Robotic Process Automation (RPA) has emerged as a transformative technology for automating repetitive, rules-based tasks in business processes. However, many small and medium-sized businesses find that high RPA software licensing costs can be a barrier to adoption. This article explores top affordable RPA tools priced under $2,000 per year that deliver automation capabilities without breaking the bank.
What is Affordable RPA?
Affordable RPA refers to robotic process automation software that offers full-featured functionality at a budget-friendly price point. While leading RPA platforms like UiPath and Automation Anywhere can cost upwards of $5,000 per year for basic licenses, affordable RPA tools clock in under $2,000 annually.
They provide a viable automation solution for SMBs or departments with limited budgets. The tradeoff is that they may have less name recognition or more lightweight vendor support compared to enterprise-geared options. However, for the price tag, they unlock immense value:
Why Expensive RPA Tools Can Deter Adoption
Though the RPA market size is rapidly expanding, adoption lags among smaller companies. A Deloitte survey found 37% of respondents said RPA failed to meet their cost expectations during implementation:
Cost barriers stem from:
- High licensing fees (sometimes charged per bot)
- Vendor lock-in limiting ability to scale flexibly
- Change management and training costs on top of software spend
- Custom development and integration needs
A 2021 survey by Ernst & Young found that nearly 50% of RPA adopters saw implementation costs exceed ROI expectations. This was particularly true for smaller firms rolling out pilots versus large enterprises.
By comparison, affordable RPA delivers similar functionality through open source tools and transparent, scalable pricing models.
Open Source vs Proprietary RPA
Open source RPA platforms offer free access to the underlying source code. This allows for more customization and community-driven development. The tradeoff is typically less vendor support and a steeper learning curve.
Proprietary RPA leverages closed source code but offers robust graphical interfaces and vendor resources. Licensing fees fund ongoing platform enhancements and customer support.
When evaluating tools, weigh your in-house expertise versus need for vendor guidance. Open source options work for skilled development teams on a budget. Proprietary suits beginners needing more hand-holding.
Top 4 Affordable RPA Tools Under $2,000
We evaluated low-cost RPA vendors based on pricing, company size, and enterprise references. Here are the top contenders:
1. Argos Labs
- Cost: Starts under $2,000/year
- Key Features: No-code RPA, computer vision, monitoring dashboard
- Use Cases: Data migration, document processing, web automation
This no-code RPA leverages Python for flexible automation capabilities. It integrates easily with leading AI engines like Google Vision for OCR. The visual dashboard provides real-time bot analytics.
Pros
- Strong computer vision integration
- Generous free trial
Cons
- Less name recognition
- Limited pre-built connectors
2. AutomationEdge
- Cost: Under $2,000/year
- Key Features: Intuitive interface, NLP, predictive analytics
- Use Cases: Customer service automation, data entry, reporting
AutomationEdge simplifies building bots with a user-friendly design interface. It incorporates AI for natural language processing and decision automation.
Pros
- Easy for citizen developers
- Strong predictive analytics
Cons
- Less flexibility for advanced users
- Limited third-party integrations
3. Robocorp
- Cost: Free open source platform
- Key Features: Python-based, code editor, Visual Studio extension
- Use Cases: Web scraping, system integration, data processing
Robocorp leverages Python for advanced RPA scripting. Developers can use its Visual Studio Code plugin to streamline bot coding.
Pros
- Flexible and customizable
- Appeals to skilled Python coders
Cons
- Steep learning curve
- Less hand-holding for RPA beginners
4. Rocketbot
- Cost: Starts under $1,000/year
- Key Features: Pre-built application modules, monitoring, scheduling
- Use Cases: Accounting automation, app testing, process documentation
Rocketbot supports quick no-code bot building across applications. It provides monitoring, scheduling, and error handling.
Pros
- Very affordable pricing
- Easy for non-technical users
Cons
- Functionally lightweight
- Less flexibility for complex automations
How to Evaluate Affordable RPA Tools
When researching RPA tools on a budget, look for these core capabilities:
No-Code Options: Seek low-code or no-code RPA enabling automation without extensive programming. But consider retaining an RPA consultant for training, troubleshooting, and scaling.
Cognitive Automation: Prioritize bots that can ingest unstructured data and make contextual decisions via OCR, NLP, and machine learning.
Integration: Pick an RPA platform with APIs and pre-built connectors that allow easy integration across applications.
Ease of Use: Evaluate the learning curve and how intuitive the tool is for both technical and non-technical users.
Customization: Assess the ability to tweak and enhance the platform if you have in-house developers.
Get Started With Affordable RPA
RPA presents a compelling way for SMBs to increase efficiency and reduce costs. Review leading affordable RPA tools to find one tailored to your budget and needs. Reach out if you need help with vendor selection or RPA implementation.
Statistics source: EY, 2021