Buffer vs Hootsuite
Buffer edges it for most people — solo creators — but Hootsuite is the better pick if you're mid-size teams.
Buffer
Clean, affordable per-channel scheduling with a generous free plan for solo creators.
$5/mo
- Genuinely useful free tier
- Simple, low pay-per-channel pricing
- Clean, beginner-friendly interface
- Analytics are shallow vs rivals
- Costs add up across many channels
Hootsuite
Enterprise-grade scheduling, listening, and analytics — powerful but pricey per seat.
$99/mo
- Comprehensive all-in-one platform
- Strong listening and analytics
- Mature, reliable at scale
- Expensive, especially per extra seat
- Steep learning curve
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Side by side
| Buffer | Hootsuite | |
|---|---|---|
| Starting price | $5/mo | $99/mo |
| Free plan | Yes | No |
| Free trial | 14 days | 30 days |
| Transaction fees | 0% | 0% |
| User rating | 4.3/5 | 4.2/5 |
| Founded | 2010 | 2008 |
Best for…
Choose Buffer if
- Solo creators
- Small businesses on a budget
Choose Hootsuite if
- Mid-size teams
- Agencies managing many brands
What you'll pay
Buffer vs Hootsuite — monthly cost
These plans are flat-rate — the price doesn't change with your audience size. Here's the monthly cost, cheapest first.
Frequently asked questions
Is Buffer or Hootsuite better?
Buffer scores higher on our composite (4.3 vs 3.7), mainly on value and features. But Hootsuite wins for specific cases — mid-size teams and agencies managing many brands. Neither is "best" universally; it depends on your situation.
Which is cheaper, Buffer or Hootsuite?
Buffer has the lower entry price ($5/mo). Watch transaction fees too — Buffer keep more of each sale. Use the calculator below for your real cost.
More: all social media tools · Buffer alternatives · Hootsuite alternatives