Buffer vs Metricool: Which is Better in 2026?
Choosing between Buffer and Metricool comes down to understanding what each tool does best. This comparison breaks down the key differences so you can make an informed decision based on your specific needs, not marketing claims.
Bottom line: Buffer wins this matchup. Nectar Social is our overall Social Media Management pick. Zoho Social is our free Social Media Management pick. Pick Metricool if you need a free tier to start with.
Short on time? Here's the quick answer
We've tested both tools. Here's who should pick what:
Buffer
Grow your audience on social media
Best for you if:
- • You want very easy to use
- • You want affordable pricing
Metricool
Plan, measure, and manage social media content and ads all in one powerful platform.
Best for you if:
- • You want social media analytics
- • You want scheduling included
| At a Glance | Buffer | Metricool |
|---|---|---|
Starts at | FreeFree tier available | FreeFree tier available |
Best For | Social Media Management | Social Media Management |
Rating | 3.4/5 | 4.4/5 |
Free plan | Yes | Yes |
Choose Buffer or Metricool?
Choose Buffer if
Grow your audience on social media
- You want very easy to use
- You want affordable pricing
Choose Metricool if
Plan, measure, and manage social media content and ads all in one powerful platform.
- You want social media analytics
- You want scheduling included
| Feature | Buffer | Metricool |
|---|---|---|
| Pricing Model | Freemium | Freemium |
| User Rating | ★3.4/5 1,176 reviews | ★4.4/5 102 reviews |
| Categories | Social Media ManagementProductivity | Social Media ManagementMarketing |
In-Depth Analysis
Buffer
Grow your audience on social media
Buffer's pricing is quite generous, especially the Free tier which offers substantial features for $0.
Strengths
- +Very easy to use
- +Affordable pricing
- +Good for beginners
- +Clean analytics dashboard
Weaknesses
- -Limited features vs competitors
- -Basic analytics on lower tiers
- -No social listening
Key features
Metricool
Plan, measure, and manage social media content and ads all in one powerful platform.
Metricool's pricing is quite fair, especially for the Starter tier at $18/month, offering significant value for small businesses.
Watch out
Overage fees for exceeding post limits
Strengths
- +Social media analytics
- +Scheduling included
- +Fair pricing
- +Good reporting
- +Multi-platform
Weaknesses
- -Limited free tier
- -UI could improve
- -Some features basic
- -API limitations
- -Less known
Key features
Pricing: Buffer vs Metricool
| Plan | Buffer | Metricool |
|---|---|---|
| Tier 1 | $0 Free | Free Free |
| Tier 2 | $5/channel Pro | $18 Starter |
| Tier 3 | $10/channel Advanced | $45 Advanced |
Pricing verified from each vendor's public pricing page. Compare in detail on Buffer pricing and Metricool pricing.
Who Should Use What?
On a budget?
Both are freemium. Compare plans on their websites.
Go with: Buffer
Want the highest-rated option?
Buffer: 3.4/5 (1,176 reviews). Metricool: 4.4/5 (102 reviews).
Go with: Metricool
Value user reviews?
Buffer: 1,176 reviews (3.4/5). Metricool: 102 reviews (4.4/5).
Go with: Buffer
3 Questions to Help You Decide
What's your budget?
Both are freemium. Pricing won't help you decide here.
What's your use case?
Both are social media management tools. Compare their specific features to decide.
How important are ratings?
Metricool is rated higher: 4.4/5 vs 3.4/5.
Key Takeaways
Buffer
- Larger review base (1,176 reviews)
- Free tier available
- Our pick for this comparison
Metricool
- Higher user rating: 4.4/5 vs 3.4/5
The Bottom Line
Buffer wins this matchup. Nectar Social is our overall Social Media Management pick. Zoho Social is our free Social Media Management pick.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Buffer or Metricool better?
Buffer is rated in our evaluation. Both are freemium.
What are Buffer and Metricool used for?
Buffer: Grow your audience on social media. Metricool: Plan, measure, and manage social media content and ads all in one powerful platform..
What does Buffer cost vs Metricool?
Buffer is freemium (free tier + paid plans). Metricool is freemium (free tier + paid plans). Visit their websites for detailed pricing.