As a well-known Chrome extension for LinkedIn automation, Octopus CRM has gained popularity for its simple features and budget-friendly price. It allows users to automate key tasks like sending connection requests, messaging, and viewing profiles, making it a strong option for beginners.
However, its nature as a browser extension has its drawbacks. Many users find themselves needing more advanced features, better security, or a more stable platform. If you're one of those users searching for an Octopus CRM alternative, this guide is for you. We will explore the five best alternatives, highlighting their features, costs, and what makes them unique.
1. Bindago
Website: https://bindago.com/
A feature-rich desktop application designed for comprehensive LinkedIn automation, covering everything from bulk connection requests and mass InMail campaigns to multi-step message sequences and CSV exports. Since it operates locally on your computer, your credentials are never exposed to a third-party server.
Pricing: $9.99/month (flat rate for all features)
Key Features:
- Bulk connection requests with personalized notes
- Multi-step messaging sequences
- Mass InMail sending to Sales Navigator leads
- Bulk withdrawal of pending invitations
- Export LinkedIn search results to CSV
- Runs locally for maximum security
- 10-day free trial (no credit card required)
Platform: Desktop App (Windows/Mac/Linux)
Best For: Professionals and small businesses looking for a secure, affordable, and all-in-one alternative to Octopus CRM.
Why Bindago is the #1 Alternative: Bindago offers a major upgrade from a browser extension like Octopus CRM while remaining just as affordable. Its greatest strength is its security and stability; as a dedicated desktop app, it operates independently of your browser and keeps your LinkedIn credentials on your local machine. For only $9.99/month, it delivers a more extensive feature set, including advanced sequences and bulk InMails, making it the best value for users who want a powerful and secure automation tool.
2. LinkedHelper 2
Website: https://linkedhelper.com/
A desktop-based application that provides a wide array of automation features, including the creation of complex campaigns, list management, and detailed follow-up sequences.
Pricing:
- Standard plan: $15/month
- Pro plan: $45/month
Best For: Power users who need highly customizable and complex campaign workflows and prefer a desktop application for security.
3. Expandi.io
Website: https://expandi.io/
A powerful cloud-based automation tool that mimics human behavior with smart sequences, connection requests, and follow-ups. It also offers multi-channel capabilities (LinkedIn + Email).
Pricing: Starts at $99/month per user/seat.
Best For: Agencies and teams needing a premium cloud-based solution with advanced safety features and multi-channel outreach.
4. Dux-Soup
Website: https://www.dux-soup.com/
One of the most well-known Chrome extensions for LinkedIn automation. It automates profile visits, sending connection requests, and messaging.
Pricing: Paid plans start at €12.99/month.
Best For: Users looking for another simple and reliable Chrome extension with a long-standing reputation.
5. Waalaxy
Website: https://waalaxy.com/
A cloud-based tool with a user-friendly interface that focuses on creating multi-channel prospecting sequences (LinkedIn + Email). It has a visual campaign builder that makes it easy to design outreach flows.
Pricing: Starts around €56/month for paid plans, with a limited free plan available.
Best For: Marketers and sales professionals who want to combine LinkedIn and email outreach in a single platform with an intuitive visual builder.
Comparison Table
| Tool | Starting Price | Platform | Security Model | Key Strength |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Bindago | $9.99/mo | Desktop App | Local (High Security) | Best balance of price, security, and features |
| Octopus CRM (Baseline) | $9.99/mo | Chrome Extension | Browser-based | Simple and affordable extension |
| LinkedHelper 2 | $15/mo | Desktop App | Local (High Security) | Ideal for complex, customized workflows |
| Expandi.io | $99/mo | Cloud | Cloud-based | Premium option for multi-channel outreach |
| Dux-Soup | €12.99/mo | Chrome Extension | Browser-based | Reliable & straightforward |
| Waalaxy | €56/mo | Cloud | Cloud-based | Intuitive visual builder with email support |
Conclusion: Which Octopus CRM Alternative is Right for You?
Choosing the right tool depends on your priorities:
- For the Best Value and Security: Bindago is the clear winner. It provides a more robust and secure desktop application for the same starting price as Octopus CRM, but with a richer feature set.
- For a Similar Experience: Dux-Soup is a great choice if you want to stick with a simple, reliable Chrome extension.
- For Power and Customization: LinkedHelper 2 offers deep customization for users who need to build intricate workflows in a desktop environment.
- For Premium Cloud Features: Expandi.io and Waalaxy are powerful, albeit more expensive, options for those who need cloud-based multi-channel outreach.
While Octopus CRM is a great starting point, these alternatives offer clear upgrade paths for users seeking better security, more features, or different platform types. For most users, Bindago offers the perfect balance of power, security, and affordability.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Is a desktop application more secure than a browser extension?
A: Generally, yes. Desktop applications like Bindago run in a separate environment from your browser, offering better stability and security. Your LinkedIn login credentials are not stored on a third-party server, reducing the risk of data breaches.
Q: What is the risk of an account ban when using automation tools?
A: All automation tools carry some risk as they are against LinkedIn's Terms of Service. However, tools that simulate human behavior with smart delays and have built-in safety limits (like Bindago) significantly reduce this risk. Always start with low volumes and use the tools responsibly.
Q: Is a Sales Navigator subscription necessary for these tools?
A: It's not strictly required, but highly recommended. Sales Navigator provides much better search filters and higher commercial use limits, which allows you to get the most out of any automation tool.
