Acuity Scheduling is one of my top-recommended appointment booking platforms for service-based businesses managing client appointments. From the moment clients book a time slot, the software handles confirmations, reminders, cancellations, and payment processing. It’s an excellent solution for entrepreneurs, consultants, and health and wellness providers seeking a dependable and scalable booking system.
In this ultimate guide and review, I cover Acuity Scheduling’s pricing, features, pros and cons, use cases, ease of use, customer service, and alternatives. I’ll also walk you through setting up and using the Acuity Scheduling app.
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What is Acuity Scheduling?
Acuity Scheduling is an online appointment scheduling tool that allows service-based businesses, freelancers, and professionals to manage client bookings efficiently. It is one of our top-ranked appointment scheduling apps for building an online presence and embedding a booking page.
Some of its key features include calendar syncing, automated email and text message reminders, time zone adjustments, and payment processor integrations. Acuity Scheduling is a Squarespace company, so it integrates seamlessly with websites built on that platform or any other website provider.
Pros
- Unlimited appointments
- Branded booking pages
- Automatic time zone conversion
- Supports PayPal, Stripe, and Square payments
- Mobile-friendly booking pages
Cons
- No free plan
- SMS reminder is locked in with higher tiers
- CSS customization requires a Premium plan
- Does not offer phone support
- Reporting tools are very basic
Deciding factors
Best for |
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Standout features |
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Free trial | 7 days |
Customer Support |
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- You run a service-based business with multiple staff or locations: Acuity Scheduling supports multiple calendars, staff logins, and location-specific booking pages. This makes it easy to manage teams and services under one account while keeping everything organized.
- You need a customizable scheduling tool with built-in payments and forms: Acuity Scheduling allows you to create custom booking pages, set unique availability for different services, and collect payments upfront. It also lets you add intake forms, so you can gather client information during the booking process.
- You want a flexible scheduler that integrates with your website and tools: As a Squarespace product, Acuity Scheduling integrates seamlessly with Squarespace websites and other similar platforms. It also works well with Zoom, QuickBooks, and Google Calendar, making it perfect for entrepreneurs who want smooth tech integration without coding.
- You need a free appointment booking tool: While Acuity Scheduling offers a seven-day free trial, it does not have a free-forever option.
- You want a platform that’s focused on group events or classes: Acuity Scheduling supports group appointments, but it does not offer more advanced attendance tracking that recurring group events require.
- You need a more affordable HIPAA-compliant tool: Acuity Scheduling’s HIPAA compliance is locked in with its Powerhouse plan, which is more expensive than other competitors.
I gave this platform 4.25 out of 5 for user reviews. It generally has positive comments on its ease of use and reliability. Reviewers consistently praise how intuitive the platform is, especially for solo professionals and small teams.
They also highlight its automated email and SMS reminders as its standout features, saying these help reduce no-shows and enhance communication with clients. Additionally, users love how easily it integrates with other tools like Google Calendar, PayPal, and Zoom.
At the time of this writing, I noted the following Acuity Scheduling reviews and ratings on popular sites:
- G2: 4.7 out of 5 based on 404 reviews
- Capterra: 4.8 out of 5 based on 5,723 reviews
- Google Play: 4.7 out of 5 based on 4,758 reviews
- App Store: 4.8 out of 5 based on 26,812 reviews
In less favorable Acuity Scheduling reviews, users cite occasional glitches or issues syncing with mobile calendars. Others note that while the interface is user-friendly, deeper customization of the booking page often requires HTML/CSS knowledge, which is not ideal for non-technical users.
Despite these points of contention, the overall sentiment leans strongly positive. Most users agree that Acuity Scheduling is a time-saver that significantly improves business efficiency.
Yes, I would absolutely use Acuity Scheduling, especially if I were running a service-based business where booking efficiency directly affects my bottom line. I gave it an expert score of 4.13 out of 5 based on my research and hands-on experience using its free trial account.
While it lacks a freemium plan, its ability to automate reminders, accept payments, and offer flexible scheduling options all in one place is a huge plus. Not only does this reduce administrative work, but it also helps create a smoother, more professional client experience. Additionally, I love its simple interface that clearly shows your menu options and next steps during setup.
Another thing that sells me is its integration ecosystem. Syncing with platforms like Zoom, Google Calendar, and Stripe ensures I don’t have to jump between apps all day. Whether I’m offering consultations, wellness services, or tutoring sessions, Acuity Scheduling gives me the tools to scale without hiring additional admin support.
Acuity Scheduling cost scored 3.38 out of 5 in my expert valuation. This provider offers three main pricing plans that range from $16 to $49 per user monthly and an enterprise-level plan with custom pricing.
All the tiers include calendar syncing, automated notifications, client self-scheduling, and integrations with payment processors like Stripe and PayPal. Higher-level tiers unlock advanced features like group appointments and HIPAA compliance. Sign up for a seven-day free trial to explore its features and capabilities.
Emerging | Growing | Powerhouse | Enterprise | |
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Best for | Startups and small businesses | Businesses that need more ways to engage clients | Businesses that are scaling up and need advanced scheduling tools | Enterprise businesses that need custom solutions |
Annual price (user/month) | $16 | $27 | $49 | Custom |
Monthly price (user/month) | $20 | $34 | $61 | Custom |
Calendars | 1 | 6 | 36 | Unlimited |
Client self-scheduling | ✓ | ✓ | ✓ | ✓ |
Payments and deposits | ✓ | ✓ | ✓ | ✓ |
Google Meet and Zoom integrations | ✓ | ✓ | ✓ | ✓ |
Text message reminders | ✕ | ✓ | ✓ | ✓ |
Multiple time zones | ✕ | ✕ | ✓ | ✓ |
Enterprise dashboard | ✕ | ✕ | ✕ | ✓ |
HIPAA compliance | ✕ | ✕ | ✓ | ✓ |
In this Acuity Scheduling review, I gave the platform’s general features 5 out of 5. Its core features include client self-scheduling, time zone conversion, and reporting. I also evaluated its customization and integration options, as well as the quality of its mobile app.
Client self-scheduling
Acuity online scheduling empowers clients to book their own appointments online, reducing the need for manual coordination and freeing up your time. Customers can view real-time availability, select their preferred time slot, and even reschedule or cancel appointments through a personalized link. This streamlined process improves customer satisfaction while giving business owners greater control and visibility over their calendars with less work.
Acuity Scheduling’s client confirmation after self-booking. (Source: Acuity Scheduling – YouTube)
Time zone conversion
The automatic time zone conversion feature eliminates confusion for businesses with clients across different regions. Whether you’re offering virtual consultations or international services, the system detects your client’s local time zone and adjusts appointment slots accordingly.
This not only prevents scheduling mishaps but also enhances the professionalism of your booking process.
Acuity Scheduling’s automatic time zone conversion. (Source: Acuity Scheduling – YouTube)
Reporting
Acuity Scheduling’s built-in reporting tools give you insights into your business performance by tracking appointments, revenue, and client activity over time. These simple yet informative analytics help you identify trends, optimize your availability, and make informed decisions.
While the reports are not overly complex, they offer just enough detail to stay on top of your scheduling efficiency and client engagement.
Acuity Scheduling’s appointments report. (Source: Acuity Scheduling free trial)
Customizations
With Acuity Scheduling, you can tailor your booking experience to reflect your brand identity. From personalized intake forms and confirmation messages to branding your scheduling page with your logo and colors, the platform lets you create a cohesive client experience.
Advanced users can even tap into CSS for deeper customization, making the interface feel like a seamless extension of your website.
Acuity Scheduling’s sample custom scheduling page. (Source: Acuity Scheduling free trial)
Integrations
Acuity Scheduling integrates effortlessly with a wide range of third-party applications to boost productivity and streamline operations. You can connect with tools like Zoom for virtual meetings, Stripe and PayPal for payments, and Google Calendar for real-time syncing. These integrations allow you to automate routine tasks and centralize your workflow, giving you more time to focus on growing your business.
Acuity Scheduling’s integrations. (Source: Acuity Scheduling free trial)
Mobile app
Acuity Scheduling’s mobile app lets users manage appointments, client info, and payments on the go. Available on iOS and Android, it offers real-time calendar updates, rescheduling, and cancellations.
Users can adjust availability, accept payments via Stripe, Square, or PayPal, and send invoices. Push notifications keep you updated on new or changed bookings, making it a convenient tool for service-based professionals who need flexibility and mobility.
Acuity Scheduling mobile app’s key capabilities. (Source: App Store)
I gave Acuity Scheduling a near-perfect score for its advanced features. Its niche features include payment processing, gift certificates, subscription management, and video conferencing.
Payment processing
Acuity Scheduling supports integrated payment processing, allowing clients to pay for services directly at the time of booking. With support for Stripe, Square, and PayPal, businesses can collect deposits, require full prepayment, or offer flexible pricing options.
This feature helps reduce no-shows and ensures smoother cash flow, all while keeping transactions secure and convenient for both business owners and clients.
Acuity Scheduling payment settings. (Source: Acuity Scheduling free trial)
Packages, gifts & subscriptions
Acuity Scheduling empowers businesses to boost revenue and client retention with bundled appointments, digital gift certificates, and subscription tools. Sell multi-session packages, offer recurring billing for ongoing services, and let clients purchase customizable gift certificates—all through your booking page. These features streamline operations, encourage long-term commitment, and attract new clients.
Acuity Scheduling’s packages, gifts, and subscription management tab. (Source: Acuity Scheduling – YouTube)
Video conferencing
With built-in integrations for Zoom, Google Meet, and other conferencing platforms, Acuity simplifies the process of hosting virtual appointments. When a client books a session, the system automatically generates and sends a meeting link, saving time and avoiding manual setup. This is a game-changer for remote businesses, enabling seamless and professional online interactions with clients around the world.
Acuity Scheduling’s video conferencing integrations. (Source: Acuity Scheduling – YouTube)
Acuity Scheduling offers a range of customer support options designed to help users get the most out of the platform. The primary channel for assistance is email support, available seven days a week during business hours.
While Acuity doesn’t currently offer live phone or chat support, users can typically expect timely and helpful responses via email. The platform also includes guided onboarding tools, which are especially useful for new users looking to configure their accounts quickly and correctly.
In addition to direct support, Acuity provides a comprehensive knowledge base filled with how-to articles, video tutorials, and step-by-step guides. This self-service library covers everything from basic setup to advanced features like subscriptions and integrations.
There’s also a community forum where users can share advice and best practices. While some businesses may prefer real-time support, Acuity’s resources are well-organized and designed to empower users to troubleshoot and learn at their own pace.
I found Acuity Scheduling to be impressively easy to use, especially for solo entrepreneurs and small business owners who may not have the luxury of a dedicated tech team. The interface is clean, simple, intuitive, and easy to navigate, even if you’re using the platform for the first time.
Getting started was a breeze. The onboarding process walks you through everything step-by-step, and I appreciated the setup templates tailored for common industries like coaching, fitness, and wellness. These templates saved me time and helped flatten the learning curve significantly.
Once I had the basics configured, managing and adapting the system felt just as straightforward. Adding new appointment types, services, or team members was quick and didn’t require me to redo anything from scratch. What stood out to me most was how scalable the platform is — it’s just as effective for a one-person operation as it is for a growing team.
How to set up Acuity Scheduling: A step-by-step guide
Setting up Acuity Scheduling is quick and straightforward, whether you’re a solo professional or part of a growing service-based business. However, if it’s your first time using this platform, you can follow this step-by-step guide to get your scheduling system up and running in no time.
1. Create an account
Go to Acuity Scheduling’s home page and select the Get Started button. Sign up for a free trial or any plan using your email or an existing Google account.
Another option is to download the Acuity Scheduling mobile app from the App Store or Google Play. You can also use your email to sign up and log in. The mobile setup steps are similar to those for desktop.
Acuity Scheduling’s home page (Source: Acuity Scheduling)
2. Set up your scheduling page
Upon signing up, you’ll see a welcome page that will prompt you to set up your scheduling page. Select Set your availability to set your time zone and check the days that you’re available for appointments. Set the time for each day and select Save.
Acuity Scheduling’s scheduling page settings (Source: Acuity Scheduling free trial)
3. Add appointment types
Go to the sidebar and select Appointment Types > New Type of Service. Enter a name (e.g., “Free Consultation”), set the duration, price (optional), and description. Choose whether the appointment is private or public. Enable intake forms if you need to collect information before the appointment.
Acuity Scheduling’s appointment settings (Source: Acuity Scheduling free trial)
4. Customize your booking page
From the welcome page, go to Design your scheduling page to customize its appearance, color/fonts, and layout. You can also customize your business name and URL for individual appointment types.
Acuity Scheduling’s scheduling page designer (Source: Acuity Scheduling free trial)
5. Sync your calendar
From the sidebar, under Business Settings, select Sync with Other Calendars. Choose from the list of calendars that you want to synchronize with and select the Connect button. Enable two-way sync to block off times from your personal calendar and avoid double bookings.
Acuity Scheduling’s calendar sync options (Source: Acuity Scheduling free trial)
6. Set up your notifications
From the sidebar, head to Notifications > Client Email and customize the confirmation, reminder, reschedule, and cancellation emails. If you’re on a paid plan, enable Client Text Messages. Set how many hours or days in advance clients are notified.
7. Share your scheduling link
From the sidebar, go to Overview > Scheduling Page > Link. You can copy the link or create a custom link name for your business. Share the link via email, social media, or your website. You can also embed the scheduler directly on your site using HTML.
Acuity Scheduling’s link customization and sharing options. (Source: Acuity Scheduling free trial)
8. Set up optional customizations and integrations
Follow these optional but recommended setup instructions to streamline your appointment-setting workflows and attract new clients:
- Connect to Zoom to automatically generate video meeting links.
- Enable payments using Stripe, Square, or PayPal to take payments during booking.
- Set up packages or subscriptions to recurring services or coaching bundles.
- Offer group classes to allow multiple attendees.
Methodology: How I evaluated Acuity Scheduling
To evaluate Acuity Scheduling, I tested the platform myself. I examined major factors that affect the decisions of end users, including its costs, general features, advanced or niche features, ease of use, and the quality and availability of customer support. I also looked at its pros and cons, as well as up-to-date user reviews about this platform from credible sites.
25% of Overall Score
General features refer to baseline capabilities I expect scheduling apps to provide to help a small business get value from their software. To score Acuity Scheduling, I checked if it offered confirmation or reminder emails, recurring appointments, a calendar sync, real-time notifications, unlimited appointments, and time zone conversions. I also checked its integration options and the quality of its mobile app.
20% of Overall Score
I examined the advanced features of Acuity Scheduling to gauge the value for money its subscribers can get. These specialized features include booking page customizations, payment processing, events or group booking, video conference calls, and data security. I also considered whether these features were provided for free, available only with higher tiers, or offered for an additional fee.
15% of Overall Score
Cost is one of the main factors that affect a customer’s choice of scheduling software. For Acuity Scheduling pricing, for instance, I gave a high score if its entry-level plan has a monthly cost of $10 per user or less. In addition, the platform gets more points for offering a free plan or free trial, scalable plans, and both monthly and annual pricing options.
10% of Overall Score
I checked if the provider has built-in templates or automation to assess ease of use. I also searched reputable review sites to gauge general user sentiment regarding its learning curve and ease of setup. In addition, I considered its plan options to see if it is easily scalable.
10% of Overall Score
Support is crucial in operating a scheduling platform, especially for small businesses or sales teams that don’t have the budget for in-house technical support staff. I checked if they offer 24-hour support and evaluated the types of support channels available. These channels include live chat, email ticketing, phone, and self-service tools.
10% of Overall Score
I tested the platform and explored its features and capabilities to compare my own experience with that of the majority of users. Doing this also allowed me to experience the program firsthand and assess its usability and value for money.
10% of Overall Score
I scoured the most recent Acuity Scheduling reviews on credible sites to know their subscribers’ satisfaction levels. This analysis helped me determine which product features they appreciate most, the common issues they encounter, and its value for money.
Acuity Scheduling alternatives
If you’re still unsure if it’s the right fit for your business after reading this Acuity Scheduling review, consider its best alternatives.
Software |  |  |  |
Best for | Sales teams that need a CRM integration | Video consultations and in-person POS | Freelancers, educators, and consultants |
Key features |
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$0 for one user $10 per user | $0 for 4 users $5 per user | $0 for one user $8.10 per user | |
Learn more |
Frequently asked questions (FAQs)
Yes, Acuity Scheduling is worth it for solo professionals, consultants, and small service businesses needing an end-to-end client booking solution. It handles everything from calendar syncing and appointment reminders to payments and intake forms, which can save hours of admin work each week.
Acuity Scheduling pricing ranges from $16 to $49 per user per month when billed annually. It also offers a custom-priced Enterprise plan for large teams and businesses.
Several providers are better than Acuity Scheduling in some aspects. Calendly, for instance, is better for team-based scheduling, while Chili Piper is great for real-time lead qualification with direct booking from web forms. Meanwhile, YouCanBook.me offers granular control over booking rules and supports white-labeling for client branding.
Acuity Scheduling is generally secure and follows industry-standard practices for protecting user data. It uses SSL encryption to safeguard data in transit and complies with privacy regulations like GDPR. However, it is not suitable for handling protected health information (PHI) unless users opt into its HIPAA-compliant version on the Powerhouse plan.
Bottom line
Acuity Scheduling is ideal for solo professionals and service-based teams needing customizable booking and client intake tools. It’s a solid investment for those who value branding, automation, and HIPAA compliance.
However, if you need team scheduling, CRM integration, or lead routing, tools like Calendly or Setmore may be better fits. Go with Acuity Scheduling if personalization and client-focused features matter most to your workflow.
