Head-to-head
Mailchimp vs MailerLite
The biggest name against the user-friendly challenger that keeps winning converts.
Free start
MailchimpIntuit Mailchimp
Mailchimp
The biggest name, no longer the best deal.
Our pick
Free start
MailerLiteMailerLite
MailerLite
The friendliest tool for beginners, with an honest free plan.
MailchimpMailerLite
Our score3.9 / 54.6 / 5
PriceFreeFree
Free plan
Best forExisting Mailchimp usersBeginners
CategoryFree to startFree to start
ProviderIntuit MailchimpMailerLite
Our verdict
Mailchimp has the largest integration catalog and the biggest brand, but the gutted free plan (250 contacts since early 2026) and fast-climbing tiers make it hard to recommend for anyone starting now. MailerLite gives you a nicer editor, automation in the free plan, and honest pricing. MailerLite wins this one comfortably; only those dependent on a specific Mailchimp integration should stay.
“Still a mature platform that connects to almost everything, but the free plan was gutted in early 2026 and prices climb fast with your list. New users are better off starting elsewhere.”Editorial team, on Mailchimp
“The most pleasant editor we tested and a free plan you can genuinely start a business on. For beginners, this is our first recommendation.”Editorial team, on MailerLite