Starts atFree plan · paid from $5/mo
- Free planup to 3 channels, 10 scheduled posts per channel
- Free trial14 days on paid plans
Head-to-head
Buffer vs Metricool: which free scheduler is better for Shorts and TikTok?
At a glance
Starts atFree plan · paid from $20/mo billed yearly
- Free plan1 brand and 1 web/blog
Both have a free plan. Buffer Free covers up to 3 channels with 10 scheduled posts per channel. Metricool Free covers 1 brand with 20 scheduled posts a month and adds analytics and competitor tracking. Pick Buffer for simple, cheap posting to a few channels. Pick Metricool if you want deeper analytics or manage several brands.
Quick verdict
Side-by-side comparison
| Detail | Buffer | Metricool |
|---|---|---|
| Free plan | Up to 3 channels, 10 scheduled posts per channel, 30 days of insights | 1 brand, 20 scheduled posts/mo, 30 days of analytics, no LinkedIn or X |
| Free trial | 14 days on paid plans | No trial on pricing page. Free plan instead |
| Entry paid plan | Essentials: $5/mo per channel, or $60 per channel billed yearly | Starter: from $20/mo billed yearly, or $25 monthly |
| What the entry plan covers | Unlimited posts (5,000 fair use), 1 user | 5 brands, unlimited posts (fair use), unlimited analytics history |
| Team plan | Team: $10/mo per channel ($120 per channel billed yearly), unlimited users | Advanced: from $53/mo billed yearly, or $67 monthly; 15+ brands, team roles, approval, API |
| Analytics | Basic | Cross-platform analytics and competitor tracking |
| Pricing model | Per channel | Per plan, by number of brands; prices exclude VAT |
How the prices compare
Buffer counts channels. Metricool counts brands, and one brand can hold several social accounts. With 3 channels on Buffer Essentials you pay $15/mo. Metricool Starter is $25 monthly or $20/mo billed yearly, for up to 5 brands. If you only run one brand on 3 platforms, Buffer is cheaper. If you run several brands, Metricool's flat price wins fast.
Free plan limits
Buffer's free plan holds 10 queued posts per channel, and you can refill the queue any time. Metricool's free plan allows 20 scheduled posts a month for one brand, and it does not include LinkedIn or X. Both keep 30 days of stats on Free.
Analytics
This is Metricool's main edge. It includes competitor tracking, and paid plans keep your analytics history with no time limit. Buffer's analytics are lighter. Note that on Metricool Starter, X and advanced analytics are add-ons.
Which one for a Shorts creator?
- One channel set, free, posting a few times a week: either free plan; Buffer if you want 3 queues, Metricool if you want analytics.
- Posting daily to TikTok, Shorts and Reels: Buffer Essentials at $15/mo for 3 channels.
- Want to see what works and track competitors: Metricool Starter.
- Managing several creator brands: Metricool.
Common questions
Does Buffer have a free plan?
Yes. Buffer pricing: Freemium, from $5/channel. Prices change, so check the official site.
Does Metricool have a free plan?
Yes. Metricool pricing: Freemium, from $20/mo yearly ($25 monthly). Prices change, so check the official site.
Which is better, Buffer or Metricool?
Pick Buffer if you want the simplest scheduler and pay only for the channels you use, from $5/mo per channel. Pick Metricool if you want analytics, competitor tracking and up to 5 brands on one $20/mo plan (billed yearly).
Related: Buffer alternatives, Metricool alternatives, tools to schedule posts, analytics tools.
Sources: buffer.com/pricing, metricool.com/pricing. Checked on 15 October 2026. Based on published plans, not a hands-on test.