Substack vs Beehiiv
A head-to-head comparison for 2026 — pricing, features, and which is better for different use cases.
Quick Comparison
| Feature | Substack | Beehiiv |
|---|---|---|
| Price | Free (10% on paid) | Free–$99/mo |
| Free Plan | Yes (full product) | Yes (2,500 subs) |
| Paid Subs | Yes (10% fee) | Yes (Scale plan) |
| Custom Domain | Yes | Yes |
| Discovery | Substack network | Recommendation network |
| Best For | Writers who want simplicity | Growth-focused operators |
Substack — Overview
Substack is the simplest way to start a newsletter. Zero setup, built-in audience discovery through the Substack network, and paid subscription support with a 10% platform fee. Notes (social features) and podcast hosting included. Over 35 million active subscriptions.
Beehiiv — Overview
Beehiiv is the growth-focused newsletter platform built by former Morning Brew team members. Referral programs, recommendation network, built-in ad network, and the best analytics in the space. Free for up to 2,500 subscribers.
Key Differences
Simplicity vs growth tools. Substack is the easiest path to a newsletter — zero setup, built-in discovery, and paid subscriptions. Beehiiv has better growth tools (referral programs, ad network, advanced analytics) and a more generous free tier (2,500 vs unlimited subs but with 10% fee). Substack for writers who want to write; Beehiiv for operators who want to grow.
The Verdict
Choose Substack for the simplest newsletter experience with built-in discovery. Choose Beehiiv for growth tools, referral programs, and better analytics.