Dubsado vs 17hats (2026)

Advanced automation CRM vs established solo business manager — updated April 2026.

Quick Verdict: Dubsado wins 7-5 on flexibility and automation power. 17hats is simpler and more affordable for photographers and event planners who just need the basics — contracts, invoices, and scheduling — without the complexity.

Best for Automation

Dubsado

Highly customizable workflows for creatives

⭐ 4.3/5

Pros

Deep workflow automation
Custom branded client portal
Free plan (3 clients)
Conditional form logic
Canned email sequences

Cons

Steep learning curve
Can take weeks to fully set up
Mobile app is less robust

Free (3 clients) or $20/mo

Try Dubsado Free →

Best for Simplicity

17hats

All-in-one for solo service businesses

⭐ 4.1/5

Pros

Established since 2013
Bookkeeping and accounting tools
Calendar and scheduling included
Simple onboarding
Lead capture forms

Cons

More expensive than Dubsado
Less automation than Dubsado
UI feels dated

From $45/mo or $348/yr

Try 17hats Free →

Side-by-Side Comparison

Category	Dubsado	17hats
Workflow Automation	Excellent	Basic
Client Portal	Fully branded	Standard
Contracts	✅	✅
Invoicing	✅	✅
Scheduling	Via Calendly	✅ Built-in
Bookkeeping	❌	✅ Basic
Lead Capture Forms	✅ Advanced	✅
Free Plan	✅ 3 clients	Trial only
Ease of Use	Complex	Simpler
Mobile App	Basic	Good
Price	$20/mo	$45/mo
Score	7/10	5/10

Which do you use?

Dubsado

17hats

Who Should Choose Each Tool

Choose Dubsado if you…

Want deep client workflow automation
Need a free plan to start
Value custom branded portals
Are willing to invest in setup

Choose 17hats if you…

Want simpler all-in-one management
Need basic bookkeeping tools
Prefer built-in scheduling
Want a more established platform

Frequently Asked Questions

What is 17hats used for?

17hats is a business management platform for solo entrepreneurs and small service businesses. It includes CRM, contracts, invoicing, questionnaires, and scheduling.

Is Dubsado better than 17hats?

Dubsado has more powerful workflow automation and form customization. 17hats has a simpler interface and is popular with photographers and event planners who prefer a gentler learning curve.

Does 17hats have a free trial?

Yes. 17hats offers a 7-day free trial. After that, plans start at around $45/mo or $348/yr.

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Methodology: Scores are based on feature depth, pricing value, user reviews from G2 and Capterra, and hands-on testing. Updated April 2026.

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Last updated: April 10, 2026