Comparison

Hootsuite vs Buffer: price, free plan and which to choose

Hootsuite and Buffer are both strong options for small businesses. Here is how they compare on what matters before you sign up: price, free options and who each one suits.

At a glance

ToolStarting priceFree planFree trialBest forSource
HootsuiteUSD: Standard from $99/monthNo14 day free trialBusier businesses posting on many channelsOfficial pricing
BufferUSD: Essentials $5/month per channel (billed annually)Yes (3 channels)14 day free trialScheduling posts across a few social accountsOfficial pricing

Prices are the starting paid plans on each official pricing page, in the currency shown there.

What each does

Hootsuite: Schedule and manage posts across social networks. Starting price: Standard from $99/month. Free plan: No. Trial: 14 day free trial.

Buffer: Social media scheduler with an AI assistant for post ideas and rewrites. Starting price: Essentials $5/month per channel (billed annually). Free plan: Yes (3 channels). Trial: 14 day free trial.

Verdict by business type

  • Busier businesses posting on many channels: Hootsuite.
  • Scheduling posts across a few social accounts: Buffer.
  • Starting on a tight budget: Buffer. It has a free plan; compare trials before paying.
  • Outside the US and UK: check local pricing pages; listed prices are in USD.

FAQ

Is Hootsuite cheaper than Buffer?

Hootsuite: Schedule and manage posts across social networks. Starting price: Standard from $99/month. Free plan: No. Trial: 14 day free trial. Buffer: Social media scheduler with an AI assistant for post ideas and rewrites. Starting price: Essentials $5/month per channel (billed annually). Free plan: Yes (3 channels). Trial: 14 day free trial. Currencies differ by region, so compare in your own currency on the official pages.

Does Hootsuite or Buffer have a free plan?

Hootsuite: No. Buffer: Yes (3 channels).

Which is better, Hootsuite or Buffer?

Hootsuite suits busier businesses posting on many channels; Buffer suits scheduling posts across a few social accounts. Try each one with your own work before you commit.

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