Comparison
BookFade vs Fresha
Flat subscription vs "free" with a 20% toll
Fresha looks cheap on the surface: a low subscription and a marketplace that can send you clients. The bill shows up in the tolls: 20% of every new marketplace client (minimum $6), per-message SMS charges after a small free allowance, and processing on every card. BookFade charges one flat subscription, includes reminders, and never takes a percentage of anyone's haircut.
| Feature | BookFade | Fresha |
|---|---|---|
| Base price | $29.99/mo solo (or $99.99/yr), $59.99/mo for a shop (or $199.99/yr) | $19.95/mo solo, $14.95 per team member/mo |
| New-client commission | None, ever | 20% of new marketplace clients (min $6) |
| SMS reminders | Included, unlimited | 20 free/mo, then billed per message |
| Your own booking page | Yes, yours and brandable | Profile inside the Fresha marketplace |
| Client notes and history | Included | Included |
| Team pricing | $59.99/mo flat for the shop | Scales per bookable team member |
Fresha lists an Independent plan at $19.95/mo and a Team plan at $14.95 per bookable team member per month, charges a 20% new-client marketplace fee (min $6), includes only 20 free SMS per month before per-message billing, and processes cards at 2.79% + 20 cents online. Competitor pricing checked July 2026 from public pricing pages; always confirm current rates with the vendor.
Which should you pick?
If you are starting with zero clients and want marketplace exposure at the cost of 20% per new client, Fresha's model can work. If your book is built and your reminders go out daily, per-SMS billing and marketplace fees add up fast, and BookFade's flat price wins.
FAQ
Common questions
Is Fresha really free?
Not anymore for most use. As of 2026 Fresha lists subscription plans ($19.95/mo Independent, $14.95 per team member Team), plus a 20% new-client marketplace fee with a $6 minimum, per-SMS charges beyond a small allowance, and card processing fees.
Does BookFade charge per SMS reminder?
No. Appointment reminders by SMS and email are included in the subscription.
Does BookFade take a percentage of new clients?
No. There is no marketplace commission of any kind. Clients book through your own page and every dollar is yours.
Keep every dollar from every chair
Flat pricing, your own booking page, reminders that kill no-shows. Free trial, no card required.
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