Cognism is one of the most widely adopted B2B data platforms in Europe. Known for its strong mobile coverage, GDPR compliance, and high match rates in the EMEA region, it’s become a staple for many outbound teams operating in regulated and complex markets.
For sales leaders prioritising data quality and regulatory alignment, Cognism has long been a go-to choice. But is it still the best option for every team?
What People Love About Cognism
Cognism’s strongest point is the breadth and size of the EMEA database. It consistently ranks among the top 3 for verified mobile numbers and email match rates across Europe.
One Stakki customer reported 70%+ verified coverage across their full EMEA target account list, eliminating the need for any additional enrichment sources. That kind of accuracy builds confidence across SDR, RevOps, and leadership.
One of many reasons it ranks 4.7/5 on Capterra, and high on other review sites. Whilst you might trust or distrust those sites it’s consistently high in reviews.
Cognism Limitations
While the product is strong, it’s not perfect.
- License-based pricing means every user adds cost. Not ideal for teams running multi-tool, multi-user workflows.
- Limited flexibility with enrichment tools like Clay, which has become core to modern, multi-touch prospecting motions.
- Lack of light-touch trials or self-serve tiers makes it difficult to blend Cognism into waterfall enrichment strategies.
As one G2 reviewer, Shaun H, shared: “Sometimes I wish the integration had more flexibility... More custom fields, or simple logic to show export dates. Little things that would make a big difference.”
For teams that want more control over credits, automation, or stack flexibility, Cognism can feel restrictive.
Top Cognism Competitors Right Now
Here’s a breakdown of the most commonly evaluated alternatives by Stakki users.
- Pros: Most accurate US dataset we've seen. Smooth LinkedIn to CRM contact creation. Credit-based usage means cost stays aligned to output. Tracks job changes and signal data.
- Cons: Primarily focused on the US market.
- Pricing: Credit-based or license-based, flexible plans available.
- Pros: Large US and EMEA coverage. AI prospecting tools that automate research, sourcing, and engagement.
- Cons: Thin on CRM integrations.
- Pricing: License-based; negotiable for agencies and RevOps teams.
- Pros: All-in-one platform with solid data, sequencing, and enrichment features. Reps love the UX.
- Cons: Accuracy varies in niche regions. Bulk data workflows are limited.
- Pricing: License-based, with freemium tier.
- Pros: Simple interface, decent EMEA reach.
- Cons: Data quality varies region to region. GDPR status has been questioned.
- Pricing: License-based; free credits for smaller teams.
- Pros: Broadest US database. Rich with technographic, firmographic, and intent data.
- Cons: Limited EMEA quality. High price tag. Contracts are hard to break.
- Pricing: Custom pricing, credit or license depending on deal size.
- Pros: Combines multiple providers in a waterfall setup. 80%+ match rate in our tests.
- Cons: Some sources not always best-in-class.
- Pricing: License-based.
- Pros: Credit-based waterfall enrichment from 20+ sources. You only pay when verified data is delivered. AI chooses the best source automatically.
- Cons: Lacks native CRM and engagement integrations.
- Pricing: Credit-based.
Cognism Competitor Comparison Table
| Provider |
Region Focus |
Pricing Model |
Best For |
CRM Integration |
Free Trial |
| Cognism |
EMEA |
License |
Enterprise, GDPR-focused orgs |
Yes |
No |
| Upcell |
US/Global |
Credit and License |
Scaling teams using Clay and CRM |
Yes |
Yes |
| Salesbolt |
US and EMEA |
License |
Salesforce-native teams |
Salesforce only |
Yes |
| Apollo.io |
Global |
License |
Startups and lean teams |
Yes |
Yes (Free) |
| Lusha |
Global |
License |
SMBs and fast adoption |
Yes |
Yes |
The Stakki Recommendation
If you’re adamant that you need to be switching from Cognism, you need to know what problem you’re actually solving.
- If your focus is global expansion and flexibility: Salesbot, FullEnrich and BetterContact are our top picks.
- If you want native Salesforce workflows: Upcell.
- If you’re building automated enrichment flows in Clay: BetterContact has real-time, AI-driven coverage.
If you are looking for the best enterprise grade EMEA data though, Cognism is probably still your best choice. We’d actually suggest you look at Upcell and then come back to Cognism in many cases to see where you can create the best and most user friendly contact sourcing experience.
You can break down all the options against CRM, regions and types of data here.
FAQs
1. Features to Look for in a Cognism Alternative
- Accurate mobile and email coverage
- Credit-based or flexible pricing
- CRM and outreach integrations
- Regional strength (EMEA vs. US vs. Global)
2. Are There Any Free Alternatives to Cognism?
- Apollo has a strong freemium tier. Upcell and BetterContact offer free trials.
3. How Much Does Cognism Cost?
- Pricing is typically enterprise-grade and contract-based. Expect to negotiate.
4. What Factors Should You Consider When Choosing an Alternative to Cognism?
- Which regions you target most
- Whether you need licenses or credits
- Integration with CRM or Clay workflows
- Ability to test before committing
Looking to compare data providers more deeply?
👉 Read our guide on the Best B2B Data Tools for Outbound
👉 Visit Stakki to see the latest stack insights
👉 Build with Stakki for a personalized recommendation
James Donaldson
Founder, Stakki
📧 james@stakk.io
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