Buffer vs Hootsuite Pricing: Social Media Tool Costs 2026

Byaitoolvs

TL;DR Verdict

Buffer is dramatically cheaper: $6/channel/mo vs Hootsuite’s $99/mo minimum. Buffer’s free plan (3 channels) is more generous than Hootsuite’s eliminated free tier. Hootsuite justifies its price with social listening, advanced analytics, and enterprise features. For small businesses and creators, Buffer is the clear winner on value.

Buffer Pricing Plans

Plan Price Key Features
Free $0 3 channels, 10 scheduled posts/channel, basic analytics, landing page
Essentials $6/channel/mo Unlimited scheduling, engagement tools, AI assistant, export reports
Team $12/channel/mo Unlimited team members, approval workflows, draft collaboration

Hootsuite Pricing Plans

Plan Price Key Features
Professional $99/mo 10 social accounts, unlimited scheduling, best time to post, analytics
Team $249/mo 20 accounts, 3 users, team assignments, approval workflows
Enterprise Custom 50+ accounts, 5+ users, social listening, custom analytics, SSO

Quick Price Comparison

Tier Buffer Hootsuite
Free $0 $99/mo
Essentials $6/channel/mo $249/mo
Team $12/channel/mo Custom

Which Should You Choose?

If You… Choose
You’re a solo creator or small business Buffer Free or Essentials – can’t beat $6/channel
You manage 10+ social accounts professionally Hootsuite Professional ($99/mo)
You need social listening and monitoring Hootsuite – Buffer doesn’t offer this
You want the best free plan Buffer Free (3 channels, 10 posts each)
You run a social media agency Hootsuite Team ($249/mo) for client management

Frequently Asked Questions

Did Hootsuite remove their free plan?

Yes. Hootsuite eliminated their free plan in 2023. Their cheapest option is now $99/month. Buffer still offers a free plan with 3 social channels.

How much does Buffer cost for 5 social accounts?

With Buffer Essentials at $6/channel/month, 5 channels costs $30/month. The same coverage on Hootsuite requires the $99/month Professional plan.

Does Buffer support all major social networks?

Yes. Buffer supports Instagram, Facebook, Twitter/X, LinkedIn, Pinterest, TikTok, Mastodon, Google Business, and YouTube.

Is Hootsuite worth 16x the price of Buffer?

Only if you need enterprise features like social listening, competitive benchmarking, or manage many accounts for clients. For basic scheduling and analytics, Buffer provides 90% of the value.

Key Takeaways

  • Both Buffer and Hootsuite offer competitive pricing in 2026
  • Free tiers let you test before committing
  • Annual billing saves 15-20% on most plans
  • Choose based on your specific use case, not just price

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