Newsletter Platforms Compared

Newsletters have become a legitimate business model, and the platforms serving newsletter creators have evolved rapidly. Here is how the main options compare.

beehiiv

Built specifically for newsletter operators. Key strengths: growth tools (referral programs, recommendations), built-in ad network monetization, and audience analytics. Best for people who want to build a newsletter-first business with multiple revenue streams.

Kit (formerly ConvertKit)

Started as a creator email platform and has added paid subscriptions and a tip jar for newsletter monetization. Stronger on general email marketing features like visual automations and subscriber tagging. Best for creators who want email marketing capabilities alongside their newsletter.

Key Differences

beehiiv is more focused on newsletter growth and monetization through ads and referrals. Kit gives you more traditional email marketing power with the added ability to charge for subscriptions. If your primary revenue model is ad-supported newsletters, beehiiv has the edge. If you want to sell courses, products, or paid subscriptions alongside your newsletter, Kit may be more flexible.

What About MailerLite?

MailerLite works well for newsletters too, especially if budget matters. Its free plan supports up to 1,000 subscribers with automation and landing pages. It lacks the newsletter-specific growth tools of beehiiv but is a strong option for getting started.