If you’re considering moving off Substack—whether to save on fees, unlock more customization, or build a unique brand—here’s your go-to guide with Substack alternatives. These fully user-focused platforms give you power, flexibility, and better monetization. Let’s explore the best picks in 2025.
Why Consider Alternatives to Substack?
Substack is easy to use and built for creators to monetize via subscriptions. But many users find its 10% revenue fee, limited customization, and lack of advanced growth tools limiting as their audience scales.
Top Alternatives to Substack That Writers Trust
Ghost (Open-Source & Customizable)
- Self-host or use Ghost(Pro) for managed hosting
- Minimalist editor, membership tools, strong SEO support
- No platform revenue cut; you control Stripe payouts
- Perfect for brands or publishers building long-term presence
Beehiiv (Growth-Focused & Scalable)
- Free plan for up to 2,500 subscribers
- Built-in referral programs and analytics
- No cut on paid subscriptions
- Trusted by creators migrating from Substack (e.g. Garbage Day)
Buttondown (Simple, Privacy-First, Markdown-Based)
- Clean, text-first editor built around distraction-free writing
- Free up to 1,000 subscribers; paid tiers scale affordably
- Great for solo writers who value privacy and minimalism
- Handles paid newsletters with no investor pressure
MailerLite / ConvertKit / Patreon / Memberful
- MailerLite: Drag‑and‑drop newsletters + website builder (>1,000 free subscribers)
- ConvertKit: Ideal for creators offering digital products + advanced automations
- Patreon: Best for community-led monetization, rewards, and fan support
- Memberful: Deep integration with existing sites, lower transaction fees than Substack
Medium (Write-to-Discover)
- Built-in audience of 100M+ monthly readers
- Partner Program pays writers based on reading time
- Great for exposure—but limited control over subscriber data or design
Steady (Privacy-Minded European Platform)
- Based in Germany — GDPR-first, privacy-conscious
- Supports free newsletters, paid memberships, and longer articles
- No upfront cost; takes share only when you earn
Comparison Table: Which Platform Fits Your Needs?
| Platform | Best For | Free Tier Limits | Monetization | Customization |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Ghost | Full control and branding | No free plan (~500 subs) | Stripe payments, no cut | Fully customizable (self‑hosted) |
| Beehiiv | Growth, referrals, analytics | 2,500 subs | Paid subs, no cut | Modern but limited design |
| Buttondown | Privacy‑focused, minimal Markdown writing | 1,000 subs | Paid subs via Stripe | Moderate, text-first UI |
| MailerLite | Multi-tool for site + newsletters | 1,000 subs | Digital products, subs | Landing pages, emails |
| ConvertKit | Creators selling products or courses | Free basic tier | Paid subs, products | Flexible automations |
| Patreon | Community support via memberships | N/A | Membership tiers | Limited newsletter features |
| Memberful | Integration with own website or CMS | Starter free plan | Low revenue share | Connects with WordPress etc. |
| Medium | Discoverability, audience reach | Unlimited posts | Partner payouts custom fees | Low control, high visibility |
| Steady | Privacy-conscious EU creators | Unlimited; monetized only | Memberships if you earn | Simple UX, some branding |
Real Creator Insights
- Ghost supports major independent newsletters leaving Substack, like Platformer by Casey Newton
- Buttondown stands out for its personal service and privacy-first ethos
- Beehiiv continues expanding, launching its Media Collective to support independent journalists financially
Creators are moving fast—many cite Substack saturation and lack of flexibility as main reasons to switch. Platforms like Beehiiv and Ghost offer more growth tools and better economics once you reach scale Vogue Business.
How to Choose the Right Platform for You
- Scope & Goals
- Small, text-based newsletter? → Buttondown
- Growing audience with paid subscriptions? → Beehiiv or ConvertKit
- Want full control and branded site? → Ghost
- Prefer built-in discoverability? → Medium
- Budget & Monetization
- Avoid 10% revenue cuts → Beehiiv, Ghost, Memberful
- Need automation or digital product sales → MailerLite or ConvertKit
- Technical Feel
- Low setup, plug-and-play → Beehiiv, Buttondown, Medium
- Needing SEO, domain, publishing freedom → Ghost self-hosted
- Privacy & Data Control
- Prefer GDPR compliance and EU-based hosting? → Steady
Final Thoughts
Substack has made newsletter publishing simple. But as your audience grows or your goals evolve, platforms like Ghost, Beehiiv, Buttondown, or Steady offer better monetization, brand control, or privacy terms.
Choose one aligned with your values and goals. Migrate with intent, keep content authentic, and grow your readership—on your own terms.
FAQs
Q: Can I easily migrate from Substack?
Yes! Ghost, Beehiiv, and Buttondown all offer tools or guides to import subscribers, archives, and paid tiers seamlessly
Q: Do these platforms take a cut?
- Ghost: No
- Beehiiv: No
- Substack takes 10%, Memberful 4.9% on paid plans, Buttondown only after free threshold
Q: Which platform gives me SEO and custom domain control?
Ghost and MailerLite allow fully branded websites. Medium doesn’t allow custom domains outside publications
Q: What if I don’t want coding?
Beehiiv, MailerLite, Buttondown, Medium, and Steady all offer intuitive interfaces with minimal tech setup.