Hootsuite

Manage all your social media in one place

From $99/mo

About Hootsuite

Hootsuite is the OG social media management platform, trusted by enterprises and agencies since 2008. Unlike simpler tools (Buffer, Later), Hootsuite is built for scale: manage dozens of social accounts, coordinate large teams with approval workflows, and monitor brand mentions across the web. Key features include bulk scheduling, social listening for brand monitoring, detailed analytics with custom reports, and team collaboration with content approval. The 2024-2025 updates added OwlyWriter AI for content generation and improved analytics. However, Hootsuite has become increasingly expensive: no more free tier, Professional starts at $99/mo (down from previous tiers), and Team at $249/mo. The interface, while powerful, can feel overwhelming compared to cleaner competitors. For solopreneurs or small businesses, Buffer or Later offer better value. Hootsuite excels when you need enterprise features: SSO, advanced permissions, social listening, and managing 20+ accounts. The platform integrates with all major networks and 150+ apps including Salesforce, HubSpot, and Shopify.

Key Features

Multi-platform scheduling across all major networks

Social listening and brand monitoring

OwlyWriter AI for content generation

Team collaboration with approval workflows

Advanced analytics with custom reports

Social inbox for unified message management

Content library for asset management

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Pros & Cons

Pros

• Most comprehensive feature set for enterprises
• Manages large numbers of accounts and team members
• Social listening included (not separate cost)
• Strong analytics and custom reporting
• 150+ integrations with business tools
• Industry standard with proven reliability

Cons

• Very expensive—starts at $99/mo, no free tier
• Interface feels cluttered and overwhelming
• Steep learning curve for new users
• Overkill for individuals or small businesses
• Mobile app less intuitive than desktop
• Customer support can be slow on lower tiers

Best For

Enterprises managing 20+ social accounts Agencies with multiple clients and large teams Brands needing social listening and monitoring Marketing teams requiring approval workflows Organizations needing SSO and security compliance