The verdict
Evidence note: This is a research-based breakdown of published pricing, documented features, and independent user-rating data. It is not presented as a hands-on test unless explicitly stated.
Buffer scores 4.3/5 in our comparison model. Based on the available evidence, it's best suited to solo creators and small businesses on a budget. Genuinely useful free tier. The main trade-offs: analytics are shallow vs rivals; costs add up across many channels; limited social listening. Pricing starts at $5/mo.
What Buffer looks like
A live snapshot of Buffer's site so you can eyeball the look and feel before clicking through.
Pros & cons
- Genuinely useful free tier
- Simple, low pay-per-channel pricing
- Clean, beginner-friendly interface
- Analytics are shallow vs rivals
- Costs add up across many channels
- Limited social listening
Key features
- Per-channel scheduling and publishing
- Free plan with 3 channels
- AI assistant for drafts and rewrites
- Basic analytics and engagement tools
- Ideas and content library
- Team approval workflows on Team plan
Pricing
Free for 3 channels; Essentials is $5/channel/mo annually ($6 monthly), Team $10/channel/mo.
| Plan | Monthly | Annual (per mo) | What you get |
|---|---|---|---|
| Free | Free | Free | 3 channels, 10 posts each |
| Essentials | $6 | $5 | per channel/mo |
| Team | $12 | $10 | per channel/mo, unlimited users |
Transaction fees: 0%. Prices verified against Buffer's pricing page; verify current pricing ↗.
Who should use Buffer?
Good fit
- Solo creators
- Small businesses on a budget
Look elsewhere
- Large agencies needing deep analytics
Weighing the field? See Buffer alternatives →.
Frequently asked questions
How much does Buffer cost?
Buffer starts at $5/mo. Free for 3 channels; Essentials is $5/channel/mo annually ($6 monthly), Team $10/channel/mo.
Does Buffer charge transaction fees?
Transaction fees: 0%. You keep the full sale (minus your payment processor).
Who is Buffer best for?
Buffer is best for solo creators and small businesses on a budget. It's less ideal for large agencies needing deep analytics.
