About Substack
Substack is the leading newsletter platform that allows writers to start free newsletters and convert readers to paid subscribers. It takes 10% of paid subscription revenue. With network effects from the Substack reader app and discovery features, it has become the default starting point for many writers and journalists.
What's Great
- ✓Free to start, no monthly fees
- ✓Built-in reader network and discovery
- ✓Simple to use
- ✓Podcast and video support
Watch Out For
- !10% revenue cut on paid subscriptions
- !Less analytics than beehiiv
- !Limited growth tools compared to competitors
Common Use Cases
1
Independent writers
2
Journalists going independent
3
Thought leader newsletters
Best For
Pricing Model
Free
100% free to use — no credit card required.
Category
Newsletter Platforms
Publish, grow, and monetize email newsletters with dedicated creator tools.
Tags
newsletterpaid subscriptionswritersjournalistscommunity