Calendly vs Acuity Scheduling

Calendly is a cloud-based scheduling automation platform that eliminates the need for back-and-forth emails by enabling users to share their availability via personalized scheduling links.

Invitees simply select a convenient time, which is then automatically added to integrated calendars (such as Google, Outlook, Office 365, or iCloud) while respecting the privacy of existing appointments.

Offering freemium access for individuals and tiered premium plans for professionals, teams, and enterprises, Calendly includes support for varied meeting types (“Event Types”), buffer and notice times, and customizable booking rules.

Acuity is a business-grade scheduling powerhouse built to scale with solo professionals and larger multi-location operations alike. It offers fully branded booking pages, embedded or standalone, with flexible appointment types, buffer and availability controls, time-zone detection, and the ability for clients to self-schedule, reschedule, or cancel—all automatically synced across platforms.

Its client-management tools include intake forms, profiles, automated email/SMS confirmations, reminders, follow-ups, and intake policies. Financial tools are robust, allowing for online or in-person payments (via Stripe, PayPal, Square), deposits, tipping, packages, subscriptions, gift certificates, and invoices—streamlining both bookings and billing.