Side by side
Buffer vs Hollo
Both stand on social media management tools. Which one you can start free with, which one lets you read the code, and what each costs once you pay.
Free plan AndroidAPIExtension+2
Buffer combines scheduling, content development, analytics, and comment management in one social media toolkit. The free plan has defined channel, post, idea, and user limits, while Essentials and Team add trial access and Team adds collaboration features.
Visit Buffer Free plan AndroidAPIiPhone+5
Hollo provides a focused, self-hosted microblogging server with broad federation and Mastodon-compatible client access. Its single-user design and deployment requirements make it more appropriate for personal infrastructure than shared community hosting.
Visit HolloThe facts
| Buffer | Hollo | |
|---|---|---|
| Free plan | Yes | Yes |
| Open source | Not published | Not published |
| Runs on | Android, API, Extension, iPhone, Web | Android, API, iPhone, Linux, Mac, Self-hosted, Web, Windows |
| Lowest paid plan | Essentials: $5 a month | Free or on request |
| Plans published | 3 | 1 |
| Maker | Buffer | Not published |
| Website | buffer.com | docs.hollo.social |
| On social media management tools | #1 of 146 | #42 of 146 |
Buffer: what it does well
- Free plan lasts indefinitely.
- Free plan connects up to three channels.
- Includes an idea library and AI Assistant.
- Community inbox gathers comments for replies.
- Team plan includes unlimited team members.
What to know first
- Free plan is limited to three connected channels.
- Free plan allows 10 scheduled posts per channel.
- Free plan includes one user.
- Paid plans start at $5/mo (annual).
Hollo: what it does well
- Free and open source
- ActivityPub federation with multiple networks
- Posts up to 10,000 characters
- Passkeys and TOTP two-factor authentication
- Railway, Docker, or manual deployment
What to know first
- No built-in web interface
- Manual setup has several server requirements
- Designed for single-user instances
- Some client features may not work as expected