LinkedIn outreach is essential for connecting with potential clients, but using unsafe tools can lead to account bans. This guide explores 10 LinkedHelper alternatives that prioritize compliance and safety while offering AI-driven personalization and automation. Here’s a quick overview of the tools covered:
- Closely ($49/month): AI-powered LinkedIn + email campaigns with CRM integration.
- Expandi ($79/month): Cloud-based tool with basic personalization, but compliance risks.
- La Growth Machine ($60/month): Multichannel outreach for LinkedIn, email, and Twitter.
- Phantombuster ($56/month): Versatile data extraction across platforms.
- Dux-Soup ($11.25/month): Affordable LinkedIn automation for small users.
- Octopus CRM ($9.99/month): Budget-friendly LinkedIn + email tool with built-in CRM.
- Kaspr (Free plan available): Focuses on accurate contact data for LinkedIn.
- Cognism (Custom pricing): Enterprise-grade data compliance and enrichment.
- Taplio ($32/month): AI-driven content creation and LinkedIn engagement.
- Waalaxy ($21/month): Chrome extension for LinkedIn + email outreach but with risks.
Quick Comparison:
| Tool | Compliance Level | AI Features | Multichannel Support | Starting Price | Best For |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Closely | High | Advanced personalization | LinkedIn + Email | $49/month | Sales teams needing secure tools |
| Expandi | Medium | Basic personalization | LinkedIn + Email | $79/month | Agencies managing clients |
| LGM | Medium | Templates + AI messages | LinkedIn + Email + Twitter | $60/month | Marketing teams |
| Phantombuster | Medium | Data enrichment | Multiple platforms | $56/month | Growth hackers |
| Dux-Soup | Medium | Basic automation | LinkedIn only | $11.25/month | Freelancers |
| Octopus CRM | Medium | Built-in CRM | LinkedIn + Email | $9.99/month | Small businesses |
| Kaspr | High | Verified lead data | LinkedIn + Email | Free plan | Recruiters, sales pros |
| Cognism | High | Advanced data + AI | LinkedIn + Email + Phone | Custom pricing | Enterprises |
| Taplio | Medium | AI content creation | LinkedIn + Email | $32/month | Personal brands |
| Waalaxy | Low-Medium | Basic personalization | LinkedIn + Email | $21/month | Individual users |
The right tool depends on your goals, budget, and compliance needs. Read on for more details about each option.
Top 3 Best LinkedIn Automation Tools (Dripify vs La Growth Machine vs Heyreach) 2025 Review
1. Closely
Closely is a LinkedIn outreach platform that blends AI-driven automation with compliance-focused tools, enabling safe and personalized multichannel campaigns.
Staying Within LinkedIn’s Guidelines
Closely mimics natural LinkedIn activity by incorporating strategic delays and engagement actions. This approach minimizes the risk of detection and account restrictions. By focusing on compliance, Closely provides a secure foundation for personalized outreach powered by AI.
AI-Driven Personalization and Automation
Using artificial intelligence, Closely crafts outreach sequences that feel genuine and customized. It adjusts the timing of messages based on how prospects engage, ensuring communication appears natural and relevant. This thoughtful automation helps maintain a more human touch in your interactions.
Multichannel Campaigns Made Easy
Closely supports campaigns across LinkedIn and email, achieving double the reply rates and 70% higher engagement compared to single-channel strategies [2]. With instant integration for Gmail, Outlook, and LinkedIn, you can manage everything from one streamlined dashboard.
"Closely is a powerful tool for anyone looking to enhance their sales engagement. The platform is user-friendly and easy to navigate, making it accessible even for those who are not tech-savvy." – Antonio D., Digital Strategist & Coach [2][3]
Seamless Integration with CRMs and Tools
Closely connects effortlessly with your existing sales tools through native CRM integrations and webhook support [3]. It automatically syncs prospect data, conversation history, and campaign results with your CRM. A detailed dashboard tracks essential metrics, helping you refine your campaigns for improved outcomes [2].
Pricing Options
Closely offers flexible pricing to suit different needs. Plans start at $49/month for the Starter plan and go up to $350/month for enterprise solutions. The popular Growth plan, priced at $127/month, includes multichannel campaigns and CRM integration, making it a comprehensive choice for growing businesses.
2. Expandi
Expandi is a cloud-based LinkedIn automation platform that promotes itself as offering safer outreach compared to browser extensions. However, it still operates in violation of LinkedIn’s guidelines.
Compliance with LinkedIn’s Terms of Service
LinkedIn’s Terms of Service clearly forbid the use of bots or automated tools to access the platform, manage contacts, or send messages [4]. Whether automation tools are cloud-based or browser extensions, LinkedIn enforces these rules uniformly and continues to bolster its ability to detect such activities [5]. Expandi’s cloud-based model might give users a false sense of security [5], but reports highlight risks like account restrictions within 30–60 days, reduced organic reach, and spam-like connection requests that can trigger LinkedIn’s spam filters [4].
Even with these compliance concerns, Expandi includes features designed to personalize outreach.
AI-Powered Personalization and Automation
Expandi leverages AI to customize outreach efforts, including image and GIF personalization powered by Hyperise [6]. While these features aim to make messages more engaging, the platform’s advanced workflows and CRM integrations can feel overwhelming for some users [6].
Integration Capabilities
Expandi allows users to integrate CRM systems and manage campaign data in one place. However, many users report that setting up these integrations can be complicated and may require more technical knowledge than anticipated [6].
3. La Growth Machine
La Growth Machine (LGM) is a multichannel outreach platform that combines LinkedIn, email, and Twitter/X into one tool. However, it’s worth noting that automation on LinkedIn comes with compliance risks. LGM, like other outreach tools, balances innovation with the challenges of adhering to platform rules.
Compliance with LinkedIn’s Terms of Service
While LGM uses AI and usage limits to mimic human-like behavior, it does not fully comply with LinkedIn’s Terms of Service. LinkedIn’s detection systems continue to evolve, making compliance an ongoing challenge for tools like this [11].
AI-Powered Personalization and Automation
One standout feature of LGM is its "Magic Messages", which leverages AI to create personalized messages for LinkedIn and email outreach. By analyzing prospect details, these messages aim to improve response rates [8][9].
"AI customizes your content based on specific details about each prospect, increasing response rates."
– UseArtemis [9]
LGM automates everything from LinkedIn connection requests to follow-ups and even includes automated voice messaging. The platform emphasizes this feature with its motto:
"Voice + Automation is the winning formula!"
– La Growth Machine [10]
Interestingly, automated voice messages have been shown to nearly double reply rates compared to text-only campaigns [13]. LGM also allows sales teams to integrate customer insights into their outreach, creating more tailored and engaging communications [10].
Multichannel Campaign Support
LGM’s multichannel approach is another key strength. By combining LinkedIn, email, and Twitter/X outreach, the platform claims to deliver 3.5× better results than email-only campaigns [12]. On average, users report a 24% reply rate across campaigns [7]. The platform also offers pre-built sequence templates and a sequence builder for custom campaigns [7].
"If you need to generate leads from LinkedIn and emails on autopilot, LGM is the ideal solution. A lot of time saved and it replaced all the other tools I was using (PhantomBuster, DropContact, Lemlist, etc…)"
– AC Sanchez [7]
Integration Capabilities
LGM integrates seamlessly with various CRM and email platforms, simplifying workflows and centralizing communications:
| Category | Integration |
|---|---|
| CRM | HubSpot, Pipedrive |
| Messaging | Outlook, Gmail, LinkedIn |
| Automation | Zapier, Make |
One of its standout features is the unified inbox, which consolidates LinkedIn and email replies in one place [7]. As Bertrand de Bodinat shared:
"LGM is great for reaching out to prospects through multiple channels! The best part is how the inbox combines all your LinkedIn and email replies in one place."
– Bertrand de Bodinat [7]
LGM uses a pricing model based on "identities", where each identity includes one LinkedIn account, one email account, and one Twitter/X account [11]. While this setup works well for individuals, it could become expensive for larger teams managing multiple accounts.
4. Phantombuster
Phantombuster is a cloud-based automation tool designed to handle LinkedIn outreach at scale while staying compliant with LinkedIn’s rules. With over 2.5 million users automating more than 270,000 tasks daily [19], it focuses on safe automation practices and uses AI-driven personalization to make outreach more effective.
Staying Within LinkedIn’s Rules
Phantombuster works within LinkedIn’s limits and API guidelines [14][15]. It automatically adjusts activity levels to avoid detection by LinkedIn’s systems. For example, LinkedIn restricts free accounts to about 100 connection requests and messages per week, while premium users can send up to 150 [1][15]. Phantombuster’s built-in safety features ensure these limits aren’t exceeded.
Its cloud-based setup offers a key advantage over browser-based tools by simulating natural user behavior with realistic timing patterns [1]. For instance, it introduces 30–60 second delays between actions to mimic how a human might interact with the platform [1][14].
AI-Powered Personalization
Phantombuster uses AI to transform generic outreach into highly personalized interactions. Its AI LinkedIn Message Writer creates tailored messages based on a prospect’s job title, company, and skills. Meanwhile, the AI LinkedIn Profile Enricher analyzes profiles and provides sentiment scores to help prioritize leads [16]. These tools contribute to an average reply rate of 19.98%, demonstrating how personalization can make outreach stand out. Other AI tools, like the AI LinkedIn Post Responder and AI Enricher, further improve targeting and campaign performance [16].
Support for Multiple Platforms
Phantombuster isn’t limited to LinkedIn. It also supports automation on platforms like Facebook, Instagram, X (formerly Twitter), and Reddit [19]. This multichannel approach allows businesses to connect with prospects across different platforms. Additionally, its conditional logic feature lets users send customized messages based on specific criteria, ensuring that outreach remains relevant and personalized no matter the platform [14].
Seamless Integration with Other Tools
Phantombuster works well with popular CRM systems and automation tools, making it easy to integrate into existing workflows:
| Integration Type | Platforms |
|---|---|
| CRM | HubSpot, Salesforce, Pipedrive |
| Email Outreach | lemlist |
| Automation | Zapier, Make |
| Data Management | Google Sheets |
HubSpot offers the most advanced integration, with two-way data syncing and multiple automation options. Pipedrive and Salesforce integrations provide one-way automation [18]. These connections allow LinkedIn prospect data to flow seamlessly into other business tools via platforms like Zapier or Make.
Phantombuster’s pricing starts at $56/month, with Pro and Team plans available for $128 and $352/month, respectively [17]. Its cloud-based system ensures automations run continuously without needing the user’s computer to stay on, making it a dependable choice for businesses looking for always-on automation [14].
Next, we’ll take a closer look at how Dux-Soup enhances LinkedIn outreach with its own AI-powered and compliant approach.
5. Dux-Soup
Dux-Soup is a browser-based tool designed to automate LinkedIn outreach tasks. With 279,000 users, it focuses on streamlining connection requests, profile visits, and follow-up messages – all while mimicking natural behavior to stay under LinkedIn’s radar [22].
Staying Within LinkedIn’s Rules
Dux-Soup places a strong emphasis on compliance with LinkedIn’s terms of service. It automatically manages weekly connection limits, allowing up to 100 invitations per week for free accounts and up to 250 for users with Premium plans like Sales Navigator [20]. The platform also uses built-in safety measures to control the speed and frequency of automated actions. For instance, it pauses for five minutes after every 20 profile visits, keeping users within LinkedIn’s daily limits – 500 views for free accounts and 2,000 for Premium users [20]. Anti-detection features are regularly updated, and the tool includes an automatic snooze function that activates when limits are reached. Users can further reduce detection risks by setting throttling to the lowest levels [21].
Smarter Automation with AI
Dux-Soup leverages AI to personalize connection requests and messages, using details like a recipient’s first name, company, or industry. This approach helps users avoid generic templates and achieve better results. Some case studies report impressive outcomes – like a 3,000% increase in engagement and 75% time savings. For example, Ashish Janiani, a CEO, generated $200,000 in revenue over two years through LinkedIn automation, while Jay Inman surpassed his targets by 366% using targeted drip campaigns [22][23].
"Dux-Soup allows you to create an unlimited number of campaigns, which is awesome, as many competitive tools limit you regarding that." – Viral Spy [21]
The tool also offers queue-based scheduling (available in its Turbo and Cloud plans), enabling users to plan their outreach in advance. This ensures consistent engagement without needing constant manual input [23].
Seamless Integration Options
Dux-Soup integrates with major CRMs and automation platforms, including HubSpot, Salesforce, Pipedrive, Freshsales, and SharpSpring. It also works with tools like Zapier and Make [24][25]. In its Turbo and Cloud editions, users can trigger LinkedIn actions directly from their CRM, creating smooth workflows between outreach and sales tasks. For those running multichannel campaigns, integration with Woodpecker allows users to combine LinkedIn and email outreach for a more comprehensive approach [24].
Pricing starts at $14.99/month for Pro Dux, $41.25/month for Turbo Dux, and $74.17/month per seat for Cloud Dux [22]. Its browser-based setup is ideal for those who prefer Chrome-based automation over cloud-based alternatives.
Next, we’ll dive into Octopus CRM and how it enhances LinkedIn automation with advanced collaboration features.
6. Octopus CRM
Octopus CRM is a browser-based tool designed for LinkedIn automation, blending user safety with robust campaign management features. Trusted by over 40,000 users[27], it combines a built-in CRM with automation tools, making LinkedIn outreach both efficient and secure.
Staying Within LinkedIn’s Rules
Octopus CRM prioritizes compliance with LinkedIn’s guidelines. Its Activity Control feature monitors user activity and alerts them if they exceed safe usage limits[27]. For added safety, it suggests starting with just 25% of LinkedIn’s typical limits and gradually increasing activity over time[26]. Users can also set custom daily limits to maintain a balance between productivity and account security. To avoid conflicts, the platform advises against manual LinkedIn activity or using other automation tools simultaneously[26]. Regular updates ensure the tool stays aligned with LinkedIn’s changing policies. Interestingly, Octopus CRM offers a way to bypass LinkedIn’s weekly invitation cap by enabling connection requests via email[27].
Smart Automation with AI
Octopus CRM automates key LinkedIn tasks like sending personalized connection requests, bulk messaging, endorsing skills, and running multi-step campaigns to engage prospects without constant manual effort[28]. One of its standout features is its built-in CRM, which provides a dedicated space for managing leads, crafting campaigns, and building marketing funnels directly within LinkedIn[27]. An analytics dashboard tracks important metrics like acceptance rates, response rates, and the social selling index, helping users fine-tune their outreach strategies[27].
Easy Integration with Other Tools
The platform integrates seamlessly with popular CRM systems like HubSpot, Pipedrive, and Salesforce via Zapier[27]. This allows users to connect LinkedIn actions with apps like Zoho, Asana, and Google Sheets, creating smooth workflows between LinkedIn outreach and existing business tools. For email follow-ups, Octopus CRM supports basic personalization and tracking features, though fully automated cross-channel campaigns may require additional software[28]. Importantly, it never requests LinkedIn credentials, ensuring users maintain full control over their accounts[27].
Pricing starts at $9.99/month for the Starter plan, scaling up to $39.99/month for the Unlimited plan[27]. With a G2 rating of 4.4/5, users frequently highlight its effectiveness in LinkedIn automation and time-saving features, though some have noted issues with its cancellation policy[28].
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7. Kaspr
Kaspr is a LinkedIn prospecting tool tailored for sales professionals who prioritize accurate contact information over heavy automation. With access to a database of over 500 million email addresses and phone numbers[31], it equips users with the data they need to drive effective outreach campaigns. The platform’s Chrome extension integrates seamlessly with LinkedIn and Sales Navigator, making it a practical choice for small sales teams and individual contributors[29].
Compliance with LinkedIn’s Terms of Service
Kaspr takes a cautious approach by focusing on enriching contact data rather than relying on aggressive automation. It complies with GDPR and CCPA regulations, ensuring its data collection practices meet privacy standards[30]. To protect account integrity, Kaspr encourages users to carefully combine its data with other automation tools, keeping prospecting both effective and secure.
AI-Powered Personalization and Data Accuracy
Kaspr may not offer the extensive automation features of some competitors, but it excels in delivering verified and reliable data. The platform cross-checks contact information across 120 sources[32], providing users with accurate email addresses and phone numbers. Its Chrome extension integrates smoothly into existing workflows, allowing users to extract lead data directly from LinkedIn profiles and manage it later in the dashboard[31].
"Within the first two weeks [of using Kaspr and changing the strategy], six discovery calls have been booked."
Andy Earnshaw, Head of Operations at Visibly HQ, shared this success story, highlighting how Kaspr helped achieve quick results[32].
Integration Capabilities
Kaspr enhances its usability by offering integrations with leading sales and CRM platforms. These include HubSpot, Salesforce, Pipedrive, Zoho CRM, Brevo, Lemlist, Ringover, and Aircall. It also supports Zapier, enabling connections to a broader range of applications. For multichannel campaigns, users can send enriched email data to platforms like Brevo or make calls through integrated dialing tools such as Aircall and Ringover.
Kaspr’s pricing starts with a free plan, which includes the LinkedIn Chrome extension, 5 phone credits, and 5 email credits. The Starter plan, priced at $49 per month, offers 1,200 phone credits and 60 direct email credits[31]. According to Salestech research, companies using Kaspr reported a conversion rate increase of up to 30% within a few months of adopting the tool[33].
8. Cognism
Cognism is a B2B data platform that combines LinkedIn prospecting with enterprise-grade compliance and AI-driven intelligence. It’s designed for large organizations and industries with strict regulations.
The platform features a Sales Companion, an AI-powered assistant integrated directly with LinkedIn Sales Navigator. This tool provides real-time prospect data, intent signals, and enriched contact information – all within your existing LinkedIn workflow[29]. Plus, it adheres to LinkedIn’s guidelines, ensuring a compliant experience.
Compliance with LinkedIn’s Terms of Service
Cognism is certified for ISO 27701 and SOC 2 Type II standards[34]. It meets GDPR and CCPA requirements and cross-checks mobile numbers against Do-Not-Call lists in key markets like the USA, UK, Australia, and Canada.
Its proprietary Diamond Data® uses a mix of machine learning and manual verification to ensure data accuracy and legal compliance[35].
"Cognism is our comfort blanket when it comes to compliance."
– Henderson Scott[35]
AI-Powered Personalization and Automation
Cognism’s AI Search allows users to identify prospects using simple text or voice prompts, making even complex searches easy to execute[29]. The Sales Companion enhances workflows with actionable insights, such as buyer intent data, technographic details, and event updates like funding rounds or leadership changes[36].
Diamond Data® offers phone-verified mobile numbers that are three times more likely to connect with prospects. This enables sales teams to reach up to 87% of their target contacts, significantly reducing the effort needed to achieve results. Some teams report hitting their sales goals with only 30 calls per day instead of the usual 100–150[35][39].
"Cognism provides an interface that allows us to take data from LinkedIn in volume and reconcile it with the CRM. The level of targeting is very detailed and precise in the search, which allows us to import both volume and quality."
– El-Hadi Kacimi, Business Developer at Axys[36]
Cognism users have also seen a 31% improvement in data accuracy and a 30% boost in conversion rates[39].
Integration Capabilities
Cognism integrates smoothly with major CRM platforms like Salesforce, HubSpot, Pipedrive, Microsoft Dynamics 365, Outreach, and Salesloft[40]. Its Chrome Extension further simplifies workflows by syncing data directly with these tools.
In October 2022, Filipa Enes, a Sales Administrator at Simpleshow, credited Cognism’s Salesforce integration for saving hours of manual data entry. This efficiency led to 425 meetings being booked. Similarly, Paul Donnachie from Keboola generated $125,000 in pipeline, and Assaf Shutan of Coralogix saw a threefold increase in engagement rates – all thanks to Cognism’s data capabilities[40].
"We couldn’t find mass numbers of contact details alone. Cognism helps us do it in 10-15 minutes."
– Michael Sibley, Digital Marketing Specialist at Protolabs[38]
Cognism offers two main packages: Grow, which provides essential contact and company data, and Elevate, which adds advanced intelligence and actionable intent signals[37][38][29]. Sales teams using Cognism’s verified contact data report needing up to 80% fewer calls to reach their targets[40].
9. Taplio
Taplio presents itself as a comprehensive LinkedIn assistant, bundling content creation, scheduling, analytics, and lead generation into one platform. Powered by AI trained on an extensive dataset of LinkedIn posts[43], it aims to help users craft engaging content and streamline their LinkedIn activity. However, while its automation features are appealing, they come with potential compliance risks. Let’s dive into its standout features, compliance concerns, and integration options.
Compliance with LinkedIn’s Terms of Service
Taplio’s automation tools require careful use to avoid running afoul of LinkedIn’s rules. Reviews highlight that its reliance on cookies and automation methods could violate LinkedIn’s terms, which explicitly prohibit third-party tools that automate activity or scrape data from the platform[42]. Users risk temporary account blocks or suspensions if LinkedIn detects such activity. This makes it essential to use Taplio’s features responsibly to maintain compliance.
AI-Powered Personalization and Automation
Despite these concerns, Taplio offers a range of AI-driven tools designed to streamline LinkedIn engagement. Its AI can generate posts, comments, and replies, while the built-in direct message (DM) assistant tailors outreach messages using recipient-specific details[43]. For content inspiration, users can access a library of over 5 million viral posts[43], and its hashtag scanner identifies trending tags to enhance post visibility[41]. To maximize engagement, the platform also recommends the best times to post[41]. Additionally, Taplio supports bulk automation for DMs and InMail campaigns[43].
"Taplio helps me stay inspired and schedule my LinkedIn posts. It’s the most complete solution in the market for anyone looking to grow on LinkedIn. A great tool that gets you to the top and helps you stay there."
- Justin Welsh, Solopreneur[43]
"Since using Taplio I’ve grown from 8k to 30k followers in 10 months. It continues to be the easiest and most impactful tool in my stack."
- Amanda Goetz, 2x Founder and 3x CMO[43]
For those looking to enhance lead generation, integrating LinkedIn Sales Navigator with Taplio’s AI features can provide even greater results[44].
Integration Capabilities
Taplio further strengthens its appeal through robust integration options that support multichannel outreach. It enables users to extract LinkedIn leads, personalize email campaigns, and sync with tools like Pipedrive via Zapier. With access to a database of over 3 million contacts, it broadens the scope of outreach efforts[44][45][46].
The platform offers three pricing tiers to suit different needs:
- Starter Plan ($39/month): Includes basic analytics, scheduling, and content inspiration.
- Standard Plan ($52/month): Adds AI tools, team collaboration, and 250 AI credits.
- Pro Plan ($149/month): Provides 5,000 AI credits, access to a LinkedIn contact database, and advanced team features[44].
"Been using Taplio from day 1, great tool for scheduling and content ideation. It keeps on getting better and I love the AI and CRM too. A tool every LinkedIn-er needs in their stack!"
- Lara Acosta, personal branding expert[43]
10. Waalaxy
Waalaxy wraps up our list as a LinkedIn automation tool that operates as a Chrome extension, combining LinkedIn prospecting with automated email outreach. With a user base of 150,000 and an average rating of 4.8 out of 5 [47][50], it’s a popular choice for multichannel lead generation. However, its automation practices raise questions about compliance with LinkedIn’s rules.
Compliance with LinkedIn’s Terms of Service
Waalaxy exists in a tricky space when it comes to LinkedIn’s guidelines. LinkedIn explicitly prohibits tools that automate or scrape its data, which could lead to account restrictions [48]. To minimize detection, Waalaxy uses methods designed to mimic human behavior [47]. The platform advises users to "warm up" their LinkedIn accounts before using the tool – especially for new accounts – and to avoid sending actions during weekends or outside standard office hours [47][50]. If LinkedIn flags an account, Waalaxy suggests pausing the tool for a day and then gradually resuming activity [47].
Despite these precautions, user experiences highlight the risks. One AppSumo reviewer shared, "On paper, the app seems really great. Both the interface and the features are on point. Unfortunately, whatever system is used to prevent detection from LinkedIn is completely failing" [48][49]. Another user reported their account being flagged and banned after only a few hours of use [48][49], with some even experiencing permanent bans within days [49].
Multichannel Campaign Support
Waalaxy isn’t just about compliance – it also amplifies lead generation through its multichannel approach. By combining LinkedIn prospecting with email outreach, it helps users find professional email addresses and automate cold email campaigns, boasting a match rate of over 60% [53][54]. This dual strategy allows users to significantly expand their outreach efforts. The platform includes over 80 LinkedIn and email sequences, offering a variety of templates to suit different needs [54]. So far, users have collectively generated more than 17 million responses, showcasing its ability to drive engagement [51][54]. A centralized dashboard simplifies campaign management, while built-in A/B testing enables users to refine their strategies quickly.
Integration Capabilities
Waalaxy also integrates with major CRM platforms like HubSpot, Salesforce, and Pipedrive [51][54]. These integrations streamline prospecting by syncing outreach efforts with existing sales workflows, keeping lead management organized and ensuring consistent follow-ups.
The platform offers multiple pricing options. The Advanced plan costs $112 per month [52], while the Business plan is priced at $160 per month. The Business plan includes LinkedIn and email features, 800 LinkedIn invitations, 500 email finder credits, and cold email automation [52].
User reviews reflect a mix of praise and critique. Waalaxy has ratings of 4.8 on the Chrome Store, 4.6 on G2, 4.6 on Trustpilot, and 4.4 on Capterra [51][53][54]. While one reviewer called it "the simplest LinkedIn automation tool on the market" [51], others noted challenges with navigating the interface and limitations in the cold email features. One user summed it up by saying, "It helps you to automate tasks – it literally works like a prospecting tool that lets you automate LinkedIn connection and outreach" [48][49].
Waalaxy’s combination of LinkedIn and email outreach highlights the ongoing tension between pushing the boundaries of automation and staying within LinkedIn’s rules.
Feature Comparison Table
Choosing the right LinkedIn automation tool can feel overwhelming, but this comparison table breaks down the key features, pricing, and strengths of each LinkedHelper alternative. Use it to find the tool that best fits your needs.
| Tool | Compliance Level | AI Capabilities | Multichannel Support | Starting Price | Key Strength | Best For |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Closely | High | AI-powered personalization & Sales AI agents | LinkedIn + Email | $49/mo | Advanced AI personalization with data enrichment | Sales teams needing comprehensive automation |
| Expandi | Medium | Basic personalization | LinkedIn + Email | $79/mo (annual) | Advanced campaign management with drip sequences | Agencies managing multiple client campaigns |
| La Growth Machine | Medium | Template-based personalization | LinkedIn + Email + Twitter | $60/mo | Rigid templates with multichannel reach | Marketing teams focused on lead generation |
| Phantombuster | Medium | Data extraction & enrichment | LinkedIn + Multiple platforms | $56/mo (annual) | Versatile scraping across multiple platforms | Growth hackers and data-driven marketers |
| Dux-Soup | Medium | Basic automation | LinkedIn only | $11.25/mo | Budget-friendly LinkedIn automation | Freelancers and solopreneurs |
| Octopus CRM | Medium | Standard personalization | LinkedIn + Email | $9.99/mo | Most affordable full-featured option | Small businesses on tight budgets |
| Kaspr | High | Lead scoring & verification | LinkedIn + Email | Free plan available | Clean, verified lead extraction | Recruiters and sales professionals |
| Cognism | High | Advanced data enrichment | LinkedIn + Email + Phone | Custom pricing | Enterprise-grade compliance and data quality | Large enterprises with strict compliance needs |
| Taplio | Medium | AI content creation | LinkedIn + Email | $32/mo | Content creation and publishing automation | Content creators and personal brands |
| Waalaxy | Low-Medium | Basic personalization | LinkedIn + Email | $21/mo (annual) | Chrome extension simplicity | Individual users seeking ease of use |
The table highlights the differences in compliance, features, and pricing. Below is a deeper dive into the standout features and pricing points.
Closely and Kaspr excel in compliance, making them ideal for teams that prioritize safety and adherence to LinkedIn’s guidelines. On the other hand, tools like Waalaxy carry higher compliance risks but offer simplicity and affordability.
When it comes to AI capabilities, Closely leads with advanced personalization features, while Phantombuster specializes in data extraction. Expandi and La Growth Machine rely on template-based personalization, which may suit users looking for straightforward campaign setups. La Growth Machine also stands out for its multichannel support, including LinkedIn, email, and Twitter, whereas Dux-Soup is limited to LinkedIn.
For budget-conscious users, Octopus CRM at $9.99/month and Dux-Soup at $11.25/month are excellent options. Meanwhile, enterprise-level solutions like Cognism are tailored for large organizations needing robust compliance and data quality, though pricing is customized.
User feedback often highlights a trade-off between compliance and cost. Tools with higher compliance levels, such as Closely and Kaspr, tend to come with a higher price tag. Simpler tools like Dux-Soup offer basic CRM integrations at a lower cost, while Waalaxy supports major CRM platforms despite its compliance challenges.
Team collaboration is another key differentiator. While LinkedHelper is better suited for individuals, tools like Closely and Expandi offer strong team management features. Phantombuster appeals to growth hackers who need versatile data extraction capabilities.
Ultimately, the best tool depends on your priorities. Teams focused on compliance may prefer Closely or Kaspr, while those on a tight budget might lean toward Octopus CRM or Dux-Soup. Agencies juggling multiple accounts could benefit from Expandi‘s advanced campaign management. This comparison underscores how balancing compliance, pricing, and features is crucial for effective LinkedIn outreach.
Conclusion
Choosing the right LinkedIn outreach tool requires careful consideration of factors like automation capabilities, compliance, and user safety. This guide has introduced a variety of AI-powered options designed to streamline outreach while keeping your LinkedIn account secure. The good news? You don’t have to compromise safety for efficiency when automating your LinkedIn efforts.
Cloud-based platforms such as Closely, Expandi, and Phantombuster stand out for their safety features and compliance controls. They include built-in rate limits, randomized actions, and anti-detection mechanisms, all designed to reduce the risk of account restrictions. On the other hand, browser-based tools like Dux-Soup and Octopus CRM cater to individual users or small teams, offering simplicity and affordability while still delivering solid performance. This variety ensures there’s a tool for every need and budget.
When it comes to pricing, options range from budget-friendly plans to enterprise-level solutions with custom pricing structures. The key is to match the tool to your outreach volume, team size, and specific feature requirements. Starting with a trial or free tier is a smart way to evaluate functionality and safety before committing. Pay attention to engagement rates, response quality, and any LinkedIn warnings during testing.
Different users have unique needs. For instance, sales teams often prioritize CRM integration, marketers look for multichannel outreach, recruiters need candidate tracking, and agencies benefit from tools that support multi-account management and team collaboration. Understanding your specific objectives will help you find the best fit.
It’s also important to respect LinkedIn’s daily limits, personalize your messages, and stay updated on any policy changes. Be wary of tools claiming "unlimited" actions or promising to bypass LinkedIn’s security measures, as these can put your account at risk.
Looking ahead, incorporating AI-driven personalization and multichannel strategies, such as blending LinkedIn outreach with email campaigns, can enhance engagement while diversifying your approach. This not only broadens your reach but also helps minimize risks.
Define your outreach goals clearly, test your options thoroughly, and weigh the total cost of ownership. Remember, the most expensive tool isn’t always the best choice, and the cheapest option might lack critical safety features. Striking the right balance between efficiency and compliance ensures your LinkedIn strategy remains effective and secure. Ultimately, the right tool should enhance your outreach without compromising your professional reputation.
FAQs
What are the key risks of using LinkedIn automation tools, and how can you avoid them?
The biggest risks of using LinkedIn automation tools include violating LinkedIn’s terms of service, which can result in account restrictions or even bans. Additionally, sending too many messages or using impersonal templates can come across as spammy. This kind of activity might damage your professional reputation or lead to user complaints.
To minimize these risks, opt for tools that are designed to simulate natural human activity. Keep your daily connection requests and messages within reasonable limits, and make sure your outreach is personalized and follows LinkedIn’s rules. Sticking to these practices can help you safeguard your account while staying compliant.
How can AI-driven personalization improve LinkedIn outreach, and which tools offer the best features for 2025?
AI-powered personalization is changing the game for LinkedIn outreach. By examining user profiles, engagement habits, and activity, it crafts messages that feel tailored to each recipient. This not only increases connection rates but also encourages more genuine and productive interactions, making your outreach efforts stand out.
Looking ahead to 2025, the best tools offer features like intelligent message customization, automated workflows, and data-backed insights. These tools help ensure your outreach is effective, professional, and aligned with LinkedIn’s rules, allowing you to reach your objectives while keeping risks in check.
What should I consider when selecting a LinkedIn outreach tool to ensure it fits my budget and complies with guidelines?
When choosing a LinkedIn outreach tool, it’s important to prioritize compliance and cost-effectiveness. Make sure the tool follows LinkedIn’s guidelines and respects privacy regulations like GDPR and CAN-SPAM. This helps you steer clear of potential penalties or risks. At the same time, evaluate the pricing and features to ensure the tool fits within your budget.
You’ll also want to focus on tools with robust automation features and strong deliverability rates. These can help you scale your outreach while maintaining a professional and ethical approach. By keeping these factors in mind, you can enhance your outreach efforts without compromising safety or effectiveness.