Buffer was the go-to free social media scheduler for years. Then they removed the free plan, switched to per-channel pricing, and left individual creators and small businesses looking for an alternative. Here's how SocialMate compares.
Buffer
$6/channel/mo
10 channels = $60/month · No free plan
SocialMate
$0/month
All 16 platforms · 100 posts/mo · 12 AI tools
No per-channel fees
Buffer charges $6/month for every social account you connect. SocialMate charges nothing for platform connections. Managing 10 platforms on Buffer costs $60/month. On SocialMate, it's $0.
12 AI tools vs 1
Buffer includes a basic AI Assistant. SocialMate includes 12 AI tools: caption generation, hashtag sets, viral hooks, post rewriting, thread generation, content repurposing, post scoring, trend analysis, competitive intelligence, and more.
More platforms, including ones Buffer doesn't support
SocialMate supports Discord, Telegram, and Mastodon — platforms where communities are actively growing. Buffer doesn't support them. If your audience is on decentralized or niche platforms, SocialMate is the only option.
Link in bio included
Buffer has a separate link in bio product (Start Page) that works differently from their main scheduling tool. SocialMate includes a full bio link page builder on every plan, including free.
Evergreen recycling, RSS import, hashtag manager — all free
These are features Buffer either doesn't have or locks behind paid plans. On SocialMate, they're included on the free tier.
Why did Buffer remove their free plan?
Buffer moved to a paid-only model in 2023, citing the need for sustainable revenue. Their cheapest plan starts at $6/month per channel, which adds up quickly for anyone managing multiple platforms.
How is SocialMate able to offer a free plan?
SocialMate's free tier is subsidized by Pro ($5/month) and Agency ($20/month) subscribers. The freemium model works because it drives enough paid conversions to fund operations without charging free users.
Is SocialMate missing any Buffer features?
Buffer has been building their product for over a decade and has deep integrations, mobile apps, and a polished UX. SocialMate is newer and growing. For individual creators and small businesses, SocialMate covers everything that matters. For large teams with complex workflows, evaluate both.
Can I migrate from Buffer to SocialMate?
Yes. Connect your social accounts to SocialMate, import your draft content, and set up your posting schedule. SocialMate's Bulk Scheduler can help you batch-schedule a month of content at once.
What about Buffer's team features?
SocialMate includes team collaboration on the free plan (2 seats), content approval workflows, and client workspaces on Pro+. For most teams, SocialMate's team features cover the same ground.
Create your free account in 60 seconds. All 16 platforms, 12 AI tools, 100 posts/month — no credit card required.
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