B2B, Digital Marketing, Marketing Operations, Sales / SDR

Why Settle for Less? Choose DealSignal Over Zoominfo and Apollo

In a Nutshell

When it comes to picking the right B2B data platform for handling business data, it’s a tough call. You’ve probably heard of DealSignal, ZoomInfo, and Apollo, right? Well, we’re taking a close look at all three to see what’s what. 

Here’s the deal: while ZoomInfo and Apollo have some good points, they also have a few misses, especially in key areas that really matter for businesses. That’s where DealSignal comes in. It’s not just another option; it’s a step up.

We’re going to dive into the important stuff – like how good their data is, what they cover, how they work with other software, how they handle customer support, play by the rules, and what they charge. 

Let’s take a look at these platforms individually, and then see what makes them similar and what makes them different.

ZoomInfo Overview

ZoomInfo is a recognized player in the B2B lead generation space, known for its extensive database encompassing companies and contacts. However, its long-standing presence in the market without significant updates to its lead generation algorithm raises concerns about the freshness and precision of its data.

A notable shortcoming of ZoomInfo is the static nature of its database. ZoomInfo’s data does not undergo continuous customization for individual client needs. This leads to potential gaps in information, particularly in specialized industry segments, posing challenges for businesses seeking a detailed grasp of their target audience. The platform’s one-size-fits-all data model can be particularly inadequate for small to medium enterprises and global markets, where current and precise data is vital for business development and growth.

Furthermore, ZoomInfo doesn’t prioritize the accuracy of its database. While the platform boasts a considerable volume of data, its reliability and timeliness are not assured. This can lead to businesses expanding additional effort and resources in manually checking and updating their contact lists to ensure their accuracy.

ZoomInfo provides standard features comparable to other lead-generation tools, including access to details like job titles, email addresses, and phone numbers. However, the outdated methodology used in populating its database often results in data that is not entirely accurate or complete. This can place a significant burden on businesses, requiring them to dedicate time and resources to address the deficiencies in the B2B contact information provided by ZoomInfo.

Therefore, while ZoomInfo does have some merits as a lead generation tool, its drawbacks in data coverage and accuracy diminish its appeal for businesses focused on efficient lead generation processes and precise contact data. These limitations could lead to ineffective marketing strategies and sales initiatives, ultimately impacting sales productivity.

B2B Data Platform: Find Your Perfect Provider

DealSignal Overview

DealSignal stands out as a full-featured data intelligence tool, crafted to assist companies in identifying and connecting with key players in their desired market segments. The platform boasts an expansive reach, offering access to over a billion companies and contacts globally, each detailed with more than 100 specific data points. At our core, DealSignal is engineered with unique data verification techniques, continuous data cleaning, and advanced AI-driven matching algorithms to ensure unparalleled data precision and reliability.

A prime advantage of DealSignal lies in our unwavering dedication to the quality of data. Recognizing the critical need for businesses to have precise and current information, DealSignal employs a thorough, AI-based data verification procedure. This involves a dynamic combination of AI and machine learning, automated systems, and human analysis to recheck your data just before delivery. The result is exceptionally accurate and dependable data, significantly reducing the need for manual verification.

Beyond our focus on data integrity, we distinguish ourselves with several exclusive features that are not found in other lead generation platforms. DealSignal goes beyond data purity, boasting exclusive features that revolutionize lead generation. Our proprietary AI algorithms delve deeper than basic demographics, analyzing purchasing patterns, industry trends, and even company growth trajectories to pinpoint leads with the highest conversion potential. Imagine focusing your marketing resources on prospects pre-selected for success, maximizing ROI, and saving precious time. This is the power of DealSignal’s unique features, like predictive lead scoring, lookalike audience targeting, and real-time buying signal detection. 

DealSignal’s extensive data coverage is another standout feature. It spans various global markets, industries, and even specific industry niches, ensuring that businesses of all sizes and target audiences find valuable data. Furthermore, our expert data analytics team provides real-time updates, ensuring you always have the most current and accurate information at your fingertips. This level of tailored and expansive data coverage is unmatched in the B2B lead generation field.

In summary, DealSignal combines the latest in technology, rigorous data verification, and unique, market-leading features to position ourselves as the go-to solution for businesses aiming to refine their lead generation strategies and enhance the accuracy of their contact data.

Top B2B Data Providers: Why Switching to DealSignal Will Supercharge Your ROI

Apollo Overview

Apollo is a dynamic and AI-powered sales intelligence and engagement platform that’s designed to enhance the efficiency of the entire B2B sales and marketing funnel. With its extensive database of over 265 million contacts, Apollo provides businesses with a powerful tool for targeted prospecting, enabling them to efficiently locate and engage with their ideal customers.

One of the standout features of Apollo is its AI-powered lead scoring system, which helps businesses prioritize high-value leads and companies. This system leverages success data from CRM and Apollo account history, allowing users to pinpoint prospects with a higher likelihood of conversion. Additionally, Apollo allows users to build their own scoring models with great flexibility, combining their CRM data with Apollo’s rich demographic, firmographic, and behavioral data.

Apollo also offers a comprehensive suite for multi-channel engagement, encompassing email, phone calls, and LinkedIn interactions. This is supported by Apollo’s advanced sales AI, which helps in delivering the right message at the right time to the prospects. Furthermore, the platform provides data enrichment services and CRM integration, ensuring that the sales and marketing teams have access to fresh and actionable data.

The platform is designed to cater to various teams including sales and business development professionals, founders, and marketers. For sales teams, Apollo reduces workload while maximizing lead generation opportunities. For founders and business leaders, it acts as a multi-functional tool aiding in company growth, talent acquisition, and metric analysis. Marketers benefit from the automated engagement funnels and enriched data that bolster the quality and quantity of Marketing Qualified Leads (MQLs).

In summary, Apollo’s comprehensive offerings, including its expansive database, AI-powered lead scoring, multi-channel engagement, and rich data insights, position it as a formidable tool in the lead generation and sales intelligence space, suitable for a wide range of business needs and scales.

Alright, let’s switch gears a bit. We’ve just taken a good look at what DealSignal, ZoomInfo, and Apollo are all about. Each has its own flavor, offering different tools and tricks for handling business data. But here’s the real question: how good is the data they provide?

B2B Data Providers: DealSignal vs ZoomInfo vs Apollo

Quality

When it comes to the quality of data in B2B lead generation platforms, the comparison between DealSignal, ZoomInfo, and Apollo reveals some clear distinctions.

ZoomInfo: While ZoomInfo has been a long-standing player in the field and offers a sizable database, it falls short in the realm of data freshness and accuracy. One of the major limitations is its static data approach. Unlike DealSignal’s dynamic and customized verification process, ZoomInfo’s database does not undergo regular and individualized updates, which can lead to gaps in information, particularly in specialized segments. This static approach can also result in weaker data coverage for specific markets, such as small-to-medium businesses and international regions.

Apollo: Apollo, with its AI-powered sales intelligence and engagement platform, offers a significant database of contacts. However, the quality of Apollo’s data, while substantial in volume, may not always align with the specific quality needs of diverse businesses. While Apollo incorporates AI for lead scoring and offers real-time lead scoring in its features, the overall depth and accuracy of its data might not consistently match the bespoke and continuously updated nature of DealSignal’s offerings.

DealSignal: The standout in terms of quality, DealSignal prides itself on offering exceptionally accurate and up-to-date information. The platform’s rigorous data verification process is a key highlight, using a dynamic, AI-driven approach. This includes a multi-step verification with AI, machine learning, automated systems, and human analysis, ensuring that the data delivered to clients is of the highest quality. Additionally, DealSignal’s commitment to regular data hygiene and cleansing further underscores our dedication to quality, setting it apart from our competitors.

While ZoomInfo and Apollo provide substantial data offerings, their approach to data quality and accuracy does not seem to be as thorough or customized as DealSignal. DealSignal’s unique combination of AI-driven verification, regular data cleansing, and a focus on real-time accuracy positions us as the superior choice for businesses seeking the most reliable and high-quality B2B data.

Coverage

The scope and reach of a lead generation platform’s database, or its coverage, is crucial for businesses looking to target a wide and relevant audience. Here’s how DealSignal, ZoomInfo, and Apollo stack up in terms of coverage.

ZoomInfo: ZoomInfo is known for its extensive database, which is one of its main selling points. As of October 2023, ZoomInfo’s database includes over 320 million business contacts and 104 million companies, with a significant focus on North American data. The platform has a long-standing presence in the market, suggesting a broad coverage across various industries and geographies. However, the breadth of ZoomInfo’s coverage may sometimes come at the cost of depth and specificity, particularly in niche markets or for small-to-medium businesses. This can lead to gaps in data for companies that require highly specialized information.

Apollo: Apollo also boasts a large database, claiming over 265 million contacts. This indicates substantial coverage, allowing businesses to tap into a wide array of industries and markets. Apollo’s AI-driven approach to sales intelligence suggests an ability to cater to a broad spectrum of lead generation needs. However, like ZoomInfo, the extent to which Apollo’s coverage is tailored to specific industry niches or unique market demands may not be as comprehensive as DealSignal’s.

DealSignal: DealSignal offers comprehensive coverage with access to over 1 billion global companies and contacts, enriched with more than 100 data points. This wide coverage is particularly beneficial for businesses seeking a broad and deep understanding of various markets. Unlike ZoomInfo, which may have limitations in niche markets and small and medium-sized enterprises, DealSignal’s platform is designed to cater to a diverse range of industries and niches, ensuring that regardless of the size or specific focus of your business, you have access to high-quality data that spans across global markets. The attention to detailed and specific data makes DealSignal an attractive option for businesses that require precision and depth in their lead generation and market intelligence efforts
In terms of sheer numbers, all three platforms provide extensive coverage. DealSignal, however, appears to take an edge with our ability to offer tailored and updated data across a wide range of global markets and industries. While ZoomInfo and Apollo provide wide-reaching databases, they may not offer the same level of specialized and current data for unique business needs, especially in less common market segments or for small and medium-sized businesses. This makes DealSignal a more versatile and reliable choice for businesses looking for detailed and specific market coverage.

Integration

The ability to integrate with other business tools and platforms is a key factor in the effectiveness of a lead generation platform. Here’s how DealSignal, ZoomInfo, and Apollo compare in terms of their integration capabilities.

Types of Integrations

ZoomInfo:

  • Offers native integrations with major CRMs like Salesforce and Microsoft Dynamics.
  • Integrates with various sales engagement platforms and business productivity tools.
  • Provides APIs for custom integrations and syncing with other enterprise systems.

Apollo:

  • Native integrations with popular CRMs like Salesforce, HubSpot, and Pipedrive.
  • Integrates with email platforms like Gmail and Outlook, and marketing tools like Mailchimp. 
  • Offers integration with Zapier for connecting with a wide range of web apps.

DealSignal

  • Specializes in integrations with CRM and marketing automation platforms. 
  • Compatibility focuses on major CRMs (specific platforms not detailed). 
  • Provides API access for custom integrations and data synchronization.

Integration Depth

ZoomInfo:

  • Bi-directional data sync for efficient data flow between ZoomInfo and integrated platforms.
  • Enhanced productivity features such as automated lead scoring and data enrichment.

Apollo:

  • Offers both one-way and bi-directional data integrations depending on the platform.
  • Includes features like real-time data updates and automated workflows based on Apollo data.

DealSignal:

  • Focus on bi-directional data synchronization for a seamless workflow.
  • Automated data updates and enrichment within the integrated CRM and marketing platforms.

Ease of Use

ZoomInfo:

  • Integrations are generally pre-configured, offering ease of setup and use.
  • User-friendly interface for seamless management of integrations and data exchanges.

Apollo:

  • Some integrations may require initial configuration for optimal use.
  • Provides comprehensive support and documentation for setting up and managing integrations.

DealSignal:

  • Offers intuitive and minimal-setup-required integrations.
  • Simplified interface and process for managing data flow and synchronization

Customer support

Customer support is a crucial aspect of any service, especially in the complex field of lead generation and data intelligence platforms. The level of support can greatly influence user experience and satisfaction. Here’s a comparison of the customer support offered by DealSignal, ZoomInfo, and Apollo.

ZoomInfo

  • Global support network: Get multilingual assistance across various time zones via phone, email, and live chat, no matter your location.
  • Self-service powerhouse: Dive into a vast library of online resources, including detailed documentation, video tutorials, and interactive FAQs.
  • Personalized onboarding & training: Benefit from tailored onboarding sessions and ongoing training programs to maximize platform utilization.
  • Customer advocacy team: Dedicated advocates listen to your feedback, address concerns, and ensure your overall account satisfaction.

Apollo

  • Tiered support plans: Choose the plan that suits your budget and needs, with varying levels of access, response times, and dedicated support channels.
  • Online ticketing system: Submit issues and track their progress conveniently through a centralized platform.
  • Robust knowledge hub: Access comprehensive documentation, FAQs, and best-practice guides for independent problem-solving.
  • Regular webinars & training: Stay updated and expand your skillset with frequent webinars and training sessions on platform features and strategies.

DealSignal

  • Dedicated success teams: Each client receives a dedicated team, not just one CSM, ensuring consistent expertise and tailored guidance.
  • Omnichannel access: Reach out via phone, email, live chat, or even schedule personalized consultations for in-depth support and strategy sessions.
  • Proactive engagement: DealSignal’s team proactively reaches out to identify potential issues and offer solutions before they even arise.
  • Collaborative community: Foster connections and share insights with fellow users through a vibrant online community and user groups.
  • Empowering resources: Extensive knowledge base, video tutorials, and interactive guides cater to self-paced learning and troubleshooting, but with readily available team support if needed.

Stellar customer support is crucial for navigating any B2B data platform, but when dealing with sensitive data, ensuring robust compliance measures becomes equally paramount. In the next section, we’ll delve into the compliance practices of DealSignal, Apollo, and ZoomInfo, helping you choose the platform that safeguards your data with utmost integrity.

Compliance

In the realm of lead generation and data intelligence platforms, compliance with legal and regulatory standards is critically important. Here’s how DealSignal, ZoomInfo, and Apollo fare in terms of compliance.

ZoomInfo: While ZoomInfo’s website doesn’t explicitly detail all compliance certifications, its size and established presence suggest adherence to key industry standards like GDPR and CCPA. However, for complete transparency, users might prefer more readily accessible information on their compliance measures.

Apollo: Apollo clearly states its GDPR compliance on its website, showcasing a commitment to data privacy in the European Union. This is a significant indicator for companies operating internationally. However, further information on additional certifications or regional regulations they adhere to could be beneficial.

DealSignal: DealSignal’s Privacy Policy underlines our dedication to user data security and GDPR and CCPA compliance. We actively assist users in adhering to these regulations by identifying contacts from governed regions and allowing their exclusion from data requests, minimizing risk and ensuring privacy. Additionally, DealSignal details our data usage practices (including cookie utilization for analytics and user experience) and user rights like access, correction, deletion, and opt-out (including CCPA-specific provisions).

Conclusion: Overall, all three platforms prioritize compliance to varying degrees. DealSignal’s emphasis on user data protection through features like contact filtering and transparency in its Privacy Policy stands out. However, users seeking platforms with readily accessible and detailed compliance information might find Apollo’s website statement or further research on ZoomInfo’s practices helpful. Ultimately, the choice depends on individual priorities for compliance clarity and specific data security needs.

Now that we’ve explored the data security landscape of these platforms, another crucial factor to consider is pricing. In the next section, we’ll delve into the pricing structures of DealSignal, Apollo, and ZoomInfo, helping you find the option that best aligns with your budget and data needs.

Pricing

Pricing is a key factor for businesses when choosing a lead generation and data intelligence platform. Here’s a side-by-side comparison of the pricing structures for DealSignal, ZoomInfo, and Apollo based on the available information:

FeatureDealSignalZoomInfoApollo
Basic PlanPricing details publicly available: $499 / month, billed annuallyBasic package offers limited featuresBasic: $59 per user/month
– 6,000 Credits for Contact Verification & Export to CRM, MAP, or CSV
– 100+ Data Fields
– 97%+ Accuracy
– 100% Guaranteed
– Ideal for small businesses or individual users– Access to over 500 million contact profiles

Professional
– Customized pricing based on volume and features needed– Professional plan offers more features and access– Professional: $99 per user/month
– Enhanced features for larger teams and more data– Suitable for medium-sized businesses– Includes advanced lead intelligence and engagement tools
Enterprise– Tailored for large enterprises– Enterprise plan for extensive data access and features– Enterprise: Custom pricing; consult with sales team
– Comprehensive data solutions and support– Best for large organizations with extensive data needs– Includes dedicated account manager, custom integrations

DealSignal: DealSignal stands out for our transparent and flexible pricing structure. Instead of fixed tiers, we tailor plans to each business’s unique needs and data volume. This personalized approach ensures cost-effectiveness and avoids paying for unused features, especially beneficial for smaller companies or targeted campaigns. DealSignal readily provides consultations to discuss customized plans, offering potential users clarity and flexibility.

ZoomInfo: ZoomInfo offers different pricing tiers, with the basic package designed for smaller operations, and more comprehensive plans available for larger businesses. The professional and enterprise plans come with more features and greater data access.

Apollo: Apollo has clear pricing tiers starting with a Basic plan at $59 per user per month, suitable for smaller businesses or individual users. The Professional plan at $99 per user per month offers more advanced features, and the Enterprise plan requires direct consultation for pricing, indicating a highly customized offering for larger organizations.

When it comes to pricing, each platform takes a distinct approach. ZoomInfo offers tiered plans catering to different business sizes and data needs, with clear pricing structures readily available. Apollo follows a similar path with transparent tiered options suitable for startups to large enterprises.

DealSignal, however, stands out for its flexible pricing strategy. While they also offer a starter plan for smaller businesses, their primary focus lies on customized solutions. This personalized approach allows for tailored plans that perfectly match your specific data usage and budget, potentially avoiding paying for unused features. However, it also means initial pricing details aren’t publicly available, requiring direct contact with DealSignal for consultations.

DealSignal vs. ZoomInfo and Apollo: Which B2B data platform is better for your business?

In conclusion, the choice between DealSignal, ZoomInfo, and Apollo for handling business data depends on your specific needs. DealSignal shines with our unparalleled data accuracy, AI-driven verification, and expansive global coverage, making it an excellent choice for businesses seeking high-quality, tailored data. ZoomInfo, while boasting an extensive database, falls short in data freshness and precision, potentially impacting businesses requiring detailed market insights. Apollo, with its AI-powered sales intelligence and comprehensive database, offers robust lead scoring and engagement tools, suitable for a wide range of business applications.

Ultimately, your decision should hinge on the quality of data, the depth of market coverage, integration capabilities, customer support, compliance standards, and pricing structure that best aligns with your business objectives. DealSignal excels in delivering precise, up-to-date data with a focus on quality, making it a top contender for businesses prioritizing accuracy and depth in lead generation and market analysis. ZoomInfo and Apollo, with their own strengths, cater to businesses with different needs and scales. Carefully consider these factors to choose the platform that best suits your business’s lead generation and data intelligence requirements.

If you’re interested in learning more about DealSignal’s data intelligence platform, we encourage you to book a demo with our outstanding team of class-leading data analysts.

We will answer any further questions you may have and help you get started on a successful lead-generation journey!

DealSignal

Trusted B2B Data Platform

Don’t content yourself with bad and outdated data.

Learn more about DealSignal and other B2B data platforms:

Rob Weedn

Rob Weedn is Founder & CEO of DealSignal. Having worked in B2B marketing and sales for many years, Rob is passionate about helping revenue generating teams meet their goals by providing them with the immaculate contact and account data they need to target, engage, and convert prospects effectively. Follow Rob on Twitter @robweedn.

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