Quick Summary
| Feature | Beehiiv | ConvertKit |
|---|---|---|
| Best For | newsletter growth | Enterprise newsletter |
| Free Tier | ✅ Yes | ⚠️ Trial only |
| Affiliate Pay | 25% recurring | 30% recurring |
The Bottom Line Up Front
For most small businesses and entrepreneurs, Beehiiv delivers better value and lower cost of entry. ConvertKit wins for enterprises with complex requirements and dedicated IT resources.
Beehiiv — Strengths
Beehiiv is the most accessible entry point in the newsletter space. Their free tier is genuinely functional, not crippled. The upgrade path is gradual rather than cliff-like, meaning you only pay for features you actually use. For affiliates: their program pays 25% recurring per referral.
ConvertKit — Strengths
ConvertKit wins in enterprise environments where compliance, custom integrations, and dedicated support matter more than cost. Large sales teams report better pipeline visibility. The 30% recurring affiliate commission reflects their higher average contract value.
Who Should Choose What
Choose Beehiiv if you're a founder, small team, or growing business. The free tier covers most early-stage needs and the upgrade path is predictable. Choose ConvertKit if you have a 50+ person sales team and a budget that supports enterprise tooling.
Our Recommendation
Start with Beehiiv free. Migrate your data into it this week. Evaluate in 30 days. If you need features beyond what free provides, upgrade. You'll know by then whether ConvertKit's additional capabilities justify the cost difference.