MailerLite vs Mailchimp: Which Email Marketing Platform Wins in 2025?

Last updated on March 14th, 2025 at

If you’ve ever felt confused by email marketing tools—too hard to use, too pricey, or just not helpful—I get it. I’ve been there too. Finding the right tool can be tough. But what if the right choice could save you time and help your business grow?”

Today, I’ll share my experience comparing two popular platforms—MailerLite vs Mailchimp. I’ve used both, and I’ll show you what worked, what didn’t, and what I learned, so you can pick the best one for your business.

As a small business owner, picking the wrong email tool can slow you down. It could stop you from building a strong list or make you waste time and money. Let’s take a look and find the right one for you.

First Impressions: Meet MailerLite & Mailchimp

What is MailerLite?

MailerLite is like that friend who’s always super helpful and easy to work with. It’s perfect for small businesses, startups, and solo entrepreneurs who need a simple way to create and send emails without the headache of complicated setups. What makes MailerLite really stand out is how affordable and user-friendly it is. You don’t need to be a tech expert to use it. Plus, it offers all the essentials you need, like automation, email templates, and landing pages, at a price that won’t break the bank. For small businesses or people just starting out, MailerLite is a great choice that gets the job done without any stress.

What is Mailchimp?

Mailchimp has been around for a long time and has earned its reputation as a leader in email marketing. It’s one of the biggest names in the industry and offers a robust set of features, which is why it’s especially popular with larger businesses or marketers who want more flexibility and control. With tools like advanced reporting, A/B testing, and automation, Mailchimp is built to handle complex campaigns and large lists. It’s a great option for companies that need more customization and are ready to scale their email marketing to the next level.

Common Struggles with Email Marketing Tools – Why They Can Be So Frustrating

Choosing the right email tool should make things easier, but sometimes it feels like you’re running into wall after wall. After using both Mailchimp and MailerLite, I’ve faced my fair share of struggles. Here’s a breakdown of the challenges I ran into and how they matter when you’re looking to grow your business.

Challenge #1 – Automation Setup: A Nightmare or a Breeze?

Setting up automations in Mailchimp was honestly a headache. It took a lot of time and effort to understand how to properly set up triggers, and I spent way too much time fixing mistakes instead of creating email campaigns.

With MailerLite, I found the process to be much simpler. The “Workflows” feature made it easy to set up everything from welcome emails to follow-ups, and I could do it without pulling my hair out.

Why It Matters:
Automation is supposed to save you time, not make you feel frustrated. A confusing system can end up wasting hours of your day when you should be focusing on growing your business.

Challenge #2 – Where Do My Emails Go?

One of the biggest headaches I ran into with Mailchimp was that even with clean lists and solid content, my emails often ended up in the spam folder. This hurt my open rates, and it felt like I was wasting my efforts.

After switching to MailerLite, I noticed my emails were landing in inboxes far more often. It really made a difference in terms of engagement and conversions.

Why It Matters:
If your emails aren’t getting delivered, you’re losing out on chances to connect with your audience. Keeping your emails in the inbox is key to getting those clicks and driving sales.

Challenge #3 – Pricing That Doesn’t Break the Bank
At first, Mailchimp seemed like a great deal, especially with its free plan. But as my email list grew, the costs started piling up. I ended up paying extra for features I didn’t even use, and my expenses quickly got out of hand.

MailerLite, on the other hand, has a much more predictable pricing structure. Even as my list expanded, I wasn’t hit with big price hikes. I only paid for what I actually used, making it much easier to stick to my budget.

Why It Matters:
Pricing transparency is important. You want to avoid hidden fees and overpaying for features you don’t need. Knowing exactly what you’re paying for helps you make smart decisions about your budget.

Challenge #4 – Is It Easy to Use?
Mailchimp’s interface was packed with features, but it was a bit overwhelming for someone new to email marketing. I had to dig through a lot of options just to get started, and it slowed me down.

With MailerLite, I found the interface much more user-friendly. It was designed to help beginners get up and running quickly, so I could focus on creating emails instead of spending hours trying to figure out the platform.

Why It Matters:
When you’re new to email marketing, you don’t want to spend too much time figuring out a complicated system. A simple, intuitive platform can help you get to work faster and more efficiently.

Challenge #5 – Customer Support Frustrations
Trying to get help with Mailchimp was often more stressful than the issue I was facing. The response times were long, and when I did get help, it felt like I was talking to a robot rather than a real person who understood my problem.

MailerLite, however, has been much better when it comes to customer support. Their team is quick to respond and always provides real, useful solutions. Having a responsive support system can make a world of difference when things go wrong.

Why It Matters:
Good customer support is key, especially when you’re dealing with something as important as email marketing. Waiting for days to get a resolution can cost you time and possibly lost opportunities.

Challenge #6 – Integrating with Other Tools
I’ve had my fair share of issues trying to integrate Mailchimp with tools like my e-commerce platform or social media. It wasn’t seamless, and I ended up wasting time trying to troubleshoot connections.

With MailerLite, integrations were far easier. Whether it was with my website, Shopify, or Facebook ads, the connections were smoother, and I didn’t have to spend hours figuring out how to sync everything.

Why It Matters:
In today’s world, tools need to work well together. If your email platform doesn’t integrate smoothly with the other tools you use, it can mess up your workflow and waste your time.

Why I’m Sharing These Struggles
These are real challenges that I’ve faced, and I know many other business owners have too. The goal is to save you time, avoid frustration, and help you make a smart choice when it comes to your email marketing tools. We all want to find something that works, and hopefully, by sharing my experiences, you can make a more informed decision.

MailerLite vs Mailchimp – Features

Segmentation & Targeting

MailerLite

MailerLite keeps things simple when it comes to segmentation. You can easily sort your contacts using tags or basic demographics like age or location. This makes it perfect for small businesses or beginners who want to get started with targeted campaigns without feeling overwhelmed. It’s an easy way to make sure your emails are reaching the right people!

Mailchimp

If you need something more advanced, Mailchimp has powerful segmentation options. You can target people based on things like behavior, purchase history, and even predictive analytics. This gives you a deeper understanding of your audience, letting you create highly personalized and targeted campaigns. It’s ideal for larger businesses or marketers who want to dive into detailed data and fine-tune their campaigns to reach the right people at the right time.

Analytics & Reporting

MailerLite

MailerLite keeps things simple when it comes to analytics. It provides the essentials like open rates, click-through rates (CTR), and basic reporting tools. For smaller businesses or those just starting out with email marketing, this is all you really need to track your performance. It’s easy to read and understand, helping you get a clear picture of how your emails are doing without feeling overwhelmed by too much data.

Mailchimp

Mailchimp offers detailed analytics that go much deeper. It tracks things like conversion rates and eCommerce sales, and gives you insights into how your campaigns are performing at every level. If you’re looking for in-depth reports that break down exactly how your emails are impacting your business, Mailchimp has you covered. It’s great for marketers who want to optimize their campaigns and make data-driven decisions.

Mobile Experience

MailerLite

If you like to manage your campaigns on the go, MailerLite’s mobile app offers a smooth experience. It’s easy to use, and you can keep track of your campaigns, check stats, and even create emails right from your phone. It’s a great option if you want to manage everything while you’re away from your computer.

Mailchimp

Mailchimp also has a mobile app, but it’s not as intuitive as MailerLite’s. While it offers a full range of features, the app can feel a little more complicated, especially if you’re new to the platform. You’ll be able to manage campaigns and check your stats, but it might take a bit more effort to get used to compared to MailerLite’s smoother app experience.

Customer Support & Resources

Support Channels

MailerLite

MailerLite provides email support, and for users on premium plans, you get access to live chat support. Plus, there’s a huge knowledge base full of articles and guides to help you troubleshoot and solve any issues on your own. If you’re just starting out or have basic questions, this is usually all you need.

Mailchimp

Mailchimp offers 24/7 support via chat for users on premium plans, and email support for everyone else. On top of that, they have a comprehensive knowledge center where you can find answers to nearly any question. So whether you’re in the middle of a campaign or planning something new, you can get the help you need quickly.

Training Resources

MailerLite

MailerLite offers a lot of guides and step-by-step resources to help you get started. If you’re looking to dive deeper, there are webinars and tutorials available to teach you how to grow your email marketing efforts. It’s all about making sure you feel confident using the platform, even if you’re a beginner.

Mailchimp

Mailchimp takes things to the next level with an extensive library of tutorials, courses, and webinars. These resources are geared more towards advanced users who want to master the platform and take full advantage of its complex features. So, if you’re looking to dive deep into advanced email marketing strategies, Mailchimp has plenty of resources to guide you.

Community

MailerLite
MailerLite has a helpful community where users can exchange tips and ideas. While it might not be as big as some other platforms, you can still find Facebook groups and forums where you can get advice and share experiences with other users.

Mailchimp
Mailchimp has a much larger and more active community, including forums, Facebook groups, and even dedicated user groups. This is great for finding user-driven support, learning new tricks, and sharing best practices with other marketers. If you need help or want to learn from others, Mailchimp’s community has a lot to offer.

Integration Capabilities: Does It Fit With Your Tools?

Third-Party Integrations

MailerLite

MailerLite offers integrations with essential platforms like WordPress, Shopify, and Zapier. While it covers the basics that most small businesses need, it doesn’t have as many integrations as Mailchimp. If you’re just starting out or running a smaller operation, these integrations should work just fine. However, if you rely on many different tools, you might find MailerLite a little limited in this area.

Mailchimp

Mailchimp shines when it comes to third-party integrations. It connects with a wide range of platforms, including Salesforce, Shopify, WordPress, and even social media platforms like Facebook and Instagram. Whether you’re looking to integrate with your CRM, eCommerce store, or social media accounts, Mailchimp likely has the integration you need. If you use a lot of different tools in your business, Mailchimp offers more options to make everything work together seamlessly.

API Access

MailerLite
Both MailerLite and Mailchimp offer API access, meaning you can create custom integrations if you need to connect to other tools or platforms. However, MailerLite’s API functionality is more basic and may be enough for most small businesses or simple custom integrations.

Mailchimp
Mailchimp is known for its advanced API functionality. It’s a great option for businesses that need more customized integrations or if you’re looking to build a more complex system. If your business requires deeper, more tailored integrations, Mailchimp gives you more flexibility and control through its API.

Customization & Branding: Make It Yours

Design Flexibility

MailerLite

MailerLite is perfect for beginners when it comes to design. It offers a range of customizable templates that you can easily tweak to fit your brand. The drag-and-drop editor makes creating emails super simple, even if you don’t have a design background. You’ll be able to create professional-looking emails without feeling overwhelmed by too many options. It’s all about making design easy and accessible for everyone.

Mailchimp

If you want more design control, Mailchimp takes things a step further. It offers advanced design features that let you get creative with every detail of your email campaigns. You can customize elements like colors, fonts, images, and layouts to match your exact vision. Whether you’re looking to design from scratch or adjust templates, Mailchimp gives you full control over how your emails look. This is ideal for marketers or businesses that want to create highly customized campaigns.

User Feedback & Reviews: What Are Customers Saying?

MailerLite Customer Reviews

Positive Reviews
Customers love how affordable and easy to use MailerLite is. Many small business owners and startups appreciate how simple it is to set up campaigns without feeling overwhelmed by complex features. The platform’s clean design and drag-and-drop editor also get a lot of praise for making email marketing accessible to beginners.

Common Complaints
On the flip side, some users wish MailerLite offered more integrations with other tools. As businesses grow and their needs become more complex, they sometimes feel limited by MailerLite’s fewer integration options, especially at higher pricing tiers.

Mailchimp Customer Reviews

Positive Reviews
Mailchimp is often praised for its powerful features and scalability. Customers love how it can handle larger lists and more advanced marketing needs as their business grows. The wide range of integrations and detailed analytics also make it a favorite among marketers who need more control over their campaigns.

Common Complaints
However, many beginners find Mailchimp’s complexity a bit overwhelming. The platform offers so many features that it can be hard to know where to start, which leads to a steeper learning curve. Additionally, some users mention that Mailchimp’s pricing can get expensive, especially as your email list grows and you need more advanced features.

Review Sites Comparison

Here’s a quick look at what users are saying on popular review sites:

G2:
MailerLite gets solid feedback for ease of use and value for money. Users often mention how the platform is great for small businesses and startups. Mailchimp, on the other hand, is praised for its advanced features, but many users note its complexity and the learning curve.

Trustpilot:
MailerLite’s affordability and simplicity shine through in user reviews. However, some users feel that the platform is limited in integration options. Mailchimp receives high marks for its features and scalability, but cost and complexity are common concerns.

Capterra:
On Capterra, users consistently rate MailerLite highly for being user-friendly and a great option for beginners. Mailchimp, meanwhile, gets excellent reviews for its powerful tools, but many users mention that it’s not ideal for beginners due to its steep learning curve

The Verdict: MailerLite vs Mailchimp—Which One is Right for You?

Pricing:
MailerLite is more affordable and great for small businesses or startups. Mailchimp can get expensive as your list grows, especially if you need advanced features.

Ease of Use:
MailerLite is easy to use, with a simple, intuitive interface that’s perfect for beginners. Mailchimp, while offering more features, has a steeper learning curve.

Features:
MailerLite offers basic features that work well for small businesses, like drag-and-drop email editing and simple automation. Mailchimp has more advanced features like detailed analytics, complex automation workflows, and better integration options.

Scalability:
MailerLite works well for small businesses and startups, but as your needs grow, it may feel limited. Mailchimp is designed for scalability, offering powerful tools for businesses of all sizes, from small to enterprise-level.

When to Choose MailerLite

MailerLite is a fantastic option for:

Small businesses, startups, or solo entrepreneurs who need a cost-effective, easy-to-use solution. If you’re just getting started with email marketing and want a straightforward tool that won’t break the bank, MailerLite will do the job. Its simplicity, affordable pricing, and basic features are perfect for those just starting to build their email lists.

When to Choose Mailchimp

Mailchimp is best suited for:

Growing businesses, larger teams, or companies that need advanced features like complex automation, detailed reporting, and advanced segmentation. If you’re managing a larger email list, running more sophisticated campaigns, or looking to scale, Mailchimp offers the tools to support your needs. While it may require a bit more learning upfront, the flexibility and scalability it offers are great for businesses that need powerful capabilities.

Final Recommendations Based on Use Case

For beginners or small businesses: If you’re just starting with email marketing and need a simple, budget-friendly platform, MailerLite is the way to go. It’s easy to use and offers just the right amount of features to get you up and running without feeling overwhelmed.

For growing or larger businesses: If you’re managing a larger email list, need more customization, and plan to scale, Mailchimp is the better choice. Its advanced features will allow you to automate complex workflows, run more targeted campaigns, and gain deeper insights into your performance.

MailerLite vs Mailchimp – FAQs: Your Burning Questions Answered

Which platform is easier for beginners?

If you’re new to email marketing, MailerLite is the easier option. Its simple, user-friendly interface and drag-and-drop editor make it perfect for those just starting out. You can get your campaigns up and running quickly without feeling overwhelmed by too many features.

Mailchimp has a steeper learning curve due to its advanced features and customization options. While it offers a lot more flexibility, it may take a little longer to get the hang of, especially for beginners.

How does Mailchimp’s automation compare to MailerLite’s?

Both platforms offer automation tools, but Mailchimp has more advanced automation capabilities. You can create multi-step workflows and set up complex automations based on customer behavior, which is perfect for businesses that need highly personalized email journeys.

MailerLite provides simpler automation features, like welcome emails and drip campaigns, which are great for smaller businesses or those just starting with automation. While it’s not as advanced as Mailchimp, it still covers the basics well.

Can I migrate from MailerLite to Mailchimp (or vice versa)?

Yes, you can migrate from MailerLite to Mailchimp or Mailchimp to MailerLite, but the process can take some time. You’ll need to export your contacts and campaigns from one platform and then import them into the other. Keep in mind that some settings or customizations might not transfer exactly the same, so you may need to tweak a few things once the migration is complete.

It’s always a good idea to back up your data and test everything after the migration to make sure it works as expected.

What kind of customer support is available?

• MailerLite offers email support, with live chat available for premium users. They also have a knowledge base with guides and tutorials to help you get started.
• Mailchimp provides 24/7 chat support for premium users and email support for everyone else. It also has a comprehensive knowledge center with a lot of tutorials, courses, and webinars to help you learn the platform.

Conclusion: Your Email Marketing Success Starts Here

Choosing the right email marketing platform is a big decision, but remember, it’s just the beginning. Both MailerLite vs Mailchimp offer powerful tools that can help you grow your business. To really see which one fits your needs, take advantage of their free trials and test them out for yourself!

While the platform you choose matters, the most important factor in your email marketing success is crafting the right strategy. No matter which tool you pick, your focus should be on creating valuable content, understanding your audience, and refining your campaigns over time. The right strategy will make a much bigger impact than the platform itself.

So go ahead, try both platforms, and get started on your email marketing journey today. Success is just a click away!