Summary: Automation testing tools are becoming increasingly popular in today’s app or web development industries. Let’s discuss the best automation testing tools for web applications in the market.
Application testing is a crucial aspect of web and app development. However, the rapid evolution of web applications has forced developers to use advanced automation testing tools for the delivery of high-quality applications.
The demand for best automation testing tools for web applications is growing every day and more and more tools are coming in the market. In response to this growing need, we have compiled a list of the best automation testing tools that are gaining traction.
From test management capabilities to seamless integration, these tools offer an array of features to streamline testing processes and enhance overall productivity. So, let’s get to it!
What is Automation Testing?
Automation testing is a software testing technique that uses specialized tools and scripts to execute test cases automatically without relying on manual efforts. It runs repetitive tests like checking login functionality or data entry on hundreds of different devices.
Automation testing increases efficiency and can be run automatically day and night, catching bugs quickly and ensuring faster releases.
How to Choose the Right Automation Testing Tool
While looking for the right automation testing tool, it’s crucial to have a well-defined strategy about your uses, level of expertise, budget and more. This strategy should address key questions:
- What features do you need?
- Who will use the tool: Developers or QA teams?
- Can it be seamlessly integrated with CI/CD pipelines or toolchains?
- How easy is it to maintain scripts and reuse test assets?
- What is the budget for your team?
Once you find answers to the above questions, conduct thorough research, evaluate options carefully, and choose the right automated testing tools in software testing that align with your requirements.
List of 16 Best Automation Testing Tools for Web Applications
| Tools | Best For | Pricing |
| Selenium | Industry-standard for web application testing | Open-source platform |
| Appium | Mobile application automation | Open-source platform |
| Katalon Studio | User-friendly integrated test automation solution | Starts from $208/month |
| TestComplete | Powerful and feature-rich automated testing tool. | Starts from $1940/month |
| Cucumber | Driven Development (BDD) | Starts at $32/month |
| Ranorex | Efficient and effective desktop and mobile automation | Available on request |
| MicroFocus | Enterprise-level testing tool with comprehensive features | Available on request |
| Tricentis Tosca | Accelerate testing across the entire software development lifecycle | Available on request |
| Robot Framework | Open-source, flexible, and extensible test automation | Free to use |
| Watir | Simple and lightweight Ruby library for web automation | Available on request |
| Test Studio | Intuitive and efficient for automated testing | Starts at $2499 |
| LambdaTest | Cloud-based cross-browser testing platform | Starts at $19/month |
| SoapUI | Comprehensive API testing tool for REST and SOAP | Available on request |
| Applitools | AI-powered visual testing and monitoring platform | Available on request |
| Perfecto | Cloud-based testing for web and mobile apps | Starts at $99/month |
| Cypress | End-to-end testing made easy | Starts from $75/month |
We have tested and researched multiple software testing automation tools and made a list of the best options for you. Here are some of the best automation testing tools in the market.
1. Selenium
Selenium is an open-source automation framework for web applications. It offers multiple sets of tools for web browser automation and supports various programming languages like C#, Python, Java etc. Its suite consists of Selenium WebDriver, Selenium IDE, and Selenium Grid.
The Selenium WebDriver can help you build robust, browser-based automation suites. With Selenium IDE, you can create quick bug reproduction scripts and Selenium Grid can run tests across multiple machines parallelly.
Top Features of Selenium
- Supports multiple programming languages like Python, Ruby etc.
- Multi-browser automaton testing support
- Handle dynamic web elements with ease
- Seamless integrations with another testing frameworks and CI/CD tools
- Selenium WebDriver for speed and performance checking
Pros and Cons of Selenium
- Uses rich programming languages for automation testings
- With Selenium, you can reuse and debug test scripts with the help of IDE
- No need to install any server, access it through browser
- Requires technical knowledge to fully understand the software
- Modifying codes can be a bit difficult
Selenium Pricing: It is free and open-source software.
2. Appium
Appium is also an open-source and one of the best automation testing tools for testing mobile applications. It helps users with the creation and execution of tests designed for Android, iOS, and Windows apps, through programming languages like Java, C#, Ruby, and Python.
Appium also supports both native and hybrid mobile applications. Appium offers a seamless integration with multiple other automation frameworks, such as Cucumber, Robot framework and Selenium to help users create and execute scripts easily.
Top Features of Appium
- Write automated UI tests for hybrid and web-apps
- Multi-platform support
- Parallel test script execution
- Works with multiple languages like C#, Python, Ruby, Node.js etc.
Pros and Cons of Appium
- Supports both Android and iOS devices
- You don’t require third-party agents for automation
- Supports both desktop and mobile app testing
- Easy project migration
- Sometimes the automation testing can be slow due to remote web driver dependency
- Doesn’t work with outdated OS versions
Pricing: Appium is a free and open-source automation testing tool.
3. Katalon Studio
The Katalon Studio is a low-code and scalable automation testing tool that is designed for web, API, desktop (Windows), and mobile applications. By using this software, users don’t require code knowledge and can create a test automation framework from scratch.
Katalon Studio can easily record your executed actions so that your automated tests can be used again and again without starting from scratch. Furthermore, Katalon updates its platform on a regular basis to maintain compatibility with the most recent platforms, browsers, and operating systems.
Features of Katalon
- Manual and scripting mode to test your design, record & playback
- Keyword-driven and cross-browsing testings
- Retry failed tests automatically
- ALM and CI/CD native integrations
- Smart debugging and reporting
Pros and Cons of Katalon Studio
- Desktop and mobile testing
- Easy automation testing execution
- Enterprise-quality automation with customer support
- Lifetime data retention
- Its free plan offers only basic features
- Katalon supports limited programming languages and only works with Groovy
Free Trial: 30-day free trial
Pricing: Katalon offers one free and two paid plans.
- Free: Free to use plan for small teams with basic features
- Premium: Starts from $208/month
- Ultimate: Available on request
4. TestComplete
TestComplete is a versatile UI automation testing tool for mobile, desktop and web apps. With over 500 controls and third-party frameworks, it is a great tool for managing dynamic UI elements across a wide range of technologies.
This automation testing tool includes a convenient record and playback feature, catering to the needs of both technical and non-technical users.
Features of TestComplete
- Supports cross-browser, device and parallel testing
- Property-based object identification and AI visual recognition
- Increased coverage for UI test automations
- Automated testing and reporting
- Offers continuous testing for DevOps
Pros and Cons of TestComplete
- Offers free product update
- Free resource for development and testings
- You can get SmartBear community access
- Free webinar and training on how to use the software effectively
- The pricing plans are expensive compared to its peers
- The base plan doesn’t support cross-device testing
Free Trial: 14-day free trial
Pricing: TestComplete provides two plans- Base and Pro
- TestComplete Base: Starts at $1940/month
- TestComplete Pro: Starts at $3015/month
5. Cucumber
Cucumber is an efficient online Behavior Driven Development (BDD) tool that automatically creates documentation that’s updated and easily shareable. You can work faster than your competitor through a team-centric and cross-functional workflow.
Cucumber helps unify the development, testing, and documentation for analysts, testers and engineers. It allows them to automate functional verification and validation in an easily readable and understandable format. Cucumber tests are written in a simple, natural language that anyone can understand, even those who are not technical experts.
When you subscribe to the Cucumber automation testing tool, you also get access to the SmartBear community of experts.
Features of Cucumber Web Application Testing Tool
- Next-gen AI and ML with VisualTests
- BDD automation development
- Live testing documentations
- Advanced team collaboration
Pros and Cons of Cucumber Web App
- Easy team collaboration
- GitHub and Jira integration is a plus
- Offers training and resources
- Helps create shareable and updated documentation
- Users have complaint about the quality fluctuation while testing
- Cucumber has a limited debugging option
Free Trial: 14-day free trial
Pricing: Cucumber offers three plans, Open, Studio and School:
- CucumberOpen: Free and open source
- CucumberStudio: Starts at $32/month
- CucumberSchool: Available on request
6. Ranorex
Ranorex can easily automate GUI testing for web, desktop and mobile apps. This low-code/no-code automation testing software comes with full IDE for limitless extensibility. Ranorex offers a machine-trained object identification engine that handles all types of objects, including dynamic UI elements.
With this tool, you can get a machine-trained object recognition engine and a set of easy-to-use automation tools for desktop, web, and mobile apps. Ranorex Studio can also integrate with tools like Jira, Jenkins, TestRail, etc. to automate bug tracking and fasten your release time.
Features of Ranorex Automation Testing Tool
- VB.Net and C# language support
- Supports web, desktop and mobile technologies
- Distributed and parallel testing
- Low-code/no-code intelligent test design
- Integrates with your DevOps or CI/CD
Pros and Cons of Ranorex
- Data-driven and cross-platform automation testing
- Seamless app integrations
- Works on web, mobile and desktop
- Highly scalable software
- Ranorex has slow performance while recording their interactions
- Limited programming language support such as C# and VB.NET
Free Trial: Yes
Pricing: Ranorex offers three plans- Studio, Enterprise and Runtime. These pricing plans are available on request.
7. MicroFocus
MicroFocus is one of the leading AI testing tools in the market. It seamlessly integrates with the DevOps ecosystem to test applications on a large scale. With multiplatform support, friction-free integration, and simplified mobile device management, the platform offers comprehensive solutions for agile, cloud-based testing across various devices and technologies.
MicroFocus can reduce test creation time, enhance coverage, increase asset resiliency, and reduce maintenance with its AI-powered automation capabilities.
Features of MicroFocus
- AI-powered automation
- Multi framework, language and platform support
- Accelerates the testing process with various app integrations
- Mobile device management
- Manage devices on SaaS, on-premises or hybrid
Pros and Cons of MicroFocus
- Better scalability and flexibility
- Supports modern application development and delivery
- Various knowledge resources on how to use the software
- Debugging process takes a lot of time
- The AI automation is significantly slower on devices that lack GPU
Free Trial: N/A
Pricing: Available on request
8. Tricentis Tosca
Tricentis Tosca allows end-to-end testing across diverse digital landscapes with its no-code AI testing tools. Tosca supports over 160+ technologies which ensure comprehensive test automation coverage. From API to performance testing, it facilitates seamless integration with DevOps tools.
Its risk-based test optimization lets you reduce the risk of software release by cutting down the overall number of tests in your automation suite. Tosca’s model covers cloud migration, application modernization, and superior customer experiences.
Features of Tricentis Tosca Automation Testing Tool
- No-code testing creation
- End-to-end intelligent UI, data layer and API testings
- Ai for Vision, Self-healing and Risk determination
- Jira, GitHub and Jenkins integration
- Model-based test automation
Pros and Cons of Tricentis Tosca
- Supports Agile, Waterflow and DevOps workflows
- Features automated recording assistant
- You can test apps without a single line of code
- Tricentis tosca is not compatible with Mac and Linux
- Setting up automation testings on this platform is time consuming
Free Trial: 14-day free trial
Pricing: Available on request
9. Robot Framework
Supported by Robot Framework Foundation, Robot Framework is an open source automation testing tool. It is widely used by industry-leading companies for test automation and robotic process automation (RPA).
It has easy-to-use syntax and a library which is implemented with python, Java, and many other programming languages. This tool is free to use and caters to some big companies like Cisco, Nokia, Kone, etc.
Features of Robot Framework
- Supports data-driven tests for different data sets2
- Creates high-level reusable keywords from the existing ones
- Built-in variable support for testing in multiple environments
- Offers Python-native API for custom test library creation
- Offers setup and teardown for test cases and suites
Pros and Cons of Robot Framework
- Use for both test automation and robotic process automation
- Get access to resource file for testing your apps
- Huge contributors and community
- Supports cross-functional app testings
- Limited support for non-UI testings
Pricing: Free to use tool.
10. Watir
Watir is an open-source Ruby library that uses Selenium’s power to automate web tests. It can easily mimic human interactions such as clicking links, filling out forms, and validating text. Watir stands as a reliable testing tool and offers an active community and various resources for seamless automation.
Features of Watir Web Testing Tool
- Supports multiple browsers
- Live and visual testing
- WYSIWYG Editors
- Mobile testing
Pros and Cons of Watir
- Various knowledge base and training materials
- Huge community support
- Works well with RubyGems
- Watir is only supported for Ruby test framework
Free Trial: N/A
Pricing: Available on request
11. Test Studio
Test Studio by Telerik is a robust automation testing software that offers superior web and desktop app testing. Its functionalities like record/playback allow users to record their tests and run them for easy and fast app testings.
Users can also keep track of their automation process and app quality through Executive Dashboard. With both codeless and code-based automation capabilities, Test Studio can be used by both beginner and professional users. It covers functional, API, load, and regression testing.
Features of Test Studio Automation Testing Tool
- Automation recorder with cross-browser support
- Intelligent element detection
- Data-driven testings
- Remote scheduling functionalities
- CI/CD integrations
Pros and Cons of Test Studio
- Easy installation and set up
- Builds testing frameworks from scratch
- Supports all kinds of functional UI testings
- Test Studio supports multiple languages like C#, VB.NET, etc.
- With Test Studio, users can convert their testing steps into code, but can’t revert them
Free Trial: Yes
Pricing: Test Studio offers two paid plans, and these are:
- Test Studio Web & Desktop: Starts at $2499
- Test Studio Ultimate: Starts at $3499
12. LambdaTest
LambdaTest offers next-generation mobile apps and cross-browser testing. With over 3000 real mobile and desktop browsers, it offers an unparalleled digital experience across devices and browsers.
The platform supports live testing, automated testing, mobile app testing, visual regression cloud, and AI-powered test analytics. It integrates seamlessly with various third-party tools and provides 24/7 customer support.
Features of LambdaTest
- Online browser and native mobile app testings
- AI-powered test analysis
- Multiple third-party app integrations
- AI-powered visual UI testings
- Easily run Cypress scripts on cloud-based infrastructure
Pros and Cons of LambdaTest
- Integration with tools like Jira, Slack, Asana, etc.
- Unlimited responsive app testings
- Supports live testing, automated testing and mobile app testing
- Debugging tools for website and mobile
- LambdaTest can be slow during peak hours
Free Trial: N/A
Pricing: LambdaTest offers both free and paid plans. These are:
- Free: Free to use plan with 1 parallel test
- Live: Starts at $19/month
- Real Device: Starts at $35/month
- Enterprise: Available on request
13. SoapUI
SoapUI by Smartbear is a user-friendly automation testing tool for APIs. It supports the testing of various protocols like REST, SOAP, GraphQL, JMS, JDBC, and more. With features like API exploration, functional testing, performance testing, and security testing.
SoapUI streamlines the testing process, making it accessible for individual developers, testers, and enterprise teams. Once the testing is complete, SoapUI offers a comprehensive API test reporting that can help users improve their testing process.
Features of SoapUI Automation Tool
- API functional and performance testing
- Drag and drop testing creation
- CI/CD integrations
- Test analysis
- Simulate different user behavior patterns
Pros and Cons of SoapUI
- You can reuse your scripts for quick API testings
- Uses external data to react quickly
- Analyzes functional coverage
- Some features are only available with its Commercial version (Pro version)
Free Trial: 14-day free trial
Pricing: Available on request
14. Applitools
Applitools is an advanced automation testing software that transforms testing processes through its Visual AI-driven Ultrafast Test Cloud. It provides Preflight, a user-friendly no-code test creation platform, Eyes for functional and visual testing, and an Execution Cloud for resilient test infrastructure.
Its cross-platform visual testing ensures that your app provides a consistent experience in different browsers and devices. With easy integration into popular frameworks, Applitools streamlines test creation, analysis, and maintenance.
Features of Applitools Mobile Automation Testing Tools
- Smart bug detection
- Multi-platform visual testing
- Mange dynamic content adeptly
- Automated issue solving
- Get a comprehensive visual analysis for detailed report and insights about your project
Pros and Cons of Applitools
- Supports unlimited tests with each plan
- Enterprise-level support
- Automated test and review
- Public cloud, dedicated cloud or on-premises testing
- Have a limited support for manual testing
- Limited testing customizations
Free Trial: Free trial with 100 checkpoints a month.
Pricing: Applitools offers three plans. These are:
- Starter: Available on request
- Eye: Available on request
- Ultrafast Test cloud: Available on request
15. Perfecto
Perfecto by Perforce ensures top-notch quality for mobile applications. This platform simplifies test creation with an easy-to-use interface and drag-and-drop functionality. It allows users to automate complex scenarios, such as biometric authentication, without the need for technical scripting skills.
Features of Perfecto
- Create app testings without scripts
- Simple and fast test creation
- User experience, performance and API testings
- Supports over 1000 apps (virtual and real)
- Cross-platform and parallel executions
Pros and Cons of Perfecto
- Easily automates testing, even the complex ones
- Test your apps in real-world scenarios
- Robust analytics and reporting
- Drag and drop test creations
- Perfecto dashboard doesn’t provide detailed reports on test coverage
Free Trial: 14-day free trial
Pricing: Perfecto offers four types of plans. These are:
- Live: Starts at $99/month
- Automate: Starts at $149/month
- Scriptless: Available on request
- Enterprise: Available on request
16. Cypress
Cypress is a powerful automation testing software that empowers developers to create, debug, and automate tests for modern web applications. With a user-friendly API, Cypress allows for easy integration into continuous integration builds.
Cypress Cloud enhances productivity with test parallelization and visual debugging, while native integrations with CI providers and extensive community support make it a trusted choice for both open-source projects and enterprises worldwide.
Features of Cypress Automation Testing Tool
- Write, run and debug application testings
- Seamless integration with CI provider
- Embedded cloud workflows
- Visual testing reviews
- Test analysis
Pros and Cons of Cypress
- Integrates with platforms like Slack, Teams, GitHub and more
- Manual and auto CI cancellations
- Get access to your app testing history
- Great customer support
- Only 500 tests a month with its free plan
Free Trial: N/A
Pricing: Cypress offers one free and three paid plans. These are:
- Free: Free to use plan with maximum 50 users and 500 tests a month
- Team: Starts at $75/month
- Business: Starts at $300/month
- Enterprise: Available on request
Compare Best Automation Testing Tools
| Tools | Ratings | Free Option |
| Selenium | 4.5/5 | Yes |
| Appium | 4.5/5 | Yes |
| Katalon Studio | 4.4/5 | Yes |
| TestComplete | 4.2/5 | Yes |
| Cucumber | 4.3/5 | Yes |
| Ranorex | 4.2/5 | Yes |
| MicroFocus | 4.2/5 | No |
| Tricentis Tosca | 4.4/5 | Yes |
| Robot Framework | 4.4/5 | Yes |
| Watir | 4.2/5 | Yes |
| Test Studio | 4/5 | Yes |
| LambdaTest | 4.5/5 | No |
| SoapUI | 4.5/5 | Yes |
| Applitools | 4.6/5 | Yes |
| Perfecto | 4.3/5 | Yes |
| Cypress | 4/5 | No |
How Automation Testing Tools Work?
Automation testing tools use specialized scripts to execute test cases automatically. These tools can simulate user interactions, validate functionality, and perform various tests. They report outcomes and compare results with previous test runs to identify bugs or issues.
They often have features for easy integration with development and deployment apps that allow for continuous testing and faster releases.
Conclusion: Which Automation Testing Tool to Use?
The demand for automation testing tools for web applications is at an all-time high. From open-source options to enterprise-grade solutions, there are tools suitable for every budget and project requirement. So, it’s crucial to evaluate them based on your requirements.
Whether you prioritize ease of use, extensive features, or cost-effectiveness, the market offers a diverse range of software testing automation tools to suit different scenarios.
Top Automation Testing Tools: Frequently Asked Questions
Which automation tool is better?
The best automation tool depends on your specific requirements. Selenium, Appium, and Katalon Studio are popular choices based on features, ease of use, and integration capabilities.
What is the most widely used testing automation tool?
Selenium, Apium, LambdaTest, Perfecto, Cypress are some of the most widely used testing automation tools due to various features, multi-language support, and extensive community.
Which software is best for automation testing?
The best software for automation testing depends on your project needs. Selenium, TestComplete, and Tricentis Tosca are well-regarded options.
Which automation testing tool is in demand?
Selenium is in high demand due to its versatility and community support. Other tools like Cypress and Katalon Studio also have growing popularity for specific use cases.
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Shubham Roy 
Shubham Roy is an experienced writer with a strong Technical and Business background. With over three years of experience as a content writer, he has honed his skills in various domains, including technical writing, business, software, Travel, Food and finance. His passion for creating engaging and informative content... Read more
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