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
Sprout Social vs Buffer: do creators need the expensive one?
At a glance
Starts atEssentials from $79/seat/mo billed yearly ($99 monthly), 30-day trial
- No free plan
- Free trial30 days
For a creator, Buffer is the clear pick on price: free for 3 channels, $5 a channel after. Sprout Social is a team suite with inbox and listening, from $79 per seat a month billed yearly. It makes sense for brands, not most solo creators.
Quick verdict
- Choose Buffer if you are one person posting Shorts to a few channels.
- Choose Sprout Social if a team handles replies, reports and listening.
Side-by-side comparison
| Detail | Buffer | Sprout Social |
|---|---|---|
| Free plan | Yes: 3 channels, 10 queued posts each | No. 30-day trial, no card |
| Entry plan | Essentials: $5/channel/month | Essentials: $79/seat/month yearly ($99 monthly), 5 profiles |
| Team plan | Team: $10/channel/month, unlimited users | Standard: $199/seat, Professional: $299, Advanced: $399 |
| Trial | 14 days on paid | 30 days |
| Best for | Solo creators | Brand teams |
For Shorts, TikTok and Reels
Posting to TikTok, Reels and Shorts is 3 channels. On Buffer that is $0 to $15 a month. On Sprout it is $79 to $99 a month for one seat. You pay the extra for a shared inbox, approvals and reports.
How to choose
- Solo, 3 channels: Buffer Free.
- Solo, more channels: Buffer Essentials.
- Team with inbox needs: Sprout's 30-day trial.
Questions people search
Is Sprout Social worth it for creators?
Rarely for solo creators. Buffer covers 3 channels for $15 or less a month.
Buffer vs Sprout Social: which costs less?
Buffer is $5 per channel. Sprout starts at $79 per seat billed yearly.
Does Sprout Social have a free plan?
No. It has a 30-day free trial.
Related: Buffer vs Hootsuite, Buffer alternatives.
Sources: buffer.com/pricing, sproutsocial.com/pricing. Checked on 16 October 2026. Based on published plans and terms, not a hands-on test.