recruitment
Best For Free Version Paid Plan Starting Price Number of Countries
Global Hiring Solutions and HR Support Free Demo Available $499 180+

6. Rippling — A Reliable Platform that Offers an All-in-one HR, Payroll and IT Service in One Place

For companies and organisations with a worldwide workforce, Rippling offers an all-in-one HR, payroll, and IT platform. With each distributed team or employee being paid in their local currency, payroll administration is simple.

This unified platform, which goes beyond handling payroll and benefits, time tracking, and reporting for your whole staff from a single user interface, also offers enterprise-grade security, scalability, and operational efficiency.

With the Rippling EOR service, businesses can hire and pay staff members anywhere in the world without having to establish a local subsidiary. Payroll, contracts, employment taxes, and benefits are just a few of the legal and compliance concerns that this provider takes care of.

Rippling Dashboard

Its payroll processing eliminates the need for manual calculations and employee data entry into the system, and since the system synchronises all HR data with the payroll system, everything is done automatically. All you have to do is decide on the appropriate pay intervals for your staff, examine the payroll, and provide your approval.

The platform will also automatically assign EOR staff members the necessary country-specific compliance training. This eliminates the need to determine whether a nation mandates employee compliance training. And since Rippling handles everything, you don’t even need to find a different system to provide that kind of training.

In addition to handling payroll through its EOR solutions, Rippling also offers a direct outsourced payroll solution for businesses with direct employees working in the United States or subsidiaries in other countries.

The US payroll system entails error-free automated payroll, automatic tax withholding and filing, and a specialised mobile app that allows employees to view their W-2s, check their pay stubs, and request time off.

Pros

  • Offers an excellent all-in-one solution for businesses
  • Very user-friendly interface, perfect for those new to EOR software
  • Great scalability so it can grow alongside your businesses demands

Cons

  • Pricing for all services isn’t available on the website
Best For Free Version Paid Plan Starting Price Number of Countries
Workforce Management & Support For Compliance Risks Free Demo Available Price Upon Request 120+

7. Atlas HXM – A Decent EOR Service with Coverage in Over 160+ Countries Around the World

Atlas HXM is one of the leading Employer Of Record services worldwide and enables its clients to hire and pay employees internationally. And with it operating in over 160 nations, it’s unsurprising that it’s able to support thousands of businesses and remote workers with its enterprise-grade technology platform.

Through self-service features and real-time insights, their platform is intended to enable end-to-end EOR solutions and foster empowered user experiences that enhance corporate outcomes.

The service is dedicated to extending the boundaries of both work and entrepreneurship and as a result, their business model enables startups and SMBs to compete on a worldwide scale, transforming commercial breakthroughs into successful multinational businesses.

Atlas HXM | EOR Service

Using Atlas HXM gives you access to a sizable global labour pool, employee engagement and productivity tracking, immigration aid, support for business Visas, and work sponsorship agreements. Plus, it handles multinational teams’ payroll directly, no matter where you are in the world.

And to make matters better, unlike most of its rivals, there’s no requirement to rely on outside parties to fix any mistakes. That said, this provider specializes in global HR management, ensuring that organisations are current on all relevant local labour laws, rules, and regulations.

They also provide advice on certain HR concerns that may emerge, like performance management and termination.

You can quickly determine the relevant local labour laws and compliance requirements in a country of expansion, hire, manage, and pay contractors globally through a single interface, administer payroll, and take advantage of other HR services like immigration and relocation assistance.

Pros

  • You can hire employees in 160+ countries
  • There’s no need to set up a local entity
  • It handles multinational teams’ payroll directly

Cons

  • Quite expensive, considering it has fewer features than other providers on this list
Best For Free Version Paid Plan Starting Price Number of Countries
Supporting Global Teams Free Demo Available $595 160+

The Best Global Employment Services Compared

It can be hard to compare all the above with so much detailed information, but don’t worry – below is a useful table comparing all the key features of each product:

EOR Provider  Best For  Free Version  Paid Starting Plan  Number of Countries 
Deel Managing Global Hiring, Payroll Taxes, and Compliance Risks Free Demo

 

$599 90+
Multiplier Simple Onboarding Procedures Free Demo

 

$300 50+
Remofirst Excellent 24/7 Customer Support Free Forever Plan With Limited Features $199 150+
Papaya Workflow Management & Benefits Packages Free Trial Available (Unspecified Days) $770 160+
Oyster Global Hiring Solutions and HR Support

 

Free Demo $499 180+
Rippling Workforce Management & Support For Compliance Risks Free Demo Price Upon Request 120+
Atlas HXM Supporting Global Teams Free Demo $595 160+

What is An Employer of Record?

Simply put, an Employer of Record is the legal employer of a worker in a certain country. As a result, the EOR service handles all employment-related compliance issues, such as payroll, taxes, statutory benefits, employment agreements, and more.

An ‘Employer of Record’ (EOR) provider is a third party contracted by a client company to take on the core compliance responsibilities of an employer, as specified under the law. A three-sided, co-employment contract is signed by the employer, the employee, and the PEO when a corporation uses an Employer of Record:

  • The employer maintains a close working relationship with the employee by assigning them responsibilities and overseeing their general performance
  • As the person in charge of legal employment, the EOR handles the administrative aspects of things like payroll, taxes, benefits, etc., making sure the employee and the client are in compliance with all employment-related laws.
  • The employee, who is a third party to the agreement, complies with all of their responsibilities as an employee of the business.

Nowadays, businesses hire workers in more nations across the world, frequently in locations where it requires much more than just registering for a tax ID number and submitting annual returns to be in compliance with all applicable tax and employment laws.

The stress and uncertainty of hiring workers in more complicated/riskier jurisdictions can be effectively managed by using an Employer of Record service.

EOR vs PEO Services | What’s the Difference?

PEOs (Professional Employer Organizations) and EORs (Employers of Record) have a few key differences, despite the fact that some people use the terms synonymously. The former often perform HR tasks for companies that already have legal entities, whereas EORs hire employees on behalf of their client companies without requiring them to establish legal entities themselves.

You require an employer of record, not a PEO, if you don’t own a business in the country where you wish to hire a person. If you’re working with a global employment partner and they insist that you set up your own company before you can hire employees, that partner only offers PEO services and not EOR services.

Sometimes, these businesses are referred to as “global PEOs” or as suppliers of “global PEO services.” If you already have plans to establish an entity, that’s acceptable, but if not, working with an EOR is far more cost-effective.

Why Should I Use an EOR Service for HR?

There are a number of key benefits to using an EOR, for example, you can hire people abroad without registering as a legal organisation, as an EOR already has a business that’s authorized to operate in the target nation.

This can undoubtedly save you time and money, allowing your company to grow more quickly and adapt to changing market conditions. This can be especially helpful when a contingency workforce is needed to satisfy corporate demand. Beyond this, below are some other key benefits:

  • Offers less paperwork
  • They offer local authorities on tax legislation and procedures
  • EOR’s boast thorough knowledge of local statutory benefits
  • Permits the quick onboarding of new employees
  • Allows for the protection of intellectual property
  • Drastically reduces categorization risks
  • Accelerates your objectives for worldwide expansion

However, there are some drawbacks to using an EOR as well, for example, they can cost a lot of money, especially if you’re hiring multiple employees. Also, in some countries, like Germany, staff can’t be employed for more than 18 months using an EOR solution.

Factors to Consider When Choosing the Best EOR Solution for Your Business

To ensure you pick the right Employer of Record service for you, there are a few factors you should consider, like the overall cost of the operation. Below are some of the key aspects you need to look for:

How Many Countries Can the EOR Hire In?

Employees may need to be transferred between countries or hired in a particular country. Make sure you’re aware of the countries that the Employer of Record company serves right away. The service should be able to list every country in which they have the personnel, and the ideal EOR business will offer more coverage than its rivals.

Does it Include a Global HR Platform?

The EOR service you select should be equipped with the technology to make your work life easier and ultimately make the challenging process of employing workers from abroad simpler. For example, it can streamline the payment procedure by working in tandem with some of the top accounting software, reducing the risk of mistakes.

Can the EOR, for instance, automate manual operations and reduce the likelihood of human error? With the technology, is it possible to quickly hire and onboard employees? Can you use different devices to access the EOR? Make sure your team can easily use the platform and that the technology is user-friendly.

Does the EOR Include Any Supporting Services?

As you hire and onboard new foreign employees and throughout the employee lifecycle, be sure the Employer of Record provider has skilled HR specialists who can support you.

You’ll want to be confident in the consultation services the EOR offers and aware of how quickly they respond to your questions. You should be able to rely on internal expertise in international payroll, national tax law, employment law, benefits, and international compliance for both you and your employees.

Does the EOR Provide International Compliance?

Labour laws control how businesses treat their workers and give them certain safeguards. Around the world, these regulations vary from country to country, and they’re always susceptible to change.

It can be quite challenging to stay on top of all the variations in labour laws and potential changes if a business is expanding globally and hiring employees from other countries. In general, businesses must ensure compliance in a number of areas, such as:

  • Nondiscrimination Policies
  • Compliant Employment Agreements
  • Minimum Wage
  • Benefits
  • Data & Privacy Laws
  • Hours Worked & Any Overtime
  • Termination of Contract

All the services reviewed today offer what you need to ensure compliance in your global hiring efforts.

Does the EOR Provide a Detailed Portfolio of Benefits?

You should think about the kind of insurance and perks you may provide if you want to hire the best international talent. Can your EOR partner offer pension plans with full health coverage? Can you alter the benefit plans and degree of coverage offered to your employees?

Your company must be able to provide your overseas employees with competitive health insurance, life insurance, and AD&D coverage while still meeting your business needs — all at a price that fits not just your needs, but your budget.

Conclusion

Having a reliable EOR service can really elevate your business to the next level and streamline the employment process for overseas workers. So it’s important to ensure that the provider you choose is the right pick for your business, and you need to make sure they have the expertise you need to grow successfully.

That said, picking Deel as the best was easy. It has local experts around the world and can offer its services in over 150+ countries. Beyond this, it’s recently introduced a number of new products, including global payroll, which means you can employees all over the world with ease. Get started with Deel now.

EOR Service FAQ

What services do EOR solutions provide?

Can I hire internationally without an Employer of Record?

What’s the difference between EOR and a staffing agency?

Are there limitations to working with an EOR provider?

Do my employees work for me or the EOR?

The post The 7 Best Employer of Record (EOR) Services for International Hiring appeared first on The Tech Report.

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Best Phone Tracker Apps Without Permission — Top 10 Reviewed for 2024 https://techreport.com/spy/best-phone-tracker-apps-without-permission/ Wed, 17 May 2023 12:34:21 +0000 https://techreport.com/?page_id=3503373 Best phone tracker apps without permission

Ensuring our loved ones are safe in today’s online world is becoming increasingly crucial. Parents, in particular, frequently worry about their kids’ locations and activities, while businesses may need to...

The post Best Phone Tracker Apps Without Permission — Top 10 Reviewed for 2024 appeared first on The Tech Report.

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Best phone tracker apps without permission

Ensuring our loved ones are safe in today’s online world is becoming increasingly crucial. Parents, in particular, frequently worry about their kids’ locations and activities, while businesses may need to monitor their employees’ whereabouts for legal reasons. Using phone tracker apps without permission can therefore be extremely useful in maintaining safety and ensuring productivity.

This article will examine the best apps for tracking phones without the need for the device owner’s permission. Our goal is simple — we want to give you all the information you need about these apps so that you can make an informed decision on the one best suited to your needs to keep those closest to you safe.

10 Best Phone Tracking Apps Without Permission – At a Glance

We’ll jump into the more in-depth reviews later in this article, but for now, let’s take a quick look at the top 10 best-rated tools on the market:

  1. mSpyThe best overall phone tracking app thanks to its extensive range of features, including geo-fencing, remote access, and call monitoring.
  2. EyeZyA great tracking app for those on a budget that don’t want to miss out on advanced features like keylogging — It costs just $9.99/month.
  3. uMobix — A reliable option for Android users, and it boasts advanced remote access capabilities like listening to the device’s surroundings.
  4. CocospyAn excellent option for beginners thanks to its easy setup and user-friendly interface – plus, no rooting or jailbreak is necessary.
  5. Hoverwatch — The best tracking tool for businesses and large families, as you can track up to 25 devices at a very affordable price point.
  6. XNSpyA budget-friendly option that boasts ample advanced capabilities like screen time management, keyword alerts, and remote device access.
  7. Spybubblepro — Designed to give peace of mind to suspicious partners as it offers in-depth tracking for both online and offline activities.
  8. Geofinder.mobi — The best option if you’re after just location tracking features, and it lets you track unlimited devices without installing any apps.
  9. Spyera An excellent option for those who want to monitor a range of devices, including phones, laptops, and tablets.
  10. SpyicA good budget-friendly option that boasts ample plans suitable for various needs and budgets — You can track up to 25 devices.

Each app on our list was compared using some key factors like price, ease of use, and core features to ensure that there’s an option for everyone. So whether you’re a cautious parent, suspicious partner, or business owner — you’ll be able to find the right tool for your needs and budget.

10 Best Phone Tracking Apps Reviewed

To help you find the best of the bunch for your needs, we’ll be taking a deeper look into our top 10 phone tracking apps below — including their key features, pricing, and leading pros and cons, as expressed by real users.

1. mSpy — Overall, the Best Phone Tracking App

mSpy is a highly capable phone monitoring app that can track practically all of your child’s internet actions and a few of their offline ones. Thanks to the keylogging feature, you can also monitor calls and texts and even keep tabs on their social media activity — all remotely and 100% discreetly.

That said, once you’ve navigated the setup, you’re met with a very user-friendly interface that puts all the vital details at your fingertips, such as the target user’s location, messages, call logs, and so on. There’s a lot going on, but after a short period, you should start to pick up on how everything works.

mSPy | best phone tracker app

With mSpy, you can even access your child’s bookmarks, browsing history, and the Wi-Fi networks they’ve used to get online. Plus, the Android app lets you limit access to websites by category, and you can set up custom keyword alerts to monitor whether your child, spouse, or employees are accessing offensive material.

Beyond all this, the excellent app manager in mSpy tracks all the applications the user has installed, and you can also disable inappropriate apps on Android or monitor your children’s activities with a screen recorder and, of course, the keylogger, which displays everything typed across apps.

You can also highlight the smartphone on a map using Android Exclusive location features and even set up geofencing to specify important locations for your child (such as home, school, or a relative’s house) and receive alerts when they enter or exit these and “out-of-bound” locations.

Pricing

All these ultra-premium features come at an incredibly competitive price point for unrivaled access to your targeted device and some top-notch features, so it’s money well spent. Below is a breakdown of what you can expect to pay for mSpy:

  • 1 Month – $48.99/month
  • 3 Months – $27.99/month
  • 12 Months – $11.66/month

As evident by the plan’s pricing, signing up for an annual plan offers the best value for money. While these amounts may seem high, it’s important to remember the feature set you get with a mSpy plan.

Pros

  • Logs SMS and instant messages for easy reviewing
  • Location history and geofencing features are very accurate
  • Allows you to view browsing history and bookmarked pages
  • Provides detailed reports each month for easy viewing
  • One of the best spy apps for Android

Cons

  • Each device requires its own subscription
Monthly Price Annual Price Devices Tracked Compatibility Free Version Guarantee
$48.99/month $11.66/month 1 Android, iOS, tablets Demo 10-day refund policy

2. EyeZy — A Great Tracking App for Those on a Budget 

EyeZy is another powerful tracking app that can be installed without permission. It boasts several monitoring tools, including the ability to follow the position of the target person, view their search history, monitor text and call logs, and much more.

That said, the information recorded will remain private between you and the target individual, making it great for the security of your loved ones. Additionally, because it’s invisible, neither your children nor your spouse will be aware that a spy app has been installed on their phone, allowing you to monitor them secretly.

EyeZy interface

What we love most about EyeZy is that there are some powerful features that allow the user to be in total control. For example, you’re able to see a screen recording of the target device, which is especially useful if you suspect they’re doing something they shouldn’t be and need a live feed into their activity.

Additionally, there’s the ‘Social Spotlight’ tab, which contains several key features like social media monitoring, which allows you to keep tabs on all the major platforms, view call and text logs in real-time and downloadable reports.

Beyond this, EyeZy’s keylogger lets you can flag certain terms that you deem important to ensure the user’s safety. In fact, that’s why it’s renowned for being one of the best keylogger apps.

And last but not least, you also have the ability to track the user’s movements, provided they’re connected to the internet. From here, you can see the live location of the user via GPS, and you can even set safe zones like friends’ houses or a certain radius to get notified if they stray outside of these.

Pricing

EyeZy is one of the more affordable tracking apps out there, and they offer three pricing plans for you to choose from. Better still, you can try a free demo, plus there’s a useful 14-day refund policy if you’re unsatisfied:

  • Monthly — $47.99/month
  • Quarterly — $27.99/month
  • Yearly — $9.99/month

Pros

  • Affordable plans if you subscribe quarterly or yearly
  • Excellent Social Spotlight tab that tracks all calls, texts, and social media
  • Useful location tracker with strong accuracy
  • The screen recording feature is ideal for parents

Cons

  • Requires a jailbroken device to work properly
Monthly Price Annual Price Devices Tracked Compatibility Free Version Guarantee
$47.99/month $9.99/month 1 Android, iOS, tablets 3-day trial + demo 14-day refund policy

3. uMobix — The Best Option for Remote Access to the Target Device

uMobix is another excellent phone tracker app that combines a wide range of advanced features, most notably on Android, alongside competitive prices. For starters, it has an excellent keylogging feature that works on regular browsers and, uniquely, even on incognito modes.

In terms of usability, there’s an easy-to-navigate dashboard that gives you access to some key features from the get-go and displays some basic data on call and SMS activity. You can also see a helpful overview of browsing patterns, such as the most visited websites or search terms.

Beyond this, you can view the call history information for the target phone, including missed, deleted, and incoming ones; plus the caller’s contact information, phone number, call time and date, and length.

uMobix | phone tracker app

It’s also worth noting that uMobix syncs with the smartphone every five minutes, updating call logs and informing you of events as close to in real-time as possible — including live location data.

As mentioned before, uMobix is ideally tailored for use on Android devices, particularly if they’re rooted. While there is an app for iOS, it lacks some of the key features, like accurate location tracking, for example.

That said, one standout feature that’s worth a mention is the Remote Access you can have with uMobix; for example, you’re able to block incoming calls and messages to the user’s device if you suspect they’re unwanted or offensive. This allows you to really look out for your child and can be especially useful if they’re subject to any cyberbullying.

Pricing

In terms of cost, uMobix is pretty level on par with most of the other providers on this list, with cheaper plans available for those who sign up for longer subscriptions. There’s also a 14-day refund policy in place for those who aren’t satisfied with the app’s performance.

  • Monthly — $49.99/month
  • Quarterly — $27.99/month
  • Annual — $11.66/month

Pros

  • Strong feature-to-price ratio meaning good value for money
  • Excellent tracking app for Android users
  • Useful remote capabilities like disabling calls and texts
  • One of the best keyloggers out there

Cons

  • Poor performance and fewer features on Apple devices
Monthly Price Annual Price Devices Tracked Compatibility Free Version Guarantee
$49.99/month $11.66/month 1 Android, iOS, tablets Demo 14-day refund policy

4. Cocospy — The Best No-Jailbreak and Rooting Tracker App for Beginners

Cocospy is a popular phone tracking app that combines a few advanced features alongside affordable annual plans. It allows you to monitor a host of social media platforms like Facebook and WhatsApp, and it even offers Tinder spying, so you can ensure your child’s safety.

Cocospy | phone tracking app

Cocospy includes practically all the monitoring features needed to spy on someone, and it can track both Android and iPhone devices without rooting or jailbreaking the target device. And the target user won’t have any indication the app is installed, and it has no effect on the user’s device, like slowing it down or heating it up.

Beyond this, there’s an excellent real-time location tracker on hand as well, and it offers superb accuracy, where you’ll even get a timestamp to see when the user was at a certain location. Plus, it seamlessly integrates with Google Maps, and it’s pretty easy to get to grips with.

To top it off, you can also keep an eye on any social media activity from any of the major platforms using the dedicated social media monitoring tool, which captures screenshots periodically, or simply check the keylogger to see what’s being typed in messages, statuses, or the search bars.

For extra safety, you can even monitor photos and videos to ensure nothing explicit is being shared. In fact, you can check any that are stored on the device by exploring the files remotely from your own user device — all of this is achieved without the need for rooting or jailbreaking the device.

Pricing

You can choose from two different Cocospy plans depending on which device you want to be tracked, and each comes with a 14-day refund policy:

  • Monthly — $49.99/month
  • Quarterly — $29.99/month
  • Annual — $12.50/month

Pros

  • Affordable pricing
  • Doesn’t require jailbreaking/rooting
  • Excellent social media monitoring tools
  • Allows remote camera and microphone access
  • One of the best iOS spy apps

Cons

  • Fewer features on Apple devices
Monthly Price Annual Price Devices Tracked Compatibility Free Version Guarantee
$49.99/month $12.50/month 1 Android, iOS, tablets Demo 60-day refund policy

5. Hoverwatch — The Best Tracking Tool for Businesses and Families

Hoverwatch is a reliable tracking app that can be installed on various devices, such as phones, tablets, and computers. Beyond this unique USP, it also has a ton of premium features like real-time location and message storage at an affordable price.

You can choose from various subscriptions that offer total device coverage, so you can keep track of your children and loved ones at a price that best fits your budget. This also means you can install the app on all of your kid’s devices, not just their phones.

Hoverwatch interface

Moreover, there’s a useful screenshot feature that allows you to see a live image of what the user is doing at any given time. For example, should the user receive a message, either via SMS or through social media, you’ll get a notification informing you, so you can make sure it’s safe.

This also works with web browsing, and if the user enters a keyword that’s flagged, you’ll receive a notification informing you of their actions. This helps you in stopping your child from accessing explicit content online that may have slipped through the SafeSearch filters provided by your ISP.

Another useful extra feature on offer with Hoverwatch is that it allows you to monitor the front-facing camera of the target device. This happens every time the phone is unlocked, so you can ensure that it’s your child using the device and not a friend or stranger.

Pricing

You can choose from three tiers of pricing, depending on the number of devices you need to be covered. These are the monthly plans on offer:

  • Personal (1 Device) — $24.95/month
  • Professional (5 Devices) — $9.99/device/month
  • Business (25 Devices) — $6/device/month

Pros

  • Useful plans that offer coverage on all user devices
  • A unique front-facing camera monitoring feature
  • Has excellent screen recording capabilities
  • Affordable prices for a premium service

Cons

  • You need physical access to the target user’s device to install
Monthly Price Annual Price Devices Tracked Compatibility Free Version Guarantee
$24.95/month $6/month/device 25 Android, iOS, tablets Demo 60-day refund policy

6. XNSpy — A Budget-Friendly Option With Advanced Capabilities

With XNSpy, you can see your children’s SMS, emails, contacts, and much more at an affordable price. In addition, you’ll always know where they are, thanks to its excellent location monitoring — in fact, it’s one of the best geofencing solutions, and you can even set an alert if an unrecognized number calls them.

xnspy phone spy tracker dashboard

Beyond this, another incredibly unique and powerful feature on offer with XNSpy is the ability to listen in on the device’s microphone. So, if the target user is at a party or maybe just around a friend’s house, you can listen in to make sure there isn’t anyone there who shouldn’t be or the conversation isn’t explicit in some way.

You can also set your own keywords that’ll alert you if they’re searched for. For example, you could have ‘self-harm’ or ‘sex’ flagged, so you’ll be notified if the user searches for these words.

That said, if you simply want to manage the user’s screen time, you can do this via the app without using the other features. Young people spend a lot of time on social media nowadays, and it can be a good way to display how much time they’ve spent on a certain website to ensure a healthy digital balance.

Pricing

Like most of the best phone tracking apps, XNSpy has three main price plans you can choose from, with the best savings coming from an annual plan:

  • Monthly — $35.99/month
  • Quarterly — $20/month
  • Annual — $7.50/month

Pros

  • Monitors up to 12 social media accounts at one time
  • Surround recording is a great bonus feature
  • Allows you to flag inappropriate search queries
  • Budget-friendly annual plan

Cons

  • No demo or free trial is available
Monthly Price Annual Price Devices Tracked Compatibility Free Version Guarantee
$35.99/month $7.50/month 1 Android, iOS No 10-day refund policy

7. Spybubble Pro — Top Choice for Tracking Your Partner

SpyBubble Pro is one of the best phone tracker apps for monitoring an unfaithful boyfriend, girlfriend, or spouse. It was designed specifically with the purpose of catching a cheating partner, as opposed to others on this list that are aimed more at parental control needs.

Spybubble Pro

That said, for those who have trouble believing their spouse when they tell them where they are, there’s a location tracking tool you can use to watch their live location. Additionally, you get access to their SMS and WhatsApp messages to make sure they aren’t speaking with any ex-boyfriends or girlfriends.

You can even view all shared media files and hidden or deleted chats, including outgoing and incoming messages in both of these scenarios. And, if you’re concerned with what your partner is up to on social media, you can also monitor the accounts and messages on all major platforms.

This means you can read messages, and view sent photos, and much more. However, as with most spy apps, you’ll need to have access to the intended user’s device, which, if they are up to no good, can be difficult.

But once it’s installed, you won’t need physical access to the device again, and the target user won’t have any idea that a tracking app is installed, so you don’t need to worry.

Pricing

You can pay for Spybubblepro in three ways, depending on how long you want to keep the tracking going. If you decide it’s not the app for you, you can request your money back within 14 days. The plans are listed below:

  • Monthly — $42.49/month
  • Quarterly — $25.49/month
  • Annual — $10.62/month

Pros

  • You can view deleted text messages
  • Simple setup and the app can’t be traced
  • Excellent social media monitoring abilities
  • Offers decent value for money

Cons

  • Requires physical access to the device
Monthly Price Annual Price Devices Tracked Compatibility Free Version Guarantee
$42.49/month $10.62/month 1 Android OS 4+, iPhones and iPads Free Demo 14-day refund policy

8. Geofinder.mobi — The Best for Tracking a User’s Location With Just a Phone Number

Geofinder.mobi takes a slightly different take on phone tracking, and the setup is much easier, as all you need is the recipient’s phone number to get started. That said, it’s worth noting that this isn’t an intrusive app, so the target user will receive a notification and will only allow access if they’re comfortable sharing their live location.

Overall, the platform relies more on trust rather than tracking or spying on a user who is unaware — however, if you have access to the device, you can monitor their location without their knowledge.

Geofinder mobile phone location tracker

Having said all that, the location tracking capabilities are incredibly accurate and can pinpoint the exact location of the target device. It integrates seamlessly with Google Maps, so you easily navigate your way to the other person; you can even explore nearby landmarks should you get lost.

One crafty feature is VPN detection, which is useful as many people use a VPN to mask their true location, so it can be pretty difficult to navigate around this. But with Geofinder.mobi, you’ll be able to flag hidden Wi-Fi addresses, making it easier to discover the true location of the target.

Another thing we quite like about this tool is that the interface is very user-friendly, and the setup takes just minutes, so you’ll have no problems navigating it. That said, it is worth noting that this tool is great for location tracking, but it lacks many of the features on offer with other top phone spy apps.

Pricing

You can trial the service for 48 hours, and it only costs $1. This allows you to test if it’s the right product for you, but moving forward, you only have the option to pay for the service monthly, and that’ll set you back $39.99/month.

Overall, considering the best phone tracker apps have a lot more features, we think this is overpriced, but if you’re after just a location tracking app, we’d recommend trying the trial before committing to the paid plan.

Pros

  • Can detect if the targeted user is using a VPN
  • No need to install the app on a user’s device
  • Works on pretty much any phone
  • Highly accurate live location data

Cons

  • Expensive considering the lack of features
  • No free trial
Monthly Price Annual Price Devices Tracked Compatibility Free Version Guarantee
$39.99/month No Annual Plan 1 Any browser, Android, iOS $1 for 48 Hours 14-day refund policy

9. Spyera — An Excellent Option for Those Who Want to Monitor a Range of Devices

We’ve explored the best phone tracking apps for parents and children, as well as suspicious partners, but there’s another industry that can benefit from this service — a business. That’s where Spyera comes in handy, with its feature set aimed at monitoring the behavior of employees.

And despite it being one of the more expensive entries on our list, Spyera justifies its position thanks to its ability to range of use cases and unique features like VoIP spying, where it can connect to a VoIP number, as well as a traditional number, and monitor calls and messages.

Spyera Dashboard

Many businesses use VoIP services to make and receive calls, and this would allow employers to keep tabs on any incoming or outgoing communications. That said, you can also benefit from the excellent Remote Access feature.

With this, you can remotely access the target device camera & microphone, allowing you to capture videos and photos as well as record audio without the target person knowing about it.

And another reason many opt for Spyera is that it works across a range of devices, like Android, iOS, MacOS, and Windows — the primary systems used in business as well as at home. Also, the keylogging feature can be used across all these devices, so you can make sure all communications are in order.

Pricing

Spyera offers 4 main plans for you to pick from, depending on what your desired use is, with the option of monthly or annual billing:

  • Smartphone — $389/year or $32/month
  • Tablet — $279/year or $23/month
  • Computer — $199/year or $16.50/month
  • All-in-one — $479/year or $40/month

Pros

  • Can monitor calls made on VoIPs
  • Compatible with all devices
  • The remote access feature is very powerful 
  • Can also be used for tracking children or partners

Cons

  • Jailbreaking/rooting is needed for the advanced features on mobile
Monthly Price Annual Price Devices Tracked Compatibility Free Version Guarantee
$49-$89/month $32/month 1 Android, iOS, tablets, PC No 10-day refund policy

10. Spyic — A Good Budget-Friendly App With Plans for Every Need and Budget

Spyic is a well-known and reliable phone tracking app that offers a wide range of plans to suit all needs, whether it’s for family or business usage. That said, one of the factors that make it so popular is that you don’t need a rooted or jailbroken device to get installed and set up.

And unfortunately, because of this, it doesn’t offer quite the same range of advanced features as some of the best phone tracker apps on this list.

spyic phone tracker app

What you do get is a user-friendly interface and some good basic features like social media monitoring for both WhatsApp and Facebook Messenger and the ability to read chat logs from regular text messages.

Alongside this, there’s the ability to create safe spaces for your loved ones with geofencing. If they wander outside of this safe parameter, you’ll receive an alert on your phone, and then you can track the user’s location in real-time.

All things considered, the main selling point is undoubtedly to be the device coverage Spyic offers, which means it can be tailored to home or business use, with a flexible range of plans suitable for all.

Pricing

With Spyic, you can select from a range of different plans for Android and iOS:

Premium

  • Android – $9.99/month
  • iOS – $10.83/month

Family

  • Android – $16.66/month – 3 devices
  • iOS — $33.33/month – 5 devices

Business

  • iOS – $83.33/month – 25 devices

Pros

  • Great range of plans
  • Can cover up to 25 devices on the business iOS plans
  • No rooting or jailbreaking needed 
  • Generous 60-day money-back guarantee

Cons

  • Not as many advanced features as other products on this list
Monthly Price Annual Price Devices Tracked Compatibility Free Version Guarantee
Starts at $39.99/month Starts at $8.33/month 1-25 Android, iOS Demo 60-day refund policy

A Comparison of the 10 Best Phone Tracker Apps

To help you easily compare the market’s leading apps for tracking a phone without permission, we’ve compiled the table below with all the key details:

Phone Spy Apps Monthly Price Annual Price Devices Tracked Compatibility Free Version Guarantee
mSpy $48.99/month $11.66/month 1 Android, iOS, tablets Demo 10-day refund policy
EyeZy $47.99/month $9.99/month 1 Android, iOS, tablets 3-day trial + demo 14-day refund policy
uMobix $49.99/month $11.66/month 1 Android, iOS, tablets Demo 14-day refund policy
Cocospy $49.99/month $12.50/month 1 Android, iOS, tablets Demo 60-day money-back guarantee
Hoverwatch $24.95/month $6/month/device 25 Windows, Mac, Android, iOS 3 days NA
XNSpy $35.99/month $7.50/month 1 Android, iOS No 10 days
Spybubblepro $42.49/month $10.62.+/month 1 Android OS 4+,iPhones and iPads Free Demo 14 days
Geofinder.mobi $39.99/month NA 1 Any browser, Android, iOS $1 Trial Period of 48 hours 14 days
Spyera $49-$89/month $32/month 1 Android, iOS, tablets, PC No 10-day money-back guarantee
Spyic Starts at $39.99/month Starts at $8.33/month 1-25 Android, iOS Demo 60-day money-back guarantee

What is a Phone Tracker App?

A phone tracking app is basically a tool that helps you either keep an eye on your children, find your lost device, or to spy on someone’s online and offline activity. They’re commonly used by families who want to ensure their kids’ safety and ensure they aren’t doing anything they shouldn’t be doing.

The ‘without permission’ aspect just means that the software or app is installed on a device without the consent of the device owner. Parents don’t need permission from their children to install these apps on their devices — but for other examples, such as partners or employers, you’d usually need to inform the user.

These tracking apps have GPS tracking to show the device’s location. Beyond this, some boast more advanced features, such as the ability to flag certain keywords that are entered into a device, to know whether suspicious or dangerous terms are used by the target user, such as “porn” or “suicide.”

The more premium apps even allow you to monitor social media accounts and see any incoming or outgoing messages, which is especially useful if you suspect your child is being bullied or exchanging messages they shouldn’t be.

How Does a Phone Tracker App Work?

Typically, a cell phone tracker app uses the GPS location data of the target device to give you live, real-time data to locate the target device. Beyond this, some applications also employ triangulation using Wi-Fi and cellular network data to provide a more precise position of the device.

However, the availability of GPS, cellular networks, and Wi-Fi signals may have an impact on how accurate the position data is. And it’s also worth noting that many of these apps also track the online activity happening on the target phone — social media activity, browser history, etc.

The app disguises itself as an ordinary one to avoid suspicion, and once installed, it tracks the activity happening on the device and sends the data to your dashboard to review — all remotely and discreetly.

That said, it’s crucial to remember that tracing someone’s phone without their permission is illegal in some countries unless you’re monitoring your child’s activity — so we’d recommend checking your local laws before you use one of these apps.

What Can You See When Using a Phone Tracking App?

A good phone tracking app allows you to monitor a target users device in multiple ways to ensure their safety and give you peace of mind. Whilst most will have a GPS tracker as standard, others have some slightly more advanced features.

For example, the best apps on this list allow you to remotely access the intended device’s microphone so you can listen to conversations they’re having, making sure there’s nothing explicit going on. Other more advanced features include keyword monitoring, which allows a parent to set certain keywords that will get flagged if searched for.

Beyond this, most apps also include call and text monitoring — including viewing the messages and activity happening on social media platforms. This can help stop the ongoing rise of cyberbullying, something that’s rife all around the world.

Why Use a Tracking App?

Although it may seem like a lack of trust, using a tracking app actually has very justifiable reasons, especially for concerned parents. Below is a list of reasons you should use a phone tracker app:

Ease of Mind

The internet can be a scary place for a young person, whether it’s the pressure of social media, bullying, harassment, explicit images — the list goes on. So an app like those reviewed here gives parents the ability to ensure their child’s safety, both online and offline, for complete peace of mind.

Some may just choose to turn on the location feature, so they can make sure their child doesn’t go anywhere dangerous. For others who may suspect their child is being cyberbullied, having the option to view messages could be life-changing and even offer protection.

Business Productivity

Some businesses may employ more basic tracking services to ensure the workflow is as it should be. Although, this usually requires permission, as you can’t just spy on your staff without letting them know.

Either way, it’s a good way to ensure employees aren’t sharing private information or even browsing websites they shouldn’t be on at work, and beyond this, it’s also a great way of ensuring field workers are on site when they should be.

Finding a Lost/Stolen Device

One of the most common reasons people use tracking apps is to find a device that has been lost or stolen, especially when it might contain private information. This is particularly useful for businesses that give out company devices.

As most of these apps have real-time location tracking, you’re able to see exactly where the device is and whether anyone is trying to access it. Plus, some of the best phone tracking apps have a feature where they can take a picture from the front-facing camera, so if someone is trying to unlock the device, you can see exactly who it is.

How to Set Up a Tracker App | A Step-by-Step Guide

It’s pretty easy to set up and navigate a phone tracker app, but just in case you don’t know, we’ll walk you through the process of how to do this on Android using our top pick mSpy:

Step 1 – Get a Subscription

Head over to the mSpy website and pick the plan that’s right for you. Then, create an account using a valid email address so mSpy can send you the instructions for use.

mSpy

Step 2 – Select Your Plan

Choose a plan. For the best savings, we’d recommend signing up for an annual subscription:

mSpy pricing

 

Step 3 – Log In & Install

Login using the credentials you created earlier, then follow the installation wizard and configure the settings as explained on the screen.

mSpy login

Step 4 – Turn Off PlayProtect

PlayProtect’s security features must be turned off for a phone tracking app to function. With the help of the instructions mSpy provides, this is once more fairly simple.

Turn off PlayProtect

After disabling, carry out the download procedure. When you’ve completed the steps outlined by mSpy and completed the installation, scroll through the apps on the device to find the “Update Service” icon.

Click the icon to complete the setup process — this entails accepting app permissions and following on-screen prompts to remove all traces of the installation.

Step 5 – Start Monitoring

Once finished, sign in to see all the activity synced to your control panel:

mSpy's dashboard view

Conclusion

The best phone tracking apps can offer a partner or parent real peace of mind by allowing them to monitor the behavior of a loved one. That said, our top pick, mSpy, has an excellent set of features like social media monitoring and a real-time location tracker to ensure that your loved ones are safe, both online and offline.

It’s also pretty affordable if you sign up for an annual plan, and you can also benefit from mSpy’s 10-day money-back guarantee — try it now.

Phone Tracker FAQ

What is a phone tracker app?

Can I track my child’s cell phone?

Will someone know I’m tracking them?

Can Google Maps or Apple Maps be used to track a phone?

Can you track a GPS location without using a phone tracker app?

Are phone tracking apps legal?

The post Best Phone Tracker Apps Without Permission — Top 10 Reviewed for 2024 appeared first on The Tech Report.

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6 Best VoIP Providers in Canada Reviewed for 2024 https://techreport.com/voip-services/best-voip-providers-in-canada/ Mon, 15 May 2023 12:56:24 +0000 https://techreport.com/?page_id=3497028 Best VoIP provider in Canada

Looking for the best VoIP provider in Canada is no easy task as the market space is packed with a huge range of options, all claiming to be the best,...

The post 6 Best VoIP Providers in Canada Reviewed for 2024 appeared first on The Tech Report.

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Best VoIP provider in Canada

Looking for the best VoIP provider in Canada is no easy task as the market space is packed with a huge range of options, all claiming to be the best, most affordable, and so on. And whether you’re looking for a business or residential VoIP, the demand for a solid one is now higher than ever.

To help you find the one that fits your needs and budget, we’ve done the legwork for you by sifting through dozens of VoIP providers in Canada, and we’ve ranked and reviewed them based on factors like pricing, ease of use, and customer satisfaction, amongst others. That said, we’re confident that Ooma is the best VoIP provider in Canada, but keep reading to compare the market’s leading options.

Our Pick for the Best VoIP Home Phone Canada | Ooma

Ooma is our top pick for the best VoIP provider in Canada, and here are some of the many reasons why:

  • It’s available worldwide (in 70 countries and counting), not just in Canada. This means staying connected with colleagues or loved ones from afar has never been easier.
  • With Ooma, flexibility is pivotal. You can sign up with a one-year subscription or pay for the service without a contract, meaning you can opt-out whenever you want.
  • It’s available on the go thanks to the simple-to-use iOS or Android app – this means you can stay in the loop wherever you are.
  • You can expect crystal-clear audio, a voicemail monitoring feature, Amazon Alexa integration, a call blocker, and more with an Ooma plan.

Best VoIP Providers in Canada | Top 6 Shortlist At a Glance

Although we’ve selected Ooma as our top pick for the best VoIP providers in Canada, other providers may be more suitable for your needs. Below are our top 6 providers at a glance:

  1. Ooma – The Best Overall VoIP Provider in Canada Thanks to its Flexible Plans and Excellent Range of Features like Ring Groups
  2. DialPad – A Great Option For Businesses Due to its Seamless Integration With Third-party Applications
  3. Vonage – An Excellent VoIP Provider That Boasts an Impressive Uptime Rate of 99.999%, Making it Ideal For Business Use
  4. Nextiva – A Great VoIP Service for People New to VoIP Thanks to its User-friendly Interface and Simple Setup
  5. Phone.com – Highly Affordable VoIP Provider With an Excellent Mobile System That Can Manage a Whole Business
  6. RingCentral – Good VoIP Provider That Uses AI-backed Transcription and Call Analysis

How We Picked The Best VoIP Providers in Canada

We look for certain features to ensure we only pick the best VoIP providers, this includes:

  • Bandwidth
  • Cost and scalability
  • Functionality (feature-to-price ratio)
  • Ease of use and customer support

By comparing these factors, we can determine who the best VoIP provider is in Canada. Continue reading for our detailed reviews.

Reviews of the Best Canada VoIP Providers

In the sections that follow, we’ll explore each of our top picks in more detail — including their key features, pricing, and pros and cons.

1. Ooma – The Best Overall VoIP Provider in Canada

Our top pick for the best VoIP provider in Canada is Ooma, as they’re an excellent solution for businesses of any size and for residential use. That said, the service has many useful features, and reasonably priced plans make them even more attractive.

Ooma Dashboard | Best VoIP Canada

Ooma’s Office plan is an excellent VoIP solution for small businesses or companies with many remote workers because it’s reasonably priced and offers a few different plan options. In addition, the basic package includes a mobile app, a virtual receptionist, and call-forwarding capabilities.

For the more advanced features, Ooma Office Pro provides voicemail transcription, so you can have voicemails sent to your inbox instead of having to listen to them, as well as top-tier video conferencing facilities that allow 200 people to attend.

To top it off, it’s perfect for businesses with remote workers as it boasts mobile and desktop apps enabling employees to make and receive unlimited calls within Canada using their company number.

Beyond this, Ring Groups enables businesses to combine extensions to ring at once, which is another useful feature that transfers a call to other employees to answer if someone else is busy. Overall, Ooma Office is undoubtedly a fantastic option for businesses of any size and can be a useful tool for residential use too.

If you require more advanced features and have a business with over 20 employees, the Ooma Pro Plus plan will be best suited, as you can take advantage of the excellent video conferencing features at an affordable price point.

Top Features Price (Monthly) Mobile Apps Free-trial Money-back Guarantee
1. Video Conferencing
2. Amazon Alexa Integration
3. Ring Groups
Essentials $19.95
Pro $24.95
Pro Plus $29.95
Android & iOS No 30-days

Pros

  • Great video-calling features
  • Integrates seamlessly with third-party apps
  • Excellent customer support team
  • Affordably priced plans to suit all needs
  • Simple setup that takes just a few minutes

Cons

  • Not enough SMS options

2. DialPad – A Great Option for Businesses Due to its Seamless Integration With Third-party Applications

DialPad is a reasonably priced, well-designed option that’s especially well suited to companies with workflows that encourage the use of installed softphones or software programs on internet-connected devices to make phone calls.

The company’s VoIP service, DialPad Talk, uses cloud calling and AI to increase employee productivity and flexibility. This means that your employees are free to conduct business communications on any device and from any location, and AI-powered voice intelligence can be used to automate note-taking and gauge callers’ moods.

dialpad dashboard

Besides this, DialPad has a single central administrator site that makes it simple to add new users, give them phone numbers, connect them to office suites like Google Workspace and Microsoft 365, and set their rights, simplifying the user setup experience.

The entire process should just take a few minutes, and to maintain user accounts daily, a desktop or smartphone app can be used. This flexibility is just one of the reasons why it’s one of the best VoIP providers in Canada, or anywhere else in the world for that matter.

And despite the fact that remote work has grown in popularity recently, DialPad is still compatible with a large number of desk phones to accommodate businesses with in-house or hybrid workers. Additionally, the provider has teamed with Jabra and Poly to incorporate functionality with a variety of headsets.

Top Features Price (Monthly) Mobile Apps Free-trial Money-back Guarantee
1. Auto Attendant
2. Real-time Transcriptions
3. Visual Voicemail
Standard $15
Pro $25
Enterprise (contact sales)
Desktop, Android & iOS 14 days 30-day

Pros

  • Affordably priced plans for all users
  • Easy-to-use interface, perfect for beginners or more experienced users
  • Feature-rich service, even for Standard plan subscribers
  • High-quality audio and visuals for crystal-clear calls

Cons

  • Video conferencing isn’t available on the Standard plan

3. Vonage – An Excellent VoIP Provider That Boasts an Impressive Uptime Rate of 99.999%

Vonage is a popular VoIP provider with a ton of useful features aimed at small to large businesses; plus, it guarantees a 99.999% uptime, so you never ever have to worry about any downtime impacting your business.

And besides being one of the best VoIP providers in Canada, Vonage is also a global powerhouse, offering its services in over 60+ countries worldwide. This is especially helpful if you or your business makes a lot of international calls or you’re looking at expanding globally.

Vonage Best VoIP Canada

One of the new features is an intuitive AI-based virtual assistant that can learn your employee’s behaviour and patterns to recommend strategies. There’s also useful integration for third-party apps like Microsoft Teams, so you can streamline your whole business process.

Other important features include:

  • Call Monitoring — This lets you listen in on or join calls
  • Call Continuity — Reroute calls to a backup number in case your internet connection drops or your VoIP system malfunctions
  • Simultaneous Ring — Set up a system where five numbers ring at once, ensuring that calls are always answered

Beyond all this, the setup process is incredibly straightforward, and there’s no charge for the activation or delivery, Vonage takes care of that all for you. And as you’d expect, the interface is also very user-friendly, so even first-time users of VoIP software should have little trouble.

Top Features Price (Monthly) Mobile Apps Free-trial Money-back Guarantee
1. Free Activation & Setup
2. Global Network in 60+ Countries
3. Call monitoring
Mobile $19.99
Premium $29.99
Advanced $39.99
Desktop, Android & iOS 14 days 30-day

Pros

  • Free delivery, activation, and setup 
  • Affordably priced plans suited for all businesses
  • Global network available in 60+ countries
  • Uptime guarantee of 99.999%

Cons

  • A lot of features need to be purchased separately

4. Nextiva – A User-Friendly Service, Perfect for People New to VoIP

Nextiva provides numerous advantages over its competitors if you’re contemplating cloud-based communication for your staff and clients, including flexible pricing options and a wide selection of capabilities.

To start with, you can place as many calls as you like to any phone in the US or Canada. You can also use the real-time presence function to know which of your contacts are available now, and the call queue lets you take calls when it’s busy.

Nextiva VoIP interface

Beyond this, all the plans include video conferencing, and Nextiva lets you share files and screens during meetings. Plus, you’ll also have the ability to run live-streaming webinars and virtual events using the unique video features. It doesn’t end there, either.

Additional features include the ability to record outgoing voicemails and the ability to have them delivered directly to your email inbox — saving you time and making it easy to find important messages when you need them. And to sweeten things further, you can send and receive an unlimited amount of faxes and text messages.

Overall, the service from Nextiva is well-designed with functionality and usability in mind, and it makes it possible for you to find the required features as soon as you log in by segmenting its tools based on communication, sales, and service.

Plus, there are seamless integrations available with CRM services, including Salesforce, HubSpot, Zendesk, Outlook, and Google Contacts, all of which work harmoniously with Vonage to make it effortless to manage data across the apps that your business uses.

Top Features Price (Monthly) Mobile Apps Free-trial Money-back Guarantee
1. Integrates With a Host of Third-party Apps
2. Unlimited SMS and calling
3. HD Quality Calls
Basic $20
Pro $25
Enterprise $30
Android & iOS 14 days 30-day

Pros

  • Unlimited SMS and calls
  • Free trial and a 30-day guarantee for a stress-free purchase
  • HD call quality for unrivalled communications
  • User-friendly interface that’s perfect for new users

Cons

  • No 24/7 phone/email support

5. Phone.com – Highly Affordable VoIP Provider With an Excellent Mobile System That Can Manage a Whole Business

Phone.com is a well-established cloud-based VoIP and phone service provider designed for small businesses. It offers phone, contact centre, and administration services with a straightforward user interface at a reasonable cost, making it a top VoIP provider in Canada for those on a budget.

In fact, businesses and individuals can choose from a variety of options, including usage-based pricing available on its Basic plan, perfect for those who make fewer than 300 calls each month. And the more premium plans offer unlimited calls and text messages, so you can upgrade anytime.

Phone.com Dashboard

Having said that, for customers who are only prepared to pay for what they need, Phone.com offers unmatched flexibility to add, remove, or upgrade people from one plan to another.

Standard features like voicemail to email, where you’re provided with a transcript of the voicemail message, and video conferencing are available to all users regardless of your package. And users can alter how and when they receive calls through call routing, queuing, and scheduling, which is also available on all packages.

Beyond this, each employee receives a free conference bridge number from Phone.com, allowing anyone to start a call with up to 250 people, and you won’t need to purchase a new phone as this provider supports many IP phones, including classic analog phones.

In fact, Phone.com will send you a free adaptor to start making calls immediately.

Top Features Price (Monthly) Mobile Apps Free-trial Money-back Guarantee
1. No Need to Buy New Hardware
2. Usage-based Pricing
3. Upgrade Your Plan at Any Time
Basic $11.99
Plus $15.99
Pro $23.99
Android & iOS No 30-day

Pros

  • No need to buy new phones, as Phone.com supports most hardware
  • Usage-based pricing is great for small businesses
  • Base VoIP feature set included for all plans
  • User-friendly interface that’s perfect for beginners

Cons

  • Video conferencing is a paid extra for all plans

6. RingCentral – Good VoIP Provider That Uses AI-backed Transcription and Call Analysis

RingCentral MVP is a valuable and powerful tool for managing all your business communications, from audio conversations to team chats. Plus, it offers strong security and a wide range of software integration, but it’s not the most economical option.

That said, RingCentral recognizes that more meetings are taking place virtually rather than in person. Starting with the Standard plan, up to 100 participants can join video conferences or meetings (200 for the Premium and Ultimate plans). For security, meetings are password-protected, and the video is beautifully clear in HD.

RingCentral VoIP Dashboard

During calls and text chats, the new AI system employs machine learning to track talks between sales professionals and customers and can even suggest recommended approaches. This is just one cutting-edge feature that makes this a top VoIP provider in Canada.

In addition to the main features, there’s an app gallery where you can connect to OneDrive, Salesforce, Google Workspace, Trello, and Microsoft Teams, as well as install the RingCentral Automator to send out automatic replies to incoming SMS messages.

On top of this, the visual voicemail allows you to deal with your messages in the order of your choice when you miss a call or leave one on voicemail. And you can also download any messages you want to preserve.

It’s worth noting that for customers of the Standard plan and higher, the transcription and email delivery of the message happens automatically, without input from yourself.

Top Features Price (Monthly) Mobile Apps Free-trial Money-back Guarantee
1. AI-Recommended Strategies
2. Integration With Other Apps
3. Video Conferences
Essential $19.99
Standard $27.99
Premium $34.99
Ultimate $49.99
Desktop, Android & iOS 14 days 30-day

Pros

  • AI-backed transcription and call analysis
  • Seamless integration with third-party software
  • Excellent call and video quality
  • A 14-day free trial to test the service

Cons

  • Plans are more expensive than most providers

Comparison of the Best VoIP Providers in Canada

Below is a useful table that compares the key features of each of these VoIP providers at a glance so you easily compare the features you want alongside other key aspects like price and money-back guarantees:

Provider  Top Features  Price (Monthly)  Mobile Apps  Free Trial  Money-back Guarantee 
Ooma 1. Video Conferencing 
2. Amazon Alexa Integration 
3. Ring Groups 
Essentials $19.95 
Pro $24.95 
Pro Plus $29.95 
Android & iOS  No Free Trial  30-day Money-back Guarantee 
DialPad 1. Auto Attendant 
2. Real-time Transcriptions 
3. Visual Voicemail 
Standard $15 
Pro $25 
Enterprise (contact sales) 
Desktop, Android & iOS  14-day Free Trial  30-day Money-back Guarantee 
Vonage  1. Free Activation & Setup 
2. Global Network in 60+ Countries 
3. Call monitoring 
Mobile $19.99 
Premium $29.99  
Advanced $39.99 
Desktop, Android & iOS  14-day Free Trial  30-day Money-back Guarantee 
Nextiva 1. Integrates With a Host of Third-party Apps 
2. Unlimited SMS and calling 
3. HD Quality Calls 
Basic $20 
Pro $25  
Enterprise $30 
Android & iOS  14-day Free Trial  30-day Money-back Guarantee 
Phone.com  1. No Need to Buy New Hardware 
2. Usage-based Pricing 
3. Upgrade Your Plan at Any Time 
Basic $11.99 
Plus $15.99 
Pro $23.99 
Android & iOS  14-day Free Trial  30-day Money-back Guarantee 
RingCentral 1. AI-Recommended Strategies 
2. Integration With Other Apps 
3. Video Conferences 
Essential $19.99 
Standard $27.99 
Premium $34.99  
Ultimate $49.99 
Desktop, Android & iOS  14-day Free Trial  30-day Money-back Guarantee 

 

Benefits of Using a VoIP Provider in Canada

Now that you’ve seen our top picks for the best VoIP provider in Canada, let’s explore why VoIP software is so vital in the first place. Below is a list of key benefits:

It’s Cost Effective

Every company, no matter how big or small, must focus on the bottom line. Therefore, you must take into account any chance to reduce costs. Investing in a VoIP phone system is one way that businesses can save money.

Business landline phone systems typically cost $50 per line per month, and only local (and occasionally domestic) calls are included in this pricing. On the other hand, VoIP plans are accessible for less than $20 per line, and they often include ample features and cheap or free local and international calls.

Easy Accessibility

Aside from cost effectiveness, one of the main advantages of VoIP for business is accessibility. Making calls from any location is a clear benefit provided by cloud-based VoIP services. All you need to place and receive calls is a reliable data connection.

Additionally, you can have missed calls forwarded to another person or voicemails sent to you through email.

Ultimate Portability

A virtual number, commonly referred to as a VoIP number, is transferable. This means that you can use the same number everywhere. This is ideal for those who work on the go or have to travel frequently because of work. Even better, you can use the same VoIP number even if your company moves.

Cheap Scalability

Another of VoIP’s numerous benefits, scalability, is why business VoIPs are increasingly popular. Although this is a VoIP feature that’s frequently discussed, what does it actually mean? Every business owner would choose a phone system that expands with their company, given the choice.

With a VoIP system, you’ll avoid investing in costly hardware or a dedicated line as your business grows — not to mention the costs of upgrading lines and getting expert assistance in to make it happen.

Advanced Features

VoIP technology enables even a one-person enterprise to portray the illusion of a larger business thanks to sophisticated capabilities like auto attendant and call shifting. However, it can also make a big business seem more approachable.

Making the most of all the features that are offered is the key. For example, the auto attendant feature can make you appear bigger than you are, as you can build up your auto attendant to seem like a business with numerous departments, even if you’re a lone proprietor.

Beyond this, VoIP has advantages over conventional phone systems because it supports multiple-party calls. Large and small businesses frequently require a separate conference call provider that allows multiple participants to join the same call.

Ooma Features

Top-Notch Audio-Quality

Every one of us has experienced a terrible voice and video conference. Thankfully, VoIP calls frequently have low latency, no lag, and no call dropouts. That said, the secret to high-quality VoIP calls is a strong connection with enough bandwidth.

Without this, it would be a nightmare, especially if your workplace frequently receives calls simultaneously. This would result in everyone having to endure background noise, echoes, and delays since someone will always call in using a cell phone.

VoIP phones put a stop to the pauses, allowing you to concentrate on the meeting’s topic and avoid confusion with customers. With advancements like noise-cancelling microphones and sophisticated audio compression, VoIP phones can produce better sound quality.

Improved Security

Most people don’t want to spend more time than necessary, considering how secure their phone system is. Security of phone systems is important, particularly for businesses. VoIP can reduce security risks by utilizing IP technological developments like enhanced identity management and encryption.

Hosted VoIP service providers guard their networks around the clock, so you don’t have to. Working with a reliable VoIP supplier like Ooma, who submits to independent security audits, checking staff members have good password habits, and configuring automated alerts for dubious calling behavior is necessary to secure your VoIP system.

Effortless Multi-Tasking

VoIP enables you to communicate while sending documents, pictures, and videos in addition to making regular phone calls so that you can hold meetings with clients or employees who are located elsewhere in the world more easily.

How to Choose a VoIP Provider in Canada

Deciding which VoIP provider is right for you can be a tricky process. Whilst we’ve selected our best VoIP providers in Canada in this article, you should still consider some key factors about your own personal preferences before making your decision. Below are some of the key factors to consider when choosing a VoIP provider:

Your Business Needs

One of the most important factors to consider is what you’ll be using your VoIP service for. If you own a small, medium, or large-scale business, you’ll likely have a more premium package that covers multiple users.

For those who want VoIP for their home, you can opt for a more basic package or maybe even a usage plan, where you simply pay for whatever calls you make.

Security

A VoIP service is vulnerable to system flaws since it uses the internet. Your data is, therefore, technically vulnerable to interception or breach. Therefore, you must search for a VoIP service that goes above and beyond to implement security measures to safeguard client data.

High-level encryption is the most efficient technique to guarantee the security of calls. This is the procedure of encoding call data into a form that can only be decoded with a description key.

If a VoIP service company has many data centres spread across different cities, it’s another sign of excellent security, as a data centre with multiple servers provides redundancy of service, which enables one server to take over in the event of a failure of another.

VoIP services advertise and provide security features for all of their plans. The higher the package tier, the more advanced security features you can anticipate. Just be sure the package you choose provides enough security for the volume of data and sensitive information you’ll be handling.

Uptime

Uptime is a metric that represents the percentage of time that hardware, an IT system or a device is successfully operational. It refers to when a system is working, versus downtime, which refers to when a system is not working.

The percentage of time your VoIP service is online and operational is referred to as uptime. No service can promise perfect uptime, as unexpected outages are inevitable since VoIP uses the internet. That said, most suppliers can guarantee an uptime of around 99.9%.

The number of digits following that decimal will suggest a considerable variance in uptime, even though this may seem like a reliable number. For example, as an illustration, 99.99% uptime typically equates to 52.56 minutes of unplanned downtime each year, while 99.99% uptime is similar to 5.26 minutes.

Plans

You’ll want to pick a VoIP provider that has various tiers of plans available to you, as this helps with scalability. For example, your business may start with a basic plan covering the volume you’re currently experiencing.

However, should your business grow and the demand for new features increases, you can simply upgrade your plan to correspond with your business’s growth. Plans will vary significantly from provider to provider, so it’s important to ensure you’re getting the best value for money.

Some providers may seem affordable but then charge you for various add-ons that others include in a plan.

Features

Although it might seem obvious, it’s crucial to be sure the platform you choose offers the VoIP features and capabilities you require. However, suppose you’re unsure of what to watch out for. In that case, the following features and reasons for their significance are listed:

  • Automated attendant – This is a menu system that directs callers to the appropriate agent or division using automated voice prompts. The fact that it can take the place of a live receptionist will save your team both time and money.
  • Call forwarding – This ensures you can always answer calls from your clients and can even redirect a call to a different extension or a completely different phone number.
  • Call analytics – This allows you to get information on agent performance, behavioral trends, call session metrics, and more. You can use the data to inform your judgments and make informed business decisions.
  • Softphone – Any WiFi-enabled device can be used to place a call or send a message using a softphone application.
  • Text messaging for business – Send SMS messages directly from the platform and avoid switching between platforms because there are occasions when texting is preferable to placing calls.
  • Text-to-voicemail — Your voicemails are translated by this feature, which then texts an SMS to your phone.
  • Video conferencing – VoIP phone systems frequently include this so you can work with clients and coworkers in the most practical way imaginable.

Support

Your VoIP tool is used for important communications with clients and coworkers. Therefore, if something goes wrong, you want to make sure it’s fixed as soon as possible. Some suppliers outsource their customer service during specific times of the day to give assistance around-the-clock, seven days a week.

The majority of other VoIP service providers provide phone support during regular business hours. It’s crucial to have customer service available when you need it for VoIP in both residential and commercial settings. As a result, understanding what kind of support you’ll get and when to anticipate it is absolutely essential.

Beyond this, you’ll have access to more than just live chat with a representative if the customer support program is comprehensive. This comprises online portals, instructional videos, frequently asked questions, and/or other web-based options.

Third-Party Integrations

The fact that VoIP tools frequently include built-in third-party connectors is one of their main benefits. They integrate with other tools you commonly use because your VoIP tool is intended to be the focal point of your everyday conversation. Below are some key examples of what third-party integrations to look for:

  • CRM – A lot of VoIP systems interface with your CRM software, allowing you to track crucial information from your phone calls. The platform’s ability to connect your agent to the caller’s profile and occasionally even immediately create a new support ticket with details about that call can also improve the customer experience.
  • Fax and SMS — Most VoIP platforms come with built-in fax and SMS functionality. However, your tool should interact with a third-party SMS and fax platform if they lack that capability.
  • Email software — You can use email and call management by integrating your email program with your VoIP system. You can get audio files from your VoIP tool directly into your email, for instance, if Microsoft Outlook is integrated with it.
  • The cloud – To ensure the security of your phone recording, a VoIP tool should be simple to use with cloud storage services like Dropbox or Google Cloud. With this, you’ll be able to avoid problems like fraud and legal action that way.

How to Get a VoIP Number in Canada

Getting a VoIP number is pretty straightforward, and you can get up and running in no time at all with any of the providers on this list. Using Ooma as our example, here’s a simple guide on how to get a VoIP number in Canada:

1. Step 1 — Choose Your Preferred Plan

Most VoIP service providers have a variety of plans from which to pick. Look over all of the pricing options your supplier provides to choose the one that provides the features you require for the best price. Here is an example of the plans from Ooma:

Ooma Cheap VoIP Plans

The Essentials plan is perfect if you’re after basic features, and we’d recommend the Pro plan for small businesses looking for added oomph. That said, if you have more demanding needs, the Pro Plus plan is sure to cover them — all at a reasonable price.

2. Step 2 — Create An Account

Once you’ve decided which plan you want to incorporate for yourself or your business, complete the signup process on the Ooma website or mobile app. Typically, this entails giving basic information about your company and payment details.

3. Step 3 — Add Any Additional Numbers

Once you’re in your workspace, you can get more phone numbers for your company, such as individual numbers for each team member or lines just for sales and support. The Ooma Pro subscription comes bundled with a second phone number for your device.

If you want to add more than two numbers, you can purchase up to seven more for $4.99/month apiece.

4. Step 4 — Assign the Relevant Access

Invite your team colleagues to your workspace after everything is set up. You can choose to give your teammates a shared number so they can call and text each other using the same phone number, or you can give them a brand-new number. However, Ooma also includes a free number for each user with their plans.

Conclusion

Despite our detailed list, you should still assess any business or individual needs before proceeding to signup with a VoIP provider, as the features you need may not be relevant to a provider on this list.

For those who are committed and know what they need, we’d recommend trying Ooma, our top pick for the best VoIP provider in Canada. They have a great set of features like Ring Groups and also integrate well with third-party applications — all without breaking the bank.

Try it hassle-free now, thanks to the generous 30-day money-back guarantee.

Canada VoIP FAQs

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