There are dozens of social schedulers, and most do the same core job. The real differentiators are which platforms they support, how good the visual preview is, and whether you need a team approval step.
At a glance
| Tool | Free tier | Paid from | Best for |
|---|---|---|---|
| Buffer | 3 channels | $6/channel/mo | Simplicity |
| Later | 1 social set | $16.67/mo | Instagram & visual |
| Metricool | Generous | $18/mo | Free tier + analytics |
| Planable | 50 posts | $11/user/mo | Team approvals |
Buffer
Buffer keeps things simple and dependable, with a clean queue and broad platform support, priced per channel from $6/mo[1]. It's the least overwhelming option if you just want to schedule and move on.
Later
Later is built around visual planning, with a drag-and-drop Instagram grid and strong media management, starting at $16.67/mo[2]. If Instagram or TikTok is your main channel, the visual-first workflow pays off.
Metricool
Metricool's generous free tier includes scheduling and analytics across several platforms, with paid plans from $18/mo[3]. It's the best value if you want analytics bundled in without a big subscription.
Planable
Planable focuses on collaboration: posts live in a shared calendar with comment-and-approve workflows, from $11/user/mo. It's the right pick for teams and agencies that need client sign-off.
The verdict
Choose Buffer for simplicity, Later for visual platforms, Metricool for the best free analytics, and Planable when approvals matter.