Calendly vs Google Calendar Appointment Scheduling
A detailed, unbiased comparison to help you choose the right scheduling software for your needs. Updated for 2026.
Key Takeaways
- Calendly excels at: Professional booking pages
- Google Calendar Appointment Scheduling excels at: Integrated with Google Calendar
- Both tools are evenly matched overall
- Calendly is best for: Professional meeting scheduling
- Google Calendar Appointment Scheduling is best for: Basic Google Calendar users
Quick Overview
Calendly
Calendly is a professional scheduling tool with booking pages. Best for professionals wanting branded booking.
Pros
- Professional booking pages
- Automated confirmations
- Video meeting links
- Integrations
- Free plan available
Cons
- Extra tool to manage
- Costs money for full features
- Learning curve
Google Calendar Appointment Scheduling
Google Calendar's built-in appointment slots. Best for Google Workspace users wanting integrated booking.
Pros
- Integrated with Google Calendar
- No extra tool needed
- Included with Workspace
- Simple interface
Cons
- Very basic features
- Limited customization
- No payment collection
- Minimal branding options
Feature-by-Feature Comparison
| Feature | Calendly | Winner | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Feature Set | Comprehensive | Basic | Calendly |
| Integration with Google | Via sync | Native | |
| Payment Collection | Yes | No | Calendly |
| Customization | Good | Limited | Calendly |
| Simplicity | Moderate | Very Easy | |
| Cost for Workspace Users | Extra | Included |
“After comparing Calendly and Google Calendar Appointment Scheduling, I found SchedulingKit offered a better balance of features and pricing for my business needs.”
Our Verdict
Google Calendar's slots work for basic needs. Calendly offers professional booking with more features. SchedulingKit syncs with Google Calendar while offering a free tier with more features than both.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Calendly or Google Calendar Appointment Scheduling better for small businesses?
It depends on your specific needs. Calendly is best for professional meeting scheduling. Google Calendar Appointment Scheduling is best for basic google calendar users. Consider your budget, required features, and technical comfort level when choosing.
Which is more affordable, Calendly or Google?
Calendly pricing: Free / $10-16/seat/month. Google Calendar Appointment Scheduling pricing: Included with Google Workspace. Compare your expected usage and required features to determine the best value for your situation.
Can I switch from Calendly to Google?
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 Calendly and Google?
The key differences are in their target users and feature focus. Calendly's strengths include: Professional booking pages, Automated confirmations. Google Calendar Appointment Scheduling's strengths include: Integrated with Google Calendar, No extra tool needed. Review the comparison table above for a detailed breakdown.
Is there a better alternative to both Calendly and Google?
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.
More than Google, easier than Calendly
Try SchedulingKit free and see why thousands of businesses are switching.
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