A Complete Guide to the Top 8 Salon Software

The system features robust appointment scheduling, point-of-sale functionality, and automated marketing tools designed to enhance operational efficiency. Its mobile-first approach ensures seamless access for both service providers and clients, facilitating real-time booking management and payment processing from anywhere. Monthly rates start at $23.99, with supplementary staff members available for roughly $10 each, creating a flexible and expandable model for developing businesses. Vagaro is recommended for Small-mid size businesses & enterprises in beauty, wellness, and fitness industries in the market for a comprehensive solution with scheduling, payment processing, and marketing tools.

Where Zenoti truly shines is in its analytical capabilities. Business owners gain access to sophisticated reporting and intelligence dashboards that inform strategic planning. The system also includes progressive features such as flexible pricing models, tiered membership options, and seamlessly connected retention programs—all engineered to drive profitability and long-term client relationships. However, the platform does present some challenges. The initial learning phase can be demanding for newcomers, and smaller enterprises might find themselves paying for capabilities they don't fully utilize. Cost transparency isn't always straightforward, varying with organizational size and feature requirements, while customer service quality has been noted as inconsistent by some users.

However, certain features like marketplace visibility operate on commission (20% on first-time bookings), and subscription costs climb as your client list expands. When calculating actual investment, factor in these marketplace fees and standard payment processing charges alongside base rates. This economic model typically works best for expanding businesses with consistent new client acquisition. Fresha delivers strong value and competitive pricing for fundamental salon operations, though some business owners encounter notable constraints. The absence of custom branding on free accounts and restricted offline capabilities are frequently mentioned concerns. Establishments with intricate scheduling needs—such as multiple practitioners rotating through shared workstations or equipment—may find the calendar system lacks the advanced coordination features available through competing platforms.

On the management side, the system includes sophisticated inventory controls and performance tracking features that give owners visibility into stock flow and staff productivity. The reporting suite offers deep insights into revenue patterns, client retention, and business efficiency—especially valuable for brands operating across several locations. Pricing starts at $165 per month for the Essentials tier and goes up to $375 for Unlimited, placing Mangomint at the higher end of the market. For that reason, it tends to be a better fit for established salons and multi-provider operations rather than solo professionals or newly launched businesses working with limited budgets. One standout benefit is Mangomint's transparent, flat-rate pricing—a refreshing contrast to commission-based models that cut into revenue. Still, it's worth noting that standard payment processing fees apply, and high-volume salons may see those costs accumulate over time.

Daily operations are simplified with automated reminders, payment processing, and customizable service menus, while the dashboard provides real-time analytics on sales, appointments, and client retention to help optimize performance. Pricing tiers are available as monthly or annual plans. Monthly plans (billed monthly) include Standard ($28/month), Gold ($56/month), and Platinum ($168/month). Annual plans (billed annually) offer savings with Standard ($24/month for business essentials), Gold ($48/month with growth tools for entrepreneurs and teams), and Platinum ($148/month with power features and customizations for scaling growth). GlossGenius is widely praised for its intuitive design, thoughtful features, and strong value, though advanced team-management tools require higher-tier subscriptions.

Boulevard's inventory management links directly to its point-of-sale system, providing real-time stock tracking and automatic reorder alerts. Higher-tier plans – Premier ($93/month monthly or $268/month annually) and Prestige ($410/month or $369/month annually) – add advanced marketing, analytics dashboards, and enterprise-level features for multi-location coordination. Boulevard also offers specialized Medspa pricing with Aesthetics Starter Bundle ($410/month or $369/month annually) and Aesthetics Bundle ($468/month or $421/month annually). While pricier than many alternatives, Boulevard's comprehensive tools, modern features, and premium client experience make it ideal for medspas, day spas, and larger beauty establishments offering wellness or aesthetic services.

The platform's dashboard and calendar tools are straightforward and easy to navigate. Color-coded schedules, automated reminders, and basic reporting are all accessible via mobile, allowing professionals to manage appointments efficiently. Booksy also handles payment processing, client records, and review collection, so the majority of day-to-day tasks can be managed within a single system. Additional tools enhance business growth: a digital portfolio lets users showcase their work, social media integration expands client reach, and automated marketing campaigns help attract new customers while retaining existing ones. Built-in analytics provide insights into booking trends, revenue patterns, and client preferences, supporting informed, data-driven decisions. While ideal for solo operators or small teams, Booksy is less suited for larger salons or multi-location businesses, as reporting and customization options are relatively limited compared to enterprise solutions.

Square has recently improved its scheduling experience with updated calendar views and more efficient manager approval workflows. They've also introduced Square Go, a marketplace app that helps clients discover nearby providers and book through the platform. A major advantage is Square's modular structure: start with simple appointment booking (which is free for solo providers) and add tools as you grow—such as advanced POS systems, payroll, automated marketing, and a customizable website via Square Online. The platform's updated brand editor keeps your visual identity consistent across every channel. Square Plus balances simplicity with capability. Its intuitive design, reliable reporting, and wide integration options make it easy to manage bookings, payments, and customer communication. Whether you're new to the industry or scaling an established business, Square Plus offers a cost-effective, dependable foundation that grows with you.