Substack vs HEY: Which Should You Choose in 2026?
Choosing between Substack and HEY 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 May 6, 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:
- 0
- • You want to try before committing
- • You need blogging platforms features specifically
- • Simple newsletter platform with payments
- • Built-in paid subscription model
HEY
Email that screens your calls
Best for you if:
- 0
- • You need email clients features specifically
- • Email reimagined by Basecamp
- • Screener for incoming mail
| At a Glance |  Substack |  HEY |
|---|---|---|
Price | Free + Paid | Paid |
Best For | Blogging Platforms | Email Clients |
Rating | — | — |
| Feature | Substack | HEY |
|---|---|---|
| Pricing Model | Freemium | Paid |
| Community Rating | No ratings yet | No ratings yet |
| Total Reviews | 0 | 0 |
| Community Upvotes | 0 | 77 |
| Categories | Blogging PlatformsNewsletter Tools | Email ClientsNewsletter Tools |
How Substack and HEY Compare
Substack
Newsletter platform for writers
Free tier available
HEY
Email that screens your calls
Paid
Substack is a blogging platforms tool. HEY is in email clients.
Who Should Use What?
On a budget?
Substack has a free tier. HEY is paid only.
Go with: Substack
Want the highest-rated option?
Neither has user reviews yet.
Go with: Substack
Value user reviews?
Neither has user reviews yet.
Go with: HEY
3 Questions to Help You Decide
What's your budget?
Substack is freemium. HEY is paid. Substack lets you start free.
What's your use case?
Substack is a blogging platforms tool. HEY is in email clients. Pick the category that matches your needs.
How important are ratings?
Neither has user reviews yet.
Key Takeaways
HEY
- 0
- More community upvotes (77)
- Our pick for this comparison
Substack
- Has a free tier
- Better fit for blogging platforms
The Bottom Line
HEY is our pick. Substack has a free tier if you want to test without paying.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Substack or HEY better?
HEY is rated high in our evaluation. Substack is freemium and HEY is paid.
What are Substack and HEY used for?
Substack: Newsletter platform for writers. HEY: Email that screens your calls.
What does Substack cost vs HEY?
Substack is freemium (free tier + paid plans). HEY is a paid tool. Visit their websites for detailed pricing.