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Head to head

Mailchimp vs Klaviyo

A practical side-by-side look at Mailchimp and Klaviyo, with a clear recommendation for different kinds of work.

Mailchimp

The most recognizable name in email marketing.

4.1 / 5

Overall winner

Klaviyo

Email and SMS marketing built for eCommerce brands.

4.5 / 5

Overall winner

Mailchimp wins overall.

Mailchimp is the better default for most people, while Klaviyo remains the stronger pick for a specific workflow.

Different jobs, different winners

Best for beginners

Mailchimp

Mailchimp is easier to start using right away.

Best for specialists

Klaviyo

Klaviyo is a better fit when its focused strengths match your work.

Why Mailchimp wins

We compared the tools on daily usefulness, pricing, ease of use, and the strengths that matter most in this category.

How they compare on every factor we score

FactorMailchimpKlaviyoWinner
Best score4.1 / 54.5 / 5Mailchimp
Ease of use4.3 / 54.0 / 5Mailchimp
Value for money3.7 / 53.9 / 5Tie
Starting priceFrom $0/moFrom $0/mo
PlatformsWeb, iOS, AndroidWeb

Pick by situation, not by score alone

Pick Mailchimp if...

  • You want the safest all-round choice.
  • You value a simple starting point.

Pick Klaviyo if...

  • You need its more focused strengths.
  • You already work in its ecosystem.

Mailchimp vs Klaviyo: common questions

Which is better, Mailchimp or Klaviyo?

Mailchimp is our overall recommendation, but Klaviyo can be the better fit for the right use case.

Which one is cheaper?

Check the pricing row above because plans and free tiers change regularly.

Can I switch later?

Yes. Start with the tool that best matches your current work and revisit the decision as your needs change.

Which one wins in your specific situation

01

You are starting from scratch: Mailchimp

Start with Mailchimp for the smoother default experience.

02

Your workflow has specific needs: Klaviyo

Choose Klaviyo if its focused workflow fits your work better.

Final recommendation

Mailchimp for most people.

For most people, choose Mailchimp. Choose Klaviyo when its focused strengths matter more than the general default.

Reviewed by BettrList Editorial · Last checked 2026-07-31

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