Buffer vs Metricool

A detailed comparison of Buffer and Metricool — features, pricing, pros & cons, and which one is right for you.

Last updated: April 3, 2026

Option A

Buffer

★★★★4.3/5

Clean, simple social media scheduling and analytics platform. Known for its intuitive interface and focus on small businesses and creators.

Pricing: Free (3 channels), $6/channel/mo (Essentials), $12/channel/mo (Team)
Free plan: Yes
Best for: Small businesses and creators wanting simple, affordable social media scheduling without complexity
Founded: 2010
Option B

Metricool

★★★★★4.5/5

All-in-one social media management platform with scheduling, analytics, ad management, and competitor analysis. Growing fast with generous free plan.

Pricing: Free (1 brand), $22/mo (Starter), $54/mo (Advanced), $139/mo (Enterprise)
Free plan: Yes
Best for: Small businesses and freelancers wanting an affordable all-in-one social media tool with great analytics
Founded: 2016

Feature Comparison

FeatureBufferMetricool
Post Scheduling
Social Inbox
AnalyticsStandardAdvanced
Social Listening
Team Collaboration
Content Calendar
AI Features
Auto Posting
Platforms SupportedInstagram, Facebook, X, LinkedIn, TikTok, Pinterest, MastodonInstagram, Facebook, X, LinkedIn, YouTube, TikTok, Pinterest, Twitch, Google Business
Approval Workflows
Bulk Scheduling
White Label

Pros & Cons

Buffer

✓ Pros
  • Very clean, intuitive interface
  • Affordable per-channel pricing
  • Free plan available
  • Great for small teams
  • Excellent link-in-bio tool
✗ Cons
  • Analytics less powerful than competitors
  • No social listening
  • Limited team features on lower plans
  • Fewer platforms than Hootsuite

Metricool

✓ Pros
  • Generous free plan
  • Excellent analytics dashboard
  • Ad management included
  • Competitor analysis built-in
  • Very affordable paid plans
✗ Cons
  • Less established than Hootsuite/Buffer
  • Social listening is limited
  • Team features on higher plans only
  • Some platforms have limited features

The Verdict: Buffer or Metricool?

Choose Buffer if you prioritize small businesses and creators wanting simple, affordable social media scheduling without complexity.

Choose Metricool if you prioritize small businesses and freelancers wanting an affordable all-in-one social media tool with great analytics.

Both tools offer free plans — we recommend trying both before committing. The best choice depends on your team size, workflow complexity, and specific needs.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is Buffer better than Metricool?

It depends on your needs. Buffer is best for small businesses and creators wanting simple, affordable social media scheduling without complexity, while Metricool excels at small businesses and freelancers wanting an affordable all-in-one social media tool with great analytics. Both have free plans you can try.

Can I switch from Buffer to Metricool?

Yes, most social media management tools offer data migration or import features. Metricool can typically import data from Buffer via export or direct integration. Plan for a transition period as your team adapts to the new workflow.

Which is cheaper, Buffer or Metricool?

Buffer pricing starts at Free (3 channels). Metricool pricing starts at Free (1 brand). Both offer free tiers — compare features at each price point to find the best value.

Do Buffer and Metricool have free plans?

Buffer offers a free plan. Metricool offers a free plan.