Buffer vs Sprout Social

Which is better for agencies in 2026? A side-by-side comparison.

Choosing between Buffer and Sprout Social for your agency? Both are popular choices. Buffer starts at Free / $6+/channel and is best known as Simple social scheduling for multiple client accounts. Sprout Social starts at $199+/mo and is Premium social suite with best-in-class reporting. Below is a side-by-side breakdown of features, pricing, pros, and cons to help you decide which fits your agency's workflow and budget in 2026.

Bf

Buffer

Simple social scheduling for multiple client accounts.

Free / $6+/channel

👍 Pros

  • Clean, simple UI
  • Affordable per-channel pricing
  • AI caption assistant

👎 Cons

  • Fewer analytics than rivals
  • Approval workflows limited on low tiers
Visit Buffer
Sp

Sprout Social

Premium social suite with best-in-class reporting.

$199+/mo

👍 Pros

  • Beautiful client reports
  • Social listening
  • Excellent inbox

👎 Cons

  • Very expensive
  • Per-user pricing adds up
Visit Sprout Social