MailerLite is a clean, easy-to-use email marketing and automation platform known for having the most generous free plan in the category and pricing that remains significantly cheaper than Mailchimp as lists grow. It is the default starting platform for bootstrapped startups, nonprofits, and small businesses that need effective email marketing without paying premium prices.
Product Overview
MailerLite packs a surprising amount of functionality into its affordable tiers: a drag-and-drop email builder, website builder, landing pages, pop-up forms, automation workflows, and a basic e-commerce integration — all in one platform. Its automation builder handles welcome sequences, abandoned cart flows, and date-based triggers. The MailerLite Academy and responsive customer support make it particularly friendly for teams setting up email marketing for the first time.
Key Features
- Email Campaign Builder: Drag-and-drop editor with mobile preview, dynamic content blocks, and a large template library.
- Automation Workflows: Visual automation builder for welcome series, re-engagement campaigns, and behaviour-triggered sequences.
- Landing Pages & Websites: Build landing pages and full websites directly in MailerLite — with forms that auto-subscribe visitors.
- Pop-Up & Embedded Forms: Customisable opt-in forms with targeting rules for specific pages, devices, or exit intent.
- E-commerce Integration: Connect Shopify or WooCommerce to send abandoned cart emails, order confirmations, and purchase follow-ups.
Best For
Bootstrapped startups, nonprofits, solopreneurs, and small businesses that need a complete email marketing and simple automation platform at the lowest price point in the market.
Pricing
Free plan (1,000 subscribers, 12,000 emails/month). Growing Business from $9/month; Advanced from $18/month. Significantly cheaper than Mailchimp at equivalent contact counts.
Key Integrations
Shopify, WooCommerce, WordPress, Zapier, Stripe, Squarespace, Make, HubSpot
Pros
- Most affordable paid plans in the category — far cheaper than Mailchimp at scale
- Generous free plan — 1,000 subscribers included
- Website and landing page builder included
- Clean, beginner-friendly UI
Cons
- Automation less sophisticated than ActiveCampaign or Brevo
- Limited CRM features — contact management only
- Deliverability reputation slightly below SendGrid for transactional email
