Buffer vs Hootsuite: Which social media scheduling tool is right for you? Compare pricing, features, and pros & cons side by side.
Buffer makes it easy to plan, schedule, and publish content across all major social platforms from one clean dashboard. Its straightforward interface lets you queue posts, analyze performance, and collaborate with team members. Buffer is known for its simplicity and transparent pricing, making it a favorite among solo creators and small businesses.
Hootsuite is one of the most established social media management platforms, trusted by large teams and enterprises worldwide. It offers robust scheduling, social listening, team collaboration workflows, and in-depth analytics across all major platforms. While its pricing has moved upmarket, it remains a powerhouse for organizations managing multiple brands and accounts.
Buffer is ideal for solo creators and small teams who want a clean, simple scheduling tool with a generous free plan. Hootsuite is built for larger teams and agencies that need advanced analytics, social listening, and wide platform support. If simplicity and affordability are your priorities, go with Buffer. If you need enterprise-level features and don't mind paying more, Hootsuite has the edge.
| Feature | Buffer | Hootsuite |
|---|---|---|
| Rating | 4.5 | 4.2 |
| Pricing | Free plan available, Essentials from $6/mo per channel | Professional from $99/mo, free trial available |
| Best For | Solo creators and small teams who want no-fuss scheduling | Agencies and large teams managing multiple social accounts |
| Post Scheduling | ||
| Analytics Dashboard | ||
| Link-in-Bio Page | ||
| AI Assistant | ||
| Engagement Tools | ||
| Start Page | ||
| Bulk Scheduling | ||
| Social Listening | ||
| Team Workflows | ||
| Custom Analytics | ||
| Ad Management | ||
| Content Library |
Pros
Cons
Pros
Cons