A comprehensive, feature-by-feature comparison of Later and Metricool to help you choose the best social media management tool in 2026.
Later leads in 1 categories while Metricool leads in 3, 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 Metricool stack up across 12 key features
| Feature | Later | Metricool |
|---|---|---|
| AI-Powered Scheduling | ||
| AI Content Assistant | ||
| Analytics & Reporting | ||
| Team Collaboration | ||
| Bulk Scheduling | Better | |
| RSS Feed Automation | Better | |
| Content Calendar | ||
| Link in Bio | ||
| Social Inbox | ||
| Custom Reporting | Better | |
| Hashtag Suggestions | ||
| Media Library | Better |
The biggest differences between Later and Metricool that will affect your decision
Later offers media library while Metricool does not. This gives Later an edge for users who need this capability.
Metricool offers bulk scheduling while Later does not. This gives Metricool an edge for users who need this capability.
Metricool offers rss feed automation while Later does not. This gives Metricool an edge for users who need this capability.
Metricool offers custom reporting while Later does not. This gives Metricool an edge for users who need this capability.
Later starts at $25/mo vs Metricool at $22/mo
Starting at $25/mo14-day free trial
Starting at $22/moFree plan available
Here's our recommendation based on your needs
Common questions about Later vs Metricool
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.
Metricool has strong analytics including ad tracking and competitor analysis. Planify offers AI-powered insights and simpler reporting. Metricool is better for pure analytics; Planify is better for AI-optimized scheduling with good analytics.
Yes, Metricool offers a free plan with 50 posts/month. Planify's free plan offers 30 posts/month but includes AI features and a cleaner interface.
It depends on your needs. Later is best for instagram-focused creators and visual brands, while Metricool is best for marketers who want analytics-heavy social media management with ad tracking. 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 Metricool
Planify combines the best of both worlds with AI-powered scheduling, a generous free plan, and support for 7+ platforms including Bluesky and Threads.