Hootsuite vs Metricool: Which is Better in 2026?
Choosing between Hootsuite 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: Hootsuite 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:
Hootsuite
Social media management platform
Best for you if:
- • You want enterprise features
- • You want great analytics
Metricool
Plan, measure, and manage social media content and ads all in one powerful platform.
Best for you if:
- • You want a free tier before you commit
- • You want social media analytics
- • You want scheduling included
| At a Glance | Hootsuite | Metricool |
|---|---|---|
Starts at | $99/moProfessional | FreeFree tier available |
Best For | Social Media Management | Social Media Management |
Rating | 4.3/5 | 4.4/5 |
Free plan | No | Yes |
Choose Hootsuite or Metricool?
Choose Hootsuite if
Social media management platform
- You want enterprise features
- You want great analytics
Choose Metricool if
Plan, measure, and manage social media content and ads all in one powerful platform.
- You want a free tier before you commit
- You want social media analytics
- You want scheduling included
- Budget matters (Free vs $99/mo)
| Feature | Hootsuite | Metricool |
|---|---|---|
| Pricing Model | Paid | Freemium |
| User Rating | ★4.3/5 11,255 reviews | ★4.4/5 102 reviews |
| Categories | Social Media ManagementProductivity | Social Media ManagementMarketing |
In-Depth Analysis
Hootsuite
Social media management platform
Hootsuite's pricing is on the expensive side, especially for smaller businesses.
Watch out
Enterprise pricing is custom and starts at $15,000/year, potentially much higher.
Strengths
- +Enterprise features
- +Great analytics
- +Team collaboration
Weaknesses
- -Expensive
- -Complex interface
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: Hootsuite vs Metricool
| Plan | Hootsuite | Metricool |
|---|---|---|
| Tier 1 | $99 Professional | Free Free |
| Tier 2 | $249 Team | $18 Starter |
| Tier 3 | $15,000+ Enterprise | $45 Advanced |
Pricing verified from each vendor's public pricing page. Compare in detail on Hootsuite pricing and Metricool pricing.
Who Should Use What?
On a budget?
Metricool has a free tier. Hootsuite is paid only.
Go with: Metricool
Want the highest-rated option?
Hootsuite: 4.3/5 (11,255 reviews). Metricool: 4.4/5 (102 reviews).
Go with: Metricool
Value user reviews?
Hootsuite: 11,255 reviews (4.3/5). Metricool: 102 reviews (4.4/5).
Go with: Hootsuite
3 Questions to Help You Decide
What's your budget?
Hootsuite is paid. Metricool is freemium. Metricool lets you start free.
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 4.3/5.
Key Takeaways
Hootsuite
- Larger review base (11,255 reviews)
- Our pick for this comparison
Metricool
- Has a free tier
- Higher user rating: 4.4/5 vs 4.3/5
The Bottom Line
Hootsuite wins this matchup. Nectar Social is our overall Social Media Management pick. Zoho Social is our free Social Media Management pick. Metricool has a free tier if you want to test without paying.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Hootsuite or Metricool better?
Hootsuite is rated in our evaluation. Hootsuite is paid and Metricool is freemium.
What are Hootsuite and Metricool used for?
Hootsuite: Social media management platform. Metricool: Plan, measure, and manage social media content and ads all in one powerful platform..
What does Hootsuite cost vs Metricool?
Hootsuite is a paid tool. Metricool is freemium (free tier + paid plans). Visit their websites for detailed pricing.