Acuity is a scheduling tool. Cadence is full coaching software.
If you're using Acuity Scheduling for client appointments and Stripe links for billing — but you don't have a real coaching delivery system (programs, progressive check-ins, client portal, mobile app) — Cadence is built for the coaching layer Acuity doesn't try to handle.
4 ways Cadence differs from Acuity Scheduling
Cadence isn't a feature-fork of Acuity Scheduling. Different category — built for coaching delivery, not scheduling-only.
Programs + check-ins (not just scheduling)
Acuity books appointments. It doesn't deliver workout programs, track macros, capture progress photos, or give your clients a coaching app. Cadence is everything Acuity isn't trying to be.
White-label coaching app vs Acuity-branded calendar
Cadence: your business name IS the app on a custom subdomain. Acuity: your clients go to acuityscheduling.com to book. Brand control matters once you're past a side-hustle.
Coaching billing model vs hourly-appointment billing
Acuity is built for hourly billing (think therapy, consulting, hairdressing). Most successful coaching is monthly subscription, not hourly. Cadence's billing matches the coaching model — Stripe Connect direct, recurring subscriptions, automatic billing.
0% platform fees on coach billing
Acuity doesn't take a fee but your billing infrastructure runs on Squarespace's old payment system or external Stripe. Cadence runs Stripe Connect direct natively — 0% platform fees, instant payouts.
Pricing comparison at a typical coach's MRR
Acuity Emerging: $20/mo. Growing: $34/mo. Powerhouse: $61/mo. (Note: Acuity is now part of Squarespace — pricing tied to Squarespace plans for new accounts.)
| Tier | Base | Extras / Fees | All-in |
|---|---|---|---|
| Acuity Emerging | $20/mo | Single calendar, basic features | $20 — but no coaching delivery |
| Acuity Growing | $34/mo | Multiple calendars + Zapier | $34 — still no programs |
| Acuity Powerhouse | $61/mo | Memberships + subscriptions + custom email | $61 — closest to Cadence in scope |
| Cadence Coach | $79/mo flat | Programs + check-ins + AI + white-label app | $79/mo, full coaching delivery |
Common questions
Should I keep Acuity for scheduling and use Cadence for coaching?
Yes — that's a common pattern. Acuity for the appointment booking layer (consults, intro calls, in-person sessions), Cadence for the program delivery + check-in layer + branded client app. Both link to Stripe.
Can Cadence schedule appointments?
Cadence integrates with external schedulers (Cal.com, Calendly, Acuity). For coaches who do mostly async program-based coaching, the scheduler integration is sufficient.
How does billing differ?
Acuity bills per-appointment or per-class-pack. Cadence bills monthly subscription via Stripe Connect direct. If your coaching model is recurring (most are), Cadence's billing matches the model.
Will my Acuity client emails import?
Yes — Acuity → Reports → Clients → Export CSV → import to Cadence via /migrate. The roster ports cleanly.
Want us to run the math on YOUR setup?
Free 15-min audit. We compute your real cost on Acuity Scheduling (subscription + add-ons + transaction fees) vs Cadence at your roster. No pitch.
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