Social Media comparison 
Sprout Social vs Buffer
Our pick: Sprout Social scores 8.8/10 against 8.4/10 for Buffer. Here's how they differ and which one fits your needs.
Sprout Social
Premium social management, care and analytics with AI Assist
8.8/10From $199/moOur pick
Visit Sprout Social VS
At a glance
| Sprout Social | Buffer | |
|---|---|---|
| Our score | 8.8/10 | 8.4/10 |
| Best for | Mid-market teams, Agencies | Small businesses, Creators |
| Type | Scheduling | Scheduling |
| Pricing | Free trial | Free plan |
| Starting price | $199/mo | $6/mo |
| Platforms | Web, iOS, Android | Web, iOS, Android, Chrome |
| Launched | 2010 | 2010 |
Key features
Sprout Social
- Publishing calendar
- Smart Inbox
- AI Assist
- Listening
- Advanced reporting
Buffer
- Scheduling
- AI Assistant
- Analytics
- Engagement inbox
- Start Page
Sprout Social: pros and cons
Pros
- Polished, reliable UI
- Excellent analytics
- Strong customer care tools
Cons
- Per-seat pricing gets expensive
- Listening is an add-on
Buffer: pros and cons
Pros
- Very easy to use
- Cheap per-channel pricing
- Useful free plan
Cons
- Lighter analytics than premium tools
- No social listening
Verdict: Sprout Social or Buffer?
Choose Sprout Social if you're mid-market teams or agencies and value polished, reliable UI.
Choose Buffer if you're small businesses or creators and value very easy to use.
Overall we rate Sprout Social slightly higher. Both are worth trying, and at least one has a free plan or trial. See all Social Media tools for more options.
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