2026 Review

Buffer Review 2026: An Honest Analysis

Buffer is one of the oldest social media scheduling tools, known for its simple interface and straightforward posting features. It offers basic scheduling and analytics for small teams.

4.1/5average across review platforms

User Ratings Overview

How Buffer scores across major review platforms

G2

4.3

Capterra

4.5

Trustpilot

3.4

Strengths

What Buffer Does Well

Very simple and intuitive interface

This is a genuine strength that Buffer users frequently highlight in their reviews.

Long-established brand (since 2010)

This is a genuine strength that Buffer users frequently highlight in their reviews.

Good free plan for individuals

This is a genuine strength that Buffer users frequently highlight in their reviews.

Clean analytics dashboard

This is a genuine strength that Buffer users frequently highlight in their reviews.

Weaknesses

Where Buffer Falls Short

Per-channel pricing adds up quickly

This is a common concern raised by Buffer users when evaluating alternatives.

No AI-powered scheduling optimization

This is a common concern raised by Buffer users when evaluating alternatives.

Limited analytics on lower tiers

This is a common concern raised by Buffer users when evaluating alternatives.

No social inbox or monitoring

This is a common concern raised by Buffer users when evaluating alternatives.

No bulk scheduling

This is a common concern raised by Buffer users when evaluating alternatives.

Feature Breakdown

Key Feature Analysis

How Buffer's features stack up

AI-Powered Scheduling

Buffer does not offer ai-powered scheduling.

Planify includes this feature

AI Content Assistant

Buffer includes ai content assistant in its platform.

Analytics & Reporting

Buffer includes analytics & reporting in its platform.

Bulk Scheduling

Buffer does not offer bulk scheduling.

Planify includes this feature

Social Inbox

Buffer does not offer social inbox.

Planify includes this feature

Hashtag Suggestions

Buffer does not offer hashtag suggestions.

Planify includes this feature

The Verdict

Who Buffer is Best For

Solo creators who need simple scheduling for 1-3 accounts

Very simple and intuitive interface
Long-established brand (since 2010)
Good free plan for individuals

Who Should Look Elsewhere

If Buffer's weaknesses are dealbreakers, consider Planify as an alternative.

Per-channel pricing adds up quickly
No AI-powered scheduling optimization
Limited analytics on lower tiers
The Alternative

How Planify Compares

Key advantages Planify offers over Buffer

  • Free plan available

    Planify offers a generous free tier with 3 accounts and 30 posts/month.

  • AI-powered scheduling & content

    Planify's AI optimises posting times and helps generate content tailored to your audience.

  • More platform support

    Planify supports 7 platforms including Bluesky and Threads.

  • More affordable Pro plan

    Planify Pro starts at $19/mo with 10 accounts and unlimited posts. Buffer starts at $6/channel/mo.

  • Features Buffer lacks

    Planify includes AI scheduling, bulk scheduling, RSS feeds, social inbox, custom reporting which Buffer does not offer.

FAQ

Frequently Asked Questions

Common questions about Buffer

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.

How does Buffer pricing compare to Planify?

Buffer charges per channel ($6/mo each), so 5 channels costs $30/mo. Planify's Pro plan ($19/mo) includes 10 accounts with unlimited posts and full analytics — often 50-70% cheaper.

Does Planify support all the same platforms as Buffer?

Yes, Planify supports all major platforms Buffer does plus Bluesky. Both support Instagram, Twitter/X, Facebook, LinkedIn, TikTok, and Threads.

Rated 4.8/5 on G2

Looking for a better alternative to Buffer?

Try Planify free and see why creators and businesses are switching to AI-powered social media management.