Your clients are speaking about your model proper now, on Twitter, Reddit, LinkedIn, TikTok, and a dozen different channels. The query is: are you listening to them?
Social media listening isn’t nearly monitoring mentions or counting likes. It’s about tapping into unfiltered conversations to grasp how individuals actually really feel about your product, your rivals, and your class. It’s one of the vital highly effective methods to identify developments early, catch points earlier than they escalate, and form smarter campaigns rooted in real-time suggestions.
However not all instruments are constructed equally. Some floor noise as a substitute of insights, whereas others provide depth however lack usability. That’s why I researched and in contrast the finest social media listening instruments in the marketplace, reviewing G2 suggestions, core options, and the way actual groups use them to remain forward.
This information will assist you discover a platform that aligns along with your objectives, whether or not you goal to watch model sentiment, monitor rising conversations, or extract viewers insights that inform higher selections.
10 finest social media listening instruments: My picks for 2026
- Sprout Social: Greatest for deep listening insights and reporting
Provides superior key phrase monitoring, sentiment evaluation, and aggressive insights, alongside publishing and buyer care instruments (free trial accessible, premium pricing begins at $199/mo/consumer) - Hootsuite: Greatest for all-in-one social media administration
Let’s you monitor model mentions, schedule posts, and analyze efficiency throughout a number of platforms from one dashboard (30-day free trial, premium pricing begins at $99/mo/consumer) - Meltwater: Greatest for world media and social monitoring
Tracks thousands and thousands of on-line sources in actual time to floor developments, measure sentiment, and handle model status at scale (accessible on request) - Brandwatch: Greatest for AI-powered client intelligence
Analyzes giant volumes of on-line conversations to uncover patterns, developments, and viewers sentiment (accessible on request) - Statusbrew: Greatest for collaborative listening and response workflows
Allows groups to watch conversations, assign responses, and monitor developments, excellent for multi-brand or multi-location companies (14-day free trial, premium pricing begins at $69/mo) - Popularity: Greatest for combining social listening with assessment administration
Brings collectively social mentions, buyer critiques, and survey responses to provide a 360° view of brand name well being (accessible on request) - Agorapulse: Greatest for good listening with built-in scheduling
Provides filtered listening streams, sentiment tagging, and fast reporting, wrapped in a user-friendly platform (free for 30 days, premium pricing begins at $79/mo/consumer) - YouScan: Greatest for visible social listening and picture recognition
Makes use of AI to investigate pictures and movies in user-generated content material, making it excellent for figuring out brand utilization, model moments, and developments ( begins at $499/mo) - Brand24: Greatest for real-time alerts and sentiment evaluation
Captures model mentions throughout internet and social, serving to groups reply rapidly and spot rising points (14-day free trial, premium pricing begins at $149) - Vista Social: Greatest for reasonably priced monitoring and scheduling
Combines social listening with publishing instruments, making it a superb match for lean groups or businesses (free trial for 14 days, premium pricing begins at $64/mo)
* These finest social media listening instruments are top-rated of their class, based on G2’s Winter 2026 Grid Studies. I’ve added their standout options and pricing particulars for simpler comparability.
My 10 picks for one of the best social media listening instruments in 2026
Whereas evaluating these instruments, it grew to become clear how a lot they enhance model monitoring, uncover real-time buyer insights, and assist advertising groups keep forward of necessary conversations.
In response to Grand View Analysis, the worldwide social listening market is projected to achieve $20.18 million by 2030, with a CAGR of 14.3%, reflecting its rising significance in digital technique.
For those who’re questioning which device PR groups belief throughout a disaster, which one surfaces competitor insights quickest, or which platform gives probably the most intuitive dashboards, these instruments persistently lead the pack in accuracy, depth, and value.
How did I discover and consider one of the best social media listening instruments?
To establish the highest social media listening instruments, I analyzed actual consumer critiques on G2 to grasp how these platforms carry out throughout totally different advertising and model monitoring workflows.
I evaluated how every device helps key use instances, whether or not it is monitoring model mentions in actual time, analyzing sentiment, figuring out developments, or uncovering competitor insights.
I additionally used AI to sift by way of consumer suggestions and G2 Winter 2026 Grid® Studies to check ease of use, knowledge accuracy, dashboard high quality, and total satisfaction throughout platforms. This information contains screenshots from vendor G2 pages to indicate what these instruments truly appear to be in use.
I’ve curated this listing to assist advertising, PR, and buyer expertise groups discover the appropriate resolution for listening to what actually issues — so you may make smarter selections, reply quicker, and keep forward of conversations that form your model.
What makes one of the best social media listening instruments price it: My opinion
When evaluating one of the best social media listening platforms, I targeted on options that straight affect model monitoring, real-time viewers perception, and cross-functional worth for advertising, PR, and product groups.
- Complete channel protection: The perfect instruments transcend Twitter or Instagram. I looked for platforms that monitor a variety of sources, together with social networks, boards, blogs, information websites, and even Reddit and YouTube feedback. Broad protection ensures you’re not lacking conversations that matter to your model or trade.
- Actual-time alerts and sentiment evaluation: Pace and context are all the pieces in social media. I prioritized instruments that supply immediate alerts for spikes in mentions, shifts in sentiment, or trending matters. Constructed-in sentiment evaluation (particularly with help for a number of languages) helps groups reply proactively to reward, complaints, or potential crises.
- Viewers and subject segmentation: It’s not nearly what individuals are saying, it’s about who’s saying it. I seemed for instruments that allow you to filter by demographics, location, affect, or curiosity segments. The perfect platforms assist you zero in on precedence audiences and uncover developments throughout totally different buyer teams.
- Aggressive and market benchmarking: High-tier social listening instruments don’t simply present your individual mentions. I valued platforms that present side-by-side comparisons with rivals, monitor share of voice, and monitor broader trade key phrases. This helps groups benchmark efficiency and establish whitespace alternatives.
- Perception visualization and reporting: Information is simply helpful if it’s digestible. I seemed for instruments with customizable dashboards, shareable stories, and visualizations that make it straightforward to inform a narrative with social knowledge. Whether or not it’s for an exec deck or a marketing campaign autopsy, nice reporting issues.
- Compliance and knowledge entry transparency: Social knowledge is topic to altering platform insurance policies and privateness rules. I favor instruments which might be clear about how they entry and retailer knowledge, and that stay compliant with APIs and consumer consent requirements. Reliable knowledge dealing with is a should, particularly for enterprise groups.
The listing beneath accommodates real consumer critiques from our greatest Social Media Listening Instruments Class web page. To qualify for inclusion within the class, a product should:
- Hear for particular mentions throughout social media platforms
- Establish trending matters or phrases by monitoring real-time conversations
- Analyze and element buyer sentiment (constructive, unfavourable, impartial)
- Set up buyer data for viewers segmentation and engagement
- Establish thought leaders and influencers inside related industries
This knowledge was pulled from G2 in 2026. Some critiques have been edited for readability and accuracy.
1. Sprout Social: Greatest for deep listening insights and reporting
In response to G2 Information, I discovered that Sprout Social is utilized by 45% of small-business and 37% of mid-market groups to successfully have interaction audiences, streamline content material publishing, and derive actionable insights from social media interactions.
One function that stood out to me is its intuitive consumer interface. Many reviewers famous that transitioning from earlier social scheduling platforms was fast and seamless, and that the UI made it straightforward for groups to search out options and turn out to be absolutely built-in into the platform.
I observed that Sprout Social gives intensive academic assets, together with in-depth masterclasses on social media development methods. Customers talked about that these assets had been extremely useful in enhancing crew abilities and making social campaigns simpler.
One other frequent theme I noticed in critiques was reward for analytics capabilities. Reviewers mentioned that the platform presents knowledge in an easy-to-interpret means, and that options like marketing campaign tagging and reporting cut back the necessity to spend hours analyzing particular person posts. Many highlighted how thrilling it’s to verify efficiency metrics as a result of they’re complete and actionable.
Publishing and scheduling instruments had been incessantly talked about as a serious plus. Customers appreciated the flexibility to plan content material upfront throughout a number of channels, serving to to keep up consistency and engagement.
I observed reviewers praising collaboration options. Instruments like shared calendars, job assignments, and crew workflow administration had been known as out for making it simpler to coordinate campaigns throughout distributed groups.
Sprout Social’s social listening and monitoring instruments had been additionally highlighted. Customers talked about that having the ability to monitor model mentions and viewers sentiment helped them keep on prime of engagement developments and reply proactively.
One other profit that comes up usually is responsive buyer help. Reviewers famous that Sprout Social’s help crew is fast and useful, offering help with setup, troubleshooting, and steerage on superior options.
Pricing could be steep, significantly for small groups or startups. Many customers famous that the platform’s superior options and analytics justify the price, particularly for groups searching for complete social media administration.
Some superior instruments, reminiscent of granular competitor evaluation or automation workflows, could require time to completely make the most of or necessitate higher-tier plans. Nonetheless, customers who invested in exploring these options discovered the effectivity beneficial properties and actionable insights from automation and reporting effectively definitely worth the effort.
Total, primarily based on my assessment of G2, Sprout Social is extensively regarded for its intuitive UI, academic assets, superior analytics, publishing instruments, collaboration options, social listening capabilities, and responsive help, making it a trusted alternative for groups searching for to successfully develop and handle their social media presence.
What I like about Sprout Social:
- I admire that Sprout Social has an intuitive consumer interface, making it fast and simple to transition from different platforms. Customers on G2 additionally second this.
- Its analytics, publishing instruments, and collaboration options assist groups work smarter and keep organized, a function that G2 customers additionally spotlight.
What G2 customers like about Sprout Social:
“I really like the folders that Sprout has accessible to type the instances from the good inbox. All the tags that assist set up instances/good inbox are extraordinarily useful, making it a lot simpler to sift by way of all of the incoming engagements. I additionally admire how Sprout updates the instances fairly instantly for the streams, which is useful contemplating we use it day-after-day for work.”
– Sprout Social Evaluate, Sage Ok.
What I dislike about Sprout Social:
- The pricing could be steep for small groups or startups, as G2 customers have talked about; nonetheless, in addition they consider the superior options make it worthwhile.
- G2 customers observed that superior instruments, reminiscent of granular competitor evaluation, could require time to completely make the most of or necessitate higher-tier plans. Nonetheless, customers who invested in exploring these options discovered effectivity beneficial properties.
What G2 customers dislike about Sprout Social:
“There are a couple of high quality of life enhancements I might admire. As an example, being able to pull and drop notes to a different date, very like how posts could be rescheduled by dragging them, could be a welcome enchancment. Moreover, introducing a Fb first remark function, much like the present Instagram first remark possibility, could be useful, particularly since Fb now suggests putting hyperlinks in feedback.”
– Sprout Social Evaluate, Jamie S.
2. Hootsuite: Greatest identified for all-in-one social media administration
In response to G2 Information, I discovered that Hootsuite helps 59% of enterprise and 29% of mid-market advertising groups handle content material scheduling, engagement, and analytics throughout numerous platforms, together with Instagram, TikTok, Threads, X (previously Twitter), Fb, LinkedIn, Pinterest, and YouTube, effectively.
One function that stood out to me is the flexibility to schedule throughout platforms. Many customers have reported that it saves them hours every week, permitting them to plan and publish posts throughout a number of networks without having to change between instruments. They incessantly point out that having the ability to handle each natural and paid content material in a single dashboard makes coordinating social methods a lot simpler.
Reviewers persistently reward Hootsuite’s integrations. Customers highlighted how easily it connects with totally different social media channels and advertising instruments, which helps groups keep a constant model voice and simplifies workflows.
One other frequent thread I noticed was appreciation for AI-powered publish creation. Reviewers talked about that the AI options assist them generate concepts, create partaking captions, and save time, particularly when managing high-volume content material.
Inbox 2.0 additionally got here up incessantly. Customers mentioned it successfully consolidates messages from a number of platforms into one unified inbox. I learn that options like Person Notes, Resolve, and Assign make managing crew communication a lot simpler, serving to groups reply to clients effectively.
A number of reviewers highlighted the analytics dashboard, noting that it offers clear metrics and actionable insights, thereby simplifying marketing campaign efficiency monitoring. Collaboration instruments, reminiscent of shared calendars and role-based permissions, additionally emerged as a serious plus, enabling groups to coordinate campaigns easily.
However, I recognized a few frequent drawbacks that customers point out. Constructed for multi-network publishing, Hootsuite centralizes your workflow. As a result of Instagram doesn’t carry over alt textual content from third-party instruments, accessibility might have a fast handbook verify on Instagram. Nonetheless, customers appreciated having the ability to depend on buyer help. Many reviewers talked about the fast and useful responses they obtained throughout setup or after they encountered connection points.
Reviewers highlighted pricing, which some really feel is excessive for those who’re primarily utilizing Hootsuite as a scheduling device. However using its superior options, reminiscent of sturdy integrations, AI content material instruments, Inbox 2.0, and crew collaboration options, appears to justify the price for a lot of customers, highlighting the platform’s velocity, flexibility, and actionable insights.
Total, primarily based on my assessment of G2, Hootsuite is extensively regarded for its cross-platform scheduling, AI enhancements, unified inbox, analytics, and crew collaboration instruments, making it a trusted alternative for groups managing social media throughout a number of channels.
What I like about Hootsuite:
- Hootsuite makes cross-platform scheduling and managing each natural and paid content material a lot simpler, and customers on G2 agree.
- Options like Inbox 2.0, AI-powered publish creation, and analytics dashboards assist groups keep organized and make smarter content material selections, a profit additionally highlighted by G2 customers.
What G2 customers like about Hootsuite:
“Hootsuite is extraordinarily useful for organizing all elements of social media advertising. From planning to analytics to caption era, I personally haven’t discovered something this utility can’t assist me deal with. My favourite factor about Hootsuite is the flexibility to publish on a number of platforms without delay. I choose the platforms I wish to publish on, add the media and a caption, then schedule the publish with one click on.”
– Hootsuite Evaluate, Gabriela C.
What I dislike about Hootsuite:
- G2 customers felt that generally the alt textual content doesn’t switch to Instagram. Though in addition they assume the platform’s total content material administration options make up for it.
- The pricing appears excessive for those who primarily use it for scheduling, and G2 customers have additionally famous this. Nonetheless, they consider the superior options justify the price.
What G2 customers dislike about Hootsuite:
“The calendar view drives me a bit nuts. I see solely platform icons within the month view as a substitute of actual content material, making it fairly troublesome to visualise posts to return. Additionally, post-edits generally vanish, with no actual undo. Final however not least, the cellular expertise wants a severe improve. It is clunky and never excellent when most posting takes place whereas on the transfer.”
– Hootsuite Evaluate, Volha P.
3. Meltwater: Greatest for world media and social monitoring
Meltwater is well known as a strong all-in-one platform for PR and social media administration. Many customers spotlight its skill to watch on-line conversations, monitor developments, and optimize engagement, making it a go-to resolution for groups searching for actionable insights.
One function that persistently will get reward is the Discover operate. Reviewers incessantly point out utilizing it to trace discussions about their group, comply with related matters, and evaluate competitor exercise. A number of notice that analyzing developments over totally different time intervals helps them perceive the broader context and make extra knowledgeable strategic selections.
I’ve observed that G2 customers usually name out the “finest time to publish” suggestions within the Have interaction operate. In response to a number of critiques, this function analyzes viewers exercise and suggests optimum posting occasions, resulting in noticeably increased engagement on social media campaigns. Customers describe it as a sensible device for making content material simpler and data-driven.
One other generally appreciated ingredient is Meltwater’s intuitive interface and workflows. Many reviewers point out that even these with prior expertise in related instruments discover the platform straightforward to navigate, permitting them to get began rapidly and not using a steep studying curve.
Customers incessantly spotlight the platform’s analytics and reporting capabilities. Evaluations notice that Meltwater permits them to trace efficiency metrics, measure engagement developments, and visualize knowledge in ways in which simplify strategic planning and decision-making.
A function that I discovered noteworthy from critiques is the contact administration database. Many customers talked about that Meltwater offers sufficient contact data to help outreach efforts, even when some emails often have to be supplemented with handbook follow-ups. This helps streamline PR campaigns and saves time for groups managing a number of contacts.
Analyzing broader assessment developments, the search operate is mostly thought to be sturdy. Some reviewers point out minor limitations, reminiscent of the lack to make use of an AND operator for beats, however most really feel that the device nonetheless offers the insights they want with out relying closely on exterior options.
On the flip facet, I’ve come throughout dissatisfaction round contact administration. Some reviewers have famous lacking or incorrect emails and gaps within the database, which may affect focused outreach efforts. That mentioned, many additionally level out that Meltwater offers sufficient baseline data to help campaigns, usually supplemented with handbook follow-ups or different instruments.
Customers additionally point out the e-mail sending function. Some report that it lacks full customization for bulk emails, which may restrict flexibility and will not go well with groups anticipating superior personalization. Even so, most reviewers agree that the function nonetheless helps efficient outreach by way of streamlined workflows and ample contact data, making it a greater match for groups that prioritize simplicity over intricate electronic mail design.
Based mostly on suggestions I gathered from G2 customers, Meltwater is valued for its Discover operate, finest time to publish suggestions, intuitive interface, analytics and reporting, sturdy search, and phone administration options. Its mixture of actionable insights, data-driven suggestions, and user-friendly design makes it an indispensable platform for PR and social media administration.
What I like about Meltwater:
- Meltwater makes it straightforward to watch conversations, monitor developments, and optimize engagement, and customers on G2 second this.
- Options just like the Discover operate, “finest time to publish” suggestions, and the intuitive interface assist groups make data-driven selections and get began rapidly, a function that G2 customers additionally spotlight.
What G2 customers like about Meltwater:
“Meltwater offers us with invaluable knowledge and insights. With the Discover operate, we will monitor on-line conversations about our group and associated areas, whereas additionally evaluating these discussions to competitor exercise and analyzing developments over totally different time intervals. My favourite function, nonetheless, is the “finest time to publish” suggestions throughout the Have interaction operate. By analyzing our viewers’s exercise and peak on-line occasions, Meltwater suggests optimum posting occasions, considerably boosting our engagement throughout all social media platforms.”
– Meltwater Evaluate, Megan D.
What I dislike about Meltwater:
- A number of customers have famous that contact information aren’t all the time correct, with occasional lacking or outdated electronic mail addresses. G2 customers acknowledged this however talked about that the platform nonetheless offers sufficient data to help outreach.
- Customers have famous a difficulty with the e-mail sending function, because it lacks full customization for bulk emails; nonetheless, in addition they consider that the workflows stay efficient for outreach.
What G2 customers dislike about Meltwater:
“The backend of the platform continues to be difficult, however I haven’t got a lot productive suggestions on learn how to make it higher. It is top-of-the-line merchandise of its form in the marketplace, however utilizing it may definitely, as all the time, be improved.”
– Meltwater Evaluate, Carter C.
Your on-line status shapes first impressions. See which ORM instruments assist you monitor mentions, handle critiques, and keep in command of your model narrative.
4. Brandwatch: Greatest for AI-powered client intelligence
Brandwatch is acknowledged as a complete resolution for monitoring social media, promoting, publishing, viewers analytics, and buyer knowledge. Many reviewers notice that groups depend on it to trace model mentions, measure marketing campaign efficiency, and generate actionable insights throughout a number of channels.
One function that incessantly stands out is the benefit of integration with present workflows. Customers usually point out that after some preliminary coaching, the platform suits seamlessly into administration processes, permitting groups to undertake it with out main disruptions.
I’ve observed that reviewers persistently reward analytical capabilities. Many spotlight the flexibility to generate detailed stories and monitor content material efficiency throughout a number of channels, which permits groups to make data-driven selections and optimize their campaigns.
One other generally talked about power is the Have interaction module. Customers notice that it permits monitoring of brand name mentions and conversations they may in any other case miss, serving to groups keep well timed and related engagement with their viewers.
Content material publishing and scheduling additionally obtain constructive mentions. Reviewers spotlight that managing a number of social accounts from a single platform saves time and ensures constant messaging throughout channels.
Collaboration options are additionally incessantly praised. Many customers notice that crew roles, shared dashboards, and job administration make it simpler to coordinate campaigns and keep alignment throughout groups.
Customizable dashboards and reporting are one other space the place reviewers see worth. In response to suggestions, these dashboards make insights straightforward to interpret and actionable, successfully supporting KPI monitoring and management reporting.
Some reviewers point out that new customers might have time to get comfy with Brandwatch’s analytics and reporting options. Many additionally notice that the platform’s coaching assets and help assist make this transition smoother.
A number of customers have reported occasional lag or syncing points with particular social platforms. Whereas this may briefly disrupt workflows, most customers contemplate these points minor in comparison with the general worth of the platform, and say they turn out to be simpler to handle with common use.
All in all, primarily based on suggestions from G2 customers, Brandwatch is extensively appreciated for its seamless integrations, analytical capabilities, Have interaction module, content material publishing, collaboration instruments, and customizable dashboards.
What I like about Brandwatch:
- Brandwatch integrates easily into present workflows, and it seems that G2 customers share an analogous sentiment about how simply groups can undertake it.
- Analytics and reporting capabilities assist monitor content material efficiency and optimize campaigns, one thing reviewers incessantly spotlight.
What G2 customers like about Brandwatch:
“The Planner function in Brandwatch is excellent. It offers our total crew—and the broader enterprise clear visibility into all scheduled content material every day. The built-in approval workflow is seamless, making collaboration straightforward and making certain all the pieces is completely tailor-made earlier than it goes reside.”
– Brandwatch Evaluate, Amanda H.
What I dislike about Brandwatch:
- I observed that new customers might have time to turn out to be comfy with analytics and reporting, and G2 reviewers have additionally highlighted this. Many additionally talked about that Brandwatch’s coaching assets and help make the transition simpler.
- I additionally noticed occasional lag or syncing points with sure social platforms, which reviewers famous; nonetheless, most contemplate these minor and manageable, given the platform’s total worth.
What G2 customers dislike about Brandwatch:
“As a department supervisor of an property company, it could be extra useful to have a full cellular app so I can handle issues on the go. The one different unfavourable I’ve discovered is that navigating the pictures and including textual content to them could be fairly fiddly and time-consuming. However I’ve by no means been nice with know-how, so which may simply be me.”
– Brandwatch Evaluate, Aaron D.
5. Statusbrew: Greatest for collaborative listening and response workflows
Statusbrew is valued as a complete platform for businesses and companies to plan content material, handle communities, collaborate with groups, and analyze social media efficiency. In response to G2 Information, 58% of companies use Statusbrew to streamline social media administration and help data-driven decision-making.
One function that incessantly stands out is the mini-tutorials that seem when clicking on every icon. Reviewers usually notice that these tutorials assist customers perceive every device and discover platform options extra successfully, making the training course of smoother and lowering onboarding challenges.
I’ve observed that customers incessantly reward the AI Assistant. In response to suggestions, it offers artistic recommendations for textual content and content material, enabling groups to generate concepts rapidly and keep engagement with minimal handbook effort.
One other generally highlighted power is the social media efficiency stories. Many customers point out that the stories are sensible and visible, giving groups the info they should analyze efficiency and enhance technique throughout a number of channels.
Reviewers level out the advantages of content material scheduling and planning. With the ability to plan and publish posts throughout platforms from a single dashboard is usually described as a serious time-saver that helps keep constant messaging.
Collaboration options additionally obtain frequent mentions. G2 customers notice that crew workflows, job assignments, and shared calendars make coordinating campaigns and managing a number of contributors extra environment friendly.
Superior analytics and reporting are one other space the place reviewers see worth. Many spotlight that these instruments allow groups to make data-driven selections and optimize social methods in actual time, enhancing total marketing campaign effectiveness.
I’ve gathered from some G2 customers that the preliminary setup can really feel a bit heavy as a result of platform’s depth, particularly round automation and workflow administration. Some customers, nonetheless, notice that mini tutorials and sturdy help assist them stand up to hurry.
Some G2 reviewers famous that the cellular app can often lag and gives restricted performance for scheduling or modifying posts on the go. Many customers nonetheless praised its comfort for monitoring exercise and staying linked with their social media accounts from anyplace.
Total, Statusbrew is extensively appreciated for its mini tutorials, AI Assistant, efficiency reporting, content material scheduling, collaboration options, and superior analytics.
What I like about Statusbrew:
- The mini tutorials make exploring the platform simpler and cut back onboarding challenges; evidently many G2 customers agree that this protects time.
- The AI Assistant gives artistic content material recommendations and helps keep engagement, a function reviewers incessantly spotlight.
What G2 customers like about Statusbrew:
“Statusbrew is maybe one of many easiest and most user-friendly social media platforms accessible at present, providing complete options for managing social media streams. It makes it straightforward to handle a number of accounts, customise publish timing, and rapidly schedule content material utilizing a queue system for particular days. The platform contains built-in analytics, direct posting to Instagram (together with Tales), crew administration instruments, and extra, offered you are on a plan that features these options. Total, Statusbrew has been my favourite social media administration device for its simplicity and core performance, although it does fall quick in a couple of key areas.”
– Statusbrew Evaluate, David A.
What I dislike about Statusbrew:
- The preliminary setup can really feel a bit heavy due to the platform’s depth, and different G2 customers have talked about this too, although in addition they level out that tutorials and help assist ease the method.
- The cellular app can lag and has restricted performance for modifying or scheduling posts on the go. G2 reviewers have additionally observed this, however many really feel it’s nonetheless ample for fundamental administration duties.
What G2 customers dislike about Statusbrew:
“Statusbrew is nice for Fb and LinkedIn posts, and we use it usually for these two channels. Nonetheless, it doesn’t work effectively with Threads and doesn’t help Bluesky in any respect, which is disappointing. I’d give it a a lot increased ranking if these platforms had been higher supported.”
– Statusbrew Evaluate, Jens N.
6. Popularity: Greatest for combining social listening with assessment administration
Popularity is well known for serving to corporations measure, handle, and scale their model efficiency in real-time. Many reviewers spotlight that groups use the platform to streamline assessment administration, monitor model sentiment, and acquire actionable insights that enhance buyer belief and loyalty.
One function that incessantly receives reward is automated assessment gathering. Customers notice that it’s straightforward to gather critiques throughout a number of platforms, making certain suggestions is captured promptly. The assessment feed itself is usually described as clear and intuitive, permitting groups to view and handle incoming suggestions effectively.
I’ve observed that G2 customers usually name out the platform’s report filtering capabilities. With the ability to rapidly filter sections of stories permits groups to give attention to the insights that matter most, saving time and lowering effort in navigating irrelevant knowledge.
One other generally appreciated ingredient is buyer help. Reviewers incessantly describe the crew as responsive, educated, and proactive in aiding with setup, troubleshooting, and finest practices, which provides worth to the general expertise.
Many customers spotlight real-time status monitoring as a standout function. With the ability to monitor adjustments in sentiment and scores as they occur helps groups reply rapidly to each constructive and unfavourable suggestions, giving them an edge in sustaining a robust model picture.
Ease of use and an intuitive design are additionally generally talked about. Dashboards and navigation are sometimes described as simple, enabling new customers to get began rapidly with out intensive coaching or onboarding.
Integration with core enterprise instruments is one other profit reviewers notice. Whereas some customers would love much more integrations, reminiscent of connecting with platforms like Glassdoor, present integrations with CRM and advertising methods are seen as ample to tie status metrics to broader enterprise outcomes.
On the flip facet, I’ve seen some customers point out points with efficiency and dashboard responsiveness. Dashboards could be gradual to load, and choosing dates could really feel unintuitive at occasions. These feedback are extra frequent amongst groups anticipating immediate responsiveness. Many reviewers notice that the platform’s total design nonetheless permits entry to key insights with out main disruption.
Popularity is valued for its automated assessment gathering, clear assessment feed, report filtering, responsive buyer help, real-time monitoring, and intuitive design.
What I like about Popularity:
- Automated assessment gathering makes it straightforward to gather suggestions throughout platforms, and it seems that many G2 customers share an analogous sentiment concerning the time it saves.
- Actual-time status monitoring and intuitive dashboards assist groups reply rapidly to adjustments in sentiment, one thing I’ve seen reviewers spotlight usually.
What G2 customers like about Popularity:
“The software program is simple to navigate and quite simple to log into. When attempting to view particular data from the stories, it’s straightforward to filter the sections you want to see. I take advantage of this virtually day by day to trace and monitor all of the critiques coming in for our enterprise. I’ve hardly needed to contact buyer help as a result of all the pieces has labored completely, however when I’ve, the reside chat function was easy and efficient.”
– Popularity Evaluate, Adam F.
What I dislike about Popularity:
- I observed that dashboards can generally be gradual, and choosing dates isn’t all the time intuitive. It seems that different G2 customers have talked about related points, though they nonetheless discover the insights accessible.
- I observed that integrations might be expanded past the present CRM and advertising methods, and reviewers additionally point out this. Nonetheless, many customers, particularly small to mid-sized groups, discover that the platform meets most of their enterprise wants.
What G2 customers dislike about Popularity:
“There are a couple of areas that might be improved, however my essential gripe is just not having the ability to add new customers in bulk myself. Having to undergo help for these requests can usually take longer than I’d like, however it’s acceptable.”
– Popularity Evaluate, Avery S.
7. Agorapulse: Greatest for good listening with built-in scheduling
Agorapulse gives publishing, reporting, monitoring, and crew collaboration instruments, making social media administration less complicated and extra environment friendly.
In response to G2 Information, 86% customers admire having the ability to entry customized stories and dashboards to measure social exercise and engagement alternatives. I discovered that many groups depend on it to consolidate social media metrics, streamline content material planning, and handle viewers engagement from a single platform.
One function that persistently stood out to me is reporting. Many reviewers talked about that the customizable weekly and month-to-month stories permit them to consolidate metrics throughout all platforms, making it straightforward to current clear, actionable knowledge to management.
I observed frequent reward for scheduling capabilities. Customers highlighted how planning content material days upfront, somewhat than posting in actual time, saves vital time and ensures consistency throughout channels.
One other frequent thread in critiques is the cellular app. Customers mentioned it permits them to seize and share content material on the fly, making it invaluable for groups that have to publish well timed updates or reply rapidly to developments.
Monitoring and inbox administration additionally obtained constructive mentions. Many reviewers appreciated how Agorapulse centralizes messages, feedback, and mentions, serving to groups keep on prime of engagement effectively.
Collaboration options are one other robust level. Customers famous that shared calendars, crew roles, and job assignments make it straightforward to coordinate campaigns and handle a number of contributors seamlessly.
Lastly, the platform’s ease of use was highlighted. Reviewers famous that the interface is intuitive, lowering the training curve for even new crew members to social media administration platforms.
I observed a few frequent drawbacks throughout G2 critiques. One is that some superior metrics and report customization choices are restricted, significantly for comparative or segmented stories. Whereas this will not meet the wants of extremely data-driven groups, many customers appreciated that the core reporting options stay clear, actionable, and simple to make use of for many situations.
One other space reviewers highlighted is that message response workflows and content material recommendations might be enhanced, for instance, with AI-driven subject concepts primarily based on social networks, positioning, or target market. Even so, Agorapulse nonetheless helps groups effectively handle engagement and plan content material.
Total, G2 reviewers worth Agorapulse for its reporting, scheduling, cellular app, monitoring, collaboration instruments, and ease of use.
What I like about Agorapulse:
- Reporting is customizable and helps consolidate metrics throughout platforms, and lots of G2 customers appear to agree that it makes presenting knowledge simpler.
- Scheduling, cellular app options, and inbox administration streamline content material planning and engagement, one thing reviewers incessantly spotlight.
What G2 customers like about Agorapulse:
“A substantial time-saver due to Agorapulse, which aggregates our greater than 60 social media pages, particularly with the sorted inbox and options reminiscent of response templates, in addition to content material scheduling (modifying visuals and captions by profile, hashtag teams, and many others.). It is an indispensable day by day device that could be very straightforward to make use of and much forward of the competitors by way of interface and expertise. The relationships with the help groups are as common as they’re enriching.”
– Agorapulse Evaluate, Jean-Baptiste C.
What I dislike about Agorapulse:
- Superior metrics and report customization could be restricted, and G2 customers have additionally talked about this. Others notice that the core reporting options are nonetheless clear and actionable, making them a superb match for groups that prioritize simple visibility over advanced dashboards.
- Message response workflows and content material recommendations might be strengthened, and reviewers level this out as effectively; nonetheless, in addition they notice that the platform nonetheless helps groups handle engagement successfully.
What G2 customers dislike about Agorapulse:
“There are some elements I want had been simpler to customise, like labels, and it could be nice to have an integration that helps hyperlinks in Fb and Instagram Tales. I additionally want Pinterest reporting had been accessible. With the ability to batch-label a bunch of posts would save time, and I’d like to hear for key phrases throughout extra platforms.”
– Agorapulse Evaluate, Lindsey C.
8. YouScan: Greatest for visible social listening and picture recognition
YouScan is acknowledged as a next-generation, AI-powered social listening platform. Many customers depend on it to watch model status, monitor rivals, and derive actionable insights for campaigns throughout a number of channels.
One function that incessantly stands out is status monitoring. Reviewers usually point out that the platform permits fast responses to mentions throughout social media and on-line media, serving to groups keep model belief and engagement.
I’ve observed that customers incessantly reward competitor monitoring. Many reviewers spotlight that monitoring rivals’ exercise permits them to undertake finest practices or keep away from potential pitfalls in their very own campaigns.
One other generally appreciated ingredient is analytics dashboards. Customers notice that YouScan’s deep analytics and visually intuitive dashboards make it simpler to grasp developments, measure efficiency, and construct strategic communication plans effectively.
Sentiment evaluation can be incessantly talked about as a beneficial function. In response to G2 Information, 89% customers worth that it permits groups to rapidly gauge public notion and modify messaging accordingly.
Collaboration options are one other power reviewers spotlight. Many point out that sharing insights and coordinating responses throughout groups helps streamline social listening efforts and ensures alignment.
Ease of knowledge visualization got here up repeatedly in critiques. Customers usually reward clear, customizable graphs, charts, and dashboards that assist groups rapidly translate insights into actionable methods.
I’ve observed that some customers specific issues concerning the accuracy of sentiment evaluation. Sometimes, the system misinterprets the emotional tone of feedback, necessitating handbook intervention, which can be extra vital for groups that rely closely on exact emotional categorization. Nonetheless, reviewers emphasize that the general insights stay extremely beneficial.
One other facet to contemplate, talked about by some reviewers, is the shortage of a local response function. At present, YouScan excels at monitoring, however the skill to answer on to mentions from throughout the platform would improve its utility. That mentioned, customers persistently spotlight that monitoring and analytics capabilities are extremely efficient on their very own.
Total, based on G2 suggestions, YouScan is extensively valued for its status monitoring, competitor monitoring, analytics dashboards, sentiment evaluation, collaboration options, and knowledge visualization.
What I like about YouScan:
- Popularity monitoring permits groups to reply rapidly to mentions and keep model belief, and it seems that many G2 customers agree.
- I like that competitor monitoring, analytics dashboards, and sentiment evaluation present actionable insights and help technique, one thing reviewers incessantly spotlight.
What G2 customers like about YouScan:
“The demo knowledge simply is smart, no have to continuously faux or keep advanced datasets. Importing tables is simple and helps cohesive storytelling. The platform is logical to make use of, simple to manage, and the click-to-play and refresh options are excellent for non-technical customers. I completely love the flexibility to create customized tales and keep a non-public library that’s not accessible to your complete group. I am simply beginning to discover Reside & Seize, however the choice to tailor tokens as an SE, whereas having a lot of the heavy lifting dealt with by the admin, is a scalability dream.”
– YouScan Evaluate, Izabella D.
What I dislike about YouScan:
- G2 suggestions notes that sentiment evaluation can often
misread tone; nonetheless, most say the general insights stay beneficial. - Some customers point out that there’s no native response function throughout the platform, which can be a priority for groups searching for an all-in-one engagement device. However many really feel that monitoring and analytics capabilities are extremely efficient on their very own.
What G2 customers dislike about YouScan:
“There’s undoubtedly a studying curve, particularly in relation to establishing queries and filtering knowledge successfully. Some options aren’t instantly intuitive, so onboarding new crew members can take a little bit of time.”
– YouScan Evaluate, Verified Person in Leisure, Journey & Tourism
9. Brand24: Greatest for real-time alerts and sentiment evaluation
Brand24 is acknowledged as a complicated social media monitoring device that gives AI-powered stories and actionable insights. Many customers depend on it to trace model mentions, analyze suggestions, and optimize campaigns throughout a number of channels.
One function that incessantly stands out is centralized model monitoring. Reviewers usually point out that having all model mentions in a single place makes it straightforward to remain on prime of conversations and handle status effectively.
I’ve observed that customers usually reward the real-time suggestions and response capabilities. In response to a number of critiques, the platform permits groups to rapidly analyze buyer sentiment and reply promptly, serving to to enhance engagement and belief.
One other generally highlighted power is using automated reporting and AI-powered insights. Reviewers incessantly notice that these options save vital time on handbook evaluation, optimize campaigns, and help the creation of customer-focused content material.
Key phrase and filter customization can be incessantly talked about as a professional. Customers spotlight that the flexibility to fine-tune monitoring parameters ensures probably the most related knowledge is captured for actionable insights.
Collaboration options additionally obtain constructive mentions. Many reviewers notice that crew sharing, coordinated responses, and aligned status administration methods make working collectively extra environment friendly.
Ease of integration with different instruments is one other power reviewers point out. Connecting Brand24 with reporting or analytics methods helps streamline workflows and ensures insights are actionable throughout groups.
Some customers talked about that the platform’s reporting choices can really feel restricted for extremely detailed or segmented evaluation. Even so, reviewers notice that Brand24’s core reporting options stay clear, actionable, and simple to make use of for many situations.
One other minor concern is the limitation of historic knowledge. Brand24 shops collected mentions for a couple of 12 months, which can limit long-term evaluation. Even so, many customers discover that the platform offers ample knowledge to handle status and optimize campaigns successfully.
Total, primarily based on suggestions from G2 customers, Brand24 is extensively valued for its centralized model monitoring, real-time suggestions, automated stories, key phrase customization choices, collaboration options, and seamless integration capabilities.
What I like about Brand24:
- Centralized model monitoring makes it straightforward to trace mentions and handle status, and it seems that many G2 customers share this sentiment.
- Actual-time suggestions, automated stories, and AI-powered insights assist groups save time and optimize their campaigns, a function reviewers incessantly spotlight.
What G2 customers like about Brand24:
“Essentially the most helpful facet of Brand24 was not solely its skill to watch all mentions and interactions in actual time, but additionally its use of AI to interpret them and perceive their true affect. Moreover, the help from the Brand24 workers is a superb benefit, as they offered immediate options and gave us the boldness wanted to grasp the device deeply. 10/10.”
– Brand24 Evaluate, Teodoro G.
What I dislike about Brand24:
- Establishing key phrases and filters can have an preliminary studying curve, and G2 customers have additionally pointed this out; nonetheless, most say the platform turns into intuitive as soon as it’s correctly configured.
- G2 reviewers point out that historic knowledge is restricted to a couple of 12 months, however many really feel there’s nonetheless sufficient data to handle status and optimize campaigns successfully.
What G2 customers dislike about Brand24:
“It will be nice to have export capabilities that permit producing a spreadsheet of a number of model mentions. Moreover, integration with Threads could be a beneficial addition as one other knowledge supply.”
– Brand24 Evaluate, Shay T.
10. Vista Social: Greatest for reasonably priced monitoring and scheduling
Vista Social is acknowledged as a contemporary all-in-one social media platform. Many customers depend on it to centralize engagement, automate responses, and generate actionable insights throughout a number of social channels.
One function that incessantly stands out is centralized inbox administration. Reviewers usually point out that it’s straightforward to view messages and reply to feedback or DMs throughout Fb, Instagram, TikTok, LinkedIn, and Threads from a single dashboard, serving to groups handle communications extra effectively.
I’ve observed that customers incessantly reward automated responses. In response to suggestions, having this function constructed straight into the platform saves vital time and eliminates the necessity to use a number of apps for message administration.
One other generally highlighted power is analytics and reporting. Many reviewers notice that Vista Social’s in-depth evaluation instruments assist groups perceive which content material is performing finest, measure engagement, and optimize social media methods successfully.
Content material scheduling and publishing additionally obtain constructive mentions. Customers spotlight that planning and posting content material throughout platforms from one platform improves consistency and reduces handbook effort, making campaigns simpler to handle.
Collaboration options are sometimes praised as effectively. Reviewers incessantly point out that crew workflows, job assignments, and shared dashboards make coordinating campaigns and managing a number of contributors extra environment friendly.
Ease of navigation, as soon as acquainted, is one other recurring theme. Whereas G2 customers initially take a while to get used to the device, they admire the coaching movies, pop-ups, and responsive help that assist them stand up to hurry rapidly.
I’ve observed some customers specific issues across the preliminary setup and error dealing with. Establishing profiles isn’t all the time intuitive, and fixing errors could be complicated at first. Nonetheless, many reviewers spotlight how-to guides, coaching movies, and pop-ups make onboarding manageable.
One other level to contemplate is the inbox function. Some reviewers report that LinkedIn feedback can often be misclassified as messages, and new engagement updates could also be barely delayed. Even so, most customers notice that these points don’t considerably affect total workflow or engagement administration.
Total, primarily based on suggestions I gathered from G2 customers, Vista Social is extensively valued for its centralized inbox, automated responses, in-depth analytics, content material scheduling, collaboration options, and ease of navigation.
What I like about Vista Social:
- The centralized inbox makes it straightforward to handle messages and feedback throughout a number of platforms, and lots of G2 customers appear to really feel the identical.
- Automated responses save time and cut back the necessity for a number of apps, a function that reviewers incessantly spotlight.
What G2 customers like about Vista Social:
“I favored that I can use only one device for all my social media profiles, that it connects with Canva, the place my content material designs are, and that the report was very helpful to indicate development. It took only a fast tutorial to be taught the way it operates. The inbox supervisor saves time over utilizing Fb, since all the pieces is true there and there isn’t any switching time. Replying to critiques was one thing I used to place off, however no extra! I goal to make use of DM automations sooner or later. For now, I’m very proud of all these options. Social listening can be a helpful function for model status.”
–Vista Social Evaluate, Jennifer L.
What I dislike about Vista Social:
- G2 customers have talked about that the preliminary setup and error dealing with could be complicated. Nonetheless, in addition they notice that coaching movies and guides make onboarding extra manageable.
- LinkedIn feedback can generally be misclassified, and engagement updates could also be barely delayed. Reviewers have identified these points, however most really feel that they don’t considerably disrupt workflows.
What G2 customers dislike about Vista Social:
“What I don’t like as a lot is that a few of the extra superior instruments, like bulk scheduling or deeper analytics, are solely accessible within the dearer plans. Additionally, the cellular app nonetheless feels a bit restricted in comparison with the desktop model, which could be annoying once I’m engaged on the go.”
– Vista Social Evaluate, Markus B.
Social media listening instruments: Continuously requested questions (FAQs)
Have extra questions? Discover the solutions beneath.
Q1. What are the best-rated social media monitoring instruments?
High-rated instruments embrace Sprout Social, Brandwatch, and Meltwater. These platforms are praised for correct sentiment evaluation, multi-platform protection, and detailed reporting dashboards.
Q2. What are one of the best social media listening instruments for small companies?
Vista Social and Brand24 are nice picks for small companies. They provide core monitoring options, reminiscent of model mentions, sentiment monitoring, and competitor evaluation, at accessible value factors.
Q3. What are the highest social media monitoring apps for advertising groups?
Hootsuite and Sprout Social lead right here. Each instruments assist advertising groups monitor model efficiency, marketing campaign hashtags, and viewers engagement—all from a unified dashboard.
This fall. What are the top-rated apps for social media monitoring?
Extremely rated platforms embrace:
- Agorapulse – identified for robust engagement and inbox instruments
- Brandwatch – nice for superior knowledge evaluation
- Popularity – excellent for multi-location companies managing model status
Q5. What’s one of the best software program for monitoring social media mentions?
Brand24 is very efficient at real-time point out monitoring. It scans information websites, blogs, boards, and social platforms to warn you every time your model, rivals, or key phrases are talked about.
Q6. What is very beneficial social media listening software program?
Meltwater and Brandwatch are incessantly beneficial for his or her complete world knowledge protection, AI-powered insights, and talent to trace developments throughout information and social media in real-time.
Q7. What’s the finest platform for social media listening for businesses?
Sprout Social is agency-friendly, providing options reminiscent of consumer reporting, approval workflows, and crew roles. Statusbrew can be standard amongst businesses for its scalable listening and publishing capabilities.
Q8. What’s an reasonably priced social media listening service?
YouScan and Vista Social provide robust core options, reminiscent of sentiment evaluation, visible recognition, and reporting, at a cheaper price level—excellent for groups with tight budgets.
Q9. Which social media listening device is finest for retail?
Popularity is purpose-built for retail and multi-location manufacturers. It focuses on managing buyer critiques, native social mentions, and store-level sentiment throughout channels.
Q10. What are one of the best social media analytics instruments for 2026?
The highest analytics instruments for 2026 embrace:
- Sprout Social – complete insights throughout platforms
- Agorapulse – detailed efficiency and ROI monitoring
- Brandwatch – superior analytics powered by AI and visible dashboards
Cease! Do not tweet into the void!
Skipping a social media listening device means you’re flying blind whereas your clients are virtually yelling their opinions on-line.
With out it, you miss developments, ignore suggestions, and let rivals swoop in with higher responses. The appropriate device helps you tune in, spot patterns, and really hear what your viewers cares about.
So cease guessing and begin listening, at present.
Is listening sufficient? Not likely. Think about using a social media administration platform to show these insights into motion.
