Phorest vs Smile.io
Updated June 2026 · A structured head-to-head comparison.
The verdict
Both Phorest and Smile.io are credible fitness tools, and the right pick comes down to your priorities.
Phorest — Salon software and marketing.
Choose Smile.io if you'd rather have a lower starting price (free – $49/mo) and a free plan to start on. Loyalty and rewards programs.
Phorest vs Smile.io: side by side
| Dimension | Phorest | Smile.io |
|---|---|---|
| Starting price | Custom | Free – $49/moWinner |
| Free plan | No | YesWinner |
| Pricing model | Subscription | Freemium |
| Best for | Salons, Spas | Ecommerce Brands |
| Platforms | Web, Ios, Android | Web, Api |
| Rating | 4.7/5 | 4.6/5 |
Phorest key facts
- Vendor
- Phorest
- Pricing
- Subscription — Custom
- Free tier
- No
- Platforms
- Web, Ios, Android
- Best for
- Salons, Spas
- Editor rating
- 4.7 / 5
- Founded
- 2004
- Headquarters
- Dublin, Ireland
Smile.io key facts
- Vendor
- Smile.io
- Pricing
- Freemium — Free – $49/mo
- Free tier
- Yes
- Platforms
- Web, Api
- Best for
- Ecommerce Brands
- Editor rating
- 4.6 / 5
- Founded
- 2012
- Headquarters
- Kitchener, Canada
Frequently asked questions
Is Phorest better than Smile.io?
Neither is universally better — Phorest edges ahead on overall rating, but the best choice depends on price, platforms, and your use case. See the side-by-side table above.
Is Phorest or Smile.io cheaper?
Smile.io is the more affordable of the two to get started, at free – $49/mo. Phorest starts at custom; Smile.io starts at free – $49/mo.
Can Phorest replace Smile.io?
Yes for most teams — both are fitness tools with heavily overlapping features. The main trade-offs are pricing and platform support, covered in the comparison above.