Buffer vs Sprout Social: which is better?
A side-by-side look at Buffer and Sprout Social: pricing, supported social networks and features. We've added OneUp as a third option, so you can see how all three compare.
Buffer, Sprout Social and OneUp
Buffer
Simple, clean social media scheduling tool popular with small teams.
Sprout Social
Enterprise social media management with a high price tag.
OneUp
Social media scheduling for 13 networks, with recurring posts, cross-posting workflows, a social inbox and Google Business Profile tools.
- Key differences between Buffer and Sprout Social
- Buffer supports Google Business Profile and Sprout Social doesn't.
- Of the features we compare, only Buffer offers API & MCP, while only Sprout Social offers Text formatting (bold, italics, etc.), Collaborate via internal notes on posts, Social Inbox (comments & DMs), Social Listening and more.
- Pricing: Buffer from $5/mo per channel (free plan available); Sprout Social from $199/mo per seat.
Buffer vs Sprout Social pricing
Published prices per month, from each company's pricing page. Taxes and add-ons are extra.
Which social networks can you post to?
Networks each tool can publish to.
Buffer vs Sprout Social features
Scheduling, engagement and team features, side by side.
What OneUp has that Buffer and Sprout Social don't
Features from this comparison that neither Buffer nor Sprout Social offers.
Buffer vs Sprout Social: FAQ
Buffer costs from $5/mo per channel and Sprout Social costs from $199/mo per seat. The two price differently (per user, per channel or per plan), so the cheaper option depends on how many accounts and team members you have. For comparison, OneUp costs from $15/mo with 5 social accounts included.
Buffer. Of the 13 networks we compare, Buffer supports 10 and Sprout Social supports 9. OneUp supports 13, including Snapchat, Discord and WhatsApp.
Buffer: free plan; 14-day trial on paid plans. Sprout Social: 30-day free trial. OneUp has a 7-day free trial.
Yes. OneUp covers 22 of the 22 features in this comparison (Buffer: 7, Sprout Social: 12), including recurring posts, a social inbox and Google Business Profile review replies, and supports 13 networks. Plans start at $15/mo billed yearly.
We checked each tool's public pricing and feature pages on November 3, 2026. Prices and features change often, so confirm on the vendor's own site before you buy.
More comparisons
Choosing between Buffer and Sprout Social? Try OneUp.
Scheduling for 13 networks, recurring posts, a social inbox and Google Business Profile tools, from $15/mo.