Substack vs HeyNews: Which is Better in 2026?
Choosing between Substack and HeyNews 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:
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
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.
| At a Glance |  Substack |  HeyNews |
|---|---|---|
Starts at | FreeFree tier available | FreeFree tier available |
Best For | Newsletter Tools | Email Marketing |
Rating | 4.4/5 | 3.5/5 |
Choose Substack or HeyNews?
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
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
| Feature | Substack | HeyNews |
|---|---|---|
| Pricing Model | Freemium | Freemium |
| User Rating | ★4.4/5 13 reviews | ★3.5/5 5 reviews |
| Categories | Newsletter ToolsWriting & Content | Email MarketingWriting & Content |
In-Depth Analysis
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
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
Pricing: Substack vs HeyNews
| Plan | Substack | HeyNews |
|---|---|---|
| Tier 1 | 0 forever Free | Free Free |
| Tier 2 | 10% of revenue Paid newsletters | $10/mo Basic |
| Tier 3 | N/A | $25/mo Pro |
Pricing verified from each vendor's public pricing page. Compare in detail on Substack pricing and HeyNews pricing.
Who Should Use What?
On a budget?
Both are freemium. Compare plans on their websites.
Go with: Substack
Want the highest-rated option?
Substack: 4.4/5 (13 reviews). HeyNews: 3.5/5 (5 reviews).
Go with: Substack
Value user reviews?
Substack: 13 reviews (4.4/5). HeyNews: 5 reviews (3.5/5).
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 newsletter tools tool. HeyNews is in email marketing. Pick the category that matches your needs.
How important are ratings?
Substack is rated higher: 4.4/5 vs 3.5/5.
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 Substack or HeyNews better?
Substack is rated in our evaluation. Both are freemium.
What are Substack and HeyNews used for?
Substack: Newsletter platform for writers. HeyNews: Create and publish your newsletter in minutes, directly from your browser..
What does Substack cost vs HeyNews?
Substack is freemium (free tier + paid plans). HeyNews is freemium (free tier + paid plans). Visit their websites for detailed pricing.