Side by side
Aura'd vs Next
Both stand on salon app builder software. Which one you can start free with, which one lets you read the code, and what each costs once you pay.
Free plan AndroidAPIiPhone+1
Choose Aura'd if you need salon booking with real-time availability and client reminders, or want team tools as your business grows. The free plan covers basic booking for up to 50 monthly bookings; Solo starts at £19 a month. Look elsewhere if you need API access without the Premium plan.
Visit Aura'd Free plan AndroidiPhoneWeb
Next combines appointment booking with marketing campaigns and point-of-sale features for salon-suite professionals. The booking app is free, while unlimited SMS is an optional paid plan; some suite connections are still forthcoming.
Visit NextThe facts
| Aura'd | Next | |
|---|---|---|
| Free plan | Yes | Yes |
| Open source | No | No |
| Runs on | Android, API, iPhone, Web | Android, iPhone, Web |
| Lowest paid plan | See the plans | Unlimited SMS and email messaging: $5 a month |
| Plans published | 9 | 3 |
| Maker | Not published | Not published |
| Website | aurad.beauty | nextproapp.com |
| On salon app builder software | #1 of 37 | #4 of 37 |
Aura'd: what it does well
- Clients can book around the clock through an app or website.
- Availability updates in real time.
- All plans have zero booking commission.
- Accepts cards, Apple Pay, Google Pay, Clearpay, and Klarna.
- Branded appointment apps are available on iOS and Android.
What to know first
- The free plan is limited to 50 bookings per month.
- The free plan allows five services.
- Card processing costs 1.9% + 20p.
- API access is listed on Premium.
Next: what it does well
- Offers request-based and direct booking options.
- Supports custom service durations and stacked appointments.
- Campaigns can use email, in-app, or SMS messaging.
- Point of sale supports deposits and split payments.
- Works on Android, iOS, and the web.
What to know first
- Unlimited SMS texts cost $5 a month.
- Salon suite website connection is marked as coming soon.
- Check-in system connection is marked as coming soon.

