✅ Best in Category

ConvertKit earns the top spot in email marketing for their clearer policies, creator-focused approach, and better data portability. They still have room for improvement, but they're setting a better standard for the industry.

Score Breakdown by Category

How ConvertKit's terms rate across my evaluation categories.

🔒 Account Stability & Termination (30%) 55/100

Why this score: ConvertKit has clearer acceptable use policies compared to competitors. While they still reserve termination rights, their enforcement appears more consistent and their support team is known for working with users on compliance issues.

Industry comparison: Mailchimp: 30/100 (aggressive enforcement) | Klaviyo: 45/100 (e-commerce focused) | Beehiiv: 50/100 (newer platform) | Category avg: 45/100

📦 Data Portability & List Ownership (25%) 60/100

Why this score: ConvertKit offers migration support and easier data export. They've built a reputation for helping users move to and from their platform, recognizing that your list is your asset.

Industry comparison: Mailchimp: 35/100 (export restrictions) | Klaviyo: 50/100 (decent export tools) | Beehiiv: 55/100 (good portability) | Category avg: 50/100

📝 Content & Use Restrictions (20%) 55/100

Why this score: ConvertKit is more creator and affiliate-friendly than Mailchimp. They allow many forms of promotional content that competitors restrict, though they still have limits on certain industries and practices.

Industry comparison: Mailchimp: 38/100 (anti-affiliate) | Klaviyo: 48/100 (e-commerce OK) | Beehiiv: 52/100 (newsletter monetization) | Category avg: 48/100

💰 Pricing & Fee Transparency (15%) 50/100

Why this score: Pricing is clear and subscriber-based, though costs can grow quickly with list size. They offer a free tier for creators and their pricing page is straightforward.

Industry comparison: Mailchimp: 45/100 (hidden subscriber counts) | Klaviyo: 42/100 (complex tiers) | Beehiiv: 48/100 (transparent) | Category avg: 46/100

⚖ Dispute Resolution (10%) 48/100

Why this score: Like most platforms, ConvertKit uses arbitration with class action waiver. However, their support team is generally more responsive and willing to work through issues before escalation.

Industry comparison: Mailchimp: 42/100 (opaque appeals) | Klaviyo: 45/100 (similar arbitration) | Beehiiv: 45/100 (smaller, more accessible) | Category avg: 45/100

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