A comprehensive, feature-by-feature comparison of Later and Canva to help you choose the best social media management tool in 2026.
Later leads in 4 categories while Canva leads in 0, with 8 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.
See how Later and Canva stack up across 12 key features
| Feature | Later | Canva |
|---|---|---|
| AI-Powered Scheduling | Better | |
| AI Content Assistant | ||
| Analytics & Reporting | Better | |
| Team Collaboration | ||
| Bulk Scheduling | ||
| RSS Feed Automation | ||
| Content Calendar | ||
| Link in Bio | Better | |
| Social Inbox | ||
| Custom Reporting | ||
| Hashtag Suggestions | Better | |
| Media Library |
The biggest differences between Later and Canva that will affect your decision
Later offers ai-powered scheduling while Canva does not. This gives Later an edge for users who need this capability.
Later offers analytics & reporting while Canva does not. This gives Later an edge for users who need this capability.
Later offers link in bio while Canva does not. This gives Later an edge for users who need this capability.
Later offers hashtag suggestions while Canva does not. This gives Later an edge for users who need this capability.
Later starts at $25/mo vs Canva at $15/mo
Starting at $25/mo14-day free trial
Starting at $15/moFree plan available
Here's our recommendation based on your needs
Common questions about Later vs Canva
Later has slightly more Instagram-specific features like Linkin.bio. However, Planify offers AI-powered optimal timing, more generous post limits, and supports more platforms. For Instagram-only users, Later is good; for multi-platform, Planify wins.
No, Later discontinued their free plan. Their cheapest option is $25/mo. Planify offers a free plan with 3 accounts and 30 posts/month.
Use both! Canva is great for designing posts, while Planify is better for scheduling, analytics, and AI-powered optimization. Many users design in Canva and schedule in Planify.
Canva's scheduling is basic — no AI optimization, no analytics, no social inbox. It's a design tool with scheduling added on. Planify is a dedicated scheduler with far more powerful features.
It depends on your needs. Later is best for instagram-focused creators and visual brands, while Canva is best for content creators who need design tools with basic scheduling. We recommend trying Planify as an alternative that combines the best of both with AI-powered features and a free plan.
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.
Learn more about Later and Canva
Planify combines the best of both worlds with AI-powered scheduling, a generous free plan, and support for 7+ platforms including Bluesky and Threads.