Microsoft Bookings vs Calendly: Best Meeting Scheduler for 2025- Social Nests
Microsoft 365 offers a suite of tools, including the lesser-known Microsoft Bookings, designed for scheduling appointments. Meanwhile, Calendly remains a top choice for individuals and teams. Let’s compare both to determine which scheduler fits your needs in 2025.
Microsoft Bookings vs. Calendly: Quick Overview
Here’s a snapshot of their key differences:
| Feature | Microsoft Bookings | Calendly |
|---|---|---|
| Best For | Microsoft 365 users needing basic scheduling | Teams/solopreneurs needing advanced automation |
| Price | Included in Microsoft 365 ($7.20/user/month) | Starts at $12/user/month (or free plan) |
| Advanced Features | Limited | Workflows, paid bookings, round-robin routing |
| Integrations | Microsoft apps only (Teams, Outlook) | 140+ tools (Zoom, Google, Salesforce, Stripe) |
| Ease of Use | Simple setup for Microsoft users; no mobile app | Intuitive interface with mobile app |
Pricing: Microsoft Bookings Costs Less
- Microsoft Bookings: Bundled with Microsoft 365 (from $7.20/user/month). Includes Outlook, Teams, and Office apps.
- Calendly: Free plan available. Paid plans start at 12/user/month(Standard)or20/user/month for teams.
For a 10-person team, Microsoft 365 costs 72/month∗∗vs.Calendly’s∗∗200+/month. However, Calendly’s free plan works for basic needs.
Ease of Use: Calendly Wins for Simplicity
Microsoft Bookings integrates smoothly with Outlook/Teams but lacks polish:
- No mobile app (discontinued in 2023).
- Confusing navigation (e.g., finding settings requires multiple clicks).
- Limited calendar syncs (only Microsoft accounts).
Calendly offers:
- A clean, modern interface.
- Mobile app for iOS/Android.
- Syncs with Google, Apple, and Microsoft calendars.
- Easy embeds via links, widgets, or responsive code.
Advanced Features: Calendly Leads
Microsoft Bookings covers basics:
- Customizable booking pages.
- Automatic email reminders.
- Group meetings.
Calendly adds productivity-boosting tools:
- Paid bookings via Stripe integration.
- Workflows: Automate reminders, follow-ups, or surveys.
- Routing Forms: Screen leads before scheduling.
- Free/Busy Rules: Override blocked calendar slots for specific events.
Team Features: Calendly Supports Collaboration
Microsoft Bookings allows internal-only meetings and simple group scheduling.
Calendly excels for teams with:
- Round Robin: Distribute meetings evenly across reps.
- Cross-Team Analytics: Track no-shows, cancellations, and peak times.
- Managed Workflows: Standardize automations company-wide.
Integrations: Calendly Connects Beyond Microsoft
Microsoft Bookings works seamlessly with Outlook and Teams but lacks native Zoom or Google support.
Calendly integrates with:
- Video tools (Zoom, Google Meet).
- CRMs (Salesforce, HubSpot).
- Payment apps (Stripe, PayPal).
- Zapier for 5,000+ additional apps.
Microsoft Bookings vs. Calendly: Final Verdict
Choose Microsoft Bookings if:
- You already use Microsoft 365.
- You need basic scheduling at no extra cost.
Choose Calendly if:
- You require paid bookings or advanced automations.
- Your team uses non-Microsoft tools (e.g., Zoom, Google).
FAQs
1. Is Calendly free?
Yes, Calendly offers a free plan with basic features. Paid plans start at $12/month.
2. Can Microsoft Bookings sync with Google Calendar?
No—it only syncs with Outlook calendars.
3. Which tool is better for small businesses?
Calendly’s paid plans offer scalability, while Microsoft Bookings suits budget-conscious Microsoft 365 users.
4. Does Calendly work with LinkedIn?
Yes—Calendly links can be added to LinkedIn profiles, posts, and messages.
5. Can Microsoft Bookings handle group appointments?
Yes, but Calendly offers more customization (e.g., round-robin distribution
