Substack vs Buttondown: Which Should You Choose in 2026?
Choosing between Substack and Buttondown 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.
By Toolradar Team · Last updated February 28, 2026 · Methodology
Short on time? Here's the quick answer
We've tested both tools. Here's who should pick what:
Substack
Newsletter platform for writers
Best for you if:
- • You need blogging platforms features specifically
- • Simple newsletter platform with payments
- • Built-in paid subscription model
Buttondown
Simple newsletter tool
Best for you if:
- • You need email marketing features specifically
- • Buttondown is a simple email newsletter tool for writers and creators
- • It provides a clean writing experience with Markdown support and subscriber management
| At a Glance |  Substack |  Buttondown |
|---|---|---|
Price | Free + Paid | Free + Paid |
Best For | Blogging Platforms | Email Marketing |
Rating | 82/100 | 82/100 |
| Feature | Substack | Buttondown |
|---|---|---|
| Pricing Model | Freemium | Freemium |
| Editorial Score | 82 | 82 |
| Community Rating | No ratings yet | No ratings yet |
| Total Reviews | 0 | 0 |
| Community Upvotes | 0 | 0 |
| Categories | Blogging PlatformsNewsletter Tools | Email MarketingWriting Apps |
How Substack and Buttondown Compare
Substack
Newsletter platform for writers
Free tier available · 82/100 score
Buttondown
Simple newsletter tool
Free tier available · 82/100 score
Substack is a blogging platforms tool. Buttondown is in email marketing.
Who Should Use What?
On a budget?
Both are freemium. Compare plans on their websites.
Go with: Substack
Want the highest-rated option?
Substack: 82/100. Buttondown: 82/100.
Go with: Substack
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?
Substack is a blogging platforms tool. Buttondown is in email marketing. Pick the category that matches your needs.
How important are ratings?
Both score 82/100.
Key Takeaways
Substack
- Free tier available
- Our pick for this comparison
Buttondown
- Better fit for email marketing
The Bottom Line
Substack (82/100) is our pick.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Substack or Buttondown better?
Substack scores 82/100 in our evaluation. Both are freemium.
What are Substack and Buttondown used for?
Substack: Newsletter platform for writers. Buttondown: Simple newsletter tool.
What does Substack cost vs Buttondown?
Substack is freemium (free tier + paid plans). Buttondown is freemium (free tier + paid plans). Visit their websites for detailed pricing.