ActiveCampaign Vs ConvertKit – Which Suits You?

If you’re trying to decide between ActiveCampaign and ConvertKit, it’s important to understand the key differences.

ActiveCampaign seems more geared toward salespeople, while ConvertKit targets bloggers and content marketers.

ActiveCampaign offers more features and flexibility, but ConvertKit is simpler and has a lower learning curve. 

Ultimately, deciding which email marketing software to use depends on your specific needs and preferences.

If you’re looking for a powerful platform with many features, ActiveCampaign is a good option. 

However, if you want something that’s easier to use and doesn’t require a lot of training, ConvertKit may be a better choice.

Whichever email marketing tool you choose, you’ll be able to create high-quality campaigns to help you achieve your marketing goals.

Related Article: Sendlane Review: Email & SMS Marketing for e-Commerce Businesses

What is ConvertKit?

ConvertKit is an email marketing service that helps businesses to connect with their customers and grow their audience. The platform offers a range of features, including customizable opt-in forms, email automation, and powerful editing features. 

ConvertKit also makes it easy to segment your audience and track your results to allow you to optimize your campaigns for maximum impact.

What is ActiveCampaign? 

ActiveCampaign is customer relationship management software that helps businesses automate their marketing, sales, and customer service. It offers a wide range of features, including email marketing, advanced automation, CRM, and more. 

ActiveCampaign is designed to help businesses save time and money by automating repetitive tasks. It also allows businesses to segment their customers and create targeted campaigns to improve customer relationships and grow their operations.

Features

ConvertKit and ActiveCampaign are both excellent options when it comes to email marketing. Both platforms offer a wide range of features, similar segmentation, and automation experiences. 

Email Templates

One of the most significant differences between ConvertKit and ActiveCampaign is email templates. ActiveCampaign offers a wide range of pre-designed email templates that you can use to create your campaigns. 

ConvertKit, on the other hand, doesn’t offer any pre-designed templates. Instead, it allows you to create your templates with a simple text editor. You can still add images, and buttons and change fonts without any coding knowledge.

If you’re not comfortable coding, this can be a bit of a hurdle. However, if you’re willing to put in the work, it means you have complete control over the look and feel of your emails.

A/B Testing Tools

ActiveCampaign offers a more comprehensive A/B testing tool than ConvertKit. ActiveCampaign can test different subject lines, message content, send times, and many more. That allows you to fine-tune your campaigns to get the best results possible. 

Conversely, ConvertKit only allows you to test subject lines. While this is still useful, it doesn’t give you nearly as much control as ActiveCampaign does.

ConvertKit and ActiveCampaign offer an intuitive automation workflow that makes it easy to create sophisticated email campaigns. With just a few clicks, you can add new subscribers to your list, send targeted messages to specific segments of your audience, and track the performance of your campaigns. ConvertKit and ActiveCampaign are affordable, making them a great choice for budget-conscious businesses.

Landing Pages

ActiveCampaign offers more flexibility than ConvertKit. Their template selection has similar features, but ActiveCampaign allows users to customize their elements to create the perfect design. ActiveCampaign also allows users to A/B test their landing pages, which ConvertKit does not offer. 

So, users can test different versions of their landing pages to see which one performs better. ActiveCampaign also offers a wider range of integrations than ConvertKit, making connecting your landing page with other tools and platforms easier.

Referral Programs

ConvertKit’s Creator Pro plan offers a unique newsletter referral system that lets you reward your subscribers and help you grow your audience. Every time subscribers refer a friend to your newsletter, they’ll earn points they can redeem for prizes. 

The more people they refer, the more points they earn! Plus, as a bonus, you’ll earn a commission every time someone subscribes to your newsletter through a referral link. So not only will you be growing your audience, but you’ll also be making money!

The ActiveCampaign referral program is a great way to earn money and save on your monthly bill. You’ll receive a $20 credit in your next invoice for every new customer you refer. Your referrals will also receive a $20 credit on their first invoice. There’s no limit to the number of referral credits you can earn.

Language Support

 In today’s globalized world, it’s important to be able to communicate with customers in their native language. However, many email marketing platforms don’t offer support for right-to-left (RTL) languages, making it difficult to reach these customers. 

ConvertKit and ActiveCampaign are two of the most popular email marketing platforms, but unfortunately, neither offers native RTL support. So, If you want to create emails in Hebrew or Arabic, you will have to design custom HTML templates. While this is possible, it is not an ideal solution. It would be much better if these platforms offered built-in RTL support.

Email Deliverability 

Both ConvertKit and ActiveCampaign use third-party services to boost their email deliverability. The only difference is how well each platform manages its customer base. The number of spammers that each platform allows into its network also matters. 

ConvertKit has a good reputation for managing its customer base and low spam levels. ActiveCampaign also has a good reputation, but there have been reports of ActiveCampaign customers having problems with deliverability.

Although ActiveCampaign is the clear winner in email delivery, ConvertKit’s emails are somewhat personal and more suitable for personal brands – authors, coaches, podcasters, and media personalities.

It is nearly impossible to distinguish them from personal emails, giving them a level of intimacy that is perfect for developing relationships with customers and prospects.

For ActiveCampaign, it is almost impossible to distinguish your emails from a mailing list.

Under The CAN-SPAM Act, all commercial emails must include an unsubscribe option to allow recipients to opt out of future messages from the sender. 

Both ConvertKit and ActiveCampaign allow users to customize their email footer and include an unsubscribe link in a way that fits with their overall design. That ensures your emails comply with the law while maintaining a professional appearance.

Integrations

ActiveCampaign integrates with more third-party services than ConvertKit. So even if a service doesn’t directly integrate with ActiveCampaign, it’s still possible to set up a connection using Zapier. 

ActiveCampaign and ConvertKit offer robust API options for developers who want to create custom integrations. Therefore, the number of available integrations is not as important as it once was. Instead, choosing the service that best meets your needs is more important.

While ConvertKit’s API has some limits, it is still a powerful tool. With proper use, the ConvertKit API can automate numerous tasks. For example, the ConvertKit API can be used to create and manage subscribers, add and remove tags, and create and send broadcasts. ConvertKit’s API also allows for some customization and integrations with other applications. 

Overall, while there are some limits to the ConvertKit API, it is still a valuable tool for those who need it.

Webhooks are a great way to keep your data up-to-date in real time. By subscribing to webhooks, you can be notified whenever there is a change in your data. It is especially useful if you have multiple applications that need to share data.

However, webhooks are not available in the ConvertKit dashboard. Instead, they can only be created via the API. While this may require some technical know-how, it gives you more control over your data. As a result, you can be sure that your applications always use the most up-to-date information.

Email Analytics and Reporting

While both ActiveCampaign and ConvertKit offer a variety of features, ActiveCampaign has a clear advantage in reporting. It offers more than 70 built-in reports and the ability to create custom reports. 

ConvertKit, on the other hand, only offers a handful of basic reports. What’s more, the reporting functions offered by ConvertKit can’t be extended even with third-party tools because the platform lacks API features.

ActiveCampaign allows direct integration with Woopra and the ability to report email opens and link clicks. With ActiveCampaign, you can effectively track and measure your marketing efforts and ensure you get the most out of your investment. ActiveCampaign’s robust reporting capabilities allow you to track your progress over time and make necessary adjustments to improve your results.

ConvertKit can integrate with a wide range of services such as LeadPages to allow you to create and manage your email list. It also offers a wide range of email templates that can be customized to match your brand identity. 

But it doesn’t integrate with Woopra, limiting you from sending link clicks and email opens to any third-party service. That makes it pretty hard to track your email campaigns and see which ones are performing the best.

Usability

 Another big difference is how you add elements to your broadcasts and campaigns. With ActiveCampaign, you can click to add new elements like images, text, or buttons. It is extremely intuitive and makes it easy to create a professional-looking email. ConvertKit, on the other hand, uses a slightly more complicated system of blocks. 

To add an element, you first need to select it from a drop-down menu, and then you can insert it into your email. This process is not necessarily difficult, but it can be a bit time-consuming and feels less user-friendly than ActiveCampaign.

ConvertKit’s text editor is easy to use and doesn’t require any special coding skills, making it ideal for beginners. However, the visual editor is much more versatile and can be used to create complex automated sequences. 

Once you get the hang of it, the visual editor can be used to create beautiful email newsletters, landing pages, and more. However, ConvertKit’s focus on the simple text editor means that most users will need to learn how to use the visual editor, but it is worth the effort.

To edit ConvertKit’s templates, you must first access the template editor. That can be done by selecting the “Edit Template” option from the drop-down menu. Once you are in the template editor, you can make changes to the design of your broadcast.

However, it is important to note that you will not be able to edit the template inside the email editor. That’s because ConvertKit’s templates are designed to be edited outside the email editor. As a result, you will need to use the template editor to make changes to your broadcast’s design.

Another area where ConvertKit and ActiveCampaign differ is in their support for file formats. 

ConvertKit only supports CSV files, while ActiveCampaign also supports XLS and TSV files. This isn’t a dealbreaker, but it is something to be aware of if you have a large contact list stored in a different format.

On the plus side, ActiveCampaign offers quick data transfers from third-party services such as Basecamp and Google Contacts. This makes it easy to transfer your contacts from one platform to another without manually exporting and importing them.

Both platforms offer advanced segmentation options to make targeting audiences with highly personalized messages easier. However, ActiveCampaign is the clear winner in list management. With its cheapest plan, ActiveCampaign offers an engagement management tool that makes it easy to keep your email subscribers list clean and well-organized. ConvertKit, on the other hand, limits its hygiene feature to Creator Pro plan users.

Support

 Good customer support is essential for any software vendor, but it’s especially important for email marketing platforms. After all, your email list is one of your most valuable assets, so you need to be confident that you can smoothly resolve any issues that may arise. 

Both ActiveCampaign and ConvertKit offer excellent customer support through their wealth of helpful resources. Nothing beats talking to a real human when dealing with complex issues or getting personalized advice.

Fortunately, both ActiveCampaign and ConvertKit offer prompt and professional customer service, so you can rest assured that any problems will be resolved quickly and efficiently.

ActiveCampaign can be slow in responding to customer queries, but the team can be helpful. ConvertKit support team, on the other hand, is always quick to respond to any questions, but you may find some of their answers not helpful.

Generally, both ActiveCampaign and ConvertKit offer great email support, but if you need help quickly, ConvertKit may be the better option.

Pricing

ActiveCampaign offers a comprehensive suite of features and tools, all at a very competitive price. When you compare ActiveCampaign to its main competitor, ConvertKit, it’s clear that ActiveCampaign is the better value. ConvertKit doesn’t offer as many features as ActiveCampaign, so it is no surprise that its plans are cheaper. If you’re looking for the best bang for your buck, ActiveCampaign is a clear choice.

With the ConvertKit free plan, you can manage up to 1,000 subscribers, set up unlimited landing pages, and send email broadcasts. Subscribers within the US and other supported countries can sell digital products and subscriptions through this platform. ConvertKit’s free plan is a deal breaker for beginners in email marketing.

ActiveCampaign is a powerful marketing platform that offers a wide range of features to help businesses grow. However, it should be noted that the platform does not offer a free plan. Instead, interested users can sign up for a 14-day trial to test most of the premium features. 

It is worth noting that users can only send up to 100 emails to 100 contacts during this period. Despite this limitation, the trial period is still a great way to get a feel for ActiveCampaign and see if it’s the right fit for your business.

ConvertKit’s free plan offers useful features for beginners in email marketing. The platform is straightforward to use, making it a great choice for those just getting started. However, most of its advanced features are only available for users of the two paid plans.

For example, the $15.00/month Creator Plan allows you to send emails to just 300 contacts. Users of this plan have no access to live chat and automation.

For those who need more than 300 contacts, the Creator Pro plan starts at $29.00/month and unlocks additional features such as segmentation and priority support. While ConvertKit’s paid plans are not cheap, they do offer a lot of value for the price. For those who need the entire platform’s advanced features, ConvertKit’s paid plans are worth the investment.

ActiveCampaign’s Lite plan is a great way for email marketers to get started with the company. For only $9.00/month, you can access many of the essential tools that ActiveCampaign offers. 

This includes 500 contacts, which is a great starting point. The Lite plan also includes automation, newsletters, and segmentation features. These features are essential for any email marketing campaign and will help you to get the most out of your investment.

ActiveCampaign offers numerous features for their Plus plan customers that are on par with what ConvertKit offers their Creator Pro plan customers.

From as little as $49.00/month, ActiveCampaign’s Plus plan gives users access to conditional content and advanced reporting. 

ActiveCampaign’s Plus plan also comes with features that may appeal to users, such as sending newsletters and using custom HTML in emails.

ActiveCampaign’s Professional plan is designed for businesses that need advanced marketing features. Split automation allows you to send different versions of an email to different groups of people, so you can test what works best. 

Predictive sending uses algorithms based on past engagement data to determine the best time to send an email. And the ability to segment your contacts into groups makes it easy to target your marketing campaigns.

Users of both platforms get discounts upon signing up for annual plans, so it’s worth considering if that’s the right option. However, before committing to a yearly plan, it is recommended to make full use of the trial plans to gauge which platform best fits your needs.

Design and Flexibility

Convertkit software is highly flexible, allowing users to easily change the look and feel of their newsletter with just a few clicks. It also offers a wide range of templates and layouts, making it easy to create a newsletter that perfectly suits your needs. In addition, the software provides users with valuable features, such as the ability to track subscribers and track results.

ActiveCampaign offers a high degree of flexibility, allowing businesses to tailor the software to their specific needs. The software also includes a wide range of tools for creating and managing email campaigns, automating tasks, and tracking results.

ActiveCampaign is known for its flexibility and customizable design options. You can create highly personalized emails that stand out in your inbox. ConvertKit, on the other hand, has a more streamlined design interface that makes it easy to create beautiful, responsive emails with minimal effort.

Registration Forms

 Though both ActiveCampaign and ConvertKit offer four types of forms, it is worth noting that ActiveCampaign’s Lite plan offers only an inline form display. If you’re looking for more comprehensive form functionality, you’ll need to upgrade to a paid plan with ActiveCampaign.

ConvertKit, on the other hand, offers all 4 form types (inline, popup, embedded, and floating bar) on all of its plans, including the free trial plan. So if you’re starting with forms and aren’t sure which type you need, ConvertKit might be a better option. However, ActiveCampaign’s forms are generally more customizable and user-friendly, so it’s worth considering upgrading if you decide you need more than the Lite plan offers.

ConvertKit is an email marketing platform that allows you to use pre-made templates or design your own. The benefit of using pre-made templates is that you don’t have to do as much work, but your customization options may lessen. That can be a problem for some people because they want to be able to tailor their email campaigns to their specific needs. 

However, ConvertKit does offer a wide range of features and options, so you should be able to find a template that meets your needs.

ActiveCampaign vs ConvertKit has pros and cons, but the custom fields feature one area where ActiveCampaign shines. ConvertKit users must get out of the editor and go into a customer profile to add a custom field. 

It may not be a simple task compared to other email marketing tools. ActiveCampaign, for example, offers a host of custom fields users can add without leaving the editor. That makes it easier and quicker to add custom fields, saving you a lot of time in the long run.

FAQs

 There’s a lot of debate these days around Active Campaign vs ConvertKit. Both are great email marketing tools but have different strengths and weaknesses. So which tool should you choose for your business? Here are the most commonly asked questions about the two platforms.

Which is better between ConvertKit vs ActiveCampaign?

 ActiveCampaign and ConvertKit are both CRMs designed with small businesses in mind. ActiveCampaign is more expensive, but it offers many features that ConvertKit doesn’t, like email automation and segmentation. 

ActiveCampaign also offers a free trial, while ConvertKit does not. ConvertKit is less expensive and has a more user-friendly interface, but it doesn’t have as many features as ActiveCampaign.

Overall, it depends on your needs as a business owner as to which CRM is right for you. If you need all the bells and whistles that ActiveCampaign offers, then it’s the better choice. If you’re looking for a CRM that is less expensive and easier to use, then ConvertKit is a good option.

Does ActiveCampaign have a trial plan?

Yes, using ActiveCampaign for free during the 14 trial days is possible. The trial plan includes up to 500 contacts and all the essential features, so you can get started with email marketing without spending a dime. Plus, if you’re unsatisfied with the trial plan, you can always upgrade to a paid plan later.

Does ConvertKit have a trial plan?

 Yes, ConvertKit does have a trial plan! You can sign up for a free 14-day trial of ConvertKit here. Just enter your email address and create a password, and you’ll be able to access all of the features of the paid plan for two weeks. After the trial ends, you’ll automatically switch to the trial plan unless you upgrade to a paid one.

Can affiliate links be used with ActiveCampaign?

 Yes, you can use affiliate links with ActiveCampaign. ActiveCampaign makes it easy to track your affiliate sales and manage your affiliate program. However, there are a few things to remember when using affiliate links with ActiveCampaign. 

First, you should ensure that your affiliates know your ActiveCampaign tracking code. You must also test your links before sending them out to your affiliates. And third, don’t forget to track your results to see which affiliates drive the most sales.

Can affiliate links be used with CovertKit?

 Yes, you can use affiliate links with ConvertKit. You’ll need to set up a few things first. In your ConvertKit account, go to Settings > Account Details. Under ‘Payment Information,’ you’ll see a section for ‘Affiliate Links.’ Here, you’ll need to add your affiliate’s ID and the page URL where your affiliate link will be located. 

Once you’ve done that, you can go ahead and create your ConvertKit forms and add your affiliate links. Remember that you’ll need to add the affiliate links to each form manually; they will not be automatically added when someone submits the form. Also, test your forms before you share them with your audience to ensure everything is working properly.

Final Thoughts

 Both Active Campaign vs ConvertKit has their unique strengths and weaknesses. Ultimately, your choice will depend on your specific needs as an entrepreneur. 

if you are looking for a powerful, all-in-one email marketing solution with excellent customer support, try ConvertKit. However, if you need more flexibility on automation rules and want to save money on the monthly subscription fee, ActiveCampaign may be the better option.

Disclaimer

Some of the links in this article are affiliate links. If you decide to purchase a paid plan or program by using the links provided on this page, I may receive a commission for that purchase at no additional cost to you. 

This site is not intended to provide financial advice and is for entertainment only. You can read our affiliate disclosure in our privacy policy.