2026 Comparison

Buffer vs CoSchedule: Which is Better?

A comprehensive, feature-by-feature comparison of Buffer and CoSchedule to help you choose the best social media management tool in 2026.

12 features compared
Buffer: 4.3/5 rating
CoSchedule: 4.4/5 rating

Our Verdict

Buffer leads in 1 categories while CoSchedule leads in 2, with 9 ties. Both are capable tools, but for the best value with AI-powered features and a free plan, consider Planify as a modern alternative to both.

Buffer: 1 wins
CoSchedule: 2 wins
Tied: 9 features

Feature-by-Feature Comparison

See how Buffer and CoSchedule stack up across 12 key features

Feature
Buffer
CoSchedule
AI-Powered Scheduling
Better
AI Content Assistant
Analytics & Reporting
Team Collaboration
Bulk Scheduling
Better
RSS Feed Automation
Content Calendar
Link in Bio
Better
Social Inbox
Custom Reporting
Hashtag Suggestions
Media Library
Key Differences

What Sets Them Apart

The biggest differences between Buffer and CoSchedule that will affect your decision

Link in Bio

Buffer offers link in bio while CoSchedule does not. This gives Buffer an edge for users who need this capability.

Winner: Buffer

AI-Powered Scheduling

CoSchedule offers ai-powered scheduling while Buffer does not. This gives CoSchedule an edge for users who need this capability.

Winner: CoSchedule

Bulk Scheduling

CoSchedule offers bulk scheduling while Buffer does not. This gives CoSchedule an edge for users who need this capability.

Winner: CoSchedule

Pricing & Value

Buffer starts at $6/channel/mo compared to CoSchedule at $29/mo, making it the more affordable option for budget-conscious users.

Winner: Buffer
Pricing

Pricing Comparison

Buffer starts at $6/channel/mo vs CoSchedule at $29/mo

Buffer

More Affordable

Starting at $6/channel/moFree plan available

Free$0/month
  • 3 channels
  • 10 scheduled posts per channel
  • Basic publishing tools
Essentials$6/month/channel
  • Engagement tools
  • Analytical reports
  • 2,000 scheduled posts per channel
Team$12/month/channel
  • Unlimited team members
  • Draft collaboration tools
  • Custom access permissions

CoSchedule

Starting at $29/moFree plan available

Free Calendar$0/month
  • 1 user
  • 2 social profiles
  • Basic calendar
Social Calendar$29/month
  • Unlimited social profiles
  • 1 user
  • ReQueue recycling
Marketing SuiteCustom
  • Full team
  • Project management
  • Workflow automation

Which Tool is Right for You?

Here's our recommendation based on your needs

Choose Buffer if you:

  • Want a free plan to get started without any commitment
  • Want AI assistance for creating content and captions
  • Are looking for a tool best suited for: solo creators who need simple scheduling for 1-3 accounts
Visit Buffer

Choose CoSchedule if you:

  • Want a free plan to get started without any commitment
  • Need AI-powered scheduling to optimize your posting times
  • Want AI assistance for creating content and captions
  • Need to schedule many posts at once with bulk scheduling
  • Are looking for a tool best suited for: content marketers who need a unified marketing calendar
Visit CoSchedule
FAQ

Frequently Asked Questions

Common questions about Buffer vs CoSchedule

Is Buffer or Planify better for beginners?

Both tools are beginner-friendly. Buffer has a simpler interface but fewer features. Planify offers more features in its free tier including AI-powered scheduling and analytics, making it better value for beginners who want to grow.

Can I migrate from Buffer to Planify?

Yes! Simply connect your social accounts to Planify and start scheduling. Your existing Buffer posts remain unaffected, so you can run both side-by-side during your transition.

Is CoSchedule or Planify better for social media?

CoSchedule is a marketing calendar that includes social media. Planify is a dedicated social media tool with better AI, more platform support (7+ vs 5), and a better free plan. For pure social media, Planify wins.

Does CoSchedule support TikTok?

No, CoSchedule only supports Instagram, Twitter/X, Facebook, LinkedIn, and Pinterest. Planify supports all of these plus TikTok, Threads, and Bluesky.

Which is better overall, Buffer or CoSchedule?

It depends on your needs. Buffer is best for solo creators who need simple scheduling for 1-3 accounts, while CoSchedule is best for content marketers who need a unified marketing calendar. We recommend trying Planify as an alternative that combines the best of both with AI-powered features and a free plan.

Can I switch from Buffer to CoSchedule easily?

Yes, switching between social media management tools is straightforward. Simply connect your social accounts to the new platform and start scheduling. Your existing posts on the old platform remain unaffected during the transition.

Looking for a better alternative?

Try Planify — A Modern Alternative to Buffer & CoSchedule

Planify combines the best of both worlds with AI-powered scheduling, a generous free plan, and support for 7+ platforms including Bluesky and Threads.