DINGG vs Fresha – Which Fits Your Salon?
Author
Dingg TeamDate Published
Choosing the right salon software is one of the most important decisions you'll make for your business in 2025. In a competitive market like India, the right tool can make or break your growth. For many, the choice comes down to two major players: DINGG and Fresha. While both offer similar core features, their approaches, especially regarding pricing and market focus, are very different. By the end of this guide, you’ll have a clear understanding of which is the best salon management software in India for your business.
According to industry reports, tech-savvy salons are on the rise. Software driven salons grow 20% to 25% faster than those managing manually. A no-show reduction of 30% to 40% is standard when automated reminders are in place, which directly protects your revenue.
Why Salon Management Software Choice Matters in India
The Indian market has unique challenges that require a tailored solution. Cost sensitivity, high staff turnover, and the need for seamless client retention are major pain points for owners here. Moreover, an effective solution must be able to handle GST compliance and integrate with local payment methods like UPI. As a business owner, you need a software that not only manages your daily operations but also helps you scale from a single salon to a thriving multi-location chain.
Which Software Fits Different Types of Salons?
- Best Salon Management Software in India: Fresha vs DINGG While Fresha might seem appealing for a small, single-location salon at first due to its "free" marketing, the hidden commissions can quickly add up. For any salon owner in India who is serious about long-term, systematic growth, DINGG is the better choice. Its advanced features for reporting, AI automation and multi-location management allow for systematic, scalable growth.
- Why DINGG Works Better for UAE Salons Fresha has a presence in the UAE, but it's not fully localized. DINGG integrates with WhatsApp, UAE payment gateways and supports multi-branch salons, making it better suited for Dubai and Abu Dhabi spas and clinics.
- Is Fresha Popular in the US? Here’s How DINGG Competes Fresha is popular in the US. DINGG competes with its focus on automation, loyalty programs and performance reports that directly increase client retention which are key for US med spas and salons competing on experience.
Final Verdict
For a brand new, one-person business that wants to test the waters, Fresha might be an initial option. However, for any salon, spa or gym owner in India who is serious about long-term, systematic growth, DINGG is the clear winner. Its transparent pricing, powerful features and localized focus on the Indian market make it the definitive choice for businesses ready to thrive.
Switch to DINGG and stop losing 20% of your revenue to commissions. [Book your free demo now]
Choosing the right salon software is one of the most important decisions you'll make for your business in 2025. In a competitive market like India, the right tool can make or break your growth. For many, the choice comes down to two major players: DINGG and Fresha. While both offer similar core features, their approaches, especially regarding pricing and market focus, are very different. By the end of this guide, you’ll have a clear understanding of which is the best salon management software in India for your business.
According to industry reports, tech-savvy salons are on the rise. Software driven salons grow 20% to 25% faster than those managing manually. A no-show reduction of 30% to 40% is standard when automated reminders are in place, which directly protects your revenue.
Why Salon Management Software Choice Matters in India
The Indian market has unique challenges that require a tailored solution. Cost sensitivity, high staff turnover, and the need for seamless client retention are major pain points for owners here. Moreover, an effective solution must be able to handle GST compliance and integrate with local payment methods like UPI. As a business owner, you need a software that not only manages your daily operations but also helps you scale from a single salon to a thriving multi-location chain.
Fresha – Strengths & Weaknesses
Strengths
"Free" Entry-Level: Fresha is known for its subscription-free model, which is a major draw for new or independent businesses.
Global Brand Recognition: As a global brand, Fresha has a large marketplace that can help you acquire new clients.
Core Features: It provides essential tools for appointment scheduling, payment processing, and inventory management.
Weaknesses
Hidden Fees: While it’s marketed as "free," Fresha charges a 20% one-time commission for new clients you acquire through its marketplace. It also charges processing fees for online and in-person payments, which can add up significantly.
DINGG – Strengths & Weaknesses
Strengths
AI-Powered Scheduling & Booking: DINGG uses artificial intelligence to help reduce no-shows with automated reminders and smart waitlist management.
Integrated WhatsApp Automation: Unlike other platforms, DINGG offers deep integration with WhatsApp for bookings and automated marketing campaigns.
Transparent Pricing: DINGG charges a flat fee without taking a cut of your revenue, ensuring your profits remain yours.
Localized Solution: DINGG is built with specific markets in mind, offering features like GST-compliant billing in India and support for local payment gateways.
Weaknesses
No Free Version: DINGG does not offer a free version or a free trial, which might be a barrier for very small businesses looking to test the waters.
Learning Curve: For salon owners new to software, the comprehensive nature of DINGG's features might present a slight learning curve.
Frequently Asked Questions
Which is the best salon management software in India for small salons?
While Fresha is popular because of its "free" entry, hidden commission charges can hurt your profits. DINGG offers transparent pricing, GST-compliant billing and WhatsApp booking, making it a better long-term fit for growth-minded Indian salons.
Does salon software in India support GST billing and UPI payments?
Yes, DINGG is GST-compliant and integrates seamlessly with UPI/Paytm, making compliance and transactions easier for Indian salons.
Which salon management software works best for multi-location salons?
DINGG is designed for single salons and multi-location chains, with centralized reporting and branch-level insights.
What is the most affordable salon software option for startups?
While some tools may look free, they often charge commissions on new client bookings. DINGG provides a transparent, flat-fee model that helps startups grow without hidden costs.
How do I know if salon software is worth the investment?
If the software reduces no-shows, improves staff efficiency, or increases client retention, it quickly pays for itself. Most DINGG clients see ROI in under 60 days.
Can salon software really help increase revenue?
Yes. By using automated reminders, targeted loyalty programs and clear performance reports, salons running on DINGG typically grow revenue systematically.
Is salon software useful for spas, gyms, and estheticians too?
Absolutely. DINGG is built not just for salons, but also for spas, wellness centers, gyms, and estheticians. It offers specialized features like membership management and wellness package tracking.