Substack
Free planSend and monetise email newsletters with subscriptions
Deals for Substack
Send and monetise email newsletters with subscriptions
Substack free to publish – no monthly fee
Claim DealWhat Substack does
Substack is a platform that enables writers to publish newsletters and offer paid subscriptions. Writers use the service to build an email list, distribute content directly to readers' inboxes, and optionally charge for access to posts. The platform is designed to reduce technical barriers for independent publishers, handling subscription management and payment processing. Substack is widely adopted by journalists, authors, and content creators looking to earn revenue without relying on third-party ads or traditional publishers.
While it appeals mainly to solo writers and small teams, Substack fits into the broader email marketing market as a simple option for those prioritising editorial content and direct reader relationships.
What sets it apart
Its core feature is a built-in payment system for paid newsletters, requiring minimal setup.
Key features
- ◆Paid newsletter subscriptions
- ◆Subscriber email list management
- ◆Integrated payment processing
- ◆Content publishing editor
- ◆Commenting on posts
- ◆Analytics dashboard
What teams use it for
- Start a paid newsletter
- Grow an email subscriber base
- Send updates to readers
- Publish essays or reports
- Monetise writing through subscriptions
Pros
- +Quick setup for new newsletters
- +Handles payments and subscriptions natively
- +Minimal technical management required
- +Supports both free and paid content
Cons
- −Limited email marketing automation tools
- −Few design customisation options
- −Best suited to individual writers, not large teams
- −Export options for data are basic
Integrates with
Our verdict
Choose Substack if you prioritise writing-driven newsletters with simple paid subscription options. Teams needing advanced email automation or marketing analytics may need a more feature-rich platform.
Frequently asked questions
Can I use Substack for free newsletters?+
Yes, Substack supports both free and paid newsletters, and you can choose which posts are accessible to which subscribers.
How do payments work on Substack?+
Substack manages payments for paid subscriptions, including processing and subscriber management, after you connect a supported payment account.
Can I import my existing newsletter list?+
You can import existing email subscribers to Substack, subject to their import guidelines.
Where can I find Substack’s pricing details?+
Full pricing and commission details are available on the official Substack pricing page.
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