Email marketing delivers the highest ROI of any marketing channel at $36-42 for every $1 spent. This guide compares the best email marketing platforms for 2025.
Email Marketing Quick Facts 2025
- Average ROI: $36-42 per $1 spent
- Free options: Mailchimp (500 contacts), MailerLite (1,000)
- Key features: Automation, segmentation, A/B testing, analytics
- Open rates: Industry average 21.5%
Top Email Marketing Platforms
| Platform | Free Tier | Starting Price | Best For | Rating |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Mailchimp | 500 contacts | $13/mo | Beginners | |
| ConvertKit | 1,000 contacts | $15/mo | Creators | |
| Klaviyo | 250 contacts | $20/mo | E-commerce | |
| ActiveCampaign | 14-day trial | $29/mo | Advanced automation | |
| MailerLite | 1,000 contacts | $10/mo | Budget-friendly |
BEST FOR BEGINNERS
Mailchimp
- Price: Free (500 contacts) / $13-350/month
- Features: Drag-drop builder, templates, automations
- Integrations: 300+ apps including Shopify, WordPress
- Analytics: Open rates, clicks, revenue tracking
- Pros: Easy to use, generous free tier, all-in-one
- Cons: Expensive at scale, limited automation on free
BEST FOR E-COMMERCE
Klaviyo
- Price: Free (250 contacts) / $20-1,970+/month
- E-commerce: Deep Shopify, WooCommerce integration
- Features: Product recommendations, cart abandonment
- Segmentation: Based on purchase behavior, browsing
- Pros: Powerful for online stores, predictive analytics
- Cons: Expensive, steep learning curve
BEST FOR CREATORS
ConvertKit
- Price: Free (1,000 contacts) / $15-2,599/month
- Audience: Bloggers, podcasters, YouTubers
- Features: Landing pages, digital products, sponsorships
- Automations: Visual workflow builder
- Pros: Creator-focused, excellent deliverability
- Cons: Basic templates, less e-commerce features
Pricing Comparison by List Size
| Platform | 1,000 contacts | 5,000 contacts | 25,000 contacts |
|---|---|---|---|
| Mailchimp | $13/mo | $69/mo | $270/mo |
| ConvertKit | $15/mo | $66/mo | $166/mo |
| Klaviyo | $30/mo | $100/mo | $400/mo |
| ActiveCampaign | $29/mo | $99/mo | $259/mo |
| MailerLite | $10/mo | $39/mo | $139/mo |
Key Features to Compare
- Email builder: Drag-and-drop, templates, HTML editing
- Automation: Welcome sequences, abandoned cart, triggers
- Segmentation: Target by behavior, demographics, purchases
- A/B testing: Subject lines, content, send times
- Analytics: Opens, clicks, conversions, revenue
- Deliverability: Inbox placement rates
- Integrations: CRM, e-commerce, CMS connections
FAQ
Which email platform has the best deliverability?
ConvertKit and ActiveCampaign consistently rank highest for deliverability (95%+). Mailchimp and Klaviyo are also excellent.
How many emails should I send per week?
Most businesses find 1-3 emails per week optimal. Test what works for your audience - consistency matters more than frequency.