A detailed comparison of three leading newsletter platforms to help you choose the right tool in 2025.

Choosing the right newsletter platform is critical for your growth and monetization strategy. Substack, Mailchimp, and Beehiiv each offer unique features, pricing models, and target audiences. This comparison breaks down their strengths, limitations, and ideal use cases to guide your decision.

Platform Overview

Substack

Substack is popular for its simplicity and built-in monetization tools, enabling writers to launch paid subscriptions with ease. It offers unlimited subscribers on its free plan but charges a 10% revenue share on paid subscriptions plus Stripe fees. Its interface focuses on writing and publishing, with a native audience discovery feature.

Mailchimp

A veteran in email marketing, Mailchimp is more than a newsletter tool. It integrates CRM, landing pages, and marketing automation. The free plan limits to 500 contacts and 1,000 emails per month. Paid plans scale subscriber limits and unlock advanced marketing tools. Mailchimp suits businesses blending newsletters with broader campaigns.

Beehiiv

Beehiiv is an emerging platform focused exclusively on newsletters with a strong growth mindset. It offers up to 2,500 subscribers on its free tier, with paid plans unlocking advanced analytics, referral programs, and monetization options. Beehiiv combines ease of use with scalable features aimed at creators looking to expand their audience and revenue.

Detailed Comparison Table

Which Platform is Right for You?

• Substack is ideal for writers and creators who want an easy-to-use platform focused on content and built-in monetization, especially if you plan to launch paid newsletters. However, be aware of the 10% revenue share and payment processing fees.

• Mailchimp works best for businesses combining newsletters with email marketing, CRM, and other campaign tools. Its free plan is limited but upgrading unlocks powerful automation and segmentation.

• Beehiiv is a great middle ground offering generous free limits and scalable features designed for newsletter creators focused on growth and monetization, but advanced features require paid plans.

Real User Feedback

“Substack made monetizing my newsletter simple, but the fees add up as my paying subscribers grow.”
— Independent writer

“Mailchimp offers tons of tools beyond email, but it’s more than what most creators need just for newsletters.”
— Small business owner

“Beehiiv’s referral program was a game-changer for my growth strategy.”
— Content creator

Recommendation

Your choice between Substack, Mailchimp, and Beehiiv depends largely on your goals:

• Choose Substack if monetizing via paid subscriptions quickly is your priority.

• Choose Mailchimp if you need integrated marketing tools for business.

• Choose Beehiiv if you want a newsletter-first platform with strong growth and monetization tools, plus a generous free tier.

Sources

• https://substack.com/pricing

• https://mailchimp.com/pricing

• https://beehiiv.com/pricing

• https://emailtooltester.com/en/reviews/beehiiv/pricing/

• https://www.wired.com/story/best-substack-alternatives/

• https://www.bestnewsletterplatforms.com/blog/newsletter-platform-pricing-complete-cost-comparison/