HoneyBook Review: Is It the Right CRM for Your Business?
Table of Contents
- Introduction: What is HoneyBook?
- The Pros: What HoneyBook Does Well
- Streamlined Client Onboarding & Contracts
- All-in-One Business Management
- User-Friendly & Visually Appealing
- The Cons: Where HoneyBook Falls Short
- Lack of Flexibility in Customization
- Limited Integrations with Other Tools
- Pricing Can Be a Barrier for Some Freelancers
- Who Should Use HoneyBook?
- Who HoneyBook is a Great Fit For
- When to Consider Alternatives
- Exploring Alternatives: Where Does ProjectBook.co Fit In?
- Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
- Final Thoughts: Should You Use HoneyBook?
Introduction: What is HoneyBook?
If you're a freelancer or small business owner looking for a CRM (Client Relationship Management) tool, you’ve likely come across HoneyBook. Marketed as an all-in-one business management solution, HoneyBook combines invoicing, contracts, client communication, and project tracking into a single platform.
But is it the right fit for your business?
While HoneyBook offers an appealing set of features, no CRM is one-size-fits-all. This review takes an honest look at what HoneyBook does well, where it falls short, and who will benefit most from using it.
The Pros: What HoneyBook Does Well
✅ Streamlined Client Onboarding & Contracts
One of HoneyBook’s biggest strengths is how it simplifies client onboarding. Users can create customized contracts, proposals, and invoices all in one place, making it easy to move from lead to signed contract with minimal friction.
Why this is useful:
- Helps freelancers and service-based businesses formalize agreements quickly.
- Reduces back-and-forth emails with automated workflows.
- Keeps everything organized in a centralized hub.
✅ All-in-One Business Management
Many users appreciate that HoneyBook isn’t just a CRM—it also includes:
- Project tracking tools
- Automated workflows to streamline tasks
- Scheduling features for client meetings
- Integrated payments for seamless invoicing
For business owners looking for a single platform to handle client interactions, billing, and task management, HoneyBook offers an appealing package.
✅ User-Friendly & Visually Appealing
HoneyBook is known for its modern, intuitive design. Unlike some CRMs that feel overly complex, its dashboard is sleek and easy to navigate, making it approachable even for non-tech-savvy users.
The Cons: Where HoneyBook Falls Short
❌ Lack of Flexibility in Customization
While HoneyBook’s templates and workflows are helpful, they aren’t as customizable as some business owners might need.
For example:
- If you want to create a highly personalized client intake process, HoneyBook’s structure can feel rigid.
- Advanced users may find it limiting compared to more flexible CRMs.
❌ Limited Integrations with Other Tools
HoneyBook works well as a standalone tool, but if your business relies on third-party apps for email marketing, accounting, or project collaboration, you may run into roadblocks.
Compared to competitors that seamlessly integrate with a wide range of business tools, HoneyBook’s ecosystem is more closed-off, making it harder to fit into an existing tech stack.
❌ Pricing Can Be a Barrier for Some Freelancers
HoneyBook offers a flat-rate pricing model ($39/month or $390/year), which works well for businesses with a steady stream of clients.
However, for:
- Freelancers just starting out
- Businesses that don’t invoice clients frequently
- Users who only need a lightweight CRM
…the price may feel steep compared to other alternatives.
Who Should Use HoneyBook?
HoneyBook is a great fit if:
✔️ You run a service-based business (photographers, event planners, coaches, designers, etc.).
✔️ You want an all-in-one system for client contracts, invoicing, and communication.
✔️ You prefer a visual, easy-to-use interface without a steep learning curve.
✔️ You don’t need deep integrations with external software.
You might want to look elsewhere if:
❌ You need highly customizable workflows.
❌ You rely on external tools for accounting, marketing, or collaboration.
❌ You’re looking for a budget-friendly CRM with lower-cost alternatives.
Exploring Alternatives: Where Does ProjectBook.co Fit In?
For freelancers and small business owners who need a lightweight, flexible, and cost-effective alternative, ProjectBook.co is a strong contender.
Why ProjectBook.co?
✅ Simple & Intuitive – No complex setup, just streamlined project and client organization.
✅ Affordable – Designed for freelancers and small businesses who want CRM features without the high price tag.
✅ Great for Client & Project Tracking – Keep everything in one place without the clutter of unnecessary tools.
✅ Works Seamlessly with Other Tools – Unlike HoneyBook, ProjectBook.co integrates easily with your existing workflow.
If you’re looking for a CRM that balances simplicity, affordability, and functionality, ProjectBook.co is worth exploring.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Is HoneyBook worth it for freelancers?
HoneyBook can be a great choice for freelancers who manage multiple clients, need contracts, and want invoicing built-in. However, its pricing and lack of integrations might be limiting for those on a budget or needing a more customizable system.
Does HoneyBook integrate with QuickBooks or accounting software?
HoneyBook has limited accounting integrations. If deep accounting features are a priority, you may need a separate accounting tool alongside it.
Is HoneyBook difficult to learn?
No! One of HoneyBook’s strengths is its user-friendly interface. Most users find it easy to navigate, even without prior CRM experience.
How does HoneyBook compare to ProjectBook.co?
HoneyBook is a feature-rich business management tool, while ProjectBook.co is designed for freelancers and small business owners who need simple, effective client and project organization without extra complexity or high costs.
Can I use HoneyBook for free?
HoneyBook offers a 7-day free trial, but after that, it requires a paid subscription.
Final Thoughts: Should You Use HoneyBook?
HoneyBook is a solid CRM for service-based businesses that want an all-in-one solution for client onboarding, contracts, and invoicing. It’s particularly well-suited for creative entrepreneurs, coaches, and event professionals who don’t mind its structured workflows.
However, if you’re looking for a more flexible, affordable, and lightweight CRM, ProjectBook.co offers a simpler, no-fuss alternative that keeps your projects and clients organized without overwhelming you with unnecessary features.
🚀 Ready to explore a simpler way to manage your business? Try ProjectBook.co today and take control of your client management—without the complexity!
