Side by side
Buffer vs Hookpost
Both stand on ai social media management software. 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 APISelf-hostedWeb
Choose Hookpost if you need cross-posting controls, AI drafting or self-hosting for social scheduling. Look elsewhere if you need Instagram, Threads or Pinterest approval for a new account, or if the free plan’s channel and post limits are too low.
Visit HookpostThe facts
| Buffer | Hookpost | |
|---|---|---|
| Free plan | Yes | Yes |
| Open source | Not published | Not published |
| Runs on | Android, API, Extension, iPhone, Web | API, Self-hosted, Web |
| Lowest paid plan | Essentials: $5 a month | Standard: $15 a month |
| Plans published | 3 | 3 |
| Maker | Buffer | Not published |
| Website | buffer.com | hookpost.hookstep.in |
| On ai social media management software | #1 of 39 | #3 of 39 |
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).
Hookpost: what it does well
- Publishes to 14 networks from a visual calendar.
- Tailor copy, media and hashtags for each channel.
- AI generates platform-specific captions, hooks and hashtags.
- Self-hosting uses Docker Compose with no per-seat fee.
- Temporal workflows resume after worker restarts.
What to know first
- Free plan is limited to two channels and 30 monthly posts.
- Instagram, Threads and Pinterest await approval for new accounts.
- Pricing note says paid plans start at $29/mo, while plans list $15 and $39 monthly.
Alternatives to Buffer Alternatives to Hookpost The whole list