SimplyBook.me vs Calendly
A detailed, unbiased comparison to help you choose the right scheduling software for your needs. Updated for 2026.
Key Takeaways
- SimplyBook.me excels at: Many custom features
- Calendly excels at: Very easy to use
- SimplyBook.me wins 3 out of 5 categories
- SimplyBook.me is best for: Service businesses wanting customization
- Calendly is best for: Professionals and sales teams
Quick Overview
SimplyBook.me
SimplyBook.me is a feature-rich booking system with custom features. Best for service businesses wanting flexibility.
Pros
- Many custom features
- Marketplace listing
- Multiple locations
- POS features
- Free tier available
Cons
- Complex interface
- Feature add-on pricing
- Can be confusing
- Outdated design
Calendly
Calendly is a clean, simple scheduling tool. Best for professionals wanting quick, easy scheduling.
Pros
- Very easy to use
- Modern interface
- Quick setup
- Good integrations
Cons
- Less customizable
- Limited service business features
- Team pricing adds up
Feature-by-Feature Comparison
| Feature | SimplyBook | Calendly | Winner |
|---|---|---|---|
| Customization | Extensive | Limited | SimplyBook |
| Ease of Use | Complex | Very Easy | Calendly |
| Service Business | Great | Basic | SimplyBook |
| Modern Design | Dated | Excellent | Calendly |
| Free Plan | 50 bookings/mo | 1 event type | SimplyBook |
“SimplyBook.me had every feature imaginable — loyalty programs, gift cards, coupons — but setting it up felt like configuring an ERP system. Calendly was the opposite: dead simple but missing features our wellness center needed. SchedulingKit landed right in the middle with powerful options that didn't require a weekend to configure.”
Our Verdict
SimplyBook.me offers more features for service businesses but comes with complexity. Calendly is simpler but less powerful. SchedulingKit balances both—powerful and easy to use.
Frequently Asked Questions
Which is better overall, SimplyBook or Calendly?
In our feature-by-feature comparison, SimplyBook.me came out ahead in 3 of 5 categories. That said, Calendly is specifically built for professionals and sales teams, so it can be the better choice if that matches your use case. There is no single "best" — it depends on your priorities.
What does SimplyBook cost compared to Calendly?
SimplyBook.me pricing: Free (limited) / $8.25-50/month. Calendly pricing: Free (1 event type) / $10-16/seat/month. Watch for extras — SMS reminders, payment processing, and additional team seats often add 30-50% to headline prices on both platforms.
What are the biggest drawbacks of SimplyBook?
Users commonly cite complex interface and feature add-on pricing. If service businesses wanting customization is not your primary need, those limitations may outweigh its strengths.
What are the biggest drawbacks of Calendly?
The most frequent complaints about Calendly include less customizable and limited service business features. For teams that need many custom features, these gaps can be deal-breakers.
Can I switch from SimplyBook or Calendly to SchedulingKit?
Yes. You will need to recreate your event types and update booking links on your website and email signature, but calendar connections carry over through standard integrations. Most users complete the switch in under an hour. Our migration guides cover the process step by step.
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