FreeLists vs Substack

FreeLists plans

• FreeListsFree

Substack plans

• Free publishingFree
• Free to startFree
• Custom domain$50, paid once
• Paid subscriptions—

Pick FreeLists if…

FreeLists suits groups that want a no-cost email newsletter or discussion list with opt-in subscribers and searchable archives. List owners who need private archives or direct subscriber additions should note the restrictions.

Pick Substack if…

Substack suits writers, journalists, podcasters, video creators, experts, educators, and media companies building a direct subscriber audience. It is useful for creators who want multiple media formats, audience discovery, segmentation, email automation, and paid subscription options.