Flodesk vs Constant Contact: Email Marketing Showdown 2024
Tired of email marketing platforms that feel more like a chore than a creative outlet? You’re not alone. Choosing the right email marketing service can be a game-changer for your business, impacting everything from open rates to conversion.
Today, we’re diving deep into a head-to-head comparison of two popular contenders: Flodesk and Constant Contact. Both platforms promise to help you connect with your audience, but they approach email marketing in different ways, catering to distinct needs and preferences.
Whether you’re a solopreneur seeking beautiful, on-brand emails with Flodesk, or a small business needing robust features and proven deliverability with Constant Contact, this guide is for you. We’ll explore their strengths, weaknesses, pricing, and features to help you make the best choice for your email marketing goals.
Specs at a Glance:
| Feature | Flodesk | Constant Contact |
|---|---|---|
| Email Templates | Yes | Yes |
| Segmentation | Yes | Yes |
| Automation | Yes | Yes |
| Landing Pages | Yes | Yes |
| Forms | Yes | Yes |
| Reporting & Analytics | Yes | Yes |
| A/B Testing | Yes | Yes |
| Integrations | Limited | Extensive |
| E-commerce Features | Basic | Advanced |
| Contact Management | Yes | Yes |
| Deliverability Tools | Yes | Yes |
| Customer Support | Phone, Chat, Email |
Feature-by-Feature Breakdown
Email Design & Templates
- Flodesk: Offers a visually-focused design experience with a drag-and-drop builder and modern, pre-designed templates tailored for aesthetics. It excels in creating beautiful, on-brand emails quickly, but its template options are fewer than some competitors.
- Constant Contact: Provides a wide array of templates and a drag-and-drop editor, catering to various industries and design preferences. It offers more customization options and template choices, but the design interface may feel less intuitive than Flodesk’s for some users.
- Winner: Constant Contact
Segmentation & List Management
- Flodesk: Simplifies segmentation with a focus on audience segments based on interests and behavior. Offers a user-friendly interface for list management, but the segmentation capabilities are less granular compared to some other platforms.
- Constant Contact: Provides robust segmentation options, allowing for detailed targeting based on demographics, engagement, purchase history, and other criteria. Offers advanced list management features, but the interface can be more complex.
- Winner: Constant Contact
Automation Workflows
- Flodesk: Features visually-driven automation workflows, making it easy to set up welcome sequences, nurture campaigns, and automated email series. Offers a streamlined approach to automation, but its capabilities may be less advanced.
- Constant Contact: Offers a range of automation options, including triggered emails, autoresponders, and more complex workflows. Provides more advanced automation features and is suitable for detailed campaigns, but the setup may require more effort.
- Winner: Constant Contact
Reporting & Analytics
- Flodesk: Delivers clear and concise reporting on key metrics like open rates, click-through rates, and subscriber growth. Focuses on providing essential data in an easy-to-understand format, but may lack some of the advanced analytics offered by competitors.
- Constant Contact: Offers comprehensive reporting and analytics, including detailed insights into email performance, subscriber behavior, and campaign ROI. Provides robust data analysis tools, but the interface can be overwhelming for beginners.
- Winner: Constant Contact
Pricing & Value
- Flodesk: Uses a flat-rate pricing structure, providing unlimited emails to a set number of subscribers. Offers a simple and transparent pricing model, but may be less cost-effective for very small lists.
- Constant Contact: Uses a tiered pricing structure based on the number of subscribers. Offers more flexibility in pricing depending on the size of your list, but can become more expensive as your subscriber base grows.
- Winner: Flodesk
Integrations
- Flodesk: Integrates with key platforms like Shopify, WooCommerce, and Zapier, allowing you to connect to other marketing tools. Offers a good selection of integrations, but the range is not as extensive as some competitors.
- Constant Contact: Provides a wide range of integrations with popular e-commerce platforms, CRM systems, and social media tools. Offers a broader ecosystem of integrations, making it easy to connect with other marketing tools and services.
- Winner: Constant Contact
Deliverability & Inbox Placement
- Flodesk: Focuses on deliverability best practices to ensure emails land in the inbox. Provides reliable email delivery, but may not have the same reputation management tools as some enterprise-level solutions.
- Constant Contact: Prioritizes deliverability with dedicated IP addresses and robust reputation management tools. Offers strong deliverability rates and tools to help you maintain a good sender reputation, but deliverability can still be affected by email content and sender practices.
- Winner: Constant Contact
Customer Support
- Flodesk: Provides email support and offers helpful resources, including a knowledge base and tutorials. Offers generally responsive customer service, but may not offer phone support.
- Constant Contact: Offers a range of support options, including phone, email, and live chat, as well as extensive documentation and tutorials. Provides comprehensive customer support, making it easier to get help when you need it.
- Winner: Constant Contact
Winner by Category:
| Category | Winner |
|---|---|
| Ease of Use | Flodesk |
| Design & Aesthetics | Flodesk |
| Features | Constant Contact |
| Integrations | Constant Contact |
| Customer Support | Constant Contact |
| Pricing | Flodesk (for smaller lists) |
| Automation | Constant Contact |
What They Have in Common:
- Email Marketing: Both platforms offer essential email marketing features, allowing users to send newsletters, promotional emails, and automated campaigns.
- Contact Management: Both Flodesk and Constant Contact enable users to manage their contact lists, segment audiences, and organize subscribers for targeted messaging.
- Email Templates: Both platforms provide a selection of pre-designed email templates, making it easier for users to create visually appealing emails without needing extensive design skills.
- Reporting and Analytics: Both Flodesk and Constant Contact offer reporting and analytics dashboards to track key email marketing metrics, such as open rates, click-through rates, and conversion rates.
- Segmentation Capabilities: Both tools allow users to segment their email lists based on various criteria, enabling more targeted and personalized email campaigns.
- Automation Features: Both platforms offer automation features, allowing users to set up triggered email sequences and automate repetitive tasks for efficiency.
Flodesk Vs Constant Contact Buying Guide
Ease of Use
Flodesk shines in its user-friendly interface, designed with visual appeal in mind. The drag-and-drop builder makes creating beautiful emails a breeze, even for beginners. Constant Contact, while also offering a drag-and-drop editor, can feel a bit clunkier compared to Flodesk. Navigating the platform and finding the desired features might require a bit more time. Flodesk’s focus on simplicity and aesthetics can save you valuable time.
Constant Contact offers a more comprehensive range of features, which can sometimes lead to a steeper learning curve, particularly for those new to email marketing. Flodesk’s streamlined approach allows users to quickly create and launch campaigns without getting bogged down in complex settings. Ultimately, the ease of use is a key factor to consider, especially if you want to avoid feeling overwhelmed.
Design & Templates
Flodesk excels in design, offering a curated selection of stunning templates with a modern and minimalist aesthetic. These templates are readily customizable, allowing you to easily adjust colors, fonts, and images to match your brand. Constant Contact provides a broader range of templates, including options for various industries and campaign types. However, some users find the designs to be less visually striking.
Flodesk’s focus on elegant design elevates the overall look and feel of your emails. The platform is especially well-suited for creators, entrepreneurs, and businesses that prioritize visual branding. Constant Contact’s templates are reliable and functional, but lack the same level of design flair. Consider the importance of visual appeal when making your decision.
Pricing
Flodesk offers a straightforward, flat-rate pricing plan that provides access to all features, regardless of your subscriber count. This simplicity is attractive for businesses with growing lists, as costs remain predictable. Constant Contact’s pricing is tiered, increasing based on the number of subscribers you have. This can be more cost-effective for smaller lists but becomes more expensive as your audience grows.
Both platforms offer free trials, allowing you to test out their features before committing. Consider your current subscriber base and projected growth when comparing pricing plans. Flodesk’s flat-rate pricing can represent significant savings for businesses with large and expanding email lists. Constant Contact’s pricing model may be more suitable for businesses with smaller lists.
Features
Flodesk focuses on core email marketing features, including email design, segmentation, and automation. It excels in creating visually appealing emails and offers a user-friendly experience. Constant Contact provides a broader set of features, including advanced automation, e-commerce integrations, and social media marketing tools. This makes it a more comprehensive marketing platform.
If you require advanced automation or need extensive integrations, Constant Contact might be the better choice. However, if your primary focus is on beautiful email design and simplicity, Flodesk may suffice. Evaluate your specific needs and priorities before making a decision. Both platforms offer A/B testing capabilities to help you optimize your campaigns.
Deliverability
Both Flodesk and Constant Contact are generally reliable in terms of email deliverability. They both adhere to industry best practices and have established relationships with major email providers. However, deliverability can be impacted by factors such as the quality of your subscriber list and the content of your emails.
It is important to regularly clean your email list and avoid sending spammy content. Both platforms provide tools and guidance to help you improve your deliverability rates. Constant Contact’s reputation management tools might be slightly more robust, but Flodesk’s focus on clean design helps improve deliverability. Consider the importance of maintaining a healthy email list.
Customer Support
Flodesk offers email support, which is often responsive and helpful. The platform also has a comprehensive knowledge base and tutorials. Constant Contact provides a wider range of support options, including phone, chat, and email support. This can be beneficial if you prefer to receive assistance through different channels.
The quality of customer support can vary, so it is important to consider your preferred method of communication. Constant Contact’s broader support options may be advantageous for users who require immediate assistance or prefer phone support. Flodesk’s email support is typically efficient, but may take a little longer to respond. Consider your support needs.
Who Should Buy What?
Buy Flodesk If…
- You prioritize beautiful, design-focused email templates and a user-friendly interface.
- You’re a creative entrepreneur, blogger, or small business owner who values aesthetics.
- You want a simpler, more streamlined platform with a focus on ease of use.
- You are looking for a more affordable option for a smaller list size.
Buy Constant Contact If…
- You need a platform with extensive features, including advanced automation and e-commerce integrations.
- You require robust reporting and analytics capabilities.
- You need strong customer support and a platform with a longer history.
- You have a larger email list and need a platform that can scale with your business.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Flodesk?
Flodesk is an email marketing platform specifically designed for creators and small businesses. It prioritizes beautiful design, ease of use, and a streamlined approach to email marketing. It offers a user-friendly drag-and-drop editor and focuses on creating visually appealing emails that help build strong relationships with your audience.
What is Constant Contact?
Constant Contact is a comprehensive email marketing platform geared towards a wide range of businesses. It offers a variety of features, including email marketing, automation, social media integration, and e-commerce tools. It is known for its user-friendly interface and robust features, suitable for various marketing needs.
Which platform is easier to use?
Flodesk is generally considered easier to use, especially for beginners. Its intuitive drag-and-drop editor and focus on simplicity make creating beautiful emails a breeze. Constant Contact offers a wider range of features, which can lead to a steeper learning curve. However, both platforms are user-friendly.
Which platform offers better design templates?
Flodesk offers more visually appealing, modern, and curated design templates. Constant Contact provides a broader range of templates, but the designs may not be as visually striking. The choice depends on your preference for design styles and the importance of visual branding for your business. Flodesk excels here.
How do the pricing plans compare?
Flodesk has a straightforward, flat-rate pricing plan, while Constant Contact’s pricing is tiered based on the number of subscribers. Flodesk’s flat rate is appealing for growing businesses. Constant Contact can be more cost-effective for smaller lists. Consider your subscriber base and growth when deciding.
Which platform has better customer support?
Constant Contact offers a wider range of support options, including phone, chat, and email support. Flodesk primarily offers email support. The best choice depends on your preferred method of communication. Constant Contact’s broader support options are advantageous for users who prefer immediate assistance.
Which platform is better for e-commerce?
Constant Contact offers more robust e-commerce integrations and features, making it a better choice for businesses heavily involved in online sales. While Flodesk is still functional, Constant Contact provides more advanced tools for tracking sales and managing customer interactions. Constant Contact has the upper hand here.
Final Verdict
Both Flodesk and Constant Contact are strong contenders in the email marketing space. Flodesk excels in design and ease of use, making it ideal for creators and those prioritizing visual appeal. Constant Contact offers a more comprehensive feature set, catering to a wider range of marketing needs. The best choice depends on your specific needs and priorities, with Flodesk being the easier and more visual option.
Winner: Flodesk