If you’re a small business owner, you’re probably juggling multiple responsibilities daily. And finding the best scheduling software for your small business can dramatically improve how you manage appointments, save precious time, and create a better experience for your customers. Most likely, that’s why you’ve landed on this page - and happily so.
This guide examines the top scheduling apps for small businesses in 2025, from affordable options like Zeeg to industry favorites like Calendly. We'll help you identify which online booking system best fits your small business needs, budget, and growth goals.
Let's discover how the right scheduling solution can transform your appointment management process and help your business thrive.
Benefits of online booking systems for small business
Implementing an online booking system for small businesses can deliver advantages beyond just organizing your calendar. These scheduling tools serve as powerful assets that can completely transform your daily operations and customer interactions. Some examples? Take a look:
- Time savings: Online scheduling tools eliminate hours spent on phone calls and email chains to book appointments. Your scheduling software handles this automatically, freeing you to focus on serving customers and growing your business.
- Improved customer experience: Offering clients 24/7 appointment booking creates convenience they appreciate. This flexibility often leads to increased bookings and higher customer loyalty.
- Fewer missed appointments: Most online booking systems send automatic reminders via text or email, reducing costly no-shows and protecting your revenue.
- Better organization: When your booking system integrates with your existing calendar, you gain a comprehensive overview of operations. This bird's-eye view helps small businesses manage time and resources more efficiently.
- Valuable insights: Many scheduling apps for businesses include analytics that reveal peak booking times, popular services, and other trends to inform your business decisions.
- Round-the-clock availability: Your online booking software works even when you don't, allowing clients to schedule appointments at any hour without requiring your attention.
- Professional image: A well-designed booking system for small business creates a polished impression. It shows clients you value their time and understand modern technology expectations.
How we chose the best appointment scheduling software for small business
Finding the ideal scheduling app for small business operations requires considering multiple factors. Our evaluation focused on criteria most relevant to small business owners across various industries:
- Adaptability: We evaluated how each booking software for small business can be customized for different business types and industries.
- Security: What security and compliance features these tools can provide to small businesses on a low budget
- Payment processing: We assessed how each system handles deposits or payments during the booking process – a crucial feature for many service businesses.
- Integration capabilities: The best scheduling apps for small business connect smoothly with other tools you already use, from calendar platforms to CRM systems.
- Price value: Small businesses have limited budgets, so we carefully examined pricing structures to find options suitable for various business sizes and growth stages.
- User experience: We considered both administrator and customer interfaces, looking for scheduling software that makes the booking process straightforward for everyone involved.
The best online booking software for small businesses
- Zeeg: Best GDPR compliant and affordable scheduling tool
- Calendly: Best for simplicity and ease of use
- SimplyBook.Me: Best for service-based businesses with multiple offerings
- Google Calendar appointment scheduler: Best for Google Workspace users
- Microsoft Bookings: Best for Microsoft 365 users
- Doodle: Best for group meetings
- HubSpot Meeting Scheduler: Best for sales teams and CRM integration
- Thryv: Best for business management
- Acuity: Best for health and wellness businesses
- Setmore: Best for teams on a budget
Best scheduling apps for small business: Comparison overview
Best scheduling apps for small business: Comparison overview
Best scheduling apps for small business: In-depth analysis
1. Zeeg: Best for businesses with security and GDPR-compliance needs
Zeeg has emerged as a standout scheduling app for business owners concerned with data privacy and affordable pricing. Developed in Europe, this appointment software offers a comprehensive suite of scheduling features while ensuring your customer data remains protected on European servers.
Zeeg booking system for small business stand out because it has:
GDPR-compliant data handling: Small businesses working with European clients or in regulated industries benefit from Zeeg's complete data protection framework.
Branded booking pages: Create custom scheduling pages that match your company's visual identity, perfect for maintaining a professional image.
Smart automation: Set up workflows that handle reminders and follow-ups automatically, reducing administrative work for your small team.
Calendar connectivity: Integrate seamlessly with Google Calendar, Microsoft Outlook, and Apple Calendar – a key advantage over competitors who've dropped Apple support.
Language flexibility: Support international clients with multi-language capabilities, especially valuable for businesses operating across borders.
Payment integration: Process payments during booking with multiple options, helping small businesses secure revenue upfront.
Zeeg's commitment to data security without sacrificing usability makes it particularly valuable for small businesses that need to protect sensitive information. The platform's intuitive interface allows even non-technical business owners to create professional booking experiences that align with their brand.
What truly distinguishes this scheduling software from other small business options is its balance of affordability and feature depth. While newer to the market than some competitors, Zeeg has quickly gained traction among privacy-conscious businesses looking for reliable scheduling tools.
Advantages and limitations of this appointment app for business
Pros:
- Complete GDPR compliance with European data hosting
- Competitive pricing ideal for small business budgets
- User-friendly booking page customization
- Apple Calendar integration (unlike Calendly)
- Secure data handling with end-to-end encryption
- Comprehensive workflow automation
- Excellent integration options
Cons:
- Mobile app still in development
- Less name recognition than established competitors
Pricing structure
Zeeg offers a value-focused pricing model that's particularly attractive for small businesses:
- Starter: Free forever – Includes two scheduling pages and unlimited 1:1 meetings
- Professional: €10/user/month – Adds multiple calendar connections, unlimited pages, and branding options
- Business: €16/user/month – Includes team scheduling, round-robin assignment, and routing forms
- Enterprise: Custom pricing – For larger organizations with specific requirements
All paid plans include a 14-day free trial. For most small businesses, the Professional plan provides excellent value with features that typically require higher-tier subscriptions from competitors.
2. Calendly: Best for starightforward scheduling
Calendly has become a household name in the scheduling software market, largely due to its straightforward approach. This booking app for business users offers no-frills appointment scheduling that gets the job done efficiently.
Key capabilities for small business scheduling:
One-click scheduling: Generate and share booking links that connect directly to your availability.
Calendar integration: Connect with major calendar services like Google Calendar and Office 365.
Customizable booking rules: Set buffer times, availability windows, and meeting durations.
Team coordination: Manage scheduling for multiple team members (on paid plans).
Basic automation: Send confirmations and reminders to reduce no-shows.
Calendly's main strength is its simplicity. Small businesses seeking an uncomplicated solution to appointment booking will appreciate its clean interface and functionality. The platform allows you to create a booking page quickly, without requiring extensive technical knowledge.
The software connects well with major calendar platforms and video conferencing tools, though notably, it discontinued iCloud Calendar integration for new users in 2024. For small businesses already using Google or Microsoft calendars, this won't be an issue, but Apple-centric operations may need to look elsewhere.
What works and what doesn't
Pros:
- Quick setup process with minimal learning curve
- Professional-looking booking pages
- Free plan includes unlimited one-on-one meetings
- Extensive integration options with popular tools
Cons:
- No Apple Calendar integration for new users
- Limited customization on lower-tier plans
- Per-user pricing becomes expensive for growing teams
Cost breakdown
Calendly pricing also uses a tiered approach:
- Free: $0/month – Includes one event type and unlimited meetings
- Standard: $10/user/month (annual billing) or $12/month (monthly)
- Teams: $16/user/month (annual) or $20/month (monthly)
- Enterprise: Custom pricing starting from $15,000/year
Calendly free plan works for basic scheduling needs, but small businesses typically need the Standard plan for customization and integration options. As your team grows, the per-user pricing model can become costly compared to some alternatives, like the Teams or Enterprise plans.
Read more:
3. SimplyBook.Me: Best for service-based businesses
SimplyBook.Me caters specifically to service-based small businesses with complex scheduling requirements. This online booking system for small business owners in sectors like salons, fitness studios, and professional services provides specialized tools designed for service delivery.
Industry-specific scheduling features
Custom booking website: Create a professional booking portal that reflects your brand identity.
Service menu management: Offer multiple appointment types with different durations and prices.
Client database: Track customer history, preferences, and previous bookings.
Point-of-sale integration: Process payments during booking with multiple options.
Marketing toolset: Generate coupons, loyalty programs, and gift cards to encourage repeat business.
Healthcare compliance: HIPAA-compliant scheduling for medical providers.
Advanced forms: Collect detailed information before appointments with custom intake forms.
Accounting integration: Connect with QuickBooks, FreshBooks, and Xero for financial tracking.
SimplyBook.Me excels at handling the complexities of service-based scheduling. The platform adapts to various appointment formats, from one-on-one consultations to group classes or workshops. Small businesses appreciate the ability to create a branded booking experience with logos, color schemes, and custom features.
The software also offers valuable marketing capabilities that many scheduling apps lack. Features like promotional coupons, gift cards, and loyalty programs help service businesses generate repeat bookings. However, accessing these advanced features requires higher-tier plans, which may stretch small business budgets.
Strengths and weaknesses for small businesses
Pros:
- Highly customizable booking website
- Comprehensive marketing tools
- Detailed client profiles and history tracking
- HIPAA compliance for healthcare providers
- Integration with popular accounting systems
Cons:
- Steeper learning curve than basic scheduling tools
- Booking limits on all plans (even paid ones)
- Higher-tier plans needed for advanced features
- Employee limitations on basic plan
Pricing options
SimplyBook.Me offers tiered pricing with booking volume limits:
- Free: $0/month – Includes 50 bookings/month, 1 staff member
- Basic: $8.25/month (annual) or $9.90/month (monthly) – 100 bookings, 5 staff
- Standard: $24.90/month (annual) or $29.90/month (monthly) – 500 bookings, 15 staff
- Premium: $49.90/month (annual) or $59.90/month (monthly) – 2,000 bookings, unlimited features
Small businesses just starting out can use the free plan, but will quickly outgrow its 50-booking limit. The Basic plan offers essential features, but service businesses with multiple employees or higher booking volumes will need at least the Standard plan – representing a significant investment compared to other scheduling options.
4. Google Calendar appointment scheduler: Best for Google Workspace users
For small businesses already immersed in the Google ecosystem, the Google Calendar appointment scheduler provides a native scheduling solution without additional subscription costs. This straightforward appointment software integrates perfectly with other Google tools.
Core scheduling capabilities
Google Workspace integration: Seamless connection with your existing Google environment.
Automatic meeting links: Generates Google Meet video conferencing links for virtual appointments.
Appointment slots system: Create blocks of available time for clients to book.
Time zone intelligence: Automatically adjusts booking times based on client location.
Buffer time management: Set preparation time between appointments.
Appointment categories: Create different meeting types for various purposes.
Email notifications: Send automatic confirmations through Gmail.
The Google Calendar scheduler takes a minimalist approach compared to dedicated scheduling platforms. Rather than offering extensive customization, it prioritizes smooth integration with other Google services. When someone books a meeting, the system automatically adds it to your calendar, creates a Google Meet link, and sends Gmail notifications – all within the Google ecosystem.
This scheduling app's greatest advantage is its immediate availability to Google Workspace subscribers. There's no need to create new accounts or learn entirely new interfaces. For small businesses that primarily use Google tools and need simple appointment booking, this built-in functionality can eliminate the need for third-party solutions.
Benefits and limitations for small businesses
Pros:
- Included with Google Workspace subscriptions
- Perfect integration with Google tools
- Simple, familiar interface
- Built-in video conferencing
- Reliable Google security and uptime
Cons:
- Limited customization options
- Fewer advanced features than dedicated scheduling tools
- Only available with paid Google Workspace
- Basic availability settings
- No payment processing capabilities
Cost considerations
Google Calendar's appointment scheduling feature comes with specific Google Workspace plans:
- Business Starter: $6/user/month – Does NOT include appointment scheduling
- Business Standard: $12/user/month – Includes appointment scheduling
- Business Plus: $18/user/month – Includes enhanced scheduling features
- Enterprise: Custom pricing – Full functionality
Small businesses need at least the Business Standard plan to access scheduling features. However, if you're already paying for Google Workspace, this represents excellent value compared to adding another subscription for scheduling tools.
Read more:
- Google Calendar Appointment Scheduling guide
- How to sync Google Calendar with Zeeg
- How to sync Google Calendar with Calendly
5. Microsoft Bookings: Best for Microsoft 365 users
Small businesses that rely on Microsoft 365 can leverage Microsoft Bookings as an integrated scheduling solution. This booking app for business users in the Microsoft ecosystem provides seamless calendar management without additional costs.
Microsoft-focused scheduling tools
Outlook Calendar synchronization: Perfect alignment with your existing Outlook calendar.
Teams meeting integration: Automatic creation of Microsoft Teams links for virtual appointments.
Customizable booking portal: Brand your scheduling page with company colors and logo.
Automated notifications: Send confirmation emails when appointments are booked.
Staff scheduling: Manage availability for multiple team members.
Mobile management: Handle bookings on the go with the mobile app.
Microsoft Bookings primarily serves businesses already committed to the Microsoft environment. The scheduling software synchronizes effortlessly with Outlook calendars and Microsoft Teams, creating a unified experience for appointment management.
One standout feature is Bookings' ability to handle complex staff scheduling. Small businesses with multiple service providers can define each team member's availability and specialties, ensuring clients connect with the right person. There's also a customer-facing booking page on Microsoft Bookings that can be customized to match company branding.
Unlike some competitors that attempt to be all-in-one solutions, Microsoft Bookings focuses on providing reliable scheduling functionality within the Microsoft ecosystem. While it lacks some advanced features of dedicated scheduling platforms, it offers excellent value for Microsoft 365 subscribers.
Pros and cons analysis
Pros:
- Included with all Microsoft 365 business plans
- Seamless integration with Microsoft tools
- Support for up to 300 employees on basic plan
- User-friendly interfaces for staff and customers
- Built-in Teams video conferencing
Cons:
- Limited customization compared to specialized scheduling tools
- Requires Microsoft 365 subscription
- Occasional synchronization issues with non-Microsoft calendars
- Basic marketing and payment capabilities
Pricing structure
Microsoft Bookings is included with all Microsoft 365 business subscriptions:
- Business Basic: $6/user/month (annual) or $7.20/month (monthly)
- Business Standard: $12.50/user/month (annual) or $15/month (monthly)
- Business Premium: $22/user/month (annual) or $26.40/month (monthly)
For most small businesses using Microsoft tools, the Business Standard plan provides the best value, including Bookings alongside desktop versions of Office applications. Companies with stronger security requirements might consider the Premium plan, which includes advanced protection features alongside scheduling capabilities.
👉 Read more to know:
6. Doodle: Best for scheduling group meetings
Small businesses often struggle with coordinating meetings involving multiple participants. Doodle addresses this challenge with a focused scheduling tool that simplifies finding times when everyone can meet.
Group scheduling expertise:
Poll-based scheduling: Create time slot options for participants to vote on.
Group coordination: Efficiently manage scheduling for up to 100 participants.
Branding options: Customize the appearance of polls on higher-tier plans.
Calendar connectivity: Sync with popular calendar platforms to check availability.
Time zone handling: Automatically adjust displayed times for international participants.
Doodle excels at solving one specific problem: finding meeting times that work for multiple people. The polling system lets you suggest several options, and participants indicate their availability. The system then identifies the best meeting times based on responses, eliminating the back-and-forth typically required for group scheduling.
While Doodle isn't designed to be a comprehensive scheduling solution, it does offer the Bookable Calendar feature for one-on-one meetings, expanding its utility beyond group coordination. This makes it a versatile tool for small businesses that need both group and individual scheduling capabilities.
The platform integrates with most calendar applications and handles time zones effectively, which is particularly valuable for businesses working with remote teams or international clients. The free version provides basic functionality with advertising, though most businesses will want to upgrade for a more professional experience.
Advantages and disadvantages for small teams
Pros:
- Intuitive interface that creates polls in minutes
- Efficient group scheduling for up to 100 participants
- No account required for participants to respond
- Time zone conversion for international coordination
Cons:
- Limited features compared to full-service scheduling tools
- Free version includes ads and only one 1:1 meeting
- Dated interface compared to some competitors
- Basic customization options
Plan comparison
Doodle offers three pricing tiers:
- Free: $0/month – Basic polling with advertisements
- Pro: $6.95/month (annual) or $14.95/month (monthly) – Ad-free with calendar integration
- Team: $8.95/user/month (annual) or $19.95/month (monthly) – Admin features and user management
The free plan is sufficient for occasional group scheduling, but small businesses with regular meeting coordination needs should consider at least the Pro plan, which removes ads and adds essential features like calendar integration and custom branding.
Read more: Doodle vs Calendly
7. HubSpot Meeting Scheduler: Best for bigger sales teams and CRM
For small businesses that want to integrate appointment booking directly with customer relationship management, HubSpot Meeting Scheduler provides a compelling solution. This scheduling tool connects seamlessly with HubSpot's CRM platform to create a unified sales and marketing workflow. And we can mention it for small businesses, because it's actually included in Hubspot Free version, even though in a very limited way.
Sales-oriented scheduling features:
CRM integration: Direct connection with HubSpot's customer database.
Group scheduling: Coordinate meetings with multiple participants.
Round-robin assignment: Distribute meetings fairly among team members.
Custom booking pages: Design scheduling interfaces that match your brand.
Automated follow-ups: Send reminders and post-meeting messages automatically.
Calendar synchronization: Connect with Google Calendar and Office 365.
HubSpot's Meeting Scheduler goes beyond basic appointment booking by focusing on sales process improvement. The platform treats each scheduled meeting as part of the customer journey, automatically tracking interactions and updating contact records. This creates a more cohesive experience for both sales teams and prospects.
The scheduling tool features customizable booking pages that maintain consistent branding, while automation capabilities handle routine tasks like sending confirmation emails and reminders. For small businesses already using HubSpot's CRM or planning to implement it, the integrated scheduler eliminates the need for separate scheduling systems.
However, businesses primarily looking for standalone scheduling capabilities might find HubSpot's approach unnecessarily complex. The platform shines when used as part of a broader CRM strategy rather than as a simple appointment booking tool.
Strengths and limitations for small business users
Pros:
- Deep integration with HubSpot CRM
- Strong lead tracking capabilities
- Meeting analytics and reporting
- Customizable booking experiences
- Solid email integration for communications
Cons:
- More complex than standalone scheduling tools
- Limited functionality outside HubSpot ecosystem
- Advanced features require higher-tier plans
- Steeper learning curve than simple schedulers
Pricing details
HubSpot's pricing structure encompasses its broader platform, with Meeting Scheduler included in specific packages:
- Free Tools: $0/month – Includes one meeting link
- Starter: From $15/user/month (annual) or $20/month (monthly)
- Professional: From $90/user/month (annual) or $100/month (monthly)
- Enterprise: Varies by hub, starting around $150/user/month
The free version works for basic one-on-one scheduling, but small businesses typically need at least the Starter tier for additional scheduling links and branding options. While the per-seat pricing starts higher than dedicated scheduling tools, the value comes from the integrated CRM capabilities rather than scheduling alone.
Read more: Hubspot Meeting Scheduler vs Calendly
8. Thryv: Best for business management
Thryv takes a different approach to scheduling by embedding appointment booking within a complete business management platform. This all-in-one solution helps small businesses handle scheduling alongside other critical operations like customer management, marketing, and payments.
Integrated business management tools:
Automated reminders: Send notifications to reduce no-shows.
Payment processing: Handle transactions and invoicing within the same system.
CRM functionality: Manage customer information and interaction history.
Marketing capabilities: Create email campaigns and social media content.
Communication hub: Centralize customer interactions across channels.
HIPAA compliance: Secure scheduling for healthcare providers.
Thryv positions its scheduling capabilities as one component of a broader business management system. The platform allows clients to book appointments 24/7 through various channels, while automated reminders help minimize missed appointments. After services are delivered, the system can handle payment processing and follow-up communications.
What distinguishes Thryv from dedicated scheduling apps is its comprehensive approach to small business operations. Beyond appointment booking, the platform offers customer management, payment processing, marketing tools, and communication features. This integration creates a seamless workflow from initial booking through service delivery and follow-up.
For small businesses seeking to consolidate multiple tools into a single platform, Thryv presents an attractive option. However, companies primarily focused on scheduling might find the system's breadth unnecessary and potentially overwhelming.
Benefits and drawbacks for small operations
Pros:
- Unified platform for scheduling and business management
- Comprehensive marketing and communication tools
- Integrated payment processing
- Mobile app for on-the-go management
- Customer management capabilities
Cons:
- More complex than standalone scheduling solutions
- Higher price point than dedicated booking apps
- Steeper learning curve for new users
- May include features small businesses don't need
Price comparison
Thryv offers tiered pricing based on business needs:
- Basic: $0/month – Supports up to 5 users with limited features
- Plus: $20/month – Enhanced features for growing businesses
- Professional: $30/month – Comprehensive tools for established companies
While Thryv's pricing may exceed that of dedicated scheduling tools, the platform delivers additional value through its integrated business management capabilities. Small businesses looking to consolidate multiple systems into one solution may find Thryv cost-effective despite the higher initial investment.
9. Acuity Scheduling: Best for health and wellness businesses
Acuity Scheduling caters to health and wellness professionals with industry-specific features that address the unique requirements of therapeutic, medical, and wellness practices. This specialized scheduling software helps small healthcare businesses manage complex appointment scenarios.
Healthcare-oriented scheduling capabilities
HIPAA compliance: Secure scheduling that protects patient information.
Detailed intake forms: Collect necessary information before appointments.
Global time zone support: Accommodate clients from different regions.
Embedded booking widgets: Add scheduling directly to your website.
Self-service client portal: Allow patients to manage their own appointments.
Service packages: Offer bundled sessions and subscription options.
Gift certificate functionality: Create electronic gift cards for services.
Acuity functions as a comprehensive scheduling solution for health and wellness providers. The platform excels at handling the complexities of medical scheduling, including compliance requirements, detailed patient information collection, and specialized appointment types.
One of Acuity's standout features is its ability to manage complex scheduling scenarios involving multiple practitioners, various service types, and different locations. The client self-service portal allows patients to book, reschedule, or cancel appointments without staff assistance, reducing administrative workload.
The system also includes retail-oriented features like package sales, subscriptions, and gift certificates that help wellness businesses generate additional revenue. These capabilities, combined with robust scheduling tools, create a complete business management solution for health-focused small businesses.
Pros and cons for healthcare businesses
Pros:
- Comprehensive features for health and wellness practices
- HIPAA-compliant scheduling options
- Strong client management capabilities
- Flexible appointment types and durations
- Extensive integration options
- Packages and gift certificates for service businesses
Cons:
- Potentially overwhelming for simple scheduling needs
- Steeper learning curve than basic scheduling tools
- Higher price point than entry-level options
- No free plan (trial only)
- Limited mobile functionality compared to desktop
Pricing breakdown
Acuity Scheduling offers tiered pricing without a free option:
- Emerging: $16/month (annual) or $20/month (monthly) – Single practitioner setup
- Growing: $27/month (annual) or $34/month (monthly) – Up to 6 practitioners
- Powerhouse: $49/month (annual) or $61/month (monthly) – Up to 36 practitioners
- Enterprise: Custom pricing for larger organizations
For health practices just starting out, the Emerging plan covers essential needs with one calendar and unlimited appointments. The Growing plan adds critical features like SMS notifications, appointment packages, and subscription capabilities. Healthcare providers requiring HIPAA compliance must select at least the Powerhouse plan.
Read more: Acuity vs Calendly
10. Setmore: Best for teams on a budget
Small businesses operating on tight budgets will appreciate Setmore's generous free plan and cost-effective paid options. This user-friendly scheduling app provides essential booking capabilities without the high price tag of premium alternatives.
Budget-friendly scheduling tools
Team calendar management: Support for multiple staff calendars (up to 4 free).
Customizable booking page: Create a branded scheduling experience.
Social media integration: Allow booking directly through Facebook and Instagram.
Email and SMS notifications: Reduce no-shows with automated reminders.
Client database: Store and access customer information.
Staff scheduling: Manage availability for team members.
Payment processing: Accept payments through Square (free) or Stripe (paid).
Setmore stands out among scheduling apps with its extraordinarily generous free tier. Unlike competitors that limit free versions to a single user, Setmore allows up to four staff members to manage their calendars at no cost. The free plan includes up to 200 appointments, unlimited bookings, and even Square payment processing capability.
The platform offers a clean, intuitive interface that makes scheduling accessible for both businesses and their customers. Customizable booking pages help maintain consistent branding, while social media integration enables clients to book appointments directly through platforms like Facebook and Instagram – functionality many other scheduling tools don't provide at this price point.
While Setmore may lack some advanced features of premium scheduling platforms, it covers the essential needs of most small businesses effectively. The straightforward approach and budget-friendly pricing make it an excellent option for teams with straightforward scheduling requirements.
Advantages and limitations for budget-conscious businesses
Pros:
- Exceptional free plan with team capabilities
- Direct social media booking integration
- User-friendly interface for business owners and clients
- Affordable paid plans for growing teams
- Square payment processing on free plan
- Reliable customer support across all tiers
Cons:
- Limited customization compared to premium tools
- Basic reporting and analytics
- Calendar synchronization requires paid plans
- Fewer integration options than some competitors
- Limited advanced scheduling capabilities
Plan options
Setmore offers simple pricing with generous features at each tier:
- Free: $0/month – Up to 4 users, 200 appointments, Square payments
- Premium: $5/user/month (annual) or $12/month (monthly) – Unlimited appointments, more features
- Pro: $5/user/month (annual) or $9/month (monthly) – All Premium features plus enhancements
The free plan provides impressive functionality for small teams just starting out. Upgrading to Premium adds essential features like two-way calendar sync, SMS reminders, and recurring appointments, while the Pro plan extends these benefits with additional customization options and integrations.
How to find the right scheduling software for your small business
Selecting the appropriate online booking system for your small business requires evaluating several factors beyond just price. Consider these elements when making your decision:
Business type and industry needs: Service-based businesses might benefit from specialized tools like SimplyBook.Me or Acuity, while general businesses could use more straightforward options like Zeeg or Calendly.
Team size and growth plans: Some scheduling apps charge per user, which can become expensive as your team expands. Others offer flat-rate pricing regardless of team size.
Technical expertise: Consider your comfort level with technology. Some systems offer simplicity for non-technical users, while others provide more customization but require greater technical knowledge.
Integration requirements: Evaluate how the scheduling software connects with tools you already use, from calendars to CRM systems and payment processors.
Budget constraints: Small businesses must balance functionality with affordability. Free plans might work initially, but paid features often deliver time-saving benefits worth the investment.
Data privacy concerns: If you handle sensitive information or serve European clients, GDPR compliance may be essential in your scheduling software selection.
Many scheduling platforms offer free trials, giving you the opportunity to test their functionality before committing. When possible, choose trials lasting longer than 7 days to adequately evaluate how the system fits your workflow.
Remember that the best scheduling app for your small business is the one that integrates seamlessly with your existing processes and helps you serve your customers more effectively – not necessarily the one with the most features or highest price tag.
Scheduling tools for small business: FAQ
Is Calendly the best scheduling app for small businesses? While Calendly is popular, it's not necessarily the ideal choice for every small business. Its straightforward interface works well for basic scheduling needs, but some companies require more specialized features or better pricing models. For GDPR compliance, Zeeg offers stronger data protection. For service-based businesses, SimplyBook.Me or Acuity might provide better industry-specific tools. The best choice depends on your specific requirements, team size, and budget.
Does Google have a scheduling tool for small businesses? Yes, Google offers the Google Calendar Appointment Scheduler for Google Workspace users. This scheduling feature enables small businesses to create bookable appointment slots directly in Google Calendar. It includes automatic time zone detection and website embedding capabilities. However, this tool is only available with Google Workspace Business Standard plan ($12/user/month) or higher, not on the entry-level Business Starter plan.
What is the most commonly used scheduling system by small businesses? Calendly remains the most widely adopted scheduling platform due to its user-friendly interface and straightforward functionality. However, Google Calendar is also extremely popular among small businesses already using Google Workspace. The choice often varies by industry and business size, with service businesses frequently utilizing specialized tools like Acuity Scheduling or SimplyBook.Me. For budget-conscious small teams, Setmore has gained popularity with its generous free plan.
What scheduling apps offer alternatives to Calendly for small businesses? Several booking systems provide comparable functionality to Calendly with different strengths. Zeeg offers GDPR compliance and Apple Calendar integration at competitive prices. Acuity Scheduling provides robust features for service-based businesses and health providers. SimplyBook.Me specializes in service-focused scheduling with marketing tools. Setmore delivers excellent value for budget-conscious teams. Microsoft Bookings integrates perfectly with the Microsoft ecosystem, while Google Calendar Appointment Scheduler does the same for Google Workspace users.
What features should small businesses look for in scheduling software? Small businesses should prioritize ease of use, calendar integration, automated reminders, customizable booking pages, and affordable pricing. Depending on your industry, you might also need features like payment processing, GDPR compliance, or team scheduling capabilities.
How much does scheduling software typically cost for a small business? Pricing varies widely, with many options offering free basic plans. Paid plans generally range from $5-30 per user per month, with most small business-friendly options in the $7-15 range. The investment typically pays for itself through reduced administrative time and fewer missed appointments.
Can I use scheduling software if I have multiple locations or service providers? Yes, most scheduling apps for small businesses support multiple locations and service providers. Look for features like resource assignment, location-specific availability, and staff management. Tools like SimplyBook.Me, Acuity, and Zeeg handle this particularly well.
How do online booking systems reduce no-shows for small businesses? Scheduling software reduces no-shows through automated email and SMS reminders, calendar integration with confirmation buttons, and in some cases, deposit requirements or cancellation policies that encourage commitment from customers.
Is it difficult to set up scheduling software for my small business? Most modern scheduling apps are designed for easy setup, with intuitive interfaces and step-by-step guidance. Basic implementation typically takes 1-2 hours, though more complex setups with multiple service types, team members, and custom rules might require additional time.
Can scheduling software integrate with my existing small business tools? Yes, most scheduling platforms integrate with popular business tools. Look for compatibility with your calendar (Google, Outlook, Apple), payment processor, CRM system, and video conferencing platform. Tools like Zapier can bridge gaps between systems that don't have direct integrations.
What's the difference between a free and paid scheduling app for small business? Free plans typically limit features like the number of appointment types, customization options, or team members. Paid plans add capabilities such as removing branding, sending SMS reminders, offering advanced scheduling rules, enabling payments, and providing better analytics.
Conclusion: choosing the right scheduling app for your small business
Finding the perfect online booking system for your small business requires balancing functionality, ease of use, and budget. Consider what specific scheduling challenges you need to solve and which features will deliver the most value for your operation.
For small businesses concerned with data privacy and affordability, Zeeg offers GDPR compliance with European data hosting at competitive prices. Service-based companies might prefer SimplyBook.Me or Acuity for their specialized industry features. Teams already using Google or Microsoft ecosystems could benefit from their native scheduling tools.
The most important factor is selecting scheduling software that integrates seamlessly with your existing workflows and helps you deliver better service to your customers. Many platforms offer free trials or starter plans that let you test functionality before committing.
Remember that the right scheduling app for small business needs isn't necessarily the one with the most features, but the one that solves your specific challenges without overwhelming your team or budget. By carefully evaluating your requirements and testing potential solutions, you'll find the scheduling tool that helps your small business operate more efficiently and professionally.
Sources - all pricing information was verified on October 15, 2024, directly from the official websites of each tool. Please note that prices and plans may change over time, so it's advisable to check the most current information before making a decision:
