Buffer vs Hootsuite: Which Should You Choose in 2026?
Choosing between Buffer and Hootsuite 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.
By Toolradar Team · Last updated February 28, 2026 · Methodology
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 to try before committing
- • Simple social media scheduling
- • Multi-platform posting
Hootsuite
Social media management platform
Best for you if:
- • You want the higher-rated option (8.4/10 vs 8.3/10)
- • Social media management platform
- • Schedule and analyze across platforms
| At a Glance |  Buffer |  Hootsuite |
|---|---|---|
Price | Free + Paid | Paid |
Best For | Social Media Management | Social Media Management |
Rating | 83/100 | 84/100 |
| Feature | Buffer | Hootsuite |
|---|---|---|
| Pricing Model | Freemium | Paid |
| Editorial Score | 83 | 84 |
| Community Rating | No ratings yet | No ratings yet |
| Total Reviews | 0 | 0 |
| Community Upvotes | 0 | 0 |
| Categories | Social Media ManagementContent Marketing | Social Media ManagementMarketing Automation |
How Buffer and Hootsuite Compare
Buffer
Grow your audience on social media
Free tier available · 83/100 score
Hootsuite
Social media management platform
Paid · 84/100 score
Who Should Use What?
On a budget?
Buffer has a free tier. Hootsuite is paid only.
Go with: Buffer
Want the highest-rated option?
Buffer: 83/100. Hootsuite: 84/100.
Go with: Hootsuite
Value user reviews?
Neither has user reviews yet.
Go with: Hootsuite
3 Questions to Help You Decide
What's your budget?
Buffer is freemium. Hootsuite is paid. Buffer 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?
Hootsuite scores higher: 84/100 vs 83/100.
Key Takeaways
Hootsuite
- Higher score: 84/100 vs 83
- Our pick for this comparison
Buffer
- Has a free tier
The Bottom Line
Hootsuite (84/100) is our pick. Buffer has a free tier if you want to test without paying.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Buffer or Hootsuite better?
Hootsuite scores 84/100 in our evaluation. Buffer is freemium and Hootsuite is paid.
What are Buffer and Hootsuite used for?
Buffer: Grow your audience on social media. Hootsuite: Social media management platform.
What does Buffer cost vs Hootsuite?
Buffer is freemium (free tier + paid plans). Hootsuite is a paid tool. Visit their websites for detailed pricing.