How to Migrate from Kit (ConvertKit) to MailerLite
Creators switch from ConvertKit to MailerLite primarily for cost savings and better email design capabilities. MailerLite's drag-and-drop editor produces more visually appealing emails than ConvertKit's plain-text-first approach. MailerLite's free plan (up to 1,000 subscribers) is more feature-rich than ConvertKit's free tier. For creators who want designed newsletters at a lower price point and don't need ConvertKit's creator commerce features, MailerLite is a strong alternative.
What Transfers?
Method: CSV export/import
Export ConvertKit subscribers with tags. Import into MailerLite with group assignments.
ConvertKit's plain-text emails don't have visual templates to transfer. Build new designs in MailerLite's drag-and-drop editor.
Recreate ConvertKit sequences as MailerLite automations.
Build new forms in MailerLite. Replace ConvertKit embed codes.
Historical data stays in ConvertKit.
Method: CSV column mapping to groups
ConvertKit tags can be mapped to MailerLite groups during import.
Step-by-Step Migration Guide
- 1
Export subscribers from ConvertKit
Go to Subscribers in ConvertKit and export all subscribers as CSV. The export includes email, name, tags, and subscription date.
- 2
Create groups in MailerLite
Set up MailerLite groups that correspond to your ConvertKit tags. This preserves your subscriber organization.
- 3
Import into MailerLite
Upload the CSV to MailerLite Subscribers. Map fields and assign subscribers to groups based on their ConvertKit tags.
- 4
Build email templates
Take advantage of MailerLite's visual editor to create designed email templates. This is an upgrade from ConvertKit's plain-text approach if you want more visual emails.
- 5
Recreate sequences as automations
Convert your ConvertKit sequences into MailerLite automation workflows. MailerLite supports similar email sequence functionality with time delays between emails.
- 6
Set up forms and integrations
Create MailerLite signup forms. Replace ConvertKit form embeds on your website. Update any third-party integrations (Zapier, WordPress, etc.).
- 7
Configure domain and launch
Add MailerLite DNS records. Send test emails and verify everything works before sending to your full list.
Watch Out For
MailerLite's account approval process may delay your migration. Apply early to avoid gaps in your email sending.
ConvertKit's visual automations with tag-based routing will need to be adapted to MailerLite's group-based model. The concepts are similar but the implementation differs.
If you sell digital products through ConvertKit Commerce, MailerLite does not have a built-in digital product sales feature. You'll need a separate tool like Gumroad or Payhip.
Ready to switch to MailerLite?
Start with MailerLite's free plan and import your contacts.
What You Get with MailerLite
Pros
- +Excellent value for money — most affordable paid plans
- +Clean, intuitive interface perfect for beginners
- +Built-in website and landing page builder
- +Sell digital products directly
- +Strong drag-and-drop email editor
Cons
- −Free plan limited to 1,000 subscribers
- −No SMS marketing
- −Fewer integrations than competitors
- −Strict approval process for new accounts
- −Limited automation compared to ActiveCampaign