Linktree vs Substack
Linktree and Substack are both creator monetization tools. Linktree is aimed at creators and small businesses, while Substack is aimed at creators. Both have a free plan.
| Pricing | Freemium · $8 | Free |
| Starting price | $8/mo | Not published |
| Free plan | Yes | Yes |
| Free trial | — | — |
| Built for | Creators, Small businesses | Creators |
| Platforms | web, ios, android | web, ios, android |
| Country | AU · 2016 | US · 2017 |
| Rating | — | — |
Choose Linktree if
Creators and brands needing a simple link-in-bio page.
- Instantly recognizable
- Free plan is enough for many
- Easy to use
Look elsewhere if: Creators wanting a full storefront (Stan, Beacons).
Choose Substack if
Writers starting out who value discovery and simplicity over control.
- Zero upfront cost; discovery network
- Simple, writer-focused
- Payments and hosting handled
Look elsewhere if: Publications with revenue that want to keep 100% and own SEO (Ghost, beehiiv).
Linktree vs Substack pricing
Linktree
- Free$0Unlimited links, basic analytics
- Starter$8/mo$6/mo billed annually; link scheduling, more appearance options
- Pro$15/mo$12/mo billed annually; advanced analytics, SEO controls
- Premium$35/mo$30/mo billed annually; remove branding, priority support
Substack
- Free$0Free publishing, no monthly fee
- Paid subscriptions10%/of revenuePlus credit card processing fees
Linktree · Key features
- Unlimited links and embeds
- Shop and commerce links
- Email and SMS signup
- Tips and payments
- Analytics on clicks and traffic
- Themes and customization
Cons
- Branding on free plan
- Limited design flexibility
- Fewer monetization tools than Beacons/Stan
Substack · Key features
- Newsletter, podcast and video publishing
- Paid subscriptions with free and paid tiers
- Recommendations network, Notes and Chat
- Hosted site with custom domain
- Mobile app for readers
- Basic analytics and import tools
Cons
- 10% revenue share
- Limited design and SEO control
- Platform dependence
Linktree vs Substack: FAQ
Do Linktree and Substack have a free plan?
Yes, both Linktree and Substack have a free plan; paid plans add more usage and features.
Which is better for small businesses, Linktree or Substack?
Linktree lists small businesses as a core audience, while Substack is aimed more at creators.