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In 2023, the average open rate for newsletters was an impressive 40.08%, as reported by GetResponse.
Now, if you’re thinking about diving into email newsletter marketing and connecting with your audience, this stat probably has you nodding your head and thinking, “I need to get my email newsletters right.”
But here’s the thing: catchy subject lines, great content, and high-converting email newsletter templates are key to those impressive open rates, but it all begins with choosing the right email newsletter platform.
And let’s be honest, with so many options out there, picking the right email newsletter platform can feel like trying to choose a movie on Netflix—so many choices, so little time!
Don’t worry, though, you’re in the right place. In this guide, we’ll break down exactly what you need to consider when choosing an email newsletter platform so you can make a decision that feels as good as hitting “send” on a perfectly crafted email. Let’s dive in and find the perfect email newsletter platform for you!
What Is an Email Newsletter Platform?
Before we get into the details, let’s break it down. Email newsletters—you’ve seen them, you’ve read them. These are those bulk emails from brands sharing the latest news, promotions, product updates, blog posts, or curated content. They’re a great way for brands to keep you informed and engaged.
But wait—wondering how email newsletters differ from email marketing? Let’s clarify that.
Email newsletters are all about maintaining a connection. They’re regular emails filled with informational content or a roundup of articles and news that subscribers can browse at their own pace. They’re not about pushing products (well, at least they shouldn’t be). Instead, they’re more focused on building a relationship with you by sharing relevant and interesting content.
On the other hand, email marketing is more action-oriented. These emails aim to persuade subscribers to take specific actions—whether that’s downloading a guide, signing up for a webinar, or making a purchase. The goal is to encourage action, not just engagement.
Naturally, an email marketing platform is broader in scope than newsletter software. It includes all the features of an email newsletter platform but goes further by offering more comprehensive marketing tools.
Check out Litmus’s weekly newsletter.
It includes multiple blogs, quizzes, curated articles, and funny tweets.
Got it? Awesome. Now, let’s get back to email newsletter platforms.
Imagine you’ve got a list of 10,000 subscribers and need to tell them about your big summer sale. Sending each email manually? That’s not just difficult—it’s pretty much impossible.
Enter the email newsletter platform. This is a tool that automates the process of sending out bulk emails. Instead of spending hours trying to send thousands of emails, you can use one of these platforms to do it in just a few clicks. Even better, it lets you personalize each email so that every subscriber feels like the message was crafted just for them.
In short, an email newsletter platform makes it incredibly easy to send out your emails quickly and efficiently, helping you reach all your subscribers at once with the right message at the right time.
How to Choose the Best Email Newsletter Platform
Choosing the right email newsletter platform is a critical decision. Once you’ve committed to a platform and started building your email list, switching can be time-consuming and disruptive. Missing even a few email newsletters can impact your audience engagement, and migrating data can be a headache.
There’s no one-size-fits-all solution when it comes to email newsletter platforms. The best platform for you depends on your specific needs and goals. Let’s explore the key factors to consider when making your choice.
Here Are Some Questions You Should Ask When Looking for an Email Newsletter Platform
- What are my primary goals for email newsletters?
- How easy is the platform to use?
- Does the platform offer the features I need?
- Is the platform scalable as my subscriber list grows?
- What analytics and reporting capabilities does the platform provide?
- Does the platform support email automation?
- What is the platform’s deliverability rate?
- What is the cost structure, and how does it scale with my needs?
- How easy is it to migrate existing data to this platform?
- What kind of customer support does the newsletter software offer?
Key Features to Look for in an Email Newsletter Platform
When choosing the best email newsletter platform for your business, your specific needs and use cases should guide the decision. However, there are certain features that any good platform should have.
1. Segmentation Options
If you have a sizable mailing list, segmentation is crucial. This feature allows you to split your contacts based on demographics, behavior, and preferences so you can tailor your messages to different groups. Without it, you might find your engagement rates slipping because you’re sending the same message to everyone. Look for platforms that let you segment your audience by various attributes, including language and interests. This way, you can make your emails more relevant and effective.
2. Transparent Pricing
Newsletter services can get pricey, so clear pricing is a must. You don’t want to be hit with unexpected charges or complicated pricing structures. Some platforms are free for small lists, which is great for startups, but if you’re scaling up, ensure the costs are straightforward and won’t break the bank. Watch out for pricing based on the number of emails sent, which might not be ideal if you plan to send frequently.
3. Usability
Creating and sending newsletters should be straightforward, not a headache. Avoid platforms with confusing interfaces or overly complex features. Sign up for a free trial to test the tool and ensure it’s easy to use. Most modern platforms offer drag-and-drop email builders, which simplify the design process and save you time.
4. Analytics and Reporting
Robust analytics are essential to know how your emails are performing. Look for platforms with tracking features showing open, click-through, and bounce rates. Some also offer A/B testing so you can experiment with different versions of your emails to see what works best. Good analytics will help you tweak your strategy and improve your results.
5. Migration and Customer Support
You’ll need smooth migration support if you’re switching from another platform. Check if the platform offers assistance with transferring your email list, campaigns, and automation workflows. Reliable customer support is also crucial. It should be easy to get help when needed, whether through chat, email, or phone.
Top Email Newsletter Platforms: A Quick Comparison
| Newsletter Platform Name | Pricing | Key Features | Pros | Cons | Best For |
| GoZen Growth | Free to $99 per month | Drag-and-drop editor for easy email creation Mobile-optimized and customizable email templates (400+ options) Email scheduling for optimal send times Team collaboration features Zapier integration for enhanced automation AI-powered email automation to streamline workflows Automatic email warm-up for better deliverability | User-friendly dashboard and intuitive interface Strong focus on automation, including AI-generated workflows Detailed tracking and analytics for performance insights Seamless integration with ecommerce platforms and third-party apps | Slow chat service response, especially noticeable in European time zones | Bloggers, Entrepreneurs, SaaS companies, Marketers,Web Developers |
| Mailchimp | Free to $272.45 per month | Standard email newsletter functionalities Simplified team collaboration Automated and scheduled email campaigns Ready-to -use email templates Integration with social media, landing pages, and postcards for cross-platform campaigns | Advanced analytics Marketing automation tools and subscriber segmentation Supports third-party integrations | Limited prebuilt HTML email templates in the free plan Includes many features that might be unnecessary for simple newsletter launches | Small to medium-sized businesses, beginners. All-in-one marketing needs |
| Beehive | Free to $99 per month, Custom pricing | Automated nurturing through custom email journeys Monetization options with an ad network Options for premium or gated content for paid subscribers Highly adaptable newsletter editor Scale your reach with a recommendation network Referral system integrated for expanding your subscriber base | Robust tools for editing and design Strong options for growing and monetizing your audience Advanced analytics to track performance Versatile features suitable for newsletters of any size Generous free plan with up to 2,500 subscribers and unlimited email sends | Most advanced features require higher-tier plans Referral programs only accessible with the top-tier plan | Newsletter monetization |
| MailerLite | Free to $ 18 per month | Sophisticated automation and segmentation options Advanced email creation tools Easy-to-use drag-and-drop and rich-text editors | Affordable pricing Easy monetization via Stripe integration User-friendly interface | Stripe integration setup can be complicated Some tools and features might seem excessive for launching a basic newsletter Facebook integration and advanced automation are limited to higher-tier plans | Cost-effective options for small to medium-sized businesses |
| ConvertKit | Free to $ 50 per month | Inline editor for detailed design work Automation for email marketing Supports both markdown and HTML formatting Includes sales page and website builder Easy-to-use signup form creator Free migrations for Creator or Creator Pro plan | Extensive library of templates User-friendly popup builder with various prebuilt templates and targeting features Easy to use Includes countdown timers to boost urgency and drive more clicks Creator Network | Limited email creation and automation features Costs can rise rapidly as subscriber numbers grow | creators like bloggers, podcasters, coaches, musicians, and similar professionals |
| Mailjet | Free to $27 per month, Custom pricing | Collaboration tools for teams Versatile email editor Integrates with CMS and CRM systems | Email verification to boost open rates Simple personalization options for content Advanced tools for email creation Great reporting tools and integrations | Basic email automation and testing options Limited list segmentation capabilities Lacks a signup form builder and landing page creator | Large teams and enterprises |
Frequently Asked Questions
- What are email newsletter platforms?
Email newsletter platforms are tools or software designed to help businesses and individuals create, manage, and distribute email newsletters. They streamline the process of sending bulk emails, offer features for designing and personalizing content, and often include analytics to track performance.
2. Which newsletter platform is right for me?
The best newsletter platform for you depends on your needs. Consider your budget, the size of your email list, and the features you want, like automation or detailed analytics. Popular choices include Mailchimp, Mailjet, and ConvertKit, but you should choose based on what best fits your needs.
3. How do I pick the best newsletter platform?
To find the right newsletter platform, consider what features are important to you, such as ease of use, automation, and analytics. Check out user reviews and compare different platform features to see which matches your marketing goals.
4. Is it easy to switch between newsletter platforms?
Switching platforms is doable but can take some effort. You must move your email list, templates, and possibly ongoing campaigns. Many platforms offer tools or support to help with this, but planning the switch carefully will help avoid any hiccups.
5. Are free newsletter platforms worth considering?
Free newsletter platforms are great if you’re just starting or have a tight budget. They offer basic features that can be perfect for smaller needs. As your business grows, you might need to upgrade to a paid plan for more advanced features and higher limits.
6. What features should I look for in newsletter software?
Look for features that match your needs, like an easy-to-use design editor, automation tools, email segmentation, analytics, and good customer support. These features will help you manage your campaigns effectively and ensure your emails hit the mark.
7. How much does newsletter software cost?
Newsletter software prices vary widely. You can find free plans with basic features, but costs increase with more advanced options and larger email lists. Make sure to choose a plan that fits your needs and budget.
8. Which newsletter software is the easiest to use?
Ease of use can differ between platforms. Generally, those with drag-and-drop editors and simple interfaces are easier to navigate. Platforms like MilerLite, GoZen Growth and Mailchimp are known for being user-friendly, but it’s a good idea to try a few to see what works best for you.
9. Do I need coding skills to use newsletter software?
Most newsletter platforms are designed to be user-friendly and don’t require coding skills. They usually come with drag-and-drop editors and templates to simplify the design process. However, some advanced features might need a bit of HTML or CSS knowledge.
10. Can I try newsletter software before buying a paid plan?
Yes, many platforms offer free trials or freemium versions so you can test out their features before committing to a paid plan. This lets you see if the software meets your needs without any initial investment.
