Buffer vs Hootsuite: affiliate programs compared
Side-by-side terms from each company's official page. Listed in alphabetical order, never by what pays us.
| Buffer | Hootsuite | |
|---|---|---|
| Commission | 25% for the first 12 months | 20% of first-month revenue on Standard plans (more on Advanced) |
| Commission type | Recurring | Percent per sale |
| Cookie window | not stated | 90 days |
| Minimum payout | not stated | not stated |
| Payout terms | Monthly through Dub, within 30 days after month end, in your local currency | Through impact.com; schedule not stated |
| Minimum age | not stated | not stated |
| Beginner-friendly | Yes | Yes |
| Allowed channels | BlogYouTubePodcastNewsletterSocial mediaTikTokInstagramLinkedIn | BlogYouTubeNewsletterSocial media |
| Network | Dub | impact.com |
| How to apply | On the company's website | Through an affiliate network |
| Who can join | For creators, agencies and community/newsletter owners; no need to be a customer. Each application reviewed. | Free to join; for publishers, thought leaders and content creators. Each application reviewed. |
| Last checked | ✓ Verified Oct 25, 2026 | ✓ Verified Oct 22, 2026 |
| Official terms | Open ↗ | Open ↗ |
Key differences
- Buffer pays recurring commissions while the customer keeps paying (check its terms for how long). Hootsuite pays percent per sale.
- Buffer lists Instagram, TikTok, LinkedIn, Podcast as allowed channels; Hootsuite doesn't list them.
- They run on different platforms: Buffer uses Dub, Hootsuite uses impact.com.
How to choose
- Start with the product your audience would actually use. A fit with your audience matters more than the commission rate.
- Check that the program allows the place you post, and read its rules on paid ads and coupons.
- You can often join both. Many affiliates promote competing tools and explain who each one suits.
Who pays: each company sets and pays its own commissions and can change its terms at any time. Green Gator Affiliator does not pay, hold or guarantee any earnings. Confirm current terms on each official page before you apply. New to this? Read affiliate marketing basics.
More comparisons
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