# Best Email Marketing Software 2026 | Capterra

> Find the top Email Marketing software of 2026 on Capterra. Based on millions of verified user reviews - compare and filter for whats important to you to find the best tools for your needs.

Source: https://www.capterra.com/email-marketing-software

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# Best Email Marketing Software

Last updated on April 8, 2026

Written by

Molly Burke

Molly BurkeAuthor

Senior Specialist Analyst Experience I have been writing content for Capterra since April 2022. I cover technology trends in retail, hospitality, and custome...

[See bio & all articles](https://www.capterra.com/resources/author/mburke/)

Author

Edited by

Parul Sharma

Parul SharmaEditor

Content Editor Experience I have been an editor at Capterra for over two years, contributing to curating and enhancing content for various niches, including ...

[See bio & all articles](https://www.capterra.com/resources/author/parul-sharma/)

Editor

Written by

Molly Burke

Molly BurkeAuthor

Senior Specialist Analyst Experience I have been writing content for Capterra since April 2022. I cover technology trends in retail, hospitality, and custome...

[See bio & all articles](https://www.capterra.com/resources/author/mburke/)

Author

Molly Burke is a senior analyst and writer for Capterra. She covers customer experience and marketing in the retail and restaurant industries, with a focus on how emerging technology is transforming the way everyday people shop. Her insights on generative AI, social media, and other tech trends have been featured in The New York Times, Vogue, BBC, CNBC, Forbes, and the Financial Times, among other publications.

Edited by

Parul Sharma

Parul SharmaEditor

Content Editor Experience I have been an editor at Capterra for over two years, contributing to curating and enhancing content for various niches, including ...

[See bio & all articles](https://www.capterra.com/resources/author/parul-sharma/)

Editor

Parul is an editor at Capterra with over half a decade of experience curating news, IT, software, finance, lifestyle, and health content. She excels at simplifying complex terms into engaging content for SMBs. Parul has worked as a feature writer for DNA India, India’s premier media portal. She was also the highest scorer in her English literature graduation and post-graduation class.

All Products

Top Products

Talk to an expert - FREE

[4.3 (2913)](https://www.capterra.com/p/31898/Constant-Contact/reviews/)

[Capterra Shortlist](https://www.capterra.com/email-marketing-software/shortlist/)

Great for:

Campaign Scheduling

We deliver the tools to simplify and amplify digital marketing and drive results for your business. [Learn more about Constant Contact](https://www.capterra.com/p/31898/Constant-Contact/)

[4.5 (6220)](https://www.capterra.com/p/171840/HubSpot-Marketing/reviews/)

[Capterra Shortlist](https://www.capterra.com/email-marketing-software/shortlist/)

Great for:

Event Triggered Actions

Over 100,000 customers in more than 120 countries use HubSpot's award-winning software to attract, engage and delight their customers. [Learn more about HubSpot Marketing Hub](https://www.capterra.com/p/171840/HubSpot-Marketing/)

[4.3 (710)](https://www.capterra.com/p/75130/Marketo-Lead-Management/reviews/)

[Capterra Shortlist](https://www.capterra.com/email-marketing-software/shortlist/)

Great for:

Email Campaign Management

Adobe Marketo Engage is a leading AI-powered platform that automates and scales marketing to drive engagement, efficiency, and revenue. [Learn more about Marketo Engage](https://www.capterra.com/p/75130/Marketo-Lead-Management/)

Connect with a Capterra advisor for a free 15-minute consultation

Get a personalized software list aligned to your business needs with guidance from our expert advisors.

[4.3 (197)](https://www.capterra.com/p/159630/Mailgun/reviews/)

Good for:

Small Business

Mailgun is a transactional email API service that enables developers to send, receive, and track emails. [Learn more about Mailgun](https://www.capterra.com/p/159630/Mailgun/)

[4.2 (451)](https://www.capterra.com/p/130105/Mailjet/reviews/)

Good for:

Mobile Optimization

The best email marketing software that’s built for devs and loved by marketers [Learn more about Mailjet](https://www.capterra.com/p/130105/Mailjet/)

[4.6 (3411)](https://www.capterra.com/p/132996/brevo/reviews/)

[Capterra Shortlist](https://www.capterra.com/email-marketing-software/shortlist/)

Great for:

Personalization

Email marketing that works as hard as you do. Grow your business with AI-powered campaigns, automation & more. [Learn more about Brevo](https://www.capterra.com/p/132996/brevo/)

86% of users recommend this product

[4.7 (51)](https://www.capterra.com/p/166204/emfluence/reviews/)

Create, automate, and measure email campaigns with dynamic personalization, powerful analytics, and intuitive design tools. [Learn more about emfluence Marketing Platform](https://www.capterra.com/p/166204/emfluence/)

[5.0 (20)](https://www.capterra.com/p/211474/MailMonitor/reviews/)

A suite of tools to test, monitor and fix inbox placement issues. Leading platform in ease-of-use and affordability. [Learn more about MailMonitor](https://www.capterra.com/p/211474/MailMonitor/)

[4.7 (836)](https://www.capterra.com/p/153508/Omnisend/reviews/)

Great for:

Small Business

150k+ Shopify, WooCommerce, and Wix ecommerce stores scale their business with Omnisend’s powerful email & SMS marketing platform. [Learn more about Omnisend](https://www.capterra.com/p/153508/Omnisend/)

85% of users recommend this product

[4.7 (55)](https://www.capterra.com/p/134176/Pinpointe/reviews/)

Cloud-based email marketing for mid-size enterprises, agencies and high volume senders who have outgrown their current ESP. [Learn more about Pinpointe](https://www.capterra.com/p/134176/Pinpointe/)

[4.8 (6)](https://www.capterra.com/p/237293/InboxAlly/#reviews)

InboxAlly helps repair and protect your email sender reputation and ensure your emails are delivered in the inbox. [Learn more about InboxAlly](https://www.capterra.com/p/237293/InboxAlly/)

[4.3 (668)](https://www.capterra.com/p/141842/Weave/reviews/)

Good for:

Ease of Use

Appointment scheduling solution that helps businesses manage bookings, reminders, payments, email marketing, reviews and more. [Learn more about Weave](https://www.capterra.com/p/141842/Weave/)

[4.8 (654)](https://www.capterra.com/p/147415/EmailOctopus/reviews/)

[Capterra Shortlist](https://www.capterra.com/email-marketing-software/shortlist/)

Great for:

Newsletter Management

EmailOctopus is email marketing software that provides simple tools for businesses to manage subscribers and send emails. [Learn more about EmailOctopus](https://www.capterra.com/p/147415/EmailOctopus/)

94% of users recommend this product

[4.7 (907)](https://www.capterra.com/p/178819/EngageBay-Marketing/reviews/)

Great for:

Contact Database

EngageBay allows you to grow your business with AI-powered email marketing functionalities. [Learn more about EngageBay CRM](https://www.capterra.com/p/178819/EngageBay-Marketing/)

84% of users recommend this product

[4.7 (87)](https://www.capterra.com/p/174023/Customer-io/reviews/)

Customer.io is software that helps businesses create personalized experiences across channels using first-party data. [Learn more about Customer.io](https://www.capterra.com/p/174023/Customer-io/)

[4.5 (1132)](https://www.capterra.com/p/148516/Marketing-360/reviews/)

Good for:

Value for Money

#1 Marketing Platform for Email Marketing. [Learn more about Marketing 360](https://www.capterra.com/p/148516/Marketing-360/)

82% of users recommend this product

[4.6 (7)](https://www.capterra.com/p/81919/Marketing-Optimizer/reviews/)

Generate and sell more Internet leads with the only email automation and lead generation software made for Internet marketing experts. [Learn more about Marketing Optimizer](https://www.capterra.com/p/81919/Marketing-Optimizer/)

[4.8 (17)](https://www.capterra.com/p/196298/Knak/reviews/)

Knak is the first campaign creation platform built for enterprise marketing teams with no coding required. Ever. [Learn more about Knak](https://www.capterra.com/p/196298/Knak/)

[## Mailchimp](https://www.capterra.com/p/110228/MailChimp/)

[4.5 (17572)](https://www.capterra.com/p/110228/MailChimp/reviews/)

[Capterra Shortlist](https://www.capterra.com/email-marketing-software/shortlist/)

Great for:

Click Tracking

Mailchimp: the #1 email marketing platform with 11M+ users worldwide, offering AI-powered insights & content creation tools. [Learn more about Mailchimp](https://www.capterra.com/p/110228/MailChimp/)

[## Gmail](https://www.capterra.com/p/202338/Gmail/)

[4.8 (13329)](https://www.capterra.com/p/202338/Gmail/reviews/)

Great for:

Mobile Optimization

Gmail is a cloud-based solution that enables businesses to send, receive, organize, and schedule emails across multiple user accounts. [Learn more about Gmail](https://www.capterra.com/p/202338/Gmail/)

94% of users recommend this product

[## Squarespace](https://www.capterra.com/p/143461/Squarespace/)

[4.5 (3385)](https://www.capterra.com/p/143461/Squarespace/reviews/)

Great for:

Preview Functionality

Cloud-based software that lets users build professional websites with customizable templates, AI tools, and domain names. [Learn more about Squarespace](https://www.capterra.com/p/143461/Squarespace/)

[## Pipedrive](https://www.capterra.com/p/132666/Pipedrive/)

[4.5 (3042)](https://www.capterra.com/p/132666/Pipedrive/reviews/)

Good for:

Email Campaign Management

Campaigns by Pipedrive is a powerful email marketing tool to help you win prospects’ attention with beautiful, customizable layouts. [Learn more about Pipedrive](https://www.capterra.com/p/132666/Pipedrive/)

81% of users recommend this product

[## ActiveCampaign](https://www.capterra.com/p/79367/ActiveCampaign/)

[4.6 (2561)](https://www.capterra.com/p/79367/ActiveCampaign/reviews/)

[Capterra Shortlist](https://www.capterra.com/email-marketing-software/shortlist/)

Great for:

Drip Campaigns

ActiveCampaign is the AI-first marketing platform built to transform how marketers, agencies, and entrepreneurs work. [Learn more about ActiveCampaign](https://www.capterra.com/p/79367/ActiveCampaign/)

[## MailerLite](https://www.capterra.com/p/136603/MailerLite/)

[4.7 (2256)](https://www.capterra.com/p/136603/MailerLite/reviews/)

[Capterra Shortlist](https://www.capterra.com/email-marketing-software/shortlist/)

Great for:

Customizable Branding

From newsletters to automated customer journeys—join 700,000 businesses scaling the easy way with MailerLite. [Learn more about MailerLite](https://www.capterra.com/p/136603/MailerLite/)

89% of users recommend this product

[## Airtable](https://www.capterra.com/p/146652/Airtable/)

[4.6 (2222)](https://www.capterra.com/p/146652/Airtable/reviews/)

Good for:

Mid-Size Business

Airtable is the AI-powered app platform that unifies data, maximizes collaboration, and powers smarter workflows — no code required. [Learn more about Airtable](https://www.capterra.com/p/146652/Airtable/)

81% of users recommend this product

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85% of professionals opt for a 30-day trial before the software purchase

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Monthly Subscription

Annual Subscription

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Key Features

All key features

Popular

We have selected the most important and critical features as defined by Capterra user reviews

[A/B Testing](https://www.capterra.com/email-marketing-software/features/2145-a-b-testing/)

[AI Copilot](https://www.capterra.com/email-marketing-software/features/721-virtual-assistant/)

[Autoresponders](https://www.capterra.com/email-marketing-software/features/2459-autoresponders/)

[Campaign Analytics](https://www.capterra.com/email-marketing-software/features/2581-campaign-analytics/)

[Campaign Scheduling](https://www.capterra.com/email-marketing-software/features/577-campaign-scheduling/)

[CAN-SPAM Compliance](https://www.capterra.com/email-marketing-software/features/3535-can-spam-compliance/)

[Contact Management](https://www.capterra.com/email-marketing-software/features/3-contact-management/)

[Customer Segmentation](https://www.capterra.com/email-marketing-software/features/3561-customer-segmentation/)

[Customer Surveys](https://www.capterra.com/email-marketing-software/features/977-customer-surveys/)

[Customizable Fields](https://www.capterra.com/email-marketing-software/features/2016-customizable-fields/)

[Drip Campaigns](https://www.capterra.com/email-marketing-software/features/2292-drip-campaigns/)

[Dynamic Content](https://www.capterra.com/email-marketing-software/features/3830-dynamic-content/)

[Email Tracking](https://www.capterra.com/email-marketing-software/features/2708-email-tracking/)

[Event Triggered Actions](https://www.capterra.com/email-marketing-software/features/1457-event-triggered-actions/)

[Generative AI](https://www.capterra.com/email-marketing-software/features/2098-ai-content-creation/)

[Image Library](https://www.capterra.com/email-marketing-software/features/4166-image-library/)

[Landing Pages/Web Forms](https://www.capterra.com/email-marketing-software/features/3043-landing-pages-web-forms/)

[Mobile Optimization](https://www.capterra.com/email-marketing-software/features/206-mobile-optimization/)

[Multi-Channel Marketing](https://www.capterra.com/email-marketing-software/features/834-multi-channel-marketing/)

[Reporting/Analytics](https://www.capterra.com/email-marketing-software/features/2900-reporting-analytics/)

[Subscriber Management](https://www.capterra.com/email-marketing-software/features/1602-subscriber-management/)

[WYSIWYG Editor](https://www.capterra.com/email-marketing-software/features/3419-wysiwyg-editor/)

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Related Software Category:

[Marketing Automation Software](https://www.capterra.com/marketing-automation-software/)[SMS Marketing Software](https://www.capterra.com/sms-marketing-software/)[Social Media Management Software](https://www.capterra.com/social-media-management-software/)[Email Management Software](https://www.capterra.com/email-management-software/)[Email Verification Tools Software](https://www.capterra.com/email-verification-tools-software/)[Push Notifications Software](https://www.capterra.com/push-notifications-software/)[Email Tracking Software](https://www.capterra.com/email-tracking-software/)[Transactional Email Software](https://www.capterra.com/transactional-email-software/)[Conversational Marketing Platform Software](https://www.capterra.com/conversational-marketing-platform-software/)[Direct Mail Automation Software](https://www.capterra.com/direct-mail-automation-software/)

I'm looking for Email Marketing Software that is:

[Free](https://www.capterra.com/email-marketing-software/s/free/)[For Small Businesses](https://www.capterra.com/email-marketing-software/s/small-businesses/)

Table of Contents

-   [What is email marketing software?](#what-is-email-marketing-software)
-   [Email marketing trends](#email-marketing-trends)
-   [1\. Define outcomes: What are your main goals when choosing email marketing software?](#1-define-outcomes-what-are-your-main-goals-when-choosing-email-marketing-software)
-   [2\. Explore solutions: How do you find the ideal email marketing software for your team?](#2-explore-solutions-how-do-you-find-the-ideal-email-marketing-software-for-your-team)
-   [3\. Narrow your list: How do you create a shortlist of email marketing software options?](#3-narrow-your-list-how-do-you-create-a-shortlist-of-email-marketing-software-options)
-   [4\. Get the best deal: How to negotiate your next email marketing software contract](#4-get-the-best-deal-how-to-negotiate-your-next-email-marketing-software-contract)
-   [5\. Plan for success: What are the best practices for a successful email marketing software implementation?](#5-plan-for-success-what-are-the-best-practices-for-a-successful-email-marketing-software-implementation)

## What is email marketing software?

Email marketing software is a digital platform for teams to manage, automate, and track email campaigns. It assists with different tasks such as creating email lists, designing templates, managing campaigns, and analyzing performance.

## Email marketing trends

Email marketing software is becoming a strategic priority for sales and marketing teams. According to Capterra’s 2025 Sales and Marketing Software Trends Survey\[[1](#sources)\], over half of professionals expect email and SMS campaign costs to rise this year. This growing investment reflects how essential these tools have become—not just for outreach, but for sustaining core operations. 

According to sales and marketing professionals we surveyed, here are the top trends shaping email marketing software decisions this year:

-   **Email marketing spend is rising**: 55% of professionals say costs related to email/SMS mailshots to clients will increase this year compared to last year.
    
-   **Email marketing software purchases and upgrades are frequent**: 41% of sales and marketing professionals say email marketing software was purchased more than 12 months ago in their organization. 34% say it was purchased in the past 12 months.
    
-   **Email marketing software is needed for crucial company’s operations**: 2 out of 5 professionals say email marketing software is critical for sales and marketing operations.
    

As email marketing becomes more central to business operations, buyers should evaluate tools not just on features, but on long-term adaptability and cost efficiency. Ask vendors how their software supports evolving campaign strategies and integrates with CRM or analytics platforms. 

This guide provides a five-step process for defining email marketing goals, evaluating tools effectively, and avoiding costly missteps so SMBs can successfully select and adopt email marketing software. Our research highlights the challenges and strategies involved in adopting email marketing software, drawing on real-world use cases and user experiences.

## 1\. Define outcomes: What are your main goals when choosing email marketing software?

**Key question:** _What problem are we trying to solve?_

**Start with outcomes, not features**

Before comparing products or features, define what success looks like for your team.

**Set goals that drive results:** When choosing email marketing software, align your goals with business outcomes. Here are some examples:

-   **Launch faster:** Cut campaign delays by 20%
    
-   **Work smarter:** Spot automation gaps in your email workflows
    
-   **Track better:** Gain visibility into team handoffs and performance
    

**_Expert tip:_** _Map your current campaign workflows before evaluating tools. You’ll uncover inefficiencies, missed automation, and unclear handoffs—especially in teams with ad hoc processes._

### How do you set a budget and requirements for email marketing software?

Once your goals are clearly established, there are two other important points to focus on ahead of evaluating vendors:

-   **Your budget**: How much can you invest?
    
-   **Your requirements**: How will the software help you to meet your goals?
    

Not gathering requirements accurately is the #1 cause of software purchase regret. In fact, 30% of buyers say they’d budget earlier next time to avoid mistakes.\[[2](#sources)\]

Once you have clear and actionable requirements, you will know which key features to look for. In this way, you will be able to get value from the purchase when evaluating vendors.

Let’s look at some of these **key terms** in more detail:

**Term**

**What it means**

**Examples**

**Outcomes**

The results you want to achieve for your business or team. 

Increase open rates by 20%, boost CTR (click-through rates).

**Requirements**

Functional requirements

Non-functional requirements

What the software must do to support your outcomes.

The tasks the software should help you complete.

How the software should work and feel.

Create email campaigns, segment email lists, and track email performance.

User-friendly interface, customizable templates, responsive design.

**Features**

The specific tools or functions in the software that meet your requirements.

Drag-and-drop editor, A/B testing, analytics dashboard.

### How do you define email marketing software requirements based on your business goals?

Once you’ve defined your email marketing goals—like boosting engagement, increasing conversions, or saving time through automation—the next step is to translate those goals into clear software requirements.

**Connect business goals to requirements**

**The table below** is a quick reference for vendor demos and RFP prep, ensuring that every feature request relates to a real business objective.

**Goal area**

**Business goal (outcome)**

**Functional requirement**

**Non-functional requirement**

**Helpful features**

Security

Protect subscriber data and meet compliance standards

Manage user permissions and data access

Must comply with GDPR and offer secure login options

Two-factor authentication

Audit logs 

Permission controls

Data migration

Migrate without losing data

Import contacts, templates, and historical performance data

Real-time data sync (within 5 mins), 99% uptime

Migration wizard 

CSV import/export 

Onboarding support

Integrations

Connect with existing tools

Sync with CRM, eCommerce, and analytics platforms

Should support real-time data exchange and stable APIs

Native integrations 

API access 

Webhook support 

Budget

Stay within budget

Offer scalable pricing based on usage and team size

Should provide a transparent cost breakdown and no hidden fees.

Tiered pricing plans 

Usage dashboards 

Cost alerts

Compliance

Stay aligned with privacy laws

Enable consent and unsubscribe options

Data encryption, audit logs

Consent tracking

Auto-unsubscribe

Privacy policy links

Scalability

Support growing contact lists and campaigns

Handle large volumes of emails and contacts

High deliverability, scalable infrastructure

Dedicated IP

Deliverability monitoring

Volume-based pricing tiers

Reporting

Export and share campaign results easily

Schedule periodic report updates

Customizable formats, CSV/PDF options

Report builder

Scheduled reports

Executive summary view

**_Expert tip_**_: Don’t just compare features—compare trade-offs. If your business is scaling fast, prioritize tools that handle high volumes and automation over deep personalization. Choosing scalability now can prevent costly migrations later and keep campaigns running smoothly as your audience grows._

## 2\. Explore solutions: How do you find the ideal email marketing software for your team?

With your team goals in place, it’s time to find tools that help you achieve them. Email marketing platforms vary in automation depth, personalization options, and integration flexibility, making the choice feel a bit overwhelming.

### What features should you look for in email marketing software? 

Use this glossary to compare tools and rank features by how your team works. Core features suit most teams; common ones depend on specific needs.\[[3](#sources)\]

**Core features**

**Feature definition**

Email campaign management 

Plan, execute, and analyze email marketing campaigns.

List management

Manage contacts across multiple mailing lists.

Template management

Create, save, and repurpose formatting for emails, forms, and other campaign elements.

**Common features**

**Feature definition**

Campaign scheduling

Set campaign schedules by selecting start, pause, and end dates.

Reporting/analytics

View and track pertinent metrics.

Contact management

Manage, organize, and store contact information.

Customizable fields

Customize data fields to support various needs and use cases.

Mobile-optimized email

Ensure the integrity of email formatting when viewed on mobile devices.

Campaign analytics

Track and interpret campaign performance metrics.

Subscriber management

Add or remove subscribers from mailing lists.

Event-triggered actions

Automate predefined actions when specific events occur.

CAN-SPAM Compliance

Ensure all emails are compliant with anti-spam guidelines, as required by the CAN-SPAM Act.

### How is email marketing software typically priced?

Most email marketing tools follow a subscription model, billed monthly or annually. Pricing often depends on the number of contacts, email volume, and access to automation or analytics features.

By understanding **how pricing scales with your contact list and campaign frequency,** you can avoid surprise costs and choose a plan that supports long-term growth.

**Common pricing models:**

-   **Contact-based subscription**: Pay based on the number of contacts in your database. Plans typically scale as your list grows.
    
-   **Tiered subscriptions**: Choose from levels like Basic, Pro, or Enterprise, each offering a bundle of features such as automation, A/B testing, or advanced analytics.
    
-   **Flat-rate subscription**: Pay one fee for unlimited emails or users, regardless of list size or campaign volume.
    
-   **Usage-based**: Pricing adjusts based on activity, such as the number of emails sent, API calls, or automation workflows triggered.
    

**Typical price ranges**

-   **Entry-leve**l: Starts at $7/month. Includes basic features like limited storage, a small number of landing pages, and restricted user access—suitable for small businesses just starting out.
    
-   **Mid-tier**: Ranges from $8 to $949/month. It adds tools like two-factor authentication, automated drip campaigns, and full A/B testing, which is ideal for growing teams.
    
-   **High-end**: Starts at $1,499/month. It offers unlimited storage, a dedicated account manager, and priority support, which is built for large businesses with complex needs.\[[4](#sources)\]
    

**What hidden costs should you watch for in email marketing software?** 

Lather warns buyers about potential hidden costs that might not be immediately apparent from the label price. These include:

-   Fees for onboarding and training
    
-   Charges for data transfers when switching systems
    
-   Caps on email sends or subscriber numbers
    

**_Expert tip_**_: Most email marketing tools charge a monthly or annual subscription, with pricing tied to contact volume, email frequency, and access to automation features—so review limits carefully before scaling campaigns._

## 3\. Narrow your list: How do you create a shortlist of email marketing software options?

Now that you know which email marketing software features are essential and which pricing models are available, it’s time to evaluate tools with purpose. 

This step helps narrow your choices by focusing on: your goals, must-have features, and how each tool performs in your day-to-day work.

### What can you learn from email marketing software reviews by similar-sized companies?

When it comes to day-to-day work, user reviews can reveal what vendors or software demos don’t. Here’s how you will make the most out of user reviews:

-   **Filter by company size and industry** to identify reviews you can relate to
    
-   **Check user experience feedback** to find out if there are issues with the interface or the learning curve
    
-   **Filter by recent** (prioritize they have been published within the last 6-12 months)
    
-   **Keep an eye out for star ratings and written reviews**. A 2-star review explaining specific issues can offer more insight than a 5-star review that simply says “Great.”
    

### What criteria should you use to compare email marketing tools and alternatives?

Once you’ve gathered peer insights, build a shortlist. Comparing tools side by side keeps decisions objective, avoids bias toward familiar options, and ensures alignment with your team’s goals.

**Use a table, such as our** [**free software comparison template**](https://www.capterra.com/resources/software-comparison-chart/)**, to evaluate:**

-   Feature coverage
    
-   Pricing and scalability
    
-   Integration capabilities
    
-   Support and training options
    
-   Security and compliance
    

Use your requirements list to score tools—not just check boxes.

### What are the right questions to ask when evaluating email marketing software?

Ask these questions to evaluate how well a tool fits your business needs—from automation to integration and usability.

**Question to ask**

**Why it matters for email marketing**

**Does the software support the level of automation our business needs?**

Automating certain tasks could be critical for your email marketing processes. These include lead capture, scoring, and routing to ensure timely follow-up and personalized engagement.

**How easily does it integrate with the tools we already use?**

Integration with current CRM or sales systems can ensure seamless handoff and alignment between marketing and sales teams.

**Can team members access and manage campaigns from mobile devices?**

Marketers working remotely or on the go rely on mobile access to build, send, and monitor campaigns.

**Which features require technical setup or custom development?**

Choosing configurable options helps teams stay agile and reduces long-term maintenance.

### What should be included in an email marketing software RFP?

When developing your **request for proposal (RFP)**, ensure you set expectations, align stakeholders, and lay the foundation. 

**But first, what is an RFP?** An RFP is a structured document organizations use to invite vendors to submit bids for a project or service. It outlines key details like requirements, goals, budget, timeline, and evaluation criteria to guide vendor responses.

In the case of email marketing software, instead of listing features, **think about how your team runs campaigns**. This helps vendors show how their tool fits your real-world process.

**Core components of an email marketing software RFP**

Include these elements to ensure software providers can tailor their responses to your needs:

-   **Goals and use cases**
    

Does the tool help you enable the goals you defined in Step 1, such as cutting campaign delays and spotting automation gaps?

-   **Must-have and nice-to-have features**
    

Include both functional and non-functional requirements. For example, it could offer A/B testing, but it must support template management.

-   **Integration needs**
    

List the tools you need to connect with. For instance: CRM, eCommerce platform, and analytics tools.

-   **Scalability expectations**
    

Ensure the system can handle more contacts, campaigns, and automation as your business grows.

-   **Security and compliance needs**
    

Specify what level of compliance you need, such as encryption, role-based access, and GDPR.

-   **Request for two demos:**
    

1.  A user-focused demo that walks through your actual email workflows
    
2.  A technical deep dive for IT or admin teams to evaluate aspects like data security, integration setup, and user permissions
    

## 4\. Get the best deal: How to negotiate your next email marketing software contract

**Lock in the right deal**

After choosing your email marketing tool, negotiate a contract that fits your goals, budget, and risk level.

### Who should be involved in selecting email marketing software?

**Email marketing tools impact more than just marketing teams:** they touch sales, compliance, IT, and customer success. Early input ensures the tool fits across teams.

**Who to involve—and why:**

-   **Marketing lead**: Owns campaigns and strategy
    
-   **Sales or CRM owner**: Ensures lead data syncs
    
-   **IT lead**: Handles integration and security
    
-   **Compliance officer**: Oversees consent and privacy
    
-   **Finance stakeholder**: Tracks budget and ROI
    

**_Expert tip_**_: Getting internal agreement on goals and must-haves helps speed up your search and strengthens your negotiation position._

### What key terms should you know for email marketing software contracts? 

When you control the key terms, it will be easier for you to negotiate the right contract that includes your team's long-term needs.

**Term**

**What it means**

**Why it matters for email marketing software**

**Master Services Agreement (MSA)**

Master contract that sets the rules for how you and the vendor work together.

Sets the legal and operational framework for all future purchases, renewals, and service levels.

**Service Level Agreement (SLA)**

Outlines service-level commitments like uptime, support speed, and delivery standards.

Keeps your campaigns on track when timing and coordination matter.

**Price lock or renewal cap**

Caps how much the vendor can raise prices when it’s time to renew.

Gives you cost visibility so you can plan ahead and avoid budget shocks.

**Liability and indemnification**

Defines who is responsible if there are issues related to data breach or misuse, for example.

Set limits and protections to avoid bearing full risk.

**Sub-processors and third-party vendors**

Vendors may share your data with other service providers.

Helps you understand where your data and your audience’s data will go and who will handle it.

**Data ownership and processing**

Clarifies who owns the data and how the vendor can use or store it.

Ensures your customer data will be treated according to your standards.

**Compliance obligations**

You’re responsible for following laws like GDPR, CAN-SPAM, and others.

Makes you understand how the platform supports compliance, such as consent tracking or unsubscribe tools.

**_Expert_** **_tip_**_: Before you negotiate, ask for a tracked-changes version of the contract. It helps your legal team spot what’s new, what’s risky, and what needs a second look—fast._

### What should you consider when comparing email marketing software pricing?

When comparing various email marketing software vendors, SMB buyers should focus on these key factors to negotiate smarter and avoid hidden costs:

**What to compare:**

-   **Pricing model**: Does the vendor charge by the number of contacts or emails sent?
    
-   **Monthly vs. annual billing discounts**: Does the vendor offer lower rates for annual subscriptions?
    
-   **Renewal terms and price caps**: Does the vendor increase prices at renewal? By how much?
    
-   **Add-on fees**: Are there extra charges for automation, SMS, integrations, or advanced analytics?
    
-   **Tier limits and overages**: What happens if we exceed our plan’s limit?
    

**_Expert tip_**_: Don’t forget to ask how the billing works for inactive contacts or paused campaigns. If you overlook this, you may end up paying for contacts you’re not actively using._

### What are the best tips for negotiating email marketing software contracts?

**Negotiate beyond the price tag**

Pricing and features are important, but don’t overlook the fine print that shapes long-term value.

Consider these tips to negotiate smarter, avoid hidden costs, and lock in terms that support your team’s growth.

1.  **Get everything in writing.** Ask the vendor to include verbal statements on the final contract.
    
2.  **Clarify implementation costs.** Set a limit for setup fees and a process for managing changes.
    
3.  **Watch for auto-renewal clauses.** Negotiate opt-out windows and gain flexibility to switch if needed.
    
4.  **Never accept the first price quote.** Vendors expect negotiation, so take the first price as a starting point.
    
5.  **Ask for throw-ins.** If the price is fixed, negotiate extras like onboarding support or premium modules.
    

**_Expert tip_**_: Before diving into pricing, ask the vendor for a sample contract upfront. Reviewing it early helps you spot restrictive clauses, prep your legal team, and shape the conversation around terms and not just cost._

## 5\. Plan for success: What are the best practices for a successful email marketing software implementation?

**Implement smart**

Adopting email marketing software is about making sure it fits how your team actually works, not just about choosing the right tool. Ensure the implementation aligns with your workflows and outcome expectations.

### Email marketing software implementation roadmap: From project kickoff to go-live ​

Here’s an example of a step-by-step implementation plan for email marketing software:

**1\. Build your email marketing implementation team**

Include all stakeholders such as IT, operations, team leads, and marketing specialists. 

**2\. Set up the software**

Configure email templates, design and brand elements, user roles, contact lists, and email campaign automations.

**3\. Migrate key data**

Import contacts and audience segmentation. Set up email templates and automated workflows.

**4\. Run a test campaign**

Launch an email campaign in test mode to get used to the system functionalities. 

**5\. Document software use guidelines**

Create a user handbook and share instructions on how to use the tool properly.

**6\. Offer role-specific training**

Train team members for their specific role, like designers, content marketers, and email marketing specialists.

**7\. Go live and track performance**

Get IT support on standby for issues in the early stage of the implementation. 

**8\. Set a maintenance schedule**

Plan period reviews for usage reports and onboarding new team members.

### Advice from other email marketing software buyers

In our buyer survey, respondents shared what they’d do differently to avoid software purchase regret. Common traps flagged include underestimating setup complexity or overpaying for unused features.

Read the buyer’s advice\[[5](#sources)\] and learn how to apply it when buying email marketing software:

### Budget and pricing tips

Secure the budget early

Schedule a meeting to align on funding for licensing, onboarding, and any needed integrations with your email marketing system.

Set a realistic monthly budget

Most small teams spend an average of $72 per user/month on their broader marketing software. 

Compare pricing tiers side by side

Check what’s included in each plan. Some features may be locked behind higher tiers.

Check limits and scalability

Make sure the plan supports your current contact list and monthly campaigns and can grow with you.

Watch for hidden costs

Ask vendors about training and integration costs.

### Goal-setting and stakeholder alignment

Clarify goals and desired outcomes

Define 2–3 measurable outcomes (e.g., improved click-through-rate and open rate) and share them with your selection team.

Ensure alignment on evaluation criteria

Set a meeting to agree on key criteria like ease of use, reporting, integrations, and scalability.

Engage a diverse stakeholder group

Include reps from IT (compatibility), finance (cost), operations (process fit), and end users (usability).

Improve communication around decisions

Create a shared log to track vendor feedback, demo notes, and next actions.

### Security and risk management

Perform a security review

Create a checklist of required standards (e.g., GDPR, ISO/IEC 27001) and include it in your RFP.

Develop a vendor risk assessment

Use a simple matrix to evaluate each vendor’s financial stability, support responsiveness, and compliance.

### Evaluation and selection tips

Start with a free trial or freemium plan

Test the interface, features, integrations, and usability before signing the contract.

Update your vendor list

Revisit your shortlist and add at least one new tool.

Consider reviews from similar companies

Read reviews from businesses of similar size and industry to understand real pros and cons.

### Software categories​ related to email marketing

[Campaign Management Software](https://www.capterra.com/campaign-management-software/)

Enables organizations to automate the tracking, delivery, reporting, and analysis of marketing campaigns through the integration of customer data sources.

[Contact Management Software](https://www.capterra.com/contact-management-software/)

Supports the storage, tracking, and management of contact information throughout an organization.

[CRM Software](https://www.capterra.com/customer-relationship-management-software/)

Allows for better customer management by supporting customer interaction, support, and relationship management.

[Marketing Automation Software](https://www.capterra.com/marketing-automation-software/)

Helps companies automate their marketing functions, including campaign creation, marketing workflows, and outcome analysis.

[Survey Software](https://www.capterra.com/survey-software/)

Lets users design and manage electronic surveys, polls, and questionnaires for market research.

[All-in-One Marketing Platform Software](https://www.capterra.com/all-in-one-marketing-software/)

Provides multiple digital marketing tools, such as marketing automation, campaign management, email and social marketing, and lead management, as part of one comprehensive package.

Sources

1.  **Capterra's Sales and Marketing Software Trends Survey** was conducted in July 2025 among 2,452 respondents in Australia (n=231), Brazil (n=224), Canada (n=223), France (n=236), Germany (n=217), India (n=192), Italy (n=219), Mexico (n=229), Spain (n=216), the U.K. (n=238), and the U.S. (n=227). The goal of the study was to understand the sales and marketing software that companies are buying, their benefits and challenges, and the impact of AI on these departments. Respondents were screened for employment at companies with more than one employee, working in management-level roles overseeing sales or marketing operations. Respondents were also confirmed to be at least partially responsible for sales/marketing software purchase decisions within their organization.
    
2.  **Capterra’s 2025 Tech Trends Survey** was conducted online in August 2024 among 3,500 respondents from the U.S. (n=700), U.K. (n=350), Canada (n=350), Australia (n=350), France (n=350), India (n=350), Germany (n=350), Brazil (n=350), and Japan (n=350), at businesses across multiple industries and company sizes (5 or more employees). The survey was designed to understand the timeline, organizational challenges, adoption & budget, vendor research behaviors, ROI expectations, and satisfaction levels for software buyers. Respondents were screened to ensure their involvement in business software purchasing decisions.
    
3.  **Capterra reviews data:** Capterra reviews are collected from verified users for individual software products. [Learn more about how we source our data](https://www.capterra.com/resources/proprietary-data-research/).
    
4.  **Capterra software pricing data:** Only products with publicly available pricing information and qualified software products within the category are included in the pricing analysis. [Read the complete methodology here](https://www.capterra.com/resources/proprietary-data-research/#software-buyers-guides-methodology).
    
5.  **Capterra advisor call notes methodology**: Findings are based on data from telephonic conversations that Capterra’s advisor team had with businesses seeking marketing tools. For this report, we analyzed phone interactions from August 2023 to August 2025. [Read the complete methodology here](https://www.capterra.com/resources/buyers-guide-methodologies/).
    

Note: The applications included in this article are not intended as endorsements or recommendations. They have been obtained from sources believed to be reliable at the time of publication.

How we picked the software on this list

**I evaluated the top email marketing software** to help small and midsize businesses improve communication, automate routine tasks, and schedule campaigns with better visibility. **These products reflect real user insights and are arranged to support quick comparison across features, pricing, and usability.** Whether you’re refining segmentation, managing compliance needs, or improving audience engagement, this overview helps you focus on what matters most as you narrow your options. For a deeper look at essential capabilities, check out our [**email marketing software buying guide**](https://www.capterra.com/email-marketing-software/#buyers-guide) **to choose the right tool.**

Sorted by Sponsored

[4.6 (3411)](https://www.capterra.com/p/132996/brevo/reviews/)

Why we picked it

Brevo earns a place on this list for its strong ratings and versatile personalization capabilities. Its intuitive interface, accessible setup, and flexible campaign tools help small businesses tailor messages, segment audiences, and automate workflows without needing advanced technical expertise.

Pros and cons based on reviews

Flexible tools for segmentation, automation, and personalization.

Clear, intuitive interface suitable for all experience levels.

Centralized marketing features that support SMB workflows.

Account policies and compliance processes feel unclear.

Performance issues and slow load times for some users.

List management can be confusing for beginners.

Starting price

$9Usage Based, Per Month

Highest and lowest rated features

Email campaign management

4.5

Personalization

4.5

Campaign scheduling

4.0

CAN-SPAM compliance

3.8

Third-party integrations

3.6

A/B testing

1.8

Brevo performs well in campaign creation, personalization, and scheduling. Lower-rated features include A/B testing, integrations, and compliance tools, which some reviewers find limited or harder to navigate.

Brevo's user interface

1.  Clean interface with clear navigation.
2.  Some users find advanced areas confusing.
3.  Occasional updates disrupt expected workflows.

[4.8 (654)](https://www.capterra.com/p/147415/EmailOctopus/reviews/)

Why we picked it

EmailOctopus ranks on this list for its strong ratings, simple interface, and practical tools for scheduling and managing campaigns. Its affordability, clear layout, and straightforward setup make it appealing for small businesses seeking an accessible way to plan and send newsletters at the right time.

Pros and cons based on reviews

Clear, intuitive interface that is easy to learn.

Affordable plans with flexible contact tools.

Helpful tutorials and responsive support.

Limited and restrictive drag‑and‑drop editor.

Occasional bugs and delivery concerns for some users.

Starting price

$9Per Feature, Per Month

Highest and lowest rated features

Email campaign management

4.7

Campaign scheduling

4.6

Newsletter management

4.6

Lead capture

3.0

EmailOctopus stands out for efficient campaign setup, scheduling, and newsletter tools. Lower-rated capabilities include lead capture, which some reviewers say is flexible but could use further improvements.

EmailOctopus's user interface

1.  Clean, easy-to-navigate layout.
2.  Some users find design tools confusing.
3.  Interface feels plain to some reviewers.

[## Systeme.io](https://www.capterra.com/p/198994/Systeme/)

[4.8 (2126)](https://www.capterra.com/p/198994/Systeme/reviews/)

### Highly rated for landing pages/web forms

Why we picked it

Systeme.io earns a spot on this list for offering a free plan with strong ratings, an intuitive interface, and an all‑in‑one setup for email marketing, funnels, and automation. Its affordability and consolidated toolkit make it a practical choice for small businesses seeking a simple way to manage marketing tasks without multiple tools.

Pros and cons based on reviews

Easy-to-use interface.

Centralized marketing and business tools.

Affordable plans with helpful migration support.

Complicated domain and DNS setup.

Email authentication and customization challenges.

Starting price

$17Flat Rate, Per Month

Highest and lowest rated features

Landing pages/web forms

4.5

Email campaign management

4.5

Dynamic content

4.3

Multi-Channel marketing

3.6

ROI tracking

3.5

Systeme.io’s strongest ratings center on page creation, email campaign setup, and dynamic content tools. Lower-rated areas include contact organization, multi-channel outreach, and ROI tracking, which reviewers say offer value but leave room for additional capabilities.

Systeme.io's user interface

1.  Clean layout simplifies navigation.
2.  Design feels plain to some reviewers.
3.  Initial setup can feel confusing.

[## GMass](https://www.capterra.com/p/168452/GMass/)

[4.8 (1366)](https://www.capterra.com/p/168452/GMass/reviews/)

### Highly rated for email tracking

Why we picked it

GMass earns recognition for its high ratings and strong email‑tracking capabilities. Its integration with Gmail, simple setup, and practical tools for monitoring opens and clicks make it appealing for small businesses that need a straightforward way to track outreach and manage campaigns directly from their inbox.

Pros and cons based on reviews

Saves significant time on outreach tasks.

Works intuitively inside Gmail with simple workflows.

Easy installation with helpful guidance and Google Sheets integration.

Emails may land in spam, affecting deliverability.

Gmail’s sending limits restrict high‑volume campaigns.

Starting price

$25Flat Rate, Per Month

Highest and lowest rated features

Email tracking

4.9

Engagement tracking

4.9

Email campaign management

461.0

List management

3.8

Third-party integrations

3.5

GMass scores highest for tracking opens, clicks, and engagement, giving users clear insight into campaign performance. Lower-rated areas include mobile optimization and integrations, which reviewers say offer limited flexibility compared to other capabilities.

GMass's user interface

1.  Simple Gmail‑based workflow.
2.  Interface feels basic or outdated to some.
3.  Features can be hard to locate at first.

[## Levitate](https://www.capterra.com/p/211147/Levitate/)

[4.8 (333)](https://www.capterra.com/p/211147/Levitate/reviews/)

### Highly rated for engagement tracking

Why we picked it

Levitate is included on this list for its strong ratings, simple interface, and clear focus on engagement tracking. Its design helps small businesses stay connected with clients through scheduled touchpoints, personalized emails, and easy planning tools that support ongoing relationship‑building.

Pros and cons based on reviews

Drives higher email opens and stronger client engagement.

Easy to navigate with simple, time‑saving workflows.

Responsive support and openness to user feedback.

CAN‑SPAM act compliance can feel unclear.

Learning the full feature set takes time for some users.

Starting price

$349Flat Rate, Per Month

Highest and lowest rated features

Campaign scheduling

4.5

Customizable branding

448.0

Engagement tracking

4.3

CAN-SPAM act compliance

2.8

The platform performs well in scheduling, engagement tracking, and branding options. Lower‑rated features such as CAN‑SPAM act compliance, show that while functional, this tool may require more clarity or depth for some users.

Levitate's user interface

1.  Simple dashboard with clear navigation.
2.  Some users want a more intuitive layout.
3.  Learning all features takes extra time.

[## Sender](https://www.capterra.com/p/139770/SENDER/)

[4.7 (210)](https://www.capterra.com/p/139770/SENDER/reviews/)

### Highly rated and affordable

Why we picked it

Sender made the list for offering strong ratings, a low-cost structure, and an accessible setup for email creation and automation. Its simple campaign tools, intuitive design, and reliable delivery make it a practical choice for small businesses seeking an affordable email marketing solution that is easy to learn.

Pros and cons based on reviews

Time‑saving automation with behavior‑based triggers.

Simple and flexible campaign creation tools.

Affordable with strong deliverability and helpful support.

Interface not fully mobile-friendly.

Some workflows and segmentation steps feel non-intuitive.

No audience tagging, which slows advanced organization.

Starting price

$7Other, Per Month

Highest and lowest rated features

WYSIWYG (What You See Is What You Get) Editor

5.0

Email campaign management

4.4

Contact management

3.8

Engagement tracking

3.5

Sender’s top ratings highlight strong campaign management and an easy no-code visual editor. Lower-rated areas include contact management.

Sender's user interface

1.  Clear layout with easy drag‑and‑drop tools.
2.  Some workflows feel unclear to users.
3.  Not fully mobile‑friendly for on‑the‑go use.

[## PosterMyWall](https://www.capterra.com/p/189429/PosterMyWall/)

[4.8 (183)](https://www.capterra.com/p/189429/PosterMyWall/reviews/)

### Highly rated for ease of use

Why we picked it

PosterMyWall is included on this list for its high ease‑of‑use ratings and accessible design tools. Its intuitive interface, large template library, and simple drag‑and‑drop editor help small businesses quickly create marketing visuals and social content without design experience or complex workflows.

Pros and cons based on reviews

Simple tools for fast content and flyer creation.

Large variety of templates for easy customization.

User‑friendly experience for non‑designers.

Limited customization options for templates.

Navigation and layout changes can cause confusion.

Mobile version is less intuitive than the desktop.

Starting price

$13Flat Rate, Per Month

Highest and lowest rated features

Customizable templates

5.0

Design templates

4.2

Social media integration

4.0

Multi-account management

2.1

Automated publishing

2.1

Calendar management

1.7

PosterMyWall offers excellent templates for teams that need to automate content creation. Integration with multiple social media channels helps simplify publishing and improve content visibility.

PosterMyWall's user interface

1.  Simple drag‑and‑drop design tools.
2.  Some layout changes feel harder to navigate.
3.  Mobile experience is less user‑friendly.

[## Braze](https://www.capterra.com/p/155423/Appboy/)

[4.7 (168)](https://www.capterra.com/p/155423/Appboy/reviews/)

### Highly rated for multi-channel marketing

Why we picked it

Braze made it onto this list due to its strong ratings and ability to coordinate multi-channel marketing. Its tools help small businesses manage email, push, SMS, and in‑app messages from one platform, supporting personalized communication and consistent outreach across customer touchpoints.

Pros and cons based on reviews

Centralized control of email, push, SMS, and in‑app messaging.

Data‑driven targeting with flexible segmentation and analytics.

Intuitive interface that simplifies onboarding and daily tasks.

Analytics and reporting options can feel limited.

Steeper learning curve for first‑time users.

Interface design not appealing to some reviewers.

Starting price

Not provided by vendor

Highest and lowest rated features

Email campaign management

4.7

Customer segmentation

4.2

Multi-channel marketing

3.4

Customer journey mapping

3.0

Reporting/Analytics

3.0

A/B testing

1.8

Braze performs well in campaign tools, segmentation, and multi‑channel outreach. Lower ratings relate to A/B testing, journey mapping, and analytics, where reviewers want more flexibility and easier reporting.

Braze's user interface

1.  Clear, intuitive layout for daily tasks.
2.  Visualization tools feel limited to some users.
3.  Beginners report a steeper learning curve.

[## Flodesk](https://www.capterra.com/p/207268/Flodesk/)

[4.5 (167)](https://www.capterra.com/p/207268/Flodesk/reviews/)

### Highly rated for email campaign management

Why we picked it

Flodesk stands out for its strong ratings and accessible approach to email campaign management. Its visual editor, simple workflow, and clear layout supports small businesses and creators looking to design polished emails and manage campaigns without complex tools or steep learning curves.

Pros and cons based on reviews

Visually appealing, easily-customizable templates.

Simple, essential feature set suited for beginners.

Flat‑rate pricing with unlimited subscribers.

Limited customization for advanced users.

Some integrations feel clunky or incomplete.

Certain templates can feel overly visual or restrictive.

Starting price

$38Flat Rate, Per Month

Highest and lowest rated features

Email campaign management

4.6

Customer segmentation

4.8

Campaign scheduling

4.3

List management

3.7

Flodesk excels in campaign creation, segmentation, and scheduling with intuitive, visually focused tools. Lower‑rated areas, such as list management, show that users want more depth and flexibility beyond the basics.

Flodesk's user interface

1.  Clean, modern builder for quick design.
2.  Minimalist layout limits advanced options.
3.  Some users find navigation occasionally confusing.

Featured partners

[Constant Contact](https://www.capterra.com/p/31898/Constant-Contact/)[4.34 (2,913)](https://www.capterra.com/p/31898/Constant-Contact/reviews/)

Best for Small Business

-   More than 171 integrations provided
-   Customer Engagement features

[HubSpot Marketing Hub](https://www.capterra.com/p/171840/HubSpot-Marketing/)[4.51 (6,220)](https://www.capterra.com/p/171840/HubSpot-Marketing/reviews/)

Best for Small Business

-   More than 217 integrations provided
-   Activity Dashboard features

[Marketo Engage](https://www.capterra.com/p/75130/Marketo-Lead-Management/)[4.26 (710)](https://www.capterra.com/p/75130/Marketo-Lead-Management/reviews/)

Best for Small Business

-   More than 118 integrations provided
-   Dashboard Creation features

### Our methodology for the top 10 Email Marketing software

To reach our final list, we started with over 959 products. We identified the 10 best products through an analysis of thousands of exclusive user reviews, product research on more than 100 data points ranging from capabilities to popularity, and input from three Email Marketing specialists on our team.

Proprietary insights

The foundation of all our research comes from Capterra’s proprietary insights gleaned from:

-   More than 55 in-house software advisors who speak with hundreds of project managers every year about their must-have features, pain points, and budgets. 
-   Our comprehensive database of product pricing models, customer support offerings, and more.
    
-   Nearly 104,325 verified Email Marketing software reviews based on in-depth questionnaires, which cover up to 25 topics from ease of use to integration capabilities.
    

Reviews analysis

We first ensured the top-rated email marketing software we considered was based on recent user feedback, so we focused on the 15,946 reviews published in the past two years as of September 2025. We included only products with at least 20 reviews and a minimum overall average rating of 4 out of 5, leaving 83 eligible solutions. Lead Email Marketing researcher [Baljeet Kaur](https://www.capterra.com/resources/author/bkaur/) narrowed the list further by personally vetting products with input from two additional specialists. They screened products based on factors such as U.S. market presence, target user types, and core capabilities.

Popularity assessment

With about 37 products still in the running. We evaluated each tool’s popularity through a proprietary score based on online search demand signals (e.g., search interest for a product’s name) and the number of recent reviews published on our site. We considered 110 online search demand signals and 7,388 user reviews to assign these popularity scores.

Final scoring and top 10 product descriptors

Products that achieved a high popularity score and a high overall average rating made it onto our full 2026 Capterra Shortlist for Email Marketing that recognizes up to 25 market leaders. Of those 25, only the highest-scoring products made it onto our top 10 list. We added a descriptive label for each of these 10 products to help you find the right fit based on standout email marketing features and attributes.

Learn more in our [Proprietary Data and Research Methodologies page](https://www.capterra.com/resources/proprietary-data-research/#capterra-best-product-lists-methodologies).

## Other software shortlisted by Capterra

[### Mailchimp](https://www.capterra.com/p/110228/MailChimp/)[4.5 (17,572)](https://www.capterra.com/p/110228/MailChimp/reviews/)

* * *

About the product

Mailchimp: the #1 email marketing platform with 11M+ users worldwide, offering AI-powered insights & content creation tools.

* * *

$13/month

[### Constant Contact](https://www.capterra.com/p/31898/Constant-Contact/)[4.3 (2,913)](https://www.capterra.com/p/31898/Constant-Contact/reviews/)

* * *

About the product

We deliver the tools to simplify and amplify digital marketing and drive results for your business.

* * *

$12/month

[### MailerLite](https://www.capterra.com/p/136603/MailerLite/)[4.7 (2,256)](https://www.capterra.com/p/136603/MailerLite/reviews/)

* * *

About the product

From newsletters to automated customer journeys—join 700,000 businesses scaling the easy way with MailerLite.

* * *

$10/month

[### Klaviyo](https://www.capterra.com/p/156699/Klaviyo/)[4.6 (524)](https://www.capterra.com/p/156699/Klaviyo/reviews/)

* * *

About the product

Klaviyo the only CRM purpose-built for B2C, combining your email and SMS marketing, analytics, and customer service in one place.

* * *

$20/month

[### ActiveCampaign](https://www.capterra.com/p/79367/ActiveCampaign/)[4.6 (2,561)](https://www.capterra.com/p/79367/ActiveCampaign/reviews/)

* * *

About the product

ActiveCampaign is the AI-first marketing platform built to transform how marketers, agencies, and entrepreneurs work.

* * *

$15/month

[### HubSpot Marketing Hub](https://www.capterra.com/p/171840/HubSpot-Marketing/)[4.5 (6,220)](https://www.capterra.com/p/171840/HubSpot-Marketing/reviews/)

* * *

About the product

Over 100,000 customers in more than 120 countries use HubSpot's award-winning software to attract, engage and delight their customers.

* * *

$15/month

[### Kit](https://www.capterra.com/p/175000/ConvertKit/)[4.6 (240)](https://www.capterra.com/p/175000/ConvertKit/reviews/)

* * *

About the product

Email marketing software built by creators for creators to grow your business with custom forms and simple but powerful automations.

* * *

$29/month

[### Salesforce Marketing Cloud](https://www.capterra.com/p/248536/Salesforce-Marketing-Cloud/)[4.2 (526)](https://www.capterra.com/p/248536/Salesforce-Marketing-Cloud/reviews/)

* * *

About the product

Reach the right subscriber at the right time — every time. Build personalized emails, from basic newsletters to complex campaigns.

* * *

$25/month

[### SendGrid](https://www.capterra.com/p/204113/SendGrid/)[4.2 (752)](https://www.capterra.com/p/204113/SendGrid/reviews/)

* * *

About the product

SendGrid is a cloud-based email API, delivery and marketing platform that helps businesses manage email communication needs.

* * *

$15/month

[### Marketo Engage](https://www.capterra.com/p/75130/Marketo-Lead-Management/)[4.3 (710)](https://www.capterra.com/p/75130/Marketo-Lead-Management/reviews/)

* * *

About the product

Adobe Marketo Engage is a leading AI-powered platform that automates and scales marketing to drive engagement, efficiency, and revenue.

* * *

Not provided by vendor

[### AWeber](https://www.capterra.com/p/95949/AWeber-Email-Marketing/)[4.4 (322)](https://www.capterra.com/p/95949/AWeber-Email-Marketing/reviews/)

* * *

About the product

AWeber helps small businesses write better emails faster with AI, automate campaigns, and drive more sales — no tech skills needed.

* * *

$15/month

[### HighLevel](https://www.capterra.com/p/177156/HighLevel/)[4.1 (85)](https://www.capterra.com/p/177156/HighLevel/reviews/)

* * *

About the product

HighLevel is a cloud-based platform that offers a range of tools and functionalities for sales and advertising agencies.

* * *

$97/month

[### SendPulse](https://www.capterra.com/p/146369/SendPulse/)[4.6 (772)](https://www.capterra.com/p/146369/SendPulse/reviews/)

* * *

About the product

SendPulse is a marketing automation platform for email, SMS, and chatbot marketing and creating websites and online courses.

* * *

$10/month

[### Zoho Campaigns](https://www.capterra.com/p/253223/Zoho-Campaigns/)[4.3 (314)](https://www.capterra.com/p/253223/Zoho-Campaigns/reviews/)

* * *

About the product

Create, send, and track effective email and SMS campaigns that help you build lasting relationships with your leads and contacts.

* * *

€4/month

[### iContact](https://www.capterra.com/p/221118/iContact/)[4.5 (603)](https://www.capterra.com/p/221118/iContact/reviews/)

* * *

About the product

Our easy-to-use platform provides you with the tools to grow your business. Get iContact Free by visiting iContact.com, link in bio.

* * *

$14/month

[### GetResponse](https://www.capterra.com/p/153948/GetResponse/)[4.2 (521)](https://www.capterra.com/p/153948/GetResponse/reviews/)

* * *

About the product

Engage your audience and grow your business with professional email marketing campaigns - no HTML skills required!

* * *

€16/month

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## Frequently asked questions

What is email marketing software?

Email marketing software is a digital tool that enables businesses to create, track, and send email campaigns to a targeted audience. It allows marketers to manage and automate various aspects of email marketing, including building and segmenting email lists, designing emails, scheduling and delivering them, and analyzing the results through various metrics.

Which software is best for email marketing?

The email marketing software with the highest overall score, with a user rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars, is Mailchimp.

How much does email marketing software cost?

Email marketing software starts at $7/month for basic plans, while enterprise tools can cost $1,499/month or more, with potential hidden fees. Free and trial versions are available for cost-effective testing.

What features should I look for in email marketing software?

Key features include email campaign management, list management, and template management. You may also will look for common email marketing features like contact management, CAN-SPAM compliance, and customizable fields.

Is there free email marketing software available?

Yes, Capterra lists 333 free email marketing tools and 575 products with free trials, ideal for testing before committing financially.

## About the authors

[Molly Burke](https://www.capterra.com/resources/author/mburke/)

Author

Molly Burke is a senior analyst and writer for Capterra. She covers customer experience and marketing in the retail and restaurant industries, with a focus on...

[Parul Sharma](https://www.capterra.com/resources/author/parul-sharma/)

Editor

Parul is an editor at Capterra with over half a decade of experience curating news, IT, software, finance, lifestyle, and health content. She excels at...