Best Calendly Alternatives in 2024
Looking for a Calendly alternative? We compare the best scheduling software for individuals and teams, covering pricing, features, and integrations.
Calendly is a popular appointment scheduling tool, but it's not always the best fit for everyone. Here's a breakdown of top alternatives.
Many users seek alternatives to Calendly for reasons including pricing, customization limitations, or the desire for deeper integrations with other tools. This article presents a comparison of several leading options, weighing their strengths and weaknesses to help you find the best scheduling solution for your specific needs. We’ll focus on tools that offer similar core functionality – streamlining appointment booking and eliminating back-and-forth emails – while considering ease of use, features, and overall value.
The ranked list
- Top pick · Editor’s choice1Visit Acuity Scheduling →
Acuity Scheduling
A robust scheduling solution offering extensive customization and integrations.
Best forBusinesses needing highly customized booking experiences and integrations.Pros
- Offers extensive customization of appointment types, scheduling pages, and intake forms.
- Integrates with a wide variety of third-party tools like Mailchimp and Zoom.
- Provides features for accepting payments and managing client packages.
- Allows embedding booking pages directly on a website using widgets.
- Supports SMS reminders to reduce no-shows.
Cons
- Can be more complex to set up than simpler options like Doodle.
- Pricing can become expensive as features and users are added.
PricingPAID; contact salesVerdict. Acuity Scheduling is a powerful choice for businesses that need a highly customizable and feature-rich scheduling solution. While slightly more complex to set up, the benefits in terms of control and integration capabilities make it a strong contender.
- 2Visit SimplyBook.me →
SimplyBook.me
A versatile online booking system suitable for various business types.
Best forBusinesses needing a comprehensive booking system with a wide range of features.Pros
- Offers a free plan suitable for basic scheduling needs.
- Supports multiple locations and services.
- Includes features for managing staff calendars and availability.
- Integrates with social media platforms for booking.
- Provides tools for automated marketing and client communication.
Cons
- The interface can feel somewhat cluttered due to the extensive feature set.
PricingPAID; Free versionVerdict. SimplyBook.me is a solid all-around choice, especially for businesses that want a robust feature set without a high upfront cost. The free plan is a significant advantage for those starting out.
- 3Visit Doodle →
Doodle
A quick and easy way to find the best time for group meetings.
Best forScheduling group meetings and polls.Pros
- Simplifies the process of finding a mutually available time for multiple participants.
- Offers a straightforward and intuitive interface.
- Allows for both polls and scheduled meetings.
- Includes a free plan for basic use.
- Integrates with Google Calendar and Outlook.
Cons
- Less suitable for one-on-one appointment scheduling compared to other options.
PricingFREEMIUMVerdict. Doodle excels at group scheduling. It’s a no-frills, efficient solution when you need to quickly coordinate availability among several people. Less effective for managing individual client appointments.
- 4Visit YouCanBookMe →
YouCanBookMe
Simple online booking for professionals seeking a user-friendly experience.
Best forIndividuals and small teams who prioritize ease of use and simplicity.Pros
- Easy to set up and use, even for those with limited technical experience.
- Offers various customization options for branding and scheduling pages.
- Integrates with popular calendar applications like Google Calendar and Outlook.
- Supports multiple currencies and time zones.
Cons
- Feature set is limited compared to some of the more robust options.
PricingPAIDVerdict. YouCanBookMe is a strong choice for users who want a straightforward and intuitive scheduling tool without a lot of complexity. It's ideal for solopreneurs or small teams.
- 5Visit Setmore →
Setmore
A free appointment scheduling software with paid upgrades for expanded features.
Best forService-based businesses looking for a free or affordable solution.Pros
- Offers a robust free plan with unlimited appointments.
- Supports online payments and automated reminders.
- Integrates with popular platforms like Square and Zoom.
- Provides a mobile app for managing appointments on the go.
Cons
- The free plan has limitations on the number of staff members.
PricingFREEMIUMVerdict. Setmore is a great option for businesses on a budget. The generous free plan makes it an attractive choice, and the paid plans offer additional features for growing businesses.
At a glance
Side-by-side comparison of the alternatives ranked above.
| Tool | Best For | Starting Price | Free Plan | Integrations | Customization |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Acuity Scheduling | Custom booking experiences | Contact sales | No | Mailchimp, Zoom, Zapier | Extensive |
| SimplyBook.me | Versatile booking system | PAID | Yes | Social media, Zapier | High |
| Doodle | Group scheduling | PAID | Yes | Google Calendar, Outlook | Limited |
| YouCanBookMe | Ease of use | PAID | No | Google Calendar, Outlook | Moderate |
| Setmore | Budget-friendly | FREEMIUM | Yes | Square, Zoom | Moderate |
Frequently asked questions
What is the best Calendly alternative for small businesses?
Acuity Scheduling and SimplyBook.me are both excellent choices for small businesses, offering a good balance of features, customization, and price. Setmore is also a strong contender because of its generous free plan.
Which is better for group meetings, Calendly or these alternatives?
Doodle is specifically designed for simplifying group meeting scheduling and is generally easier to use for this purpose than Calendly.
Do any of these alternatives offer a free plan?
Yes, Doodle, SimplyBook.me, and Setmore all offer free plans, though each has limitations on features or usage.
Are these tools GDPR compliant?
Most reputable scheduling tools, including those listed here, take GDPR compliance seriously. However, it's always best to review their specific privacy policies and ensure they meet your organization's requirements.
The verdict
What to pick
The ideal Calendly alternative depends on your specific scheduling requirements and budget. Acuity Scheduling offers the most comprehensive feature set and customization, while SimplyBook.me provides a strong all-around solution. Doodle is best for group scheduling, and Setmore is a great budget-friendly option. Carefully consider your needs and compare the features of each tool before making a decision.