HeyNews vs Substack: Which is Better in 2026?
Choosing between HeyNews and Substack comes down to understanding what each tool does best. This comparison breaks down the key differences so you can make an informed decision based on your specific needs, not marketing claims.
Short on time? Here's the quick answer
We've tested both tools. Here's who should pick what:
HeyNews
Create and publish your newsletter in minutes, directly from your browser.
Best for you if:
- • You need email marketing features specifically
- • Browser-based newsletter creation and publishing.
- • Enables quick newsletter drafting and sending in minutes.
Substack
Newsletter platform for writers
Best for you if:
- • You need newsletter tools features specifically
- • Simple newsletter platform with payments
- • Built-in paid subscription model
| At a Glance |  HeyNews |  Substack |
|---|---|---|
Starts at | $10/mo/moBasic | 10%/of revenuePaid newsletters |
Best For | Email Marketing | Newsletter Tools |
Rating | - | - |
Choose HeyNews or Substack?
Choose HeyNews if
Create and publish your newsletter in minutes, directly from your browser.
- Extremely fast publishing process (5 minutes)
- Simple and intuitive to use, no technical skills required
- Accessible directly from a web browser
- Your work is email marketing-shaped, not newsletter tools-shaped
Choose Substack if
Newsletter platform for writers
- Completely free to start
- Built-in payments
- Simple to use
- Your work is newsletter tools-shaped, not email marketing-shaped
| Feature | HeyNews | Substack |
|---|---|---|
| Pricing Model | Freemium | Freemium |
| User Rating | ★3.5/5 5 reviews | ★4.4/5 13 reviews |
| Categories | Email MarketingWriting & Content | Newsletter ToolsWriting & Content |
In-Depth Analysis
HeyNews
Create and publish your newsletter in minutes, directly from your browser.
Strengths
- +Extremely fast publishing process (5 minutes)
- +Simple and intuitive to use, no technical skills required
- +Accessible directly from a web browser
Weaknesses
- -Limited information on advanced features or integrations
- -No explicit mention of a free tier or trial
- -Specific customization options are not detailed
Key features
Substack
Newsletter platform for writers
Strengths
- +Completely free to start
- +Built-in payments
- +Simple to use
- +Large network
Weaknesses
- -10% revenue cut
- -Limited customization
- -Basic features
Key features
Pricing: HeyNews vs Substack
| Plan | HeyNews | Substack |
|---|---|---|
| Tier 1 | Free Free | 0 forever Free |
| Tier 2 | $10/mo Basic | 10% of revenue Paid newsletters |
| Tier 3 | $25/mo Pro | N/A |
Pricing verified from each vendor's public pricing page. Compare in detail on HeyNews pricing and Substack pricing.
Who Should Use What?
On a budget?
Both are freemium. Compare plans on their websites.
Go with: HeyNews
Want the highest-rated option?
Neither has user reviews yet.
Go with: HeyNews
Value user reviews?
Neither has user reviews yet.
Go with: Substack
3 Questions to Help You Decide
What's your budget?
Both are freemium. Pricing won't help you decide here.
What's your use case?
HeyNews is a email marketing tool. Substack is in newsletter tools. Pick the category that matches your needs.
How important are ratings?
Neither has user reviews yet.
Key Takeaways
Substack
- Higher user rating: 4.4/5 vs 3.5/5
- Larger review base (13 reviews)
- Free tier available
- Our pick for this comparison
HeyNews
- Better fit for email marketing
The Bottom Line
Substack is our pick.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is HeyNews or Substack better?
Substack is rated in our evaluation. Both are freemium.
What are HeyNews and Substack used for?
HeyNews: Create and publish your newsletter in minutes, directly from your browser.. Substack: Newsletter platform for writers.
What does HeyNews cost vs Substack?
HeyNews is freemium (free tier + paid plans). Substack is freemium (free tier + paid plans). Visit their websites for detailed pricing.