Managing social media today extends beyond just scheduling posts or manually tracking interactions. With the rapid expansion of platforms like Facebook, Instagram, TikTok, and LinkedIn, selecting the right social media management tool is crucial for optimizing efficiency and reducing costs, particularly for small and medium enterprises (SMEs).

This article presents a detailed comparison of SO9 and Buffer—two leading social media management solutions for SMEs.

We will explore features, costs, user experience, benefits, and other key factors to help you make an informed decision. Could SO9, a rising platform in the Vietnamese market, outperform Buffer, a well-established industry leader? Let’s find out.

I. Overview of SO9 and Buffer

1. Introduction to SO9

Key Highlights:

• Bulk Scheduling: Post across multiple platforms simultaneously.
• Inbox Management: Manage messages and comments in one place.
• Performance Analytics: Track interactions and measure campaign success.
• Comment Seeding Feature (First comment): Boost engagement with initial automated interactions.

2. Introduction to Buffer

Key Highlights:

• User-Friendly Interface: Offers an intuitive calendar layout for scheduling, with easy drag-and-drop functionality.
• Interaction Analytics: Simple to use, with reports comparing post performance.
• Global Platform: Popular worldwide, with comprehensive English-language documentation and guides.

II. Feature Comparison: SO9 vs. Buffer

1. Post Scheduling

• SO9: Includes features like Spin Content or GenAI (if available) to rotate content and avoid duplication, making it ideal for Vietnamese marketers managing multiple channels.
• Buffer: Provides quick note-taking support, allowing content creators to save ideas anytime.

2. Engagement Management

• Automated chatbot support and predefined customer replies.
• AI-driven interaction campaigns to boost engagement.

3. Reporting and Analytics

• Channel-specific reports, frequency comparisons, and interaction metrics.
• Dashboards that display key metrics (reach, engagement, CTR, etc.) in a user-friendly format for business owners.
• Viewer demographic analysis.

III. Pricing, Interface, and Support Services

1. Pricing

• SO9:
  • Offers Pro and Business plans based on the number of channels and team members.
  • Pricing is typically affordable for small businesses, with flexible rates depending on the number of channels. Starts at 30 USD/month for 10 channels.
     
• Buffer:
  • Includes a Free plan (supports up to 3 connected channels), Essentials (starting at 5 USD per channel/month), and Team plans. Managing 10 channels costs 50 USD/month, making it more expensive than SO9.
  • Costs increase significantly as you add more channels, making it more suitable for businesses with larger budgets.

2. Interface & User Experience (UX)

• SO9:
  • Simple and beginner-friendly for those new to social media management.
     
• Buffer:
  • Modern interface with English as the primary language, but highly intuitive and easy to navigate.

3. Support & Customer Service

• SO9:
  • Fast response times via chat, hotline, WhatsApp, and email.
     
• Buffer:
  • Active community forums.
  • Support via email and chat, but response times may be slower due to time zone differences.

Conclusion

Choosing between SO9 and Buffer depends on your business’s priorities. If you're looking for an affordable, friendly supported, and feature-rich social media management solution, SO9 is a great choice. It offers advanced engagement features, competitive pricing, and seamless support for small and medium businesses 

Try SO9 for free today with a 3-day trial!