Overview
Beehiiv and Medium are both excellent tools, but they serve different needs. Medium is a popular blogging and publishing platform with a built-in reader network and Partner Program for monetization through reading engagement.
Key Differences
The main difference between Beehiiv and Medium comes down to focus and features. Beehiiv offers a comprehensive solution while Medium excels in specific areas.
Medium Strengths
- Massive built-in audience and discoverability
- Beautiful, distraction-free reading experience
- SEO benefits from domain authority
- Partner Program monetization
- No technical setup required
- Publications for collaborative writing
Medium Weaknesses
- No email list ownership
- Algorithm controls your distribution
- Limited customization and branding
- Can't build direct reader relationships
- Partner Program payouts unpredictable
- Platform risk - you don't own your audience
Pricing Comparison
Medium pricing: Medium Partner Program (varies). Free tier includes: Publish unlimited articles, basic stats
Who Is Medium Best For?
Writers seeking discoverability who don't need to own their audience
Our Verdict
Medium offers discoverability but at the cost of ownership. Beehiiv lets you own your audience while building a sustainable newsletter business.
Why Choose Beehiiv?
Comprehensive Growth Tools
Pop-ups, embeds, magic links, recommendation engine, and more. Everything you need to grow your subscriber base.
Viral Referral Program
Built-in referral system with milestone rewards. Turn subscribers into ambassadors who grow your newsletter for you.
Free to Start
Launch your newsletter for free with up to 2,500 subscribers. No credit card required to get started.
Native Ad Network
Earn passive income through Beehiiv's ad network. Get matched with relevant advertisers automatically based on your audience.
Ready to try Beehiiv?
Get started with Beehiiv's free tier — no credit card required. Unlimited subscribers included.
Choose Beehiiv If...
- You want to monetize your newsletter
- Growth tools and referral programs matter to you
- You need a dedicated newsletter platform
- You want to keep 100% of subscription revenue
- Built-in ad network appeals to you
Choose Medium If...
- You value massive built-in audience and discoverability
- You value beautiful, distraction-free reading experience
- You value seo benefits from domain authority
- You value partner program monetization
- You value no technical setup required