Quick comparison
Shortlist first, details second. Always double-check current pricing and plan limits on the vendor site.
| Tool | Best for | Setup time | Pricing | Why it’s here | Watch-out |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| ActiveCampaign Top pick | Automations + segmentation | Half day | Varies by plan | Power without bloat | Needs thoughtful setup |
| HubSpot | Suite users | 1 day | Varies by plan | CRM + marketing together | Costs can climb |
| MailerLite | Simple campaigns | 1–2 hours | Varies by plan | Easy to run | Less advanced logic |
How we picked
- Optimized for agency workflows: delivery visibility, client collaboration, and handoffs.
- Prioritized fast setup and simple ownership/permissions (so you actually adopt it).
- Checked integrations and reporting (so you don’t build a spreadsheet on the side).
- Included a clear watch‑out for each option to avoid bad fits.
We refresh guides when pricing/features shift. Always verify current terms on the vendor site.
ActiveCampaign — best for agencies that actually use automations
Where it shines
- Segmentation that stays manageable
- Automations beyond ‘welcome email’
- Good balance of power and usability
Common gotchas
- Agree on naming conventions early
- Start with 1–2 automations; don’t build spaghetti
Pick it if…
- Email is a real growth channel for you
- You want lifecycle messaging
Skip it if…
- You only send an occasional newsletter
HubSpot — best if you already use HubSpot CRM
Where it shines
- Single source of truth across CRM + marketing
- Strong reporting when configured well
- Great ecosystem
Common gotchas
- You can end up paying for features you don’t use
- Implementation choices matter—keep it simple
Pick it if…
- You want to consolidate tools
- You already use HubSpot or plan to
Skip it if…
- You want the cheapest option
MailerLite — best for clean newsletters and basic sequences
Where it shines
- Fast to launch campaigns
- Good templates/editor
- Low maintenance
Common gotchas
- Advanced automation is more limited
- Power users may outgrow it
Pick it if…
- You want speed and simplicity
- You’re building an email list steadily
Skip it if…
- You need complex automation logic
Bottom line
Pick ActiveCampaign if email is a serious growth channel. Choose HubSpot if you’re already in that ecosystem. Go MailerLite if you want something clean, simple, and easy to maintain.
FAQ
What’s the best email marketing tools for a small agency?
Start with the Top pick in the quick comparison, then sanity‑check the watch‑out against your workflow and budget.
How long does it take to set up email marketing tools?
Most teams can get a workable setup in a half day to two days. The real work is deciding your workflow (stages, ownership, and client touchpoints).
Do these tools support client access and permissions?
Usually, yes — but it varies by plan. Before committing, confirm guest seats, client permissions, and whether clients need paid accounts.