Acuity Scheduling vs Square Appointments
A detailed, unbiased comparison to help you choose the right scheduling software for your needs. Updated for 2026.
Key Takeaways
- Acuity Scheduling excels at: Extensive customization
- Square Appointments excels at: Free for single users
- Acuity Scheduling wins 4 out of 6 categories
- Acuity Scheduling is best for: Service businesses needing flexibility
- Square Appointments is best for: Businesses using Square for payments
Quick Overview
Acuity Scheduling
Acuity is a full-featured scheduling solution for service businesses with powerful customization options.
Pros
- Extensive customization
- Multiple payment processors
- Advanced intake forms
- Class and appointment scheduling
- Package and membership support
Cons
- No free plan
- Steeper learning curve
- Dated interface
Square Appointments
Square Appointments is a scheduling tool tied to the Square payment ecosystem, great for businesses already using Square POS.
Pros
- Free for single users
- Native Square payments
- POS integration
- Simple interface
- Instagram booking
Cons
- Locked to Square payments
- Limited video conferencing
- Basic features on free plan
- Less customization
Feature-by-Feature Comparison
| Feature | Acuity | Square | Winner |
|---|---|---|---|
| Free Plan | No | Yes (1 user) | Square |
| Payment Flexibility | Multiple options | Square only | Acuity |
| Customization | Extensive | Limited | Acuity |
| POS Integration | Limited | Native | Square |
| Video Meetings | Good | Limited | Acuity |
| Class Scheduling | Excellent | Basic | Acuity |
“Started with Square Appointments because it was free with my Square payments. When I needed more features like packages and custom intake forms, SchedulingKit was the perfect upgrade without switching payment processors.”
Our Verdict
Square Appointments is best if you're already using Square for payments. Acuity offers more power and flexibility for growing service businesses. SchedulingKit gives you the best of both - multiple payment options and powerful features with an easy interface.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Acuity Scheduling or Square Appointments better for small businesses?
It depends on your specific needs. Acuity Scheduling is best for service businesses needing flexibility. Square Appointments is best for businesses using square for payments. Consider your budget, required features, and technical comfort level when choosing.
Which is more affordable, Acuity or Square?
Acuity Scheduling pricing: $16-49/month. Square Appointments pricing: Free (1 user) / $29-69/month. Compare your expected usage and required features to determine the best value for your situation.
Can I switch from Acuity to Square?
Yes, you can switch between these platforms, though there's no direct migration tool. You'll need to recreate your event types, update booking links on your website and email signature, and reconnect calendar integrations. Plan for 1-2 hours of setup time.
What are the main differences between Acuity and Square?
The key differences are in their target users and feature focus. Acuity Scheduling's strengths include: Extensive customization, Multiple payment processors. Square Appointments's strengths include: Free for single users, Native Square payments. Review the comparison table above for a detailed breakdown.
Is there a better alternative to both Acuity and Square?
SchedulingKit offers a compelling alternative that combines the best features of both platforms. With a generous free tier and powerful features like automated reminders, intake forms, and team scheduling, it's worth considering if neither option fully meets your needs.
Powerful scheduling without payment processor lock-in
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