Kit (ConvertKit) vs Mailchimp
A detailed feature-by-feature comparison to help you choose the right email marketing platform.
Kit (ConvertKit)
Email marketing built for creators
Kit (formerly ConvertKit) is purpose-built for online creators including bloggers, podcasters, YouTubers, and course creators. It emphasizes simplicity and deliverability over complex design features, making it ideal for text-based newsletters and automated sequences.
Mailchimp
Turn emails into revenue
Mailchimp is the most widely recognized email marketing platform, used by millions of businesses worldwide. Acquired by Intuit in 2021, it offers a comprehensive suite of marketing tools but has become increasingly expensive compared to alternatives.
Feature Comparison
| Feature | Kit (ConvertKit) | Mailchimp |
|---|---|---|
| Rating | 4.4/5 | 4.3/5 |
| Starting Price | $29/mo | $13/mo |
| Free Plan | 10,000 subscribers | 500 subscribers |
| Founded | 2013 | 2001 |
| Email Templates | 50 | 100 |
| Integrations | 90 | 300 |
| Deliverability Rate | 98.2% | 96% |
| Marketing Automation | ✓ | ✓ |
| A/B Testing | ✓ | ✓ |
| Landing Pages | ✓ | ✓ |
| Segmentation | ✓ | ✓ |
| Drag & Drop Editor | ✕ | ✓ |
| SMS Marketing | ✕ | ✓ |
| Ecommerce Features | ✓ | ✓ |
| API Access | ✓ | ✓ |
| Multi-Language | ✕ | ✓ |
| Web Push Notifications | ✕ | ✕ |
| Live Chat | ✕ | ✕ |
| Advanced Analytics | ✓ | ✓ |
Kit (ConvertKit): Pros & Cons
Pros
- +Excellent creator ecosystem with built-in monetization
- +Intuitive visual automation builder
- +Generous free plan up to 10,000 subscribers
- +Strong deliverability rates
- +Creator-focused features like tip jars and paid newsletters
Cons
- −Limited email template design options
- −Gets expensive at higher subscriber counts
- −No SMS marketing capabilities
- −Basic reporting compared to competitors
- −No drag-and-drop email editor
Mailchimp: Pros & Cons
Pros
- +Most recognized brand in email marketing
- +Excellent drag-and-drop editor
- +300+ integrations with third-party tools
- +Strong analytics and reporting
- +Good for beginners with guided setup
Cons
- −Free plan severely limited (500 contacts, 1,000 sends)
- −Premium plan is expensive ($350/mo)
- −Charges for unsubscribed contacts
- −Affiliate marketing restricted
- −Deliverability has declined in recent years
The Verdict
Both Kit (ConvertKit) and Mailchimp are strong options. Your choice depends on your specific needs: choose Kit (ConvertKit) if you prioritize bloggers, or Mailchimp if small-businesses is your focus.