Best for
Newsletter writers who want growth tools, referrals and ad-network monetization
Pricing
Free up to 2,500 subs · paid from $42/mo
About beehiiv
Beehiiv is an email marketing platform that newsletter writers and media brands rely on day-to-day. It wins on two counts: built for newsletter growth (referrals, boosts, ad network); and great monetization options (ads, premium, boosts). The two features you'll use most are Growth tools and Monetization. There's a genuinely free plan to start, with paid upgrades for teams that outgrow it. The default newsletter platform for professional indie writers. One thing it genuinely does best — clean, modern UI.
Pros and cons
Pros
- Built-in referral program drives word-of-mouth growth
- Boost ad network lets you monetize or acquire subs
- Clean editor and analytics
- Generous free tier
Cons
- Automation is still thinner than Kit
- Payments / paid subs feature is newer
- Some templates feel samey across the platform
Bottom line
Should you use beehiiv?
Strongest choice for new newsletter operators in 2026. If you want deeper automation or a creator shop, Kit still edges it.