10 Best Book Like A Boss alternatives and competitors (Updated: Oct 2024)
Based on thorough research and analysis of user reviews, feature comparisons, and industry trends from over 50 scheduling tools.
14 October 2024
17 min read
Introduction
Tired of juggling appointments with "Book Like A Boss"? So was I.
After months of frustration with its clunky interface and limited features, I knew there had to be something better out there. And I was right.
Why stick with a tool that doesn't make scheduling easier? I found alternatives that are faster, smarter, and much more user-friendly.
10 Book Like a Boss alternatives part of this study
Lunacal
Acuity Scheduling
Bobclass
Cal.com
Calendly
Zoho Bookings
Appointlet
Picktime
Vagaro
Booksy
Top Scheduling software comparison guide
| Detailed Comprison | Lunacal | Acuity Scheduling | Bobclass | Cal.com | Calendly | Zoho Bookings | Appointlet | Picktime | Vagaro | Booksy |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Scheduling Page |  |  | | | | | | | | |
| Customization | | | | | | | | | | |
| Teams | | | | | | | | | | |
| Support | | | | | | | | | | |
| Ease of use | | | | | | | | | | |
| 3rd party integrations | | | | | | | | | | |
| User interface | | | | | | | | | | |
| Calendar sync | | | | | | | | | | |
| Free plan | yes | no | yes | yes | yes | yes | yes | yes | no | no |
Lunacal
Lunacal transforms a simple calendar into a fully branded scheduling experience. It's not just about booking; it’s about connecting with your clients. I tried Lunacal, and honestly, it felt like more than just a calendar. It’s ideal for freelancers or small businesses wanting to make their scheduling page an extension of their brand, rather than just another booking tool.
Features of Lunacal
Customizable Scheduling Pages: Add your own logos, colors, bios, and even videos, making your page a true reflection of your brand. It’s a great way to build trust before clients even book.
Client Testimonials Integration: You can display client feedback directly on your scheduling page, helping build credibility and encouraging new clients to book with confidence.
Calendar Sync: Sync effortlessly with Google, Outlook, and Apple calendars. No more juggling between platforms—everything stays organized in one place.
Automated Reminders: Set up automated email and SMS reminders to reduce no-shows. Personalized reminders help keep clients engaged and on track.
Buffer Times: Add buffer times between meetings to avoid back-to-back burnout and give yourself a breather.
Multi-Time Zone Support: Automatically adjusts appointment times for clients in different time zones, making international scheduling easier.
Pricing Details
Lunacal offers a free plan with basic features that never expires. Paid plans start at $10/month per user, unlocking advanced features like custom branding and team scheduling. If you need more functionality, higher-tier options are available.
Lets compare the Pros and Cons..
Pros of Lunacal
- Fully customizable pages.
- Seamless calendar sync with major platforms.
- Automated reminders reduce missed appointments.
- Free plan with basic features, no expiration.
- Great for freelancers and small businesses.
Cons of Lunacal
- Lacks integrations with advanced CRM tools like Salesforce.
- Not ideal for large enterprises needing more complexity.
- Paid plans may get expensive for growing teams.
- The free plan has limited branding features.
Lunacal: Our Verdict
Lunacal is a solid choice for those who want more than just a basic scheduling tool. It transforms your booking page into a personalized, engaging experience that reflects your brand identity. When I used it, I found it easy to set up and appreciated how it gave clients a real sense of who I was before they even booked.
For freelancers or small businesses, Lunacal shines with its customization options and seamless calendar integration. However, larger companies may want to explore other "Book Like A Boss" competitors for deeper CRM integrations. Still, it's a great alternative to tools like Book Like A Boss if you're looking to create a more meaningful connection with clients through your scheduling page.
Overall Score: 9.2/10
Acuity Scheduling
If you're fed up with "Book Like A Boss" and looking for an alternative that feels more intuitive, Acuity Scheduling might be the answer. I tried it when BLAB just didn’t cut it for me anymore. Acuity is easy to use and makes scheduling appointments way less stressful.
It’s flexible, customizable, and handles everything from reminders to payment processing. But let’s dive into the details.
Features of Acuity Scheduling
Customizable appointment types: You can create multiple appointment types and control the availability for each. Perfect if you juggle different services.
Time zone detection: No more confusion over time zones. Acuity automatically adjusts appointments to your client's time zone.
Automated reminders: Sends out reminders via email or SMS, reducing the number of no-shows. In my experience, this has saved me a lot of time and headache.
Payment integration: Integrates with payment platforms like Stripe and PayPal, allowing clients to pay upfront. It’s smooth and convenient.
Calendar sync: Syncs seamlessly with Google Calendar, iCloud, and Outlook, so you can keep track of all your appointments in one place.
Pricing Details
Acuity offers a free plan with basic features. Paid plans start at $15/month, unlocking features like reminders, calendar syncing, and more customization options.
Lets compare the Pros and Cons..
Pros of Acuity Scheduling
- Easy to use, even if you’re not tech-savvy.
- Automated reminders reduce missed appointments.
- Flexible customization for different appointment types.
- Payment collection is simple and integrated.
Cons of Acuity Scheduling
- Limited design customization for the booking page.
- The interface can feel outdated compared to newer tools.
- The mobile app is a bit clunky at times.
- It can get pricey with additional features.
Acuity Scheduling: Our Verdict
I switched to Acuity Scheduling after getting fed up with "Book Like A Boss." And honestly, it was a relief.
Acuity is far more flexible, especially if you manage multiple appointment types or work across different time zones. The built-in payment integration is smooth and makes invoicing clients a breeze. While it doesn’t offer as much design customization as I'd like, the functional aspects are where Acuity shines.
When I used it, the automatic reminders reduced no-shows drastically, which was a huge plus. And the fact that it syncs with my Google Calendar meant I never missed a beat. But yeah, it's not perfect. The mobile app could definitely use a facelift, and if you need premium features, the cost can start to add up. Still, if you want something that feels like less of a hassle compared to BLAB, Acuity is worth a try.
Note: Just watch out for the price if you're adding on extras.
Overall Score: 7.9/10
Bobclass
Bobclass is a scheduling tool that offers a mobile-first approach, which felt like a breath of fresh air after my frustration with "Book Like A Boss." It’s designed for instructors, personal trainers, and freelancers, but don’t let that limit you. I found it surprisingly intuitive for managing one-on-one appointments. If you’re looking for an alternative to "Book Like A Boss," this one’s worth considering.
Features of Bobclass
Mobile App: The entire system is run via a mobile app, which works offline. Perfect for when you’re constantly on the go.
Client Management: You can easily store client details, notes, and histories all in one place. I loved the simplicity of this feature.
Class and Session Scheduling: Bobclass lets you schedule recurring classes and track attendance. It's great for people juggling multiple clients at once.
Payment Integration: You can connect payments directly within the app, which made invoicing so much easier when I used it.
Automated Reminders: It sends reminders to clients automatically, which, honestly, saved me a ton of time chasing people down.
Pricing Details
Bobclass offers a free plan with limited features, but their paid plans start at $8.99/month, which unlocks advanced tools like payments, attendance tracking, and client management.
Lets compare the Pros and Cons..
Pros of Bobclass
- Offline functionality.
- Simple and user-friendly.
- Excellent client tracking and notes.
- Payment integration within the app.
Cons of Bobclass
- Limited to mobile use; no desktop option.
- Not ideal for team scheduling.
- Lacks integration with external calendars.
- The interface could use a refresh.
Bobclass: Our Verdict
When I first started using Bobclass, I didn’t think I’d stick with it because I’m used to desktop apps. But honestly, the offline functionality and ease of managing client details made it worth keeping on my phone. It’s an excellent option for solo professionals or freelancers.
If you’re someone who’s always on the move, the mobile-first nature could be a lifesaver. However, if you work with a team or need a desktop interface, Bobclass might not be for you.
It’s also not as feature-packed as other alternatives, but if simplicity is what you’re after, Bobclass is a great choice. Just know that you’ll sacrifice some of the integrations you might get with more robust platforms. For me, the trade-off was worth it—especially for the one-time payment structure. Would you miss those extra integrations, though? That's the real question, and if so, you may want to explore other BLAB competitors.
Overall Score: 5.4/10
Cal.com
I remember switching to Cal.com after being fed up with Book Like A Boss. It felt like a breath of fresh air. Cal.com is an open-source, customizable scheduling tool that gives you the freedom to tweak things your way. No more rigid structures or awkward workarounds.
It's simple, clean, and flexible. Plus, it's easy to integrate with tools you’re already using. So why stick with a tool that limits your options?
Features of Cal.com
Open Source Flexibility: With Cal.com, you can customize nearly everything. It’s open source, meaning the code is yours to tweak, add, or remove features. Total control.
Multiple Calendar Integrations: It syncs seamlessly with Google, Outlook, and Apple calendars. You never have to worry about missing an appointment or double-booking.
Team Scheduling: Coordinate multiple team members’ schedules effortlessly. This feature makes it a great alternative to Book Like A Boss if you need more advanced team functionality.
Custom Branding: Unlike other tools, you can fully personalize Cal.com with your own branding. Your clients will never even know you’re using third-party software.
Automated Reminders: Automatic email and SMS reminders help reduce no-shows. No need to manually chase clients anymore.
Pricing Details
Cal.com offers a free tier with limited features, and their paid plans start at around $12 per user/month. There’s also a custom enterprise option if you need more robust functionality.
Lets compare the Pros and Cons..
Pros of Cal.com
- Completely customizable thanks to open-source structure.
- Excellent for teams with complex scheduling needs.
- Easy to use, with a clean and simple interface.
- Integrates with all major calendars seamlessly.
Cons of Cal.com
- Requires some technical knowledge if you want to customize.
- Fewer built-in templates compared to other tools.
- Lacks extensive third-party integrations out of the box.
- Customer support can be slower than expected.
Cal.com: Our Verdict
When I switched from Book Like A Boss to Cal.com, it felt like I finally had more control over my scheduling process. It's not just another plug-and-play solution. You have the freedom to make it work exactly how you want. I especially loved the open-source flexibility; it allowed me to make tweaks that other tools just didn’t offer.
However, it does come with a learning curve. If you’re not tech-savvy or don’t have someone who is, the customization options might feel overwhelming. But if you're okay with putting in a bit of time, it's well worth it. Teams will especially appreciate the coordination features, and its integrations with popular calendars make life so much easier.
Overall Score: 7.9/10
Calendly
Calendly is a popular alternative to Book Like A Boss for scheduling meetings. It’s simple, intuitive, and widely used, but it doesn’t come without its own frustrations. When I used it, I liked how quickly I could set up meetings. But after a while, it started feeling... limited. Does Calendly really cover all the bases? I’m not so sure.
Features of Calendly
Simple booking interface: Calendly’s interface is clean and easy to use. You can create a meeting link in just a few clicks. No fuss.
Custom availability: Set your availability in blocks, so you don’t get booked when you’re not free. Helpful, but feels basic after a while.
Team scheduling: Calendly allows multiple team members to manage their schedules under one account. It’s good for businesses, but individual users might not need this.
Automated reminders: You can send automated reminders to attendees before a meeting. Saves time, but can feel impersonal.
Integrations: It connects to tools like Zoom, Google Calendar, and Outlook. Handy if you live in these apps, but not groundbreaking.
Pricing Details
Calendly offers a free plan with basic features. Paid plans start at $10 per month for more advanced functionality like team scheduling, reminders, and reporting. It’s affordable, but some essential features are paywalled.
Lets compare the Pros and Cons..
Pros of Calendly
- Very easy to use.
- Quick setup and clean design.
- Syncs with multiple calendars.
- Offers a free plan with basic features.
Cons of Calendly
- Lacks customization options.
- The free plan is too limited.
- Some features locked behind expensive plans.
- Automated messages can feel a bit robotic.
Calendly: Our Verdict
Calendly is a straightforward scheduling tool that works for most people. In my experience, it’s great if you need something basic and don’t want to fiddle with complicated features. However, it starts feeling restrictive when you need more flexibility or personalization, so you might want to explore other "Book Like A Boss" competitors for more advanced options
If you're looking for a more robust alternative to Book Like A Boss, Calendly is fine, but it may not be the long-term solution you’re hoping for.
Overall Score: 7.1/10
Zoho Bookings
Zoho Bookings felt like a breath of fresh air compared to Book Like A Boss.
I was tired of limited customization and rigid workflows. When I tried Zoho, it was like someone finally understood what I needed in a scheduling tool. It's seamless, customizable, and integrates smoothly with other tools.
But, is it the perfect alternative to Book Like A Boss? Let's dive into its features and see.
Features of Zoho Bookings
Customizable Booking Pages: You can personalize every aspect of your booking page, from colors to layouts. It lets your brand shine while keeping things professional.
Seamless Integrations; Zoho Bookings works smoothly with Zoho's suite of apps, plus external tools like Google Calendar. No more switching tabs.
Automated Reminders: Set automated reminders for both you and your clients via email and SMS. No more no-shows, fewer headaches.
Payment Integration: It connects with payment gateways like PayPal and Stripe. Clients can pay upfront when they book, simplifying the process.
Multiple Time Zones: Handle international clients? Zoho Bookings manages time zones effortlessly, ensuring no confusion about appointment times.
Pricing Details
Zoho Bookings starts with a free plan for a single user. Paid plans begin at $6 per user per month, which includes more advanced features and multi-user access.
Lets compare the Pros and Cons..
Pros of Zoho Bookings
- Intuitive interface, easy to set up.
- Integrates well with other Zoho apps.
- Customizable to fit your brand’s style.
- Affordable pricing, especially for small businesses
Cons of Zoho Bookings
- Limited outside Zoho ecosystem.
- The mobile app isn’t as polished.
- Some advanced features are locked behind higher-priced tiers.
- Initial learning curve if you’re new to Zoho.
Zoho Bookings: Our Verdict
Zoho Bookings is a strong contender as an alternative to Book Like A Boss. In my experience, the flexibility in design and customization alone made it a far better fit. Add in automated reminders and payment integration, and it’s a tool that gets the job done with less hassle.
However, if you’re not already using Zoho’s suite of apps, the integrations might feel limited. The learning curve can be a bit steep, but once you’re past that, it’s smooth sailing. If broader integrations are important to you, it might be worth considering other "Book Like A Boss" competitors.
Overall Score: 7.9/10
Appointlet
Appointlet is one scheduling tool that stood out for me after my frustration with Book Like A Boss. It felt lighter, quicker, and way more intuitive. If you’re looking for an alternative to Book Like A Boss, this could be it.
It’s simple to set up, works with a variety of calendars, and is surprisingly affordable. But, like every tool, it has its quirks too
Features of Appointlet
Google Calendar Integration: Syncs effortlessly with Google Calendar, so all your meetings stay organized and in one place. No more flipping between screens.
Customizable Booking Pages: You can design a booking page that fits your brand. It’s a small touch, but it makes things feel personal.
Team Scheduling: Works well for teams, letting multiple users book and manage their own appointments. Great for businesses with more than one person handling meetings.
Automated Notifications: Sends reminders and follow-ups via email, reducing the chance of missed appointments. It’s a set-it-and-forget-it kind of feature.
Time Zone Detection: Automatically adjusts booking times based on your client’s location. No more back-and-forth emails trying to figure out time zones.
Pricing Details
Appointlet has a free plan with basic features. Paid plans start at $8/month per user, offering more customization and integration options.
Lets compare the Pros and Cons..
Pros of Appointlet
- Easy to use interface.
- Works well with major calendar apps.
- Affordable for small businesses.
- Multiple team member support.
Cons of Appointlet
- Limited customization for free users.
- Some features are locked behind higher pricing tiers.
- Lacks advanced reporting.
- Basic design could feel too plain for some.
Appointlet: Our Verdict
In my experience, Appointlet is a reliable option if you need a simple scheduling tool. It’s not flashy, but it gets the job done without the hassle I encountered using Book Like A Boss. I found it especially helpful for team-based scheduling, with automated notifications making my life easier. However, if you need deep customization or advanced analytics, this might not be for you, and you may want to explore other BLAB competitors.
So, would I recommend it? Sure, but know what you’re getting into. If simplicity and affordability are your top priorities, Appointlet ticks those boxes.
Overall Score: 7.1/10
Picktime
Picktime was a breath of fresh air after trying "Book Like A Boss." I was ready to give up on finding a tool that actually simplifies scheduling. But Picktime came through.
It's straightforward, offers tons of customization, and—thankfully—didn't frustrate me like other platforms. If you're looking for an alternative to "Book Like A Boss," Picktime might be what you need.
Features of Picktime
Picktime syncs with Google, Outlook, and even Zoom. No need to switch between apps to manage appointments.
The dashboard is clean and easy to navigate. No overwhelming menus or confusing buttons—just a simple layout.
It lets you schedule group meetings with a few clicks. Perfect for team coordination or client consultations.
You can fully customize your booking page. Branding it to match your business feels professional without the headache.
Set automated email and SMS reminders for appointments. I’ve saved myself so many no-shows because of this.
Pricing Details
Picktime offers a free plan with basic features, and their premium plan starts at $9.99 per user per month. The premium unlocks additional features like advanced reporting and integrations.
Lets compare the Pros and Cons..
Pros of Picktime
- Very easy to set up and use.
- Supports multiple users and locations.
- Free plan covers a lot of basic features.
- No learning curve—anyone can pick it up fast.
Cons of Picktime
- No mobile app for managing bookings on the go.
- Limited reporting features.
- The free plan lacks customization options.
- Support can be slow to respond during high-traffic hours.
Picktime: Our Verdict
In my experience, Picktime is an ideal solution for small businesses or freelancers. It’s simple, but it gets the job done without the complications of more robust platforms.
If you're frustrated by the limitations of "Book Like A Boss," give Picktime a try. While it’s not perfect (the lack of a mobile app bugged me), the clean design and useful features were enough to keep me onboard. For straightforward scheduling, it works. Just don’t expect advanced reporting or detailed analytics like some other BLAB competitors offer.
Overall Score: 6.7/10
Vagaro
Vagaro caught my attention as an alternative to Book Like A Boss, especially when I needed something more robust for managing my appointments. It's built with salons, spas, and fitness businesses in mind, but I found it useful for all kinds of scheduling needs.
If you're tired of limitations, Vagaro might be worth a try.
But is it the right fit for you?
Features of Vagaro
Automated Appointment Reminders: Set it and forget it. Vagaro sends reminders automatically, so clients never miss an appointment, saving you time on follow-ups.
Customizable Booking Pages: The booking pages are easy to set up and tweak. You can align them with your brand without digging through complex settings.
Point of Sale Integration: Vagaro isn't just for scheduling. You can handle payments too, making it easier to keep your operations under one roof.
Membership and Package Management: If you offer memberships or packages, Vagaro lets you track and manage them with ease. No more manual updates or confusion.
Reports and Analytics: Want to know how your business is performing? Vagaro provides detailed reports, from appointment stats to revenue insights.
Pricing Details
Vagaro starts at $25/month for a single user and scales up depending on additional features and users. The price can rise quickly if you add POS or extra users.
Lets compare the Pros and Cons..
Pros of Vagaro
- Easy to use, especially if you’re familiar with service-based scheduling.
- Automated reminders save you tons of time.
- Integrates seamlessly with payment systems.
- Customizable booking pages that don’t take hours to build.
- Membership tracking is a breeze.
Cons of Vagaro
- Might feel overwhelming with so many features if you’re just starting.
- Some features, like POS, require additional fees.
- Support can be slow during peak times.
- Built primarily for beauty and fitness industries, limiting broader appeal.
- A bit pricey compared to simpler alternatives.
Vagaro: Our Verdict
Vagaro works well as an alternative to Book Like A Boss, especially if your business is service-based. It’s a solid tool, but the extra features might overwhelm those looking for something simpler. In my experience, the automated reminders alone saved me a ton of stress.
But if you’re not in the beauty or fitness industry, it might feel a bit niche.
Still, it’s worth exploring if you want an all-in-one solution with some advanced features.
Overall Score: 7.5/10
Booksy
Booksy is a great alternative to Book Like A Boss, especially if you run a service-based business like a salon or spa. I used it for a few weeks, and it was a relief after the struggles I had with my previous scheduling software.
Its focus is more on beauty and wellness businesses, so if you're in that space, it’s definitely worth a look.
Features of Booksy
Mobile App for Clients: Booksy offers a user-friendly mobile app, making it easier for clients to book appointments on the go.
Integrated Payments: You can collect payments directly through the platform, eliminating the need for external payment processors.
Automated Reminders: Automated SMS or email reminders reduce the number of no-shows and help keep clients informed.
Client Management: It stores detailed client histories, helping you personalize services based on past bookings and preferences.
Marketing Tools: Built-in marketing features allow you to promote special offers and discounts right from the app.
Pricing Details
Booksy offers a free plan, but most businesses will need the paid plans that start around $29.99 per month. There are also add-ons that can push the cost higher depending on what features you need.
Lets compare the Pros and Cons..
Pros of Booksy
- Very intuitive mobile app.
- Payment processing is seamless and fast.
- Ideal for beauty and wellness industries.
- Built-in marketing tools save time.
Cons of Booksy
- Limited customization for non-beauty businesses.
- Lacks deeper integrations with other software.
- Pricing can get high for smaller businesses.
- The mobile app could use more personalization options.
Booksy: Our Verdict
In my experience, Booksy works best if you're running a service-based business like a salon or a spa. Its integrated payments and marketing tools help streamline both bookings and promotions.
But if you need something more versatile, Booksy’s focus might feel limiting. For those outside the beauty industry, it might not be the best fit.
However, as an alternative to Book Like A Boss, it's a solid choice if you're in its target market.
Overall Score: 7.1/10
Factors you shouldn't miss
Scheduling Page: Does the scheduling page look professional and reflect your brand? Can you easily add details like your bio, profile picture, and other relevant information? Are there options to include images, videos, or documents to enhance the booking experience?
Customization: How customizable is the platform? Can you tailor the booking process, reminders, and other features to match your specific needs and preferences? Does it offer options to personalize the booking experience for your clients?
Teams: If you have a team, does the software support team scheduling and collaboration features? Can you easily manage bookings for multiple team members and locations?
Support: How responsive and helpful is the customer support team? Are there options for live chat, email, or phone support? Does the platform offer comprehensive documentation and resources?
Ease of Use: Is the platform intuitive and easy to navigate? Can you set up your account and start scheduling appointments quickly? Does the software have a user-friendly interface?
Third-Party Integrations: Does the software integrate with other tools you use, such as your CRM, email marketing software, or video conferencing platform? This can help streamline your workflow and save time.
User Interface: Is the user interface visually appealing and easy to use? Does the platform have a clean and intuitive design?
Calendar Sync: Does the software integrate seamlessly with your preferred calendar app, such as Google Calendar or Outlook? This can help you avoid double-booking and keep your schedule organized.
Free Plan: Does the software offer a free plan with basic features? This can be a great way to try out the platform before committing to a paid subscription.
Conclusion: Which is the best Book Like a Boss alternative?
For me, Lunacal is miles ahead of the competition. Its easy setup, personalized scheduling pages, and user-friendly design make it ideal for freelancers and small businesses. However, if you’re managing a large company with 500+ users, products like [Alternative 1] or [Alternative 2] might be better, despite being more complex, sometimes overpriced, or harder to navigate. Their deeper integrations suit bigger teams.
But Lunacal’s rapid growth and features, like customizable pages with bios and client testimonials, make it a standout. With its free plan and fast support, it’s perfect for those wanting a hassle-free experience.
FAQs
What are some good alternatives to Book Like A Boss for small businesses?
There are several alternatives, including Lunacal, Acuity Scheduling, and Calendly. Each offers different levels of customization and features, so choose based on your needs like branding, team management, or pricing.
Which alternative to Book Like A Boss offers the most customization options?
Lunacal is a great option if you want a highly customizable scheduling page. It allows you to personalize your page with bios, client testimonials, and multimedia content to help build your brand.
Are there any free alternatives to Book Like A Boss?
Yes, several alternatives, including Lunacal, offer free plans. These free plans often include basic scheduling features, but paid tiers may unlock more advanced tools like integrations and custom branding.
What’s the best alternative for large teams or enterprises?
For large teams, tools like Calendly and Acuity Scheduling offer deeper integrations and features that support collaboration. However, they can sometimes feel clunky and be more expensive for bigger operations.
How easy is it to switch from Book Like A Boss to another tool?
Switching tools is typically straightforward, but the ease depends on the platform. Most alternatives provide guided onboarding or support for an easy transition. It's best to test a few with free trials.
Can alternatives to Book Like A Boss integrate with popular tools like Zoom or Google Calendar?
Yes, most alternatives offer integrations with tools like Zoom, Google Calendar, and Outlook. This ensures seamless scheduling across platforms for you and your clients.