Blog

7 Game-Changing Cognism Alternatives That Won’t Break the Bank (But Will Boost Your Sales)

If you’re a Cognism user, you’re familiar with its strengths: a massive B2B database, intent data, and lead enrichment tools that make it a staple for sales teams. But let’s not sugarcoat it—its custom pricing, often starting at $1,000+ per month, can feel like a financial gut punch, especially for startups or small businesses. Add in occasional data accuracy hiccups and limited automation features, and it’s clear why you’re searching for Cognism alternatives that deliver more value without the hefty price tag.That’s where Emelia.io steps in—a budget-friendly powerhouse that’s shaking up B2B prospecting. With unlimited real-time LinkedIn scraping included in every subscription plan, 99% accurate email finding for just $19 per 1,000 emails, and phone number discovery at 50 credits per number, Emelia.io gives you everything you need to turbocharge your outreach—all at a fraction of Cognism’s cost. In this 2,800+ word guide, we’ll dive into why Emelia.io is the top pick, alongside six other standout tools that can help you cut costs while keeping your pipeline overflowing. Let’s get started!


Why Look Beyond Cognism?

Cognism's logo

Before we explore the alternatives, let’s unpack why Cognism might not be the perfect fit for everyone.

What Does Cognism Bring to the Table?

Cognism is a B2B sales intelligence platform designed for lead generation and data management. Its key offerings include:

  • Data Enrichment: Fills in gaps in your CRM with contact details.

  • Lead Generation: Access to a global database of B2B contacts.

  • Sales Tools: Streamlines prospecting and outreach workflows.

It’s a solid tool—but it has its flaws.

Where Cognism Falls Short

Here’s why teams are hunting for Cognism alternatives:

  • Steep Pricing: Custom plans often start at $1,000+ monthly, which can strain smaller budgets.

  • Data Accuracy Issues: Some users report outdated or incorrect info, particularly outside North America and Europe.

  • Limited Automation: It excels at data but lacks robust LinkedIn or email campaign automation.

  • Static Database: Updates aren’t real-time, so you might miss the latest opportunities.

If these pain points hit home, it’s time to check out tools that address them—starting with our top choice, Emelia.io.


Emelia.io: The Budget-Friendly Cognism Slayer

Emelia Banner

When it comes to Cognism alternatives, Emelia.io takes the crown. It’s not just a data provider—it’s a full-fledged prospecting solution that blends unlimited real-time LinkedIn scraping, highly accurate email finding, and phone number discovery with multi-channel automation, all at prices that won’t make you wince.

What Makes Emelia.io Stand Out?

Unlimited Real-Time LinkedIn Scraping—Included in Every Plan

  • Always Fresh Data: Emelia.io pulls contact info directly from LinkedIn Sales Navigator in real-time, so your leads are never stale.

  • No Extra Fees: Unlike tools that charge per scrape or limit your searches, Emelia.io includes unlimited LinkedIn scraping in all its subscription plans—$37, $97, or $297 per month

  • How It Works: Link your LinkedIn account, set your filters (e.g., “CEOs at fintech startups”), and scrape emails and profiles instantly—no caps, no hidden costs.

99% Accurate Email Finding—Affordable and Separate

  • Spot-On Precision: Emelia.io’s email finder delivers a 99% accuracy rate, perfect for teams with existing contact lists who just need emails.

  • Credit-Based System: For$ 19, you get 1,000 email credits (1 credit = 1 email found)—ideal for topping up your scraped leads with verified emails.

  • No Subscription Required: The credit system is separate from the plans, so you only pay for what you need.

Phone Number Discovery—50 Credits Per Number

  • Multi-Channel Ready: Need to call your prospects? Emelia.io finds phone numbers at 50 credits per number, making it easy to add a personal touch to your outreach.

  • Flexible Credits: Buy credits as needed (e.g., alongside the $19 for 1,000 email credits) and use them whenever—there’s no expiry date.

Multi-Channel Automation

  • LinkedIn Outreach: Automate profile visits, connection requests, and tailored messages.

  • Email Campaigns: Run drip sequences with open/click tracking and reply detection.

  • CRM Integration: Syncs with HubSpot, Salesforce, and more for a smooth workflow.

Pricing That Keeps It Simple

  • Subscription Plans: Pick from three tiers—$37, $97, or $297 per month. Each includes:

    • Unlimited LinkedIn scraping

    • Prospecting tools and automation features (specifics vary by tier—check emelia.io for details).

  • Separate Credit System: For email and phone number finding: $19 for 1,000 email credits (1 credit = 1 email). 50 credits per phone number found

  • Value Packed In: No matter the plan, you get unlimited scraping—something Cognism can’t touch at its price point.

Real-Life Scenario: Prospecting Made Easy

Picture this: You’re targeting “Chief Marketing Officers” at tech companies. With Emelia.io:

  1. Sign up for the $37/month plan—unlimited LinkedIn scraping is yours.

  2. Scrape your target list in real-time from LinkedIn—no extra cost.

  3. Spend$ 19 for 1,000 email credits to find their emails with 99% accuracy.

  4. Use 50 credits per phone number to grab a few key contacts’ numbers.

  5. Launch a LinkedIn + email + phone campaign—all automated.

It’s fast, affordable, and effective—without Cognism’s budget-busting fees.

Pros

  • Unlimited real-time LinkedIn scraping in every plan.

  • 99% accurate email finding at just $19 for 1,000 credits.

  • Phone number discovery for 50 credits per number.

  • Multi-channel automation for LinkedIn and email.

  • Flexible, no-expiry credit system

    .

Cons

  • Requires LinkedIn Sales Navigator for maximum scraping power.

  • Database is LinkedIn-based, not as broad as some enterprise tools.

Why It’s the Top Choice

Emelia.io nails it with fresh data, powerful automation, and unbeatable pricing. It’s the Cognism alternative for teams who want big results without big bills.

Join Emelia.io


6 More Cognism Alternatives Worth Checking Out

Emelia.io might be our favorite, but these six tools also shine—each with unique strengths for different needs.

1. ZoomInfo: The Enterprise Giant

Zoominfo logo, data solution
  • Overview: A premium tool with 100M+ contacts and intent data, starting at

    $14,995/year

  • Key Features:

    • Intent signals for buyer readiness.

    • Detailed company insights.

    • CRM integrations.

  • Pros:

    • Unrivaled depth for large teams.

    • Strong accuracy in North America.

  • Cons:

    • Eye-watering price tag.

    • No real-time LinkedIn scraping.

  • Vs. Emelia.io: ZoomInfo’s robust but lacks Emelia’s affordability and live data.

2. Apollo.io: The All-Rounder

logo apollo
  • Overview: A 220M-contact database with outreach tools, starting at $49/month

  • Key Features:

    • Email sequences with analytics.

    • LinkedIn prospecting.

    • CRM enrichment.

  • Pros:

    • Great price-to-feature ratio.

    • Easy to use.

  • Cons:

    • Credit limits per tier.

    • Data can be outdated.

  • Vs. Emelia.io: Apollo’s solid but lacks unlimited scraping and phone number finding.

3. Lusha: The Simple Solution

Lusha logo
  • Overview: 100M contacts with a Chrome extension, starting at $49/month for 200 credits

  • Key Features:

    • Fast LinkedIn integration.

    • Accurate email and phone data.

    • Team collaboration tools.

  • Pros:

    • Super intuitive.

    • Reliable basics.

  • Cons:

    • Limited credits and features.

    • No deep automation.

  • Vs. Emelia.io: Lusha’s straightforward but misses Emelia’s automation and value.

4. Seamless.AI: The AI Innovator

Logo seamless.ai
  • Overview: AI-driven contact discovery, starting at $147/month

  • Key Features:

    • Web and LinkedIn AI search.

    • Email finder and verifier.

    • PitchResearch for personalization.

  • Pros:

    • Cutting-edge AI approach.

    • Decent credit allotments.

  • Cons:

    • Slow interface.

    • Pricing climbs fast.

  • Vs. Emelia.io: Seamless.AI’s neat but lacks Emelia’s real-time tools and phone options.

5. LeadFuze: Budget Automation

Lead Fuze logo
  • Overview: Lead gen with email automation, starting at $132/month for 500 credits

  • Key Features:

    • Market-based lead filters.

    • Built-in drip campaigns.

    • CRM sync.

  • Pros:

    • Affordable automation.

    • Fits small teams.

  • Cons:

    • Low credit limits.

    • Accuracy varies.

  • Vs. Emelia.io: LeadFuze is cheaper than Cognism but trails Emelia in value and freshness.

6. RocketReach: The Data Titan

  • Overview: 700M contacts, starting at $99/month for 200 searches

  • Key Features:

    • Massive contact pool.

    • LinkedIn Chrome extension.

    • API for developers.

  • Pros:

    • Huge database.

    • Transparent pricing.

  • Cons:

    • No automation suite.

    • Fewer credits than Emelia.


Side-by-Side: Cognism vs. The Alternatives

Here’s a quick comparison:

Tool

Starting Price

Database Size

Key Features

Limitations

Emelia.io

$37/month + $19/1,000 credits

Live LinkedIn

Unlimited scraping, automation

Needs Sales Navigator

Cognism

$1,000+/month

400M+

Data enrichment, intent data

High cost, static updates

ZoomInfo

$14,995/year

100M+

Intent data, enterprise tools

Very pricey

Apollo.io

$49/month

220M+

Outreach, CRM sync

Limited credits

Lusha

$49/200 credits

100M+

Simple UI, accurate data

Basic features only

Seamless.AI

$147/month

Varies

AI search, email tools

Clunky UI, costly tiers

LeadFuze

$132/500 credits

Varies

Automation, lead search

Low credits, mixed accuracy

RocketReach

$99/200 credits

700M+

Huge database, API access

No automation

How to Choose the Best Cognism Alternative

With seven great options, your pick depends on your goals. Here’s how to decide:

What’s Your Priority?

  1. Budget:

    • Tight Budget: Emelia.io ($37/month + credits) or Apollo.io ($49).

    • Mid-Range: LeadFuze ($132) or RocketReach ($99).

    • Big Budget: ZoomInfo or Cognism ($1,000+).

  2. Data Freshness:

    • Need real-time?

      Emelia.io with unlimited LinkedIn scraping.

    • Okay with static? RocketReach or Cognism work.

  3. Automation:

    • Want LinkedIn + email workflows? Emelia.io or LeadFuze

    • Just data? Lusha or RocketReach suffice.

  4. Team Size:

    • Solo/small teams: Emelia.io or Apollo.io.

    • Enterprise: ZoomInfo or Cognism.

Real-World Examples

  • Startup Founder: Emelia.io’s 37€ plan + $19 for 1,000 emails gives fresh leads and automation on a dime.

  • Sales Rep: LeadFuze’s $132 for 500 credits and campaigns keeps it affordable.

  • Enterprise Team: ZoomInfo’s intent data justifies its cost for high-value deals.

For most, Emelia.io strikes the perfect balance—affordable, powerful, and versatile.


Why Emelia.io Takes the Crown

After weighing the options, Emelia.io emerges as the ultimate Cognism alternative. Its unlimited real-time LinkedIn scraping (included in every plan), 99% accurate email finding for $19 per 1,000 credits, and phone number discovery at 50 credits per number make it unbeatable. Toss in multi-channel automation and a flexible credit system, and you’ve got a tool that’s tailor-made for modern sales teams.Whether you’re hunting leads, recruiting talent, or scaling outreach, Emelia.io lets you work smarter, not pricier. Ready to escape Cognism’s cost trap? Visit emelia.io and see the difference yourself.

Ready to try Emelia?

Clear, transparent prices without hidden fees

No commitment, prices to help you increase your prospecting.

Start

€37

per month

This includes:

Connect 1 LinkedIn Accounts

Email Warmup Included

Unlimited Scraping

Unlimited contacts

FREE: 500 emails enrichment credits

Best seller

Grow

€97

per month

This includes:

Up to 5 LinkedIn Accounts

Unlimited Warmup

Unlimited contacts

1 CRM Integration

FREE: 1 000 email enrichment credits

Scale

€297

per month

This includes:

Up to 20 LinkedIn Accounts

Unlimited Warmup

Unlimited contacts

Multi CRM Integrations

Unlimited API Calls

FREE: 5 000 email enrichment credits

Credits

May use it for :

Find Emails

AI Action

Phone Finder

Verify Emails

€19per month
1,000
5,000
10,000
50,000
100,000

You might also like

Blog
4/2/2025

3 No-Code Web Scraping Tools to Use in 2025: Scrape Like a Pro Without Coding 🛠️

Discover 3 no-code web scraping tools to use in 2025 and streamline your data extraction process effortlessly. Boost your productivity without writing a single line of code!

Read more
Blog
3/29/2025

DataZapp Competitors List: Top Alternatives for B2B Data and Outreach

If you’re scoping out DataZapp and wondering what else is out there, you’ve landed in the right spot. let’s keep it real: it’s not always the perfect fit, especially if you’re deep into B2B prospecting.

Read more
Tips and training
4/1/2025

Here's How You Can Export LinkedIn Searches to Excel

Learn step-by-step how to export your LinkedIn searches to Excel for data-driven insights and enhanced prospecting. Master the process with our easy guide!

Read more
Blog
3/31/2025

THE Best 2025 Guide to AI Prospecting

All the secrets of prospecting with AI in 2025! Don't just personalize your campaigns, save time! AI analyzes responses to adjust your strategy.

Read more
Blog
8/4/2024

LinkedIn Prospecting: The SME & Pro Guide

Optimize your LinkedIn Outreach with effective strategies, powerful tools and expert advice to attract customers and increase your sales. Learn how to use LinkedIn Sales Navigator and personalize your messages.

Read more
Blog
8/1/2024

LinkedIn Search: Keys to success

Learn how to optimize your LinkedIn searches with our practical tips. Discover how to use filters, keywords, and advanced strategies to find job opportunities and relevant connections.

Read more
Tips and training
7/24/2024

Boolean Search, LinkedIn Sales Navigator's Secret Weapon

Master LinkedIn Sales Navigator Boolean Search with this comprehensive guide. Learn how to use Boolean operators to refine your searches, uncover valuable insights, and connect with targeted prospects.

Read more
Blog
4/28/2024

We've found the 9 Best Alternatives to Wiza

Comparative overview of 9 Wiza alternatives for data scraping. Analysis of features, prices and performance to choose the tool that best suits your scraping needs.

Read more
Tips and training
2/25/2025

4 Must-Know Sales Prospecting Tools to Supercharge Your Pipeline

Read more
Tips and training
8/7/2024

Lemlist VS Waalaxy : Comparison to help you choose

Want to know which is the best B2B Outreach tool between Lemlist and Waalaxy ? You've come to the right place: this article compares the features and pricing of the two tools.

Read more
Made with ❤ for Growth Marketers by Growth Marketers