Closely combines LinkedIn automation with a contact database. It covers the basics, but the sourcing breadth and the CRM are shallow next to a dedicated all-in-one. Here is how Leadsforlinked compares.
What is Closely?
Closely is a cloud tool that runs LinkedIn outreach sequences and offers some B2B contact data, on a per-seat subscription. Bundling in a contact database is the feature that differentiates it from pure sequencing tools, though the database itself is a general enrichment layer rather than something built specifically around LinkedIn engagement signals.
Where Closely falls short for LinkedIn lead generation
- Sourcing methods are limited compared with pulling directly from posts, events, groups, and job-change signals, all specific to LinkedIn activity rather than a general contact lookup.
- The CRM and inbox features are basic, so teams often export to a separate system for real pipeline tracking.
- It is per-seat subscription with no real free tier or pay-as-you-go option, so evaluating it means starting a trial with a clock running.
- No AI-assisted reply drafting, unlike newer bundled LinkedIn tools built around that workflow from the start.
Closely vs Leadsforlinked
Here is how the two compare on what matters for getting qualified leads.
| Feature | Closely | Leadsforlinked |
|---|---|---|
| LinkedIn sourcing methods | Limited plus some data | Eight (search, commenters, reactors, events, groups, visitors, signals) |
| Sales Navigator required | Optional | No |
| Outreach + CRM included | Sequences | Yes (campaigns, unified inbox, Kanban CRM) |
| AI-assisted replies | No | Yes (Diamond Pro and above) |
| Pricing model | Per-seat subscription | Free tier, then credits that never expire |
| Free tier | Trial only | 100 leads, no card |
When to choose each
Choose Closely if you want simple LinkedIn sequences with a little general contact data attached, and depth of LinkedIn-specific sourcing isn't the priority.
Choose Leadsforlinked if you want eight LinkedIn sourcing methods, CSV export without Sales Navigator, plus outreach and a CRM in one subscription, starting free with 100 leads and credits that never expire. It's the stronger fit whenever the lead's LinkedIn activity itself, not just their contact details, is what makes them worth reaching out to.
Sources and further reading
- LinkedIn Sales Navigator, official product page. Reference for Sales Navigator features and pricing.
Frequently asked questions
Is Closely free?
Closely offers a trial but no permanent free tier, then charges per seat. Leadsforlinked gives you 100 leads free with no card.
Do I need Sales Navigator with Closely?
Sales Navigator is optional with Closely and not required with Leadsforlinked, which sources leads on a normal LinkedIn account.
What is the best Closely alternative?
For LinkedIn-first lead generation, Leadsforlinked is the strongest Closely alternative: it sources leads from eight methods, exports to CSV without Sales Navigator, and adds outreach and a CRM, with 100 free leads and credits that never expire.
Is Closely's bundled contact data worth choosing it over a dedicated sourcing tool?
It depends on how you actually source. Closely's contact data is a useful add-on for basic list-building, but it doesn't go as deep as pulling directly from post engagement, event attendance, or group membership, which surface warmer, more specific leads than a general contact database.