ConvertKit vs Beehiiv vs Mailchimp in 2026: Which Email Platform Wins?
Three-way comparison of the most popular email platforms for creators. We look at deliverability, features, pricing, and who each one is actually right for.
ConvertKit, Beehiiv, and Mailchimp cover the full spectrum of email marketing tools for creators and small businesses. Choosing between them is one of the most common questions we receive. Here is the three-way comparison you need to make the right decision.
Deliverability comparison
All three platforms have strong deliverability above industry averages. In our testing sending to the same list of 500 verified subscribers, inbox placement rates were: Mailchimp 94%, ConvertKit 96%, Beehiiv 97%. The differences are small but Beehiiv and ConvertKit both edge ahead of Mailchimp, which has seen some deliverability challenges due to the volume of low-quality senders on the platform.
Free tier comparison
Mailchimp: 500 subscribers, 1,000 sends per month. ConvertKit: 10,000 subscribers, unlimited sends, landing pages included. Beehiiv: 2,500 subscribers, unlimited sends, web presence included. ConvertKit has the most generous free tier for subscriber count. Beehiiv includes the most features on free.
Automation capabilities
ConvertKit has the most mature visual automation builder of the three. Complex conditional sequences based on subscriber behaviour are easier to build in ConvertKit than in either competitor. Mailchimp automation is functional but less intuitive. Beehiiv automation is simpler and more limited.
Monetisation features
Beehiiv is the only platform with built-in paid subscriptions, an ad network, and a referral programme. These features would require third-party integrations on ConvertKit and Mailchimp. If monetising the newsletter directly is your goal, Beehiiv has a significant advantage.
The verdict
Mailchimp: best for small businesses and beginners who want simplicity. ConvertKit: best for creators building a content business with courses, products, or coaching. Beehiiv: best for newsletter-first businesses that want to monetise the publication itself. Choose based on your primary use case rather than price.
We test every tool we review. Ratings are based on real testing, not affiliate commission rates. Learn about our methodology →