relayRelay vs Buffer: schedule it yourself, or let AI prepare it
Buffer is one of the simplest scheduling tools around. Relay starts from a different idea: instead of filling a calendar yourself, you ask an assistant to prepare the posts, and you approve.
Pricing
From Buffer’s pricing page on October 5, 2026: a free plan for up to 3 channels with 10 scheduled posts per channel, then Essentials at $5 per month per channel and Team at $10 per month per channel.
With Buffer, the price grows with each connected channel. Relay Pro covers all four networks for $25 a month, with writing and visuals included in your AI credits.
Side by side
- How you work: Buffer is a calendar you fill, with a writing assistant; Relay is a conversation where AI prepares everything
- Visuals: Relay creates and edits images; with Buffer you bring your own
- Networks: Buffer covers more, including X, Threads, Pinterest, Bluesky and Google Business Profile; Relay covers Instagram, Facebook, LinkedIn and TikTok
Pick Buffer if…
- you already write your posts and only need to schedule them
- you post on X, Threads, Pinterest or Bluesky
- you manage one or two channels and the free plan is enough
Pick Relay if…
- writing and making visuals is what takes you the most time
- you want one flat price for four networks
- you’d rather approve than build every post yourself
Frequently asked questions
Is Relay more expensive than Buffer?
It depends on how many channels you use. Buffer bills per channel; Relay Pro is a flat $25 a month for four networks, with writing and visuals included in your AI credits.