ConvertKit vs. Stan: Which One is Better for Your Business?

Jessica Li
Chief of Staff

Link-in-bio products are essential for online creators as they centralize various aspects of their creator business, making it easier to manage and monetize content. We'll compare ConvertKit and Stan to determine which platform best supports creators in this endeavor.

A Quick Overview of ConvertKit and Stan

What is ConvertKit?

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ConvertKit is an email-first operating system designed for creators to build valuable and sustainable businesses. It offers tools for email marketing, audience segmentation, automations, and selling digital products. Unique features include a customizable email editor, visual automations, and integrations with platforms like Squarespace and Shopify. Pricing plans range from a free option for up to 10,000 subscribers to paid plans with unlimited list growth and additional functionalities.

What is Stan?

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Stan is a platform designed to help creators monetize their content by hosting courses, digital products, and bookings within a link-in-bio. Unique features include an all-in-one creator store, no coding required for setup, and a 1-Tap Checkout to maximize conversion rates. The platform offers a 14-day free trial to get started.

Comparing ConvertKit and Stan: Features and Pricing

ConvertKit Features

ConvertKit offers several unique features that cater to creators looking to build and manage their email lists effectively.

  • Visual Automations: Create automated workflows to streamline customer journeys and save time.
  • Tags & Segments: Organize and manage your audience with detailed tagging and segmentation for personalized content.
  • Recommendations: Grow your email list through recommendations from other creators, a feature that sets ConvertKit apart from competitors.
  • Integrations: Seamlessly integrate with popular platforms like Squarespace, Shopify, and Patreon to enhance your business operations.
  • Free Migration Service: Easily transition to ConvertKit with a free migration service for creators with over 5,000 subscribers on paid plans.

Stan Features

Stan offers several features that are beneficial for creators.

  • All-in-One Creator Store: Hosts courses, digital products, and bookings within a link-in-bio.
  • No Coding Required: Easy setup that allows users to build their store in minutes.
  • 1-Tap Checkout: Simplifies the purchasing process to maximize conversion rates.
  • Integration with Third-Party Apps: Compatible with various tools that creators already use.
  • 14-Day Free Trial: Offers a trial period for new users to test the platform.

ConvertKit and Stan Similarities

ConvertKit and Stan both excel in providing creators with tools to build and monetize their online businesses. They share several key features that make them valuable for creators looking to streamline their operations and maximize their revenue.

  • Email Marketing: Both platforms offer robust email marketing tools to help creators engage with their audience.
  • Automations: They provide automation features to streamline workflows and save time.
  • Audience Segmentation: Both platforms allow creators to segment their audience for more personalized communication.
  • Digital Product Sales: They offer functionalities to sell digital products directly to their audience.
  • Integrations: Both platforms support integrations with other tools and services to enhance their functionality.

ConvertKit and Stan Differences

When comparing ConvertKit and Stan, it's clear that each platform offers unique features tailored to different aspects of a creator's business.

  • Email-First Operating System: ConvertKit prioritizes email marketing with advanced tools like visual automations and audience segmentation.
  • All-in-One Link-in-Bio Store: Stan consolidates courses, digital products, and bookings into a single link-in-bio, simplifying the creator's workflow.
  • 1-Tap Checkout: Stan's streamlined purchasing process maximizes conversion rates, a feature not available in ConvertKit.

ConvertKit and Stan Pricing

ConvertKit offers three pricing tiers: Newsletter (free for up to 10,000 subscribers), Creator ($25/month for up to 1,000 subscribers), and Creator Pro ($50/month for up to 1,000 subscribers). Annual payment options provide discounts, and a 14-day free trial is available for the Creator and Creator Pro plans.

Stan's pricing details are less explicit, but it offers a 14-day free trial and emphasizes ease of use with features like no coding required and 1-Tap Checkout. The platform focuses on being an all-in-one solution for creators.

ConvertKit provides more transparent and flexible pricing options, making it easier for creators to choose a plan that fits their needs.

Why Choose One Over the Other?

Why Choose ConvertKit Over Stan

Consumers who prioritize email marketing and need advanced tools for audience segmentation and visual automations would prefer ConvertKit. This platform is ideal for content creators, digital marketers, and newsletter writers who want to build deeper connections with their audience through email.

Why Choose Stan Over ConvertKit

Stan is perfect for creators who want an all-in-one solution to sell courses, digital products, and bookings without needing multiple tools. This platform is best suited for influencers, coaches, and non-technical users who need a simple, integrated setup with features like 1-Tap Checkout to maximize conversion rates.

Considering Beacons vs. ConvertKit and Stan

What is Beacons

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Beacons is the all-in-one creator platform designed to help you manage and monetize your online presence effortlessly. With millions of users worldwide, Beacons offers unique features like AI-generated content, customizable link-in-bio, email marketing, an online store, and auto-updating media kits to streamline your business.

Beacons's Pricing

Beacons Pricing

  • Free Plan: $0 (Free forever)
  • Creator Pro: $8.33 per month (billed annually) or $10 per month (monthly)
  • Store Pro: $25 per month (billed annually) or $30 per month (monthly)
  • Business Pro: $75 per month (billed annually) or $90 per month (monthly)

Comparing Beacons to ConvertKit and Stan

Choosing Beacons over ConvertKit and Stan offers a comprehensive solution that goes beyond the basics.

  • AI Brand Outreach: Generate emails for faster pitching, saving you time and effort.
  • Income Dashboard: Sync and track your income seamlessly, providing better financial insights.
  • W-9 Generator: Easily create W-9 tax forms, simplifying your tax preparation.
  • Pricing Calculator: Accurately price sponsored content to maximize your earnings.
  • Media Kit: Auto-updating media kits make securing brand deals effortless.
  • Invoicing: Create and send invoices directly from the platform, streamlining your business operations.
  • All-in-One Platform: Manage everything from email marketing to an online store in one place, eliminating the need for multiple tools.

Beacons doesn't just match the features of ConvertKit and Stan; it offers a more integrated and efficient approach to managing and monetizing your online presence.

What Are the Customers Saying?

ConvertKit Reviews

Overall, users have given ConvertKit a rating of 4.4 out of 5. While many appreciate its ease of use and automation tools, some find the pricing and limited features frustrating.

"Easy to use and great customer service"

Rating: 5.0 out of 5

- Verified User in Arts and Crafts

The user praised ConvertKit for its great pricing, customer service, and good deliverability. They noted a learning curve for new users but found the platform overall beneficial.

"Why I left Convertkit after just 45 days (and ate $750)"

Rating: 1.0 out of 5

- Zak F.

Zak F. highlighted several issues, including the inability to organize images, embed audio, and track metrics for subscriber segments. He also criticized the strict refund policy.

For more reviews, visit the Stan reviews page.

Stan Reviews

Overall, users have given ConvertKit a rating of 4.4 out of 5. While many appreciate its ease of use, customer support, and automation tools, some find the pricing and limited features frustrating.

"Easy to use and great customer service"

Rating: 5.0 out of 5

- Verified User in Arts and Crafts

The user praised ConvertKit for its great pricing, customer service, and good deliverability. They mentioned a learning curve for new users but found the overall experience positive.

"Why I left Convertkit after just 45 days (and ate $750)"

Rating: 1.0 out of 5

- Zak F.

Zak F. highlighted several issues, including the inability to organize images, embed audio, and track metrics for subscriber segments. He also criticized the strict refund policy.

For more reviews, visit the Stan reviews page.

Beacons reviews

Overall, users have given Beacons an impressive rating of 4.9 out of 5.

"Incredible app with a bunch of useful creator business tools"

Rating: 5.0 out of 5

Love the email marketing and store apps! - Christopher Wong

"Probably the most outstanding link app w/ tons of features"

Rating: 5.0 out of 5

Especially for building and connecting community! - Viva Stylez

Final Decision: ConvertKit, Stan, or Beacons?

All three platforms—ConvertKit, Stan, and Beacons—offer valuable tools for online creators looking to grow their audience and monetize their content. However, Beacons stands out as the all-in-one solution that simplifies your workflow and provides a comprehensive suite of features. Whether you're just starting or looking to streamline your operations, Beacons is a fantastic choice to help you manage and grow your creator business effortlessly.

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