Alternative Guide
SpaSphere vs Fresha: Why Estheticians Are Switching
Fresha is free to start, but new client bookings come with a commission. Customization is limited, and esthetician-specific tools like SOAP notes and treatment programs are missing. SpaSphere charges a flat fee with no commission, and includes everything solo estheticians actually need.
Quick side-by-side comparison
Monthly cost model
SpaSphere
Flat fee, no commissions
Fresha
Free base, commission on new clients
SOAP notes
SpaSphere
Included
Fresha
Not available
Treatment programs
SpaSphere
Included
Fresha
Not offered
Branded website
SpaSphere
Included on your own domain
Fresha
Limited customization, Fresha-branded
Client marketplace
SpaSphere
None — clients stay with you
Fresha
Built-in marketplace with other providers
AI tools
SpaSphere
Included (rebooking, recommendations)
Fresha
Not available
Booking commission
SpaSphere
None
Fresha
20% on new client bookings via marketplace
Solo esthetician focus
SpaSphere
Yes, purpose-built
Fresha
General beauty and wellness
When Fresha can still be a good fit
- Good fit: You want zero upfront software cost and are fine paying per new client.
- Good fit: You need a quick setup with minimal configuration.
- Good fit: You rely on marketplace traffic for client acquisition.
When SpaSphere is a better fit
- Better fit: You want a flat monthly fee with no commission on bookings.
- Better fit: You need treatment programs, SOAP notes, and structured care plans.
- Better fit: You want a fully branded website and booking experience on your domain.
Why estheticians search for a Fresha alternative
- Commission on new client bookings eats into margins.
- Limited ability to customize booking pages and branding.
- No SOAP notes or structured treatment program support.
- Marketplace model sends clients to other providers too.
- Payment processing fees on top of commission charges.
Money-making tools to compare
- Compare true cost — free software with commissions can cost more than a flat fee.
- Check if care-plan tools like programs and notes are included or absent.
- Look at whether your brand or the platform brand shows up on the booking page.
Also see simple pricing for clear plan details.
FAQ
Is Fresha really free?
Fresha has no monthly subscription, but charges commission on new client bookings from its marketplace and has payment processing fees. Depending on your volume, a flat-fee platform like SpaSphere can be cheaper overall.
Will I lose clients if I switch from Fresha?
SpaSphere helps you migrate client data and set up your branded booking site. Clients follow you, not the platform — especially when you have your own domain and direct booking link.
Does SpaSphere have features Fresha does not?
Yes. SpaSphere includes SOAP notes, structured treatment programs, AI-powered recommendations, and a branded website builder — none of which are available in Fresha.
Can I still accept online bookings without a marketplace?
Absolutely. SpaSphere gives you a professional booking website on your own domain. Clients book directly with you, and you keep 100% of the revenue.