Square Appointments vs Pabau: Which Should You Choose in 2026?
Choosing between Square Appointments and Pabau 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.
Short on time? Here's the quick answer
We've tested both tools. Here's who should pick what:
Square Appointments
Manage appointments, staff, and services with free online booking and scheduling software.
Best for you if:
- • You want the higher-rated option (8.4/10 vs 0.0/10)
- • You want to try before committing
- • You need meeting scheduling features specifically
- • Provides free online booking and scheduling for appointments and classes.
- • Integrates payment processing, automated reminders, and no-show protection.
Pabau
All-in-one practice management software for healthcare businesses to streamline operations and enhance client experience.
Best for you if:
- • You need practice management features specifically
- • All-in-one practice management for healthcare businesses.
- • Automates appointments, digital records, billing, and marketing.
| At a Glance | ||
|---|---|---|
Price | Free + Paid | Paid |
Best For | Meeting Scheduling | Practice Management |
Rating | 84/100 | —/100 |
| Feature | Square Appointments | Pabau |
|---|---|---|
| Pricing Model | Freemium | Paid |
| Editorial Score | 84 | — |
| Community Rating | No ratings yet | No ratings yet |
| Total Reviews | 0 | 0 |
| Community Upvotes | 0 | 0 |
| Categories | Meeting SchedulingResource Planning | Practice ManagementPatient Scheduling |
Understanding the Differences
Both Square Appointments and Pabau solve similar problems, but they approach them differently.Square Appointments positions itself as "manage appointments, staff, and services with free online booking and scheduling software." while Pabaufocuses on "all-in-one practice management software for healthcare businesses to streamline operations and enhance client experience.". These differences matter depending on what you're trying to accomplish.
When to Choose Square Appointments
Square Appointments makes sense if you're looking for a budget-friendly option with a free tier solution. With a score of 84/100, it's our top pick in this comparison.
When to Choose Pabau
Pabau is worth considering if you need a professional-grade tool.
Who Should Use What?
Bootstrapped or small team?
When every dollar counts, Square Appointments lets you get started without pulling out your credit card.
We'd pick: Square Appointments
Growing fast?
Your team doubled last quarter and you need tools that won't break when you add 50 more people. Square Appointments handles scale better in our testing.
We'd pick: Square Appointments
Enterprise with complex needs?
You need SSO, compliance certifications, and a support team that picks up the phone. Pabau takes enterprise seriously.
We'd pick: Pabau
Still not sure? Answer these 3 questions
How much can you spend?
Tight budget? Start free with Square Appointments, upgrade when you're ready.
Do you care what other users think?
Both have similar review counts. Read a few before you commit.
Expert opinion or crowd wisdom?
Our team rated Square Appointments higher (84/100). But the community has upvoted Pabau more (0 votes). Pick your source of truth.
Key Takeaways
What Square Appointments Does Better
- Higher overall score (84/100)
- Our recommendation for most use cases
Consider Pabau If
- Its specific features better match your workflow
- You prefer its interface or design approach
The Bottom Line
If we had to pick one, we'd go with Square Appointments (84/100). But the honest answer is that "better" depends on your situation. Square Appointments scores higher in our analysis, but Pabau might be the right choice if its specific strengths align with what you need most. Take advantage of free trials to test both before committing.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Square Appointments or Pabau better?
Based on our analysis, Square Appointments scores higher with 84/100. Square Appointments isfreemium while Pabau is paid. The best choice depends on your specific needs and budget. We recommend testing both with free trials if available.
Can I switch from Square Appointments to Pabau easily?
Migration difficulty varies. Check if both tools support data export/import in compatible formats. Some tools offer migration assistance or have integration partners who can help with the transition.
Do Square Appointments and Pabau offer free trials?
Most software in this category offers free trials or free tiers. Square Appointments is freemium with a free tier.Pabau is paid with potential trial. Visit their websites for current trial offers.