The verdict
Evidence note: This is a research-based breakdown of published pricing, documented features, and independent user-rating data. It is not presented as a hands-on test unless explicitly stated.
Substack scores 4.1/5 in our comparison model. Based on the available evidence, it's best suited to independent writers and journalists and creators starting a paid newsletter. Completely free until you charge readers. The main trade-offs: 10% cut of paid revenue is steep at scale; minimal automation and segmentation; you don't fully own the platform. There's a genuinely usable free plan, so you can try it at zero cost.
What Substack looks like
A live snapshot of Substack's site so you can eyeball the look and feel before clicking through.
Pros & cons
- Completely free until you charge readers
- Built-in audience and discovery network
- Dead-simple to publish
- 10% cut of paid revenue is steep at scale
- Minimal automation and segmentation
- You don't fully own the platform
Key features
- Free unlimited newsletter hosting
- Paid subscription tiers
- Built-in discovery and recommendations
- Podcast and video support
- Notes social feed
- Mobile reader app
Pricing
No monthly fee at any list size; Substack takes 10% of paid subscription revenue plus Stripe processing fees.
| Plan | Monthly | Annual (per mo) | What you get |
|---|---|---|---|
| Free | Free | Free | Unlimited subscribers, no monthly fee |
| Paid newsletters | Free | Free | 10% of subscription revenue + Stripe fees |
Transaction fees: 10% of paid subscription revenue (+ Stripe fees). Prices verified against Substack's pricing page; verify current pricing ↗.
Who should use Substack?
Good fit
- Independent writers and journalists
- Creators starting a paid newsletter
Look elsewhere
- Businesses needing automations and segmentation
Weighing the field? See Substack alternatives →.
Frequently asked questions
How much does Substack cost?
Substack is free to start. No monthly fee at any list size; Substack takes 10% of paid subscription revenue plus Stripe processing fees.
Does Substack charge transaction fees?
Transaction fees: 10% of paid subscription revenue (+ Stripe fees). Factor this in: it often costs more than the monthly fee at volume.
Who is Substack best for?
Substack is best for independent writers and journalists and creators starting a paid newsletter. It's less ideal for businesses needing automations and segmentation.
