Best Mailchimp Alternatives in 2026
Looking for alternatives to Mailchimp? Here are the top options compared.
Why Consider Mailchimp Alternatives?
- β οΈPricing increases quickly with list size
- β οΈLimited automation on lower tiers
- β οΈCan feel bloated for simple needs
- β οΈCustomer support can be slow
Top 5 Alternatives to Mailchimp
ConvertKit
ConvertKit is an email marketing platform designed specifically for creators - bloggers, YouTubers, podcasters, and online course creators. It focuses on simplicity and powerful automation.
β Pros
- β’ Built specifically for creators
- β’ Powerful visual automation builder
- β’ Tag-based subscriber management
β Cons
- β’ Limited template designs
- β’ No built-in CRM
- β’ Basic reporting compared to competitors
Klaviyo
Klaviyo is an email and SMS marketing platform focused on e-commerce. It offers powerful automation and segmentation based on customer behavior.
β Pros
- β’ E-commerce focused
- β’ Powerful segmentation
- β’ Great Shopify integration
β Cons
- β’ Expensive at scale
- β’ Complex for beginners
- β’ Limited for non-ecommerce
ActiveCampaign
ActiveCampaign combines email marketing, marketing automation, and CRM. It's known for its powerful automation builder and sales features.
β Pros
- β’ Powerful automation
- β’ Built-in CRM
- β’ Great deliverability
β Cons
- β’ No free tier
- β’ Learning curve
- β’ Can get expensive
Beehiiv
Beehiiv is a newsletter platform built by former Morning Brew team members. Designed for growth with built-in monetization, referral programs, and advanced analytics.
β Pros
- β’ Built-in growth tools
- β’ Referral program included
- β’ Ad network for monetization
β Cons
- β’ Smaller community than Substack
- β’ No built-in reader app
- β’ Newer platform
Substack
Substack is a newsletter platform that pioneered the creator economy for writers. Known for its simplicity, built-in audience, and reader app.
β Pros
- β’ Built-in discovery and audience
- β’ Reader app with social features
- β’ Simple to start
β Cons
- β’ 10% platform fee on paid
- β’ Limited customization
- β’ Basic analytics
Quick Comparison
| Tool | Price | Free Tier | Best For |
|---|---|---|---|
| Mailchimp | Free / $13/month | β | Email Marketing |
| ConvertKit | Free / $15/month | β | Email Marketing |
| Klaviyo | Free up to 250 contacts | β | Email Marketing |
| ActiveCampaign | $29/month | β | Email Marketing |
| Beehiiv | Free / /month | β | Email Marketing |
| Substack | Free (10% on paid subs) | β | Email Marketing |