Planoly has built a name as one of the most popular scheduling and content management tools for Instagram, TikTok, and even Pinterest. Many creators and small business owners use it because of its visual planner and posting features.
However, Planoly’s interface can feel a bit tricky to navigate, some of its features are limited, and it doesn’t always provide enough tools to help creators truly grow and manage their online presence. On top of that, the Planoly pricing structure can quickly become too expensive for budget-conscious creators, startups, or side hustlers who are just starting out.
Create your own free link in bio page
Ready to simplify your online presence?
With Pushbio, you can;
- Link all your social media profiles together effortlessly.
- Showcase all your content, products, and services in one space.
- Share everything through a single link.
Create your own free link in bio page
Ready to simplify your online presence?
With Pushbio, you can;
- Link all your social media profiles together effortlessly.
- Showcase all your content, products, and services in one space.
- Share everything through a single link.
Thankfully, you don’t have to stick with Planoly to succeed online when there are plenty of tools like Planoly but cheaper. These tools are powerful, easy-to-use, and designed for creators who want results without overspending. In this guide, we’ll cover the best Planoly alternatives that save you money without sacrificing features, making it easier to choose the right fit for your content strategy.
What is Planoly?
Planoly is widely known as a visual social media planner that helps creators, influencers, and brands stay organized across social networks. With drag-and-drop feed previews, automated publishing, analytics, hashtag grouping, and shared content calendars, it simplifies the process of building a consistent online presence. In addition, users can edit media, apply filters, monitor comments, and track detailed engagement metrics such as likes, clicks, saves, and audience growth.
Beyond scheduling, Planoly also offers a standalone storefront feature where creators can design personalized shops with branded links, product tags, and image galleries. Stripe integration makes it possible to sell directly through social content. This is one of Planoly’s biggest selling points. This simplicity is why many creators, brands, and influencers love Planoly. It saves time, makes social feeds look more professional, and helps businesses keep a consistent posting routine.
Why look for cheaper alternatives to Planoly?
Planoly is a trusted tool for social media scheduling and visual planning, but it isn’t always the most creator-friendly option. While Planoly offers great tools, its pricing model and feature limitations can make it less attractive for small businesses or budget-conscious creators. That’s where cheaper tools than Planoly come in, offering similar or even better features at a lower cost.
1. Double charges for scheduling and storefront
A noticeable drawback for Planoly is that its function of scheduling and storefront operate separately. Creators have to pay separately to use the two at the same time. This means increased cost for creators who want to use both features to maximize their online presence. In contrast, many cheaper tools than Planoly now combine both publishing and e-commerce management in a single dashboard, often in a more user-friendly way.
2. Limited features for growing creators
Planoly focuses mainly on visual planning and scheduling, but it doesn’t offer enough tools for creators who want to expand their digital presence. From missing advanced analytics to fewer integrations, it can feel restrictive. This is why many users turn to tools like Planoly but cheaper, which often pack more features into their affordable plans.
3. Better value with all-in-one solutions
Some cheaper tools than Planoly don’t just schedule posts, they include extras like link-in-bio pages, caption suggestions, AI features, or detailed performance tracking. These all-in-one platforms give better value for money. Instead of paying for multiple apps, you can save costs by choosing a tool that handles everything in one place.
4. Easier options for beginners
Planoly’s interface can feel overwhelming for new users who just want to post quickly and keep things simple. In contrast, many social media scheduling tools on a budget are designed to be beginner-friendly, with clean layouts and straightforward navigation. They save time while reducing the frustration that often comes with learning complex software.
5. More flexibility for teams and businesses
For small teams managing multiple accounts, Planoly’s plans can become expensive and restrictive. Many less expensive alternatives to Planoly offer flexible team collaboration options, unlimited scheduling, or extra storage at lower prices. This makes it easier for businesses to stay organized, scale their marketing, and still keep expenses under control.
Best Planoly alternatives that save you money
If you love the idea of planning your social media visually but don’t want to pay high subscription fees, you’re not alone. Many creators and small businesses are now looking for tools like Planoly but cheaper that still deliver scheduling, analytics, and content management features.
The good news is there are plenty of affordable options that can help you stay consistent online without straining your budget. Here is a breakdown of some of the most noticeable cheaper alternatives to Planoly:
Pushbio
Price: From $19 per month for 10 profiles
Pushbio’s social media scheduler is one of the most affordable tools like Planoly but cheaper, making it a smart choice for budget-conscious creators. This is because it brings everything creators, brands, and businesses need into one platform. It works across Instagram, TikTok, YouTube, LinkedIn, Pinterest, Facebook, and more, making it far more versatile than tools focused mainly on visuals.
Pushbio goes beyond visual planning by offering content management in a simple, easy-to-use dashboard. Unlike Planoly, which can feel limiting, Pushbio combines scheduling, analytics, monetization, and engagement in a way that saves both time and money.
For creators looking for a complete solution at a lower price, Pushbio stands out as a top option. Here’s a breakdown of what makes it stand out:
A. Smarter content scheduling
Pushbio lets you plan posts across multiple platforms using a clean visual calendar. Its AI helps write captions, repurpose posts, and suggest improvements. With the smart scheduler, your content goes live at the right time for maximum reach.
Highlights
- Post once and share everywhere.
- Weekly or monthly calendar views.
- AI for captions and repurposing.
- Media library for easy reuse.
- Real-time teamwork and client access.
B. Analytics and monitoring
Pushbio doesn’t stop at posting. It tracks how well your content performs, compares results with competitors, and monitors conversations around your brand to protect your online image.
Highlights
- Cross-platform performance reports.
- Competitor comparisons.
- Brand monitoring features.
C. Monetize your bio
With Pushbio’s bio link tool, you can do more than just share links. Showcase products, collect leads, sell courses, or offer memberships, receive tips and sell your services all from a single page.
Highlights
- Sell digital goods and services.
- Collect emails and leads.
- Offer paid memberships or gated content.
- Share a professional media kit.
D. Direct audience marketing
Pushbio helps you own your audience. Send newsletters, promotions, or updates straight from the dashboard without needing third-party tools.
Highlights
- Sync emails with your bio page.
- Send promos, launches, or updates.
- Keep everything managed in one place.
E. Payments and invoicing
Creators can invoice clients, accept payments, and manage transactions in one hub. No extra software or spreadsheets required.
Highlights
- Quick invoice creation.
- Accept Stripe or PayPal payments.
- Track payment status easily.
Plann
Price: $12.50/Month
Plann is a favorite among creators who want polished and professional-looking feeds without breaking the bank. Similar to Planoly, it offers strong visual planning tools, but it also gives you more flexibility in organizing content and measuring results.
With drag-and-drop grid design, structured hashtag groups, and advanced campaign management, Plann makes Instagram strategy much easier. On top of that, its analytics go deeper than Planoly’s basics, covering engagement and follower growth. Plann’s Power User plan starts at $12.50/month, making it one of the most attractive Planoly pricing alternatives for anyone on a budget.
Key features
- Drag-and-drop social feed planner
- Bio link and content strategy manager
- AI caption generator
- Hashtag grouping and categorization
- iOS and Android mobile apps
Buffer
Price: $6/Month per Channel
Buffer has been around for years and is still one of the most reliable social media scheduling tools on a budget. It allows creators to manage multiple platforms at once, from Instagram and TikTok to LinkedIn and Twitter (X).
Buffer’s clean calendar makes scheduling stress-free, while its analytics give insights into engagement, clicks, and reach. Though advanced reporting is only available on higher tiers, its $6/month per channel plan is perfect for freelancers or solo creators who want value without complexity.
Key features
- Multi-platform scheduling and publishing
- AI assistant for content creation
- Hashtag and post analytics
- Comment management and first comment scheduling
- 30+ third-party integrations
Zoho Social
Price: $15/Month
Zoho Social is part of the Zoho business suite, making it a strong choice for small businesses that want everything in one place. Its clean content calendar, bulk scheduling, and SmartQ posting suggestions help users post when their audience is most active.
The analytics are surprisingly detailed, and integration with Zoho CRM means you can see how social efforts drive leads and sales. At just $15/month, it’s one of the smartest cheaper tools than Planoly for teams already using the Zoho ecosystem.
Key features
- SmartQ for optimized posting times
- Multi-platform scheduling and monitoring
- Centralized inbox for messages
- AI assistant (Zia) for content help
- Collaboration workflows
Tailwind
Price: $24.99/Month
Tailwind began as a Pinterest-focused scheduler but has since grown into what it calls a “marketing team in a box.” While it still shines with Instagram and Pinterest, it now offers AI content creation, social design tools, and even email marketing. This makes it more versatile than Planoly, especially for businesses wanting marketing and scheduling together. At $24.99/month, Tailwind is pricier than some, but its bundled features give good value for those who want more than just scheduling.
Key features
- Pinterest, Instagram, and Facebook scheduling
- AI content creation tools
- Email marketing integration
- Bio link customization
- Communities for Pinterest growth
Social Champ
Price: $8/Month per Channel
Social Champ is built for freelancers and agencies managing multiple brands. It packs publishing, scheduling, analytics, and collaboration into a user-friendly dashboard that doesn’t feel overwhelming.
Its AI content tools, bulk uploads, social inbox, and integrations with Canva, OneDrive, and Dropbox make it extremely versatile. With plans starting at just $8/month per channel, Social Champ is one of the most practical, less expensive alternatives to Planoly for small teams and agencies.
Key features
- Supports Facebook, Instagram, TikTok, LinkedIn, Twitter (X), YouTube, Pinterest, and more
- AI writing tools for content ideas
- Bulk scheduling and visual calendar
- Social listening to track mentions and trends
- Role-based access for teams
Metricool
Price: Starts from $18 per month to manage 5 profiles
Metricool is a complete social media and digital marketing platform. Unlike Planoly, which focuses mostly on Instagram, Metricool gives detailed analytics across every major platform including LinkedIn and Google Business Profile.
It also features a central inbox for comments and DMs, competitor analysis, and integrations with Canva and Google Drive. Metricool makes it simple to plan posts, track performance, and even monitor website traffic from the same dashboard. With flexible plans, it’s one of the most powerful cheap scheduling tools available today.
Key features
- Multi-platform analytics and scheduling
- Centralized social inbox
- Auto-lists for evergreen content
- Competitor and audience insights
- Visual planner with Canva integration
How to choose the right alternative for you
When it comes to social media growth, not every social management tool is for you. Each platform has its own strengths, and limitations, so what works for one creator or business may not suit another. That’s why it’s important to know what to look for before picking the best Planoly alternative that truly fits your needs.
1. Budget-friendly pricing
When looking for social media scheduling tools on a budget, compare plans carefully. Some platforms may seem cheap but charge extra for basic features. The right option should provide solid scheduling and analytics without hidden fees, giving you more value.
2. All-in-one features
Many tools like Planoly now bundle scheduling, analytics, and even e-commerce options in one dashboard. Choosing an all-in-one platform saves time, reduces switching between apps, and helps creators manage their online presence more effectively at a lower cost.
3. Ease of use
A tool should make your workflow smoother, not harder. If a platform feels complicated or unintuitive, it may slow you down. Go for cheaper tools than Planoly that still provide a clean interface, quick navigation, and simple scheduling steps to keep your content plan stress-free.
4. Platform support
Not all schedulers work across every network. Make sure the tool supports the channels that matter most to you be it Instagram, TikTok, or Pinterest. Many less expensive alternatives to Planoly cover multiple platforms, letting you grow your audience everywhere without needing separate subscriptions.
5. Analytics and Insights
Affordable doesn’t mean less powerful. Look for cheap scheduling tools that still provide reports on engagement, reach, and growth. Insights help you improve your strategy, so the best Planoly pricing alternatives should give you clear, useful data without requiring costly upgrades.
6. Collaboration options
If you work with a team, check whether the tool allows sharing calendars, approving posts, or assigning roles. Even social media scheduling tools on a budget now offer collaboration features, helping businesses and groups stay organized without the need for expensive premium plans.
7. Room for growth
Your needs may expand as your brand or business grows. Choose a platform that has affordable upgrade paths with more features. Unlike Planoly, where costs rise when adding storefront or advanced options, many cheaper tools than Planoly let you scale gradually without breaking your budget.
To wrap up
Planoly has earned its place as one of the most popular visual planners and scheduling platforms, helping creators, brands, and influencers stay consistent online. But as we’ve seen, its pricing and separate storefront features can make it less practical for those working with smaller budgets. The good news is that there are plenty of tools like Planoly but cheaper that don’t compromise on quality or functionality.
From Pushbio’s all-in-one scheduling and bio link, and monetization features to Buffer’s simplicity and Metricool’s automation tools, these less expensive alternatives to Planoly give you the flexibility to plan, post, and track performance without overspending. Some even bundle storefronts and scheduling together in one intuitive dashboard, which Planoly charges extra for.
