MailerLite - Detailed Review
Sales Tools
MailerLite - Product Overview
Primary Function
MailerLite is designed to help businesses manage and optimize their email marketing efforts. It allows users to create, automate, and analyze email campaigns, as well as build landing pages, websites, and manage lead generation.Target Audience
MailerLite caters to a wide range of businesses, from small startups to larger enterprises, across various industries. It is particularly useful for marketers, e-commerce businesses, bloggers, and anyone looking to engage with their audience through targeted email campaigns.Key Features
Email Marketing
MailerLite offers a user-friendly drag-and-drop editor to create beautiful and targeted email campaigns. Users can connect their social media accounts and embed posts directly into emails for better engagement. The platform also supports A/B testing, auto-resend features, and RSS campaigns to automate the sending of new content.Segmentation
One of the standout features of MailerLite is its advanced segmentation tool. This allows users to divide their subscribers into smaller audiences based on characteristics such as location, age, behavior, interests, and engagement levels. Segments can be created and updated automatically as the subscriber list grows.Automation
MailerLite enables users to automate marketing workflows based on subscriber behavior. This includes setting up automated email sequences, updating custom fields, adding tags, and moving subscribers between groups. Automation helps in keeping the audience engaged and streamlines the marketing process.Analytics and Reporting
The platform provides detailed analytics and reporting tools to monitor campaign performance. Users can track open rates, click-through rates, and other engagement metrics to refine their strategies effectively.Landing Pages and Websites
In addition to email marketing, MailerLite allows users to build professional landing pages and even full websites using an intuitive drag-and-drop builder. This includes features like signup forms, content blocks, surveys, and SEO settings to improve organic rankings.Integrations
MailerLite offers seamless integrations with over 130 apps, including e-commerce and CRM tools, to sync data and enhance campaign effectiveness. Overall, MailerLite is known for its ease of use, affordability, and comprehensive set of features that make it an effective tool for managing and optimizing email marketing campaigns. MailerLite - User Interface and Experience
User Interface
The user interface of MailerLite is intuitive and minimalist, which is a key aspect of its appeal. The new design of the platform, as described in recent updates, focuses on accessibility and efficiency. It maintains a sleek and straightforward aesthetic, ensuring that users can quickly find the features they need.
Ease of Use
MailerLite is praised for its simplicity. The platform offers a drag-and-drop email builder that simplifies the process of creating email campaigns. This feature allows users to design emails without needing extensive technical knowledge. The interface is easy to navigate, with clear and simple steps for tasks such as creating and sending emails, building landing pages, and managing sign-up forms.
Email Campaign Management
Users can create email campaigns using pre-designed templates or the drag-and-drop editor, which makes the process smooth and enjoyable. However, there is a slight learning curve due to the different interfaces for the form builder, landing page builder, website builder, and email builder. Despite this, the initial onboarding process is generally fast and easy.
Automation and Segmentation
MailerLite’s automation features are highly regarded. Users can automate marketing workflows based on subscriber behavior, such as completing a form or leaving a product in their basket. The platform also offers advanced segmentation options, allowing users to target their audience more effectively. These features are available on all plans, including the free version.
Forms and Pop-ups
While the editor for embedded forms is somewhat basic and lacks a template library, the pop-up editor is more advanced. It includes a template library and a drag-and-drop editor for customizing pop-up designs. Users can also create interest groups and segment contacts based on form selections, which enhances the overall user experience.
Customer Support
Despite some limitations, MailerLite’s customer support is generally fast and reliable. Users often praise the support team for being helpful and prompt in their responses. However, live chat support is only available for Advanced plan users, and free accounts have limited access to personal support.
Overall User Experience
The overall user experience with MailerLite is positive. Users appreciate the cost-effectiveness, affordability, and the comprehensive suite of tools that simplify email marketing tasks. The platform is effective for building contact lists, sending emails, and automating campaigns, making it a valuable asset for small to medium-sized businesses and beginners in email marketing.
In summary, MailerLite’s user interface is designed to be user-friendly, with a focus on simplicity and ease of use. While there may be some minor learning curves and limitations in certain features, the platform is generally well-regarded for its accessibility and effectiveness in managing email marketing campaigns.
MailerLite - Key Features and Functionality
Email Marketing Overview
MailerLite is a comprehensive email marketing platform that offers a wide range of features, many of which are enhanced by AI integrations. Here are the main features and how they work, including the role of AI:Email Campaigns and Automation
MailerLite allows you to craft and send sophisticated email campaigns. You can use the drag-and-drop email builder, choose from various email templates, and set up automated email series based on different triggers such as when a subscriber joins a group, clicks on a link, completes a form, or has a field updated in their profile.AI Integration in Automation
AI enhances automation by allowing you to generate personalized email content using natural language processing (NLP). This means you can automate routine tasks like sending newsletters, setting up autoresponders, and segmenting audiences. AI also helps in predicting subscriber behavior, optimizing send times, and personalizing content at scale.Email Personalization
MailerLite offers dynamic content features that let you personalize emails based on subscriber attributes. For example, you can show different content blocks to recipients from different countries or industries. The preference center feature, available in advanced plans, allows subscribers to select their interests and preferred email frequency, enabling more targeted campaigns.AI-Powered Personalization
AI integration helps in creating highly personalized content. The AI writing assistant can generate email copy based on your preferred tone and initial prompts, saving time and ensuring consistency. AI-driven insights also help in tailoring email content based on subscriber behavior, enhancing engagement and relevance.List Management and Segmentation
MailerLite provides strong list management and segmentation features. You can create custom fields, groups, and segments based on form selections, automation workflows, inactivity, and engagement metrics. Importing contacts is straightforward, and you can segment users based on various criteria.Landing Pages and Forms
You can create landing pages and signup forms using MailerLite. These tools help in collecting leads and integrating them seamlessly into your email marketing campaigns. The platform also supports interactive content and ecommerce features, allowing you to sell digital products and subscriptions directly through your website.Website and Blogging Tool
MailerLite goes beyond email marketing by offering a website builder and blogging tool. This allows you to build your entire website, complete with a blog, and integrate it with your email marketing efforts.Analytics and Reporting
MailerLite’s analytics dashboard provides a detailed breakdown of email metrics such as click rates, bounces, and unsubscribes. It also analyzes email client usage and AMP vs. HTML performance. AI integration enhances analytics by providing deeper insights into campaign performance and subscriber behavior, helping you make more informed decisions.Ecommerce Features
MailerLite includes ecommerce features that allow you to sell digital products and subscriptions. Ecommerce automation is triggered by actions in your online store, such as product purchases and cart abandonment, enabling you to send targeted emails and manage customer interactions effectively.AI Translation and Global Reach
By integrating MailerLite with AI translation tools, you can automate the translation of your email campaigns, ensuring your messages reach a broader, global audience in their preferred language. This integration saves time, maintains consistency in tone and style, and adapts to real-time updates.Scheduling and Timezone Adjustment
MailerLite allows you to schedule emails to be sent at specific times or based on the recipient’s timezone. This feature ensures that your emails are delivered at the most optimal times, maximizing engagement and open rates.Integrations
MailerLite supports a wide range of integrations with other applications and platforms, including CRM, ecommerce, and social media tools. You can use no-code platforms like Latenode or API integrations to automate workflows and synchronize data across different platforms.Conclusion
In summary, MailerLite is an all-in-one marketing solution that leverages AI to enhance email marketing automation, personalization, analytics, and global reach. These features make it a powerful tool for businesses looking to streamline and optimize their marketing efforts. MailerLite - Performance and Accuracy
Performance Evaluation of MailerLite
Email Deliverability
MailerLite has a strong track record in email deliverability. With a deliverability score of 91.7 in 2023, it is among the higher performers in its category, although it did see a slight drop from the 98% score in 2022. The platform’s rigorous verification process and attention to sender reputation, list quality, and email content all contribute to its high deliverability rates. However, factors such as email content and design, sender reputation, and list quality can still impact deliverability, and MailerLite users need to be mindful of these elements to maintain optimal rates.AI-Driven Features
MailerLite has introduced several AI-driven features that enhance performance and engagement. The “Smart sending” feature, available on the Advanced plan, uses AI to analyze historical data and determine the best time to send emails to each subscriber, significantly boosting the likelihood of conversions and engagement. Additionally, MailerLite’s AI tools help with content creation, including generating email content, subject lines, and CTAs, making campaign creation more efficient and potentially more effective.Analytics and Reporting
MailerLite provides comprehensive and detailed analytics reports that help users measure the success of their email campaigns. These reports include metrics such as delivery rates, open rates, click-through rates, and bounce rates, offering insights into subscriber engagement and behavior. The platform’s real-time analytics and event-triggered actions enable users to fine-tune their campaigns effectively. However, there are limitations to these metrics; for example, open rates can be unreliable due to factors like image loading settings and privacy features that might inflate or obscure actual engagement.Segmentation and Personalization
MailerLite allows for segmentation and personalization of email lists based on various criteria such as location and age. While it does not have an in-built CRM tool, the available options are sufficient for creating targeted and personalized campaigns.Limitations and Areas for Improvement
One of the main limitations is the accuracy of certain metrics, particularly open rates, which can be affected by technical and methodological issues such as image loading settings and privacy features. This makes it important to consider a combination of metrics, including click-through rates and conversion rates, for a more accurate assessment of campaign success. Another area for improvement is the advanced analytics, which, while good, could be more sophisticated to provide deeper insights into subscriber behavior and campaign performance.Conclusion
In summary, MailerLite performs well in terms of email deliverability, AI-driven features, and analytics, but there are areas where improvements can be made, particularly in the accuracy of certain metrics and the sophistication of its analytics tools. MailerLite - Pricing and Plans
MailerLite Pricing Plans
MailerLite offers a structured pricing plan that caters to various business needs, from startups to large enterprises. Here’s a breakdown of their pricing tiers and the features associated with each:
Free Plan
- This plan is ideal for startups and small businesses.
- It supports up to 1,000 subscribers and allows for 12,000 emails per month.
- Key features include:
- Drag & drop editor
- Email automation builder
- Website creation tools
- 10 landing pages
- Signup forms and pop-ups
- Comparative reporting
- 24/7 email and chat support for the first 30 days.
- This plan includes MailerLite branding and is limited to a single user seat.
Growing Business Plan
- Starts at $10 per month for up to 500 subscribers when billed annually.
- This plan is suitable for small businesses and entrepreneurs with a small team.
- Features include:
- Unlimited emails
- 3 user seats
- Templates
- 24/7 email support
- Unlimited websites and landing pages.
- This plan does not include some of the advanced features available in higher tiers.
Advanced Plan
- Begins at $20 per month for up to 500 subscribers when billed annually.
- This plan is geared towards agencies and medium-sized businesses.
- Additional features include:
- Unlimited user seats
- Custom HTML editor
- Pop-ups
- Multiple triggers in automation
- AI writing assistant
- Facebook audience syncing
- Live chat support.
Enterprise Plan
- Custom pricing for businesses with over 100,000 subscribers.
- This plan includes a dedicated account manager and IP, along with advanced features such as landing page and newsletter design.
Additional Notes
- Free Trial: When you sign up for a MailerLite account, you get a 30-day free trial of premium features, including 100 email templates and 24/7 live chat support.
- Migration: As of February 1st, 2024, free plans are only available on the new version of MailerLite. Users of the classic version need to migrate to the new platform to continue using the free plan.
This structure allows businesses to scale their email marketing efforts as they grow, with each tier offering more features and support to meet increasing needs.
MailerLite - Integration and Compatibility
Integrations with E-commerce Platforms
MailerLite seamlessly integrates with several e-commerce platforms, including Shopify and WooCommerce. These integrations allow you to sync customer data and purchase history automatically, segment your audience based on buying behavior, and send personalized emails such as abandoned cart reminders and product recommendations.Shopify
Integrating MailerLite with Shopify enables automatic synchronization of customer and order data, dynamic email campaigns, and advanced segmentation based on customer behavior.
WooCommerce
For WordPress users, the integration with WooCommerce allows for automatic synchronization of customer and order data, as well as dynamic email campaigns tailored to customer preferences.
Content Creation and Website Integrations
MailerLite also integrates well with content creation tools and website platforms.WordPress
The MailerLite plugin for WordPress makes it easy to embed signup forms, automate email campaigns for new blog posts, and manage subscribers directly from your WordPress dashboard.
Zapier
Zapier acts as a bridge between MailerLite and hundreds of other apps, allowing you to automate tasks such as adding new subscribers from various sources, triggering email campaigns based on specific actions, and syncing data across your favorite tools.
Small Business and Collaboration Tools
For small businesses and teams, MailerLite integrates with several collaboration and analytics tools.Slack
This integration provides real-time notifications for new subscribers and campaign performance, facilitating team collaboration on email content and strategy.
Google Analytics
Integrating MailerLite with Google Analytics allows you to track email campaign metrics, analyze subscriber behavior, and optimize email content based on data-driven insights.
Other Integrations
MailerLite also supports integrations with a wide array of other tools and services.Appy Pie Automate
This integration allows you to automate everyday tasks by connecting MailerLite with over 1000 apps, such as automatically adding new leads from Facebook Lead Ads to your MailerLite email lists.
Trello, Zoho CRM, Zoom
MailerLite offers integrations with these and many more tools, enabling you to automate various tasks and keep your data synchronized across different platforms.
Compatibility and API
MailerLite ensures compatibility across different versions and platforms.MailerLite Classic and New Version
You can use both versions of MailerLite simultaneously, and most integrations will work on the new platform, although some may require updated connections using the new API documentation.
API and Developer Tools
MailerLite provides a Developer API that allows you to develop your own integrations. The API documentation is available on the MailerLite website, enabling you to build new connections and leverage the full potential of the platform.
Devices and Mobile Apps
MailerLite also offers mobile apps to manage your email marketing campaigns on the go.MailerLite Manager iOS App
This app is designed for the new MailerLite platform, allowing you to manage your campaigns, subscribers, and other activities from your iOS device. There is also a MailerLite Classic Manager iOS app for those using the older version.
In summary, MailerLite’s integrations are diverse and comprehensive, allowing you to automate workflows, enhance productivity, and gain better insights into your customers’ behavior. Whether you’re using e-commerce platforms, content creation tools, or collaboration software, MailerLite’s integrations can help streamline your operations and improve your marketing efforts.
MailerLite - Customer Support and Resources
Support Channels
24/7 Email Support
Available on all plans, including the free plan for the first 30 days after signup. You can contact the support team via email for any questions or issues you might have.
24/7 Live Chat Support
This is available on the Advanced plan and for the first 30 days on newly created accounts. To access live chat, log in to your MailerLite account and click on the chat icon at the bottom-right corner of the page or click on “Need help?” at the bottom-left corner.
Self-Service Resources
Customer Self-Service Center
This includes a knowledge base where you can find answers to common questions and learn about the latest features and topics. The self-service center is accessible to all users, regardless of their plan.
Community
Users can engage with the MailerLite community to get help and share experiences with other users.
Additional Resources
Hire an Expert
For more specialized help, you can hire an expert through MailerLite’s resources. This option is particularly useful if you need advanced assistance with your email marketing campaigns or website setup.
FAQs and Help Center
The MailerLite website has an extensive help center with FAQs, guides, and tutorials that cover various aspects of using the platform. This is a valuable resource for self-service support.
AI-Driven Features
MailerLite also offers several AI-driven features that can enhance your email marketing efforts:
Smart Sending
Available on the Advanced plan, this feature uses AI to predict the best time to send emails to each subscriber, increasing engagement and conversion rates. It analyzes historical data to determine the optimal sending time, making it easy to use with just one click.
By providing these support channels and resources, MailerLite ensures that users have multiple ways to get help and maximize the effectiveness of their email marketing campaigns.
MailerLite - Pros and Cons
Pros of MailerLite
MailerLite offers several significant advantages that make it a viable option for many users, particularly small businesses and beginners in email marketing.Ease of Use
MailerLite is known for its intuitive user interface and a simple drag-and-drop editor, making it easy for beginners to create functional and engaging content without needing to know how to code.Email Deliverability
MailerLite has a strong track record of high email deliverability, with a score of 91.7% in 2023, thanks to its rigorous verification process and strict anti-spam policy.Segmentation and Personalization
The platform allows for effective email list management, segmentation, and personalization. You can segment your audience based on various criteria such as location, age, and behavior, and use A/B testing to optimize your campaigns.Integrations and Automation
MailerLite integrates well with major e-commerce platforms like Shopify, WooCommerce, and Prestashop. It offers pre-built workflows and automations, including welcome emails, post-purchase emails, and abandoned cart emails, which can be set up easily even by non-tech users.Affordability
MailerLite is cost-effective, offering a free plan that allows you to send emails to up to 1,000 contacts. The paid plans also provide good value for the features offered, making it a great option for businesses with modest marketing budgets.Customer Support
Despite some limitations, MailerLite’s customer support is generally fast and reliable. It includes a knowledge base, an Academy, and a Community, although live chat support is only available for Advanced plan users.Cons of MailerLite
While MailerLite has many strengths, it also has some notable weaknesses.Limited Advanced Features
MailerLite lacks some essential pro features such as advanced automations, detailed email reporting, and spam/design testing tools. This makes it less suitable for users needing complex marketing automation or in-depth analytics.Reporting and Analytics
The reporting and analytics features in MailerLite are not as comprehensive as those in some other tools. While it provides basic tracking of email and subscriber performance, it falls short in offering detailed reports or social media monitoring.Spam and Design Testing
One of the significant cons is the lack of spam and design testing tools. This can be particularly problematic for beginners who may not know how to fix common mistakes that could affect email deliverability.Customer Support Limitations
While the customer support is generally good, there are limitations. Live chat support is only available for Advanced plan users, and phone support is not available even on the Enterprise plan. Free plan users are limited to email support and only receive personal support for 30 days.Template and Editor Limitations
On the free plan, you do not get access to newsletter or landing page templates, and you cannot use a customized HTML editor. Additionally, once you start a campaign with a template, you cannot change the template without starting from scratch. Overall, MailerLite is a great choice for small businesses and beginners due to its ease of use, good email deliverability, and affordability. However, it may not be the best fit for those requiring advanced automation, detailed reporting, or comprehensive spam and design testing tools. MailerLite - Comparison with Competitors
MailerLite Overview
MailerLite is a popular email marketing tool known for its user-friendly interface, affordable pricing, and basic automation features. However, it lacks some advanced features such as comprehensive reporting, sophisticated automation, and CRM functionality, which might be necessary for more complex marketing strategies.ActiveCampaign
ActiveCampaign is a strong alternative to MailerLite, particularly for those needing advanced marketing automation and CRM capabilities. Here are some key features:- Email, SMS, and marketing automation
- Drag-and-drop email designer
- Forms and landing pages
- Ecommerce platform integrations
- Lead scoring and segmentation
- Over 900 integrations and automation recipes.
GetResponse
GetResponse is another viable alternative, offering a wide range of features:- Multi-channel marketing (emails, SMS, web push notifications, live chat)
- Highly optimized landing pages with sign-up forms and A/B testing
- AI email generator
- Autoresponders and send-time optimization
- Visual workflow builder and advanced trigger-based emails
- Ecommerce-specific features and website builder.
Mailchimp
Mailchimp is a comprehensive email marketing tool that also offers CRM and automation features:- Advanced email creation capabilities with various content blocks
- Multi-step workflows for extended client experiences
- Robust reporting and analytical features including click-mapping, geo-tracking, and social media monitoring
- Built-in automation for cart abandonment and cross-selling.
Brevo (formerly Sendinblue)
Brevo offers a range of features that make it a strong competitor:- Advanced automation and segmentation
- WhatsApp and SMS marketing features
- Unlimited emails on higher plans
- CRM tools and transactional emails.
AI-Driven Sales Tools
If you are looking for tools that integrate AI more deeply into sales processes, here are some alternatives:Salesforce Sales Cloud
Salesforce Sales Cloud uses AI to enhance sales workflows:- Einstein AI Copilot for personalized sales emails and customer interaction feedback
- Conversation intelligence and lead/deal prioritization
- Predictive forecasting and sales activity suggestions
- Cold email generation and AI-powered insights for closing deals.
Gong.io
Gong.io provides revenue intelligence by combining customer interaction data with AI analysis:- Automated takeaways from calls and emails
- AI-generated meeting summaries and action items
- Forecasting based on buyer interactions
- Integration with other platforms for increased visibility.
Conclusion
Each of these alternatives offers unique features that can address specific needs beyond what MailerLite provides. ActiveCampaign and GetResponse are strong for advanced marketing automation, Mailchimp excels in all-in-one solutions with CRM, Brevo is great for multi-channel communication, and Salesforce Sales Cloud and Gong.io integrate AI deeply into sales processes. Choosing the right tool depends on the specific requirements of your business, such as the level of automation, CRM functionality, and AI-driven insights needed. MailerLite - Frequently Asked Questions
Frequently Asked Questions about MailerLite
How Much Does MailerLite Cost?
MailerLite offers several pricing plans. The free plan is free and covers up to 1,000 subscribers with 12,000 monthly emails. The Growing Business plan starts at $10/month for 500 subscribers and includes unlimited emails, 3 users, and other features. The Advanced plan starts at $20/month for 500 subscribers and adds features like unlimited users, a custom HTML editor, and an AI writing assistant. For larger enterprises, custom pricing is available for over 100,000 subscribers.What Features Are Included in the Free Plan?
The free plan on MailerLite is quite generous, allowing you to have up to 1,000 subscribers and send 12,000 emails per month. It also includes features like landing pages, email automation, and websites. However, it is limited to one user and does not include advanced features like multiple triggers in automations or live chat support.What Are the Key Differences Between the Growing Business and Advanced Plans?
The Growing Business plan starts at $10/month and includes unlimited emails, 3 users, and basic features like email templates and 24/7 email support. The Advanced plan, starting at $20/month, adds more advanced features such as unlimited users, a custom HTML editor, multiple triggers in automations, Facebook audience syncing, and live chat support. The Advanced plan also includes an AI writing assistant.Does MailerLite Offer Automation Features?
Yes, MailerLite does offer automation features. While the free and Growing Business plans have basic automation capabilities, the Advanced plan includes more advanced automation features, such as multiple triggers and more sophisticated workflows. However, it’s noted that MailerLite’s automation features are somewhat limited compared to some of its competitors.How Does the AI Writing Assistant Work?
MailerLite’s AI writing assistant uses machine learning to help generate text for your email campaigns. It can save time by creating emails quickly, improve results by generating more engaging text, and even help with grammar and spelling checks. The AI can also personalize text for individual recipients and adjust the style and tone to match your brand. This feature is available on the Advanced plan.Can I Use MailerLite to Sell Digital Products?
Yes, MailerLite allows you to sell digital products such as ebooks, downloads, and other items. This feature is available across all plans, including the free plan, making it a useful tool for businesses looking to monetize their email lists.What Kind of Support Does MailerLite Offer?
MailerLite offers 24/7 email support on its paid plans. The Advanced plan also includes live chat support, providing quicker access to help when needed. Additionally, MailerLite is known for its attentive and award-winning customer service.How Do I Upgrade or Change My Plan?
You can upgrade or change your plan directly through your MailerLite account dashboard. If you need to switch to a higher-tier plan for additional features or to accommodate a growing subscriber list, you can do so at any time. For custom pricing for large enterprises, you would need to contact MailerLite directly.Does MailerLite Integrate with Other Web Apps?
Yes, MailerLite allows you to integrate with other web apps to automate workflows and enhance your customer experience. You can connect various apps seamlessly to share information and automate tasks.Can I Purchase Additional Credits for the AI Writing Assistant?
No, you cannot purchase additional credits for the AI writing assistant. To continue using the AI writing assistant after the initial credits are used up, you would need to upgrade to the Advanced plan.Will My Data Be Used to Train the AI Models?
No, neither MailerLite nor OpenAI will use the data submitted via the API to train or improve their AI models. Your data remains secure and is not used for any other purpose than generating text for your campaigns.