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In this guide, we’ll compare MailerLite vs Mailchimp — two leading email marketing solutions for small to medium-sized businesses. Email marketing remains one of the most powerful tools for businesses — offering an average return of $36 for every $1 spent. Choosing the right platform is essential.
Quick Overview: MailerLite vs Mailchimp
MailerLite shines for its simplicity, affordability, and beginner-friendly features. Mailchimp, with its long-standing market presence, offers more advanced tools and integrations, especially for businesses ready to scale aggressively.
Feature Comparison Table
| Feature | MailerLite | Mailchimp |
|---|---|---|
| Email Editor | Simple drag-and-drop | Advanced drag-and-drop with more options |
| Automation | Included in Free Plan (basic workflows) | Advanced, but requires paid plan |
| Integrations | Popular apps + API access | Broader integration list + API access |
| Free Plan Limit | 1,000 subscribers, 12,000 emails/month | 500 subscribers, 1,000 emails/month |
| Advanced Automation | Limited | Yes, with Standard plan and up |
Use Cases: Which Platform Works Best for Different Scenarios?
Still unsure whether to go with MailerLite or Mailchimp? Let’s explore how each performs in specific real-world use cases:
Startups & Solopreneurs
If you’re just starting out, have a limited tech stack, and need cost-effective tools, MailerLite is the better option. The free automation, generous subscriber limits, and ease of use make it ideal for building your first audience and launching automated welcome flows without the need to upgrade quickly.
Established Businesses with Complex Funnels
Companies that run advanced marketing campaigns, use dynamic segmentation, and need integrations with tools like Salesforce or HubSpot will benefit more from Mailchimp’s advanced features. Mailchimp’s predictive analytics and journey builder are designed for marketers who want deep control and customization.
Non-Profits and Education
Both platforms offer discounts for non-profits, but MailerLite’s ease of use and lower cost make it an appealing choice. You’ll still be able to segment your audience, run donation campaigns, and send newsletters — without needing a technical team.
Remember, your decision doesn’t have to be final forever. Many users start on MailerLite and migrate to more robust platforms like Mailchimp or ActiveCampaign as their business evolves.
Email Editor: Easy for All Users
Both platforms offer user-friendly drag-and-drop editors. MailerLite is easier for beginners, while Mailchimp offers more customization options. If you’re comfortable watching a YouTube tutorial, you’ll likely succeed with either.
Automation: The Key to Scaling
MailerLite
- Includes automation in the free plan
- Welcome series, birthday emails, and link-triggered flows
- Send emails on specific dates
- A/B testing available (best with >1,000 subs)
Mailchimp
- Free plan lacks automation workflows
- Advanced behavioral triggers available in paid plans
- Minimum “Essentials” plan needed for simple automation
Integrations & API Access
Integrating your email platform with other tools like CRMs, landing pages, or e-commerce systems is essential.
- MailerLite: Supports popular integrations and has API access
- Mailchimp: Slightly broader native integrations + API support
If you use Zapier, Make.com, or similar tools, both platforms should fit most needs.
Pricing Breakdown: Free Plans Compared
Pricing matters — especially when you’re just getting started. Here’s how the free plans stack up:
| Plan | MailerLite | Mailchimp |
|---|---|---|
| Free Tier | 1,000 subscribers 12,000 emails/month | 500 subscribers 1,000 emails/month |
| Automation | Included in free tier | Requires paid plan |
| Paid Plans Start At | $9/month | $13/month |
MailerLite Pricing Plans
Mailchimp pricing options
So, MailerLite or Mailchimp: Which Should You Choose?
- Choose MailerLite if you’re a solo creator or small business wanting automation on a budget.
- Choose Mailchimp if you need advanced automation, predictive segmentation, or broader integrations.
For some businesses, ActiveCampaign might be worth exploring for even more advanced email marketing needs.
Conclusion
In the battle of MailerLite vs Mailchimp, your ideal platform depends on your goals, tech stack, and marketing sophistication. MailerLite offers more value in the free plan, while Mailchimp delivers better features at higher tiers. Choose what scales with your vision!
→ Read next: MailerLite vs ActiveCampaign
