Constant Contact vs Drip - Who Wins?

12 minute read

In this buying guide, we compare the Constant Contact & Drip email marketing platforms on automation, features, and pricing. And since you're on our turf, we'll spotlight areas where we think Campaign Monitor by Marigold naturally shines as the smarter alternative 💜

Disclaimer: The features, pricing, and details mentioned for each product are as of August 2025 and may have changed since then.

Comparison Image
CategoryConstant ContactDripCampaign Monitor
Pricing 30-day free trial (100 email sends), paid plans from $12/mo 14-day free trial, then $39/mo (2,500 contacts) 30-day free trial (no card required), then starts at $12/mo and goes up to $159/mo
User Sentiment 4.1/5 (7000+ reviews) 4.4/5 (450+ reviews) 4.2/5 (2,000+ reviews)
Automation & Workflows Linear workflows with templates (welcome, reminders, nurture) Ecommerce-specific workflows with branching paths Prebuilt customer journeys (welcome, abandoned cart, anniversaries, events) with extensive triggers
AI Features AI Content Generator for emails, posts, SMS; smart suggestions None (focuses on smart sending and A/B testing) AI Writer for brainstorming, adapting copy, optimizing CTAs
Deliverability & Reliability 97% deliverability rate; AI-powered spam checks + authentication guidance 99.8% delivery rate 99% deliverability rate
Segmentation & Targeting Visual segment builder with custom fields, demographics, behaviors Real-time, behavior-based segmentation Advanced triggers and prebuilt automated journeys
Integration Ecosystem 300+ integrations (Salesforce, Gmail, Outlook, etc.) 200+ native integrations 250+ integrations: Salesforce, Shopify, WordPress, HubSpot, WooCommerce, Intercom, OptinMonster, Unbounce
Conversion & List-Building Tools Basic forms and landing pages Ecommerce-focused forms and popups Custom form builder with embedded forms, subscribe buttons, auto-branded templates, Pexels image integration
Support & Resources Phone + live chat on all plans; tutorials, webinars, “Ask a Trainer” coaching 24/5 email support only 24/5 email support, phone (on Premier plan), + deliverability experts on standby
Best for… Small businesses and nonprofits needing simple setup + live support Stores needing specialized tools Brands prioritizing expert deliverability, reliable design, and professional onboarding

“So glad we've switched to Campaign Monitor.”

If you have a versatile email campaign with lots of moving parts and a complex list of subscribers Campaign Monitor makes things so easy. And if you have a simple newsletter that is straight forward and sent to the same list each month, Campaign Monitor is even easier…

Verified User in Marketing and Advertising (G2)

Head to head comparison

1. User sentiment

Drip leads in satisfaction, Constant Contact dominates in review volume

Feature Constant Contact Drip Campaign Monitor
Average Rating 4.1/5 (7000+ reviews) 4.4/5 (450+ reviews) 4.2/5 (2,000+ reviews)
Setup Experience Quick setup for beginners with video guides. Easy and quick setup with step-by-step guide 30-min avg. setup with short video series.
Learning Curve Beginner-friendly with strong community support User-friendly with structured onboarding, training videos available Intuitive interface, video modules available for new users
Best for → Absolute beginners prioritizing simplicity Marketers needing powerful automated workflows with guidance to get started fast Brands that value ease of use, strong design flexibility, and guided support for quick adoption

Constant Contact is a strong fit for absolute beginners who want a simple, no-frills setup. With quick onboarding and a large support community, it’s perfect for small businesses or first-time marketers.

Drip appeals to marketers who want powerful automation without feeling lost at the start. Its structured onboarding and training videos help users launch complex workflows with confidence.

Campaign Monitor is ideal for brands prioritizing ease of use and polished design. With its guided support and flexible layouts, it suits teams that want professional-looking campaigns without a steep learning curve.

quotation mark

"LOVE Campaign Monitor... it's very user friendly. The support is exceptional. It helps us reach a large audience in a personal way and a format which drives results above industry benchmarks."

Verified User in Leisure, Travel & Tourism


2. Design & user experience

Constant Contact prioritizes simplicity, Drip focuses on ecommerce efficiency, Campaign Monitor balances both

Feature Constant Contact Drip Campaign Monitor
Email Editor Drag-and-drop with AI BrandKit, responsive layouts, and modern elements Visual drag-and-drop, HTML, and new text editor with emoji support Intuitive drag-and-drop email builder with HTML customization, auto-branding
Template Library 200+ branded, mobile-responsive templates 50+ ecommerce-optimized templates 300+ mobile-optimized templates with auto-branded options
Design Flexibility BrandKit applies logo/colors with mobile adaptation Sync brand assets (logo, colors, fonts), add dynamic product blocks Auto-branded templates from website URL, dynamic content and custom fields
Branding Consistency BrandKit enforces brand colors, logos, and fonts Auto-sync brand styles from your site with a shared image library Auto-branded custom templates
Best for → Small businesses wanting simple branded emails Brands needing flexible campaigns and automation Marketers who value high-quality, professional design without complexity

Constant Contact is best for small businesses that want simple but polished branded emails. With drag-and-drop tools and AI BrandKit, it makes it easy to stay on-brand without design headaches.

Drip suits brands that need flexibility and ecommerce-friendly automation. Its dynamic product blocks and synced brand assets let marketers quickly adapt designs to product-driven campaigns.

Campaign Monitor is ideal for teams seeking professional-grade design without complexity. Auto-branded templates and dynamic fields make it perfect for marketers who want visually consistent, high-quality emails at scale.

quotation mark

"Campaign Monitor's drag-and-drop editor is much better than other email platforms such as Mailchimp. The interface generally is very intuitive and easy to use..."

Verified user in Marketing and Advertising (G2)


3. Automation & journeys

Drip specializes in ecommerce workflows, Constant Contact keeps it simple, Campaign Monitor provides guided power

Feature Constant Contact Drip Campaign Monitor
Trigger Options Form submissions, list actions, opportunity/account field changes via visual workflows Behavior-based, event-based triggers (cart actions, trigger‑link clicks) Time-based, behavior-based, and event-based triggers (opens, clicks)
Conditional Logic Yes/No branching with filters within visual workflows Dynamic branching via Liquid logic (if/else, tags, custom field conditions) Advanced if/then branching
Prebuilt Journeys Automation templates for welcome series, event reminders, lead nurture, and opportunity workflows Cart abandonment, post-purchase, browse abandonment, back in stock Prebuilt automated journeys, such as welcome series, abandoned cart, anniversaries, and events
Journey Complexity Linear workflows with branching via action groups and filters Multi-path workflows enabled with trigger links and inbox/onsite journey splits Focused on email-centric journeys, but offers SMS as well

Constant Contact is best for businesses that want simple automation without heavy setup. Its ready-made templates and visual workflows make it easy to run reminders, welcome emails, and lead nurture without complexity.

Drip shines for ecommerce brands needing advanced, behavior-driven workflows. With dynamic branching, cart abandonment, and post-purchase flows, it helps capture lost revenue and maximize customer lifetime value.

Campaign Monitor fits marketers wanting guided sophistication with flexible triggers. Its prebuilt journeys and SMS support make it ideal for teams that need polished, multi-channel campaigns without starting from scratch.

quotation mark

"Wonderful Union saved 40 hours weekly using Campaign Monitor's automated email marketing campaigns and saw a 13% increase in CTR on automated sequences, generating a 700% ROI from email marketing campaigns."

Read the case study here ➔

4. AI Features

Constant Contact offers practical AI, Campaign Monitor focuses on content assistance

Feature Constant Contact Drip Campaign Monitor
AI Content Creation AI Content Generator drafts emails, pages, posts, and SMS from prompts None AI Writer for brainstorming, refining copy, adapting content for new audiences, generating captions, and optimizing CTAs
Design Intelligence Ensures brand voice with tone and template options AI-powered product recommendations via Raptor and Clerk integrations Personalized copy suggestions, auto-branding
Optimization Tools AI subject lines plus spam/content filtering Machine-learning–based send-time optimization using recipient behavioral data Send time recommendations & time zone sending
Predictive Features Limited predictive tools–focus on content generation and smart suggestions A/B testing, revenue attribution, smart sending A/B testing with insights & goals (optimize open rates, CTR, conversions)
Best for → Small businesses wanting quick content creation Brands wanting personalized product recommendations Marketers needing AI-driven content inspiration and audience-optimized messaging

Constant Contact is ideal for small businesses that need quick, practical content creation. Its AI generator helps produce emails, posts, and SMS campaigns fast, making it easy for lean teams to stay consistent without overthinking design.

Drip works best for brands focused on personalized ecommerce recommendations. By leveraging machine learning and product integrations, it helps retailers send smarter, behavior-driven campaigns that directly support sales.

Campaign Monitor is suited for marketers wanting AI-assisted inspiration and optimization. Its tools refine copy, adapt messages for different audiences, and suggest the best send times—helping campaigns perform with less guesswork.

5. Deliverability & performance

Campaign Monitor leads with expert support, both competitors offer solid delivery

Feature Constant Contact Drip Campaign Monitor
Delivery Rate 97% deliverability rate 99.8% delivery rate 99% average delivery rate* (among the best in the industry)
Inbox Placement Reliable placement supported by reputation safeguards Consistent high performance with dedicated sender-reputation team Strong sender reputation with mailbox providers; dedicated team optimizing for consistent inbox placement
Deliverability Tools AI-powered spam checks, authentication guidance Custom sending domain, SPF/DKIM setup, deliverability support Inbox previews, spam testing, deliverability experts, in-app authentication guidance (SPF, DKIM, DMARC), dynamic list hygiene tools
Sending Reliability Tiered reporting and delivery insights by plan Real-time performance dashboard Real-time performance dashboards with bot-click filtering; trend monitoring to support sender reputation
Best for → Small businesses seeking reliable delivery Businesses needing strong deliverability and revenue tracking Businesses that want expert deliverability guidance and proactive support to maximize inbox placement

Constant Contact is best for small businesses that want dependable delivery without extra complexity. Its built-in safeguards like spam checks and authentication make it easy to stay compliant while keeping campaigns consistent.

Drip is designed for brands that need high deliverability with detailed tracking. With a 99.8% rate and dedicated sender-reputation support, it gives ecommerce teams confidence their messages land while offering insights to optimize revenue.

Campaign Monitor fits marketers who want expert deliverability guidance at scale. Its specialized team, inbox testing, and trend monitoring help ensure strong inbox placement, making it ideal for businesses that can’t afford missed emails.

quotation mark

"We use Campaign Monitor because it is quite easy to use. It is also very reasonably priced. We haven't had any problems with deliverability or in creating the emails."

verified user in Marketing and Advertising


6. Segmentation & personalization

Drip focuses on ecommerce targeting, Constant Contact offers basic segmentation, Campaign Monitor provides unlimited control

Feature Constant Contact Drip Campaign Monitor
Segmentation Capabilities Visual segment builder using custom fields, behaviors, and demographics; supports dynamic conditions Dynamic, real-time segments based on behavior, store data, and integrations Rule-based segmentation using subscriber data (custom fields, activity, location, demographics) with AND/OR logic; unlimited segments per list
Dynamic Content Dynamic content blocks that adapt per recipient (Premium only) Liquid-powered personalization using profile fields, tags, and purchase behavior Dynamic content blocks using if/else logic and custom fields
Personalization Tags Personalization using contact info and custom fields, including in subject lines Liquid variables with profile fields, tags, order history Supports default tags (name, email) and up to 50 custom fields (birthday, country)
Subscriber Preferences Basic preference management Onsite subscription management forms (via form and workflow) Fully customizable preference center (fields, frequency, topics)
Best for → Organizations wanting simple, easy-to-use segmentation Brands needing real-time, data-driven personalization Marketers seeking comprehensive preference management

Constant Contact works best for organizations that want easy, straightforward segmentation. Its visual builder is simple to use and adapts per recipient, making it a fit for teams without deep technical skills.

Drip is tailored for brands that thrive on real-time, data-driven personalization. By pulling in store data, order history, and profile fields, it’s ideal for ecommerce businesses that want to tailor campaigns to customer behavior.

Campaign Monitor is built for marketers who need advanced, flexible segmentation at scale. With unlimited rule-based segments and customizable preference centers, it supports precise targeting for larger teams managing complex lists.

quotation mark

The Australian Red Cross used Campaign Monitor's preference center and smart segmentation to achieve a 68% increase in open rates, a 201% increase in click-through rates, and a 75% increase in conversions from a single personalized email campaign.

Read the case study here →

7. Integration ecosystem

Constant Contact leads in breadth, Drip focuses on ecommerce depth, Campaign Monitor emphasizes quality

Feature Constant Contact Drip Campaign Monitor
Number of Integrations 300+ integrations 100+ native integrations across ecommerce, CRM, forms, and analytics 250+ integrations with focus on quality
CRM Integrations Salesforce, Gmail, Outlook, and more via API Close, Pipedrive, Salesforce Shopify, WooCommerce, MailSync
E-commerce Integrations Shopify, WooCommerce, Stripe Shopify, BigCommerce, WooCommerce; custom via Shopper Activity API Integrations with various CRM platforms (Salesforce, Zoho, Zapier)
API Flexibility API access plus App marketplace for no-code connectors REST API, Shopper Activity JS, and webhooks Robust API for custom integrations
Best for → Small businesses needing broad, hassle-free connectivity Teams needing flexible, real-time integrations Marketers working with major platforms seeking quality

Constant Contact is a strong fit for small businesses that want broad, no-fuss connectivity. With over 300 integrations and easy API access, it’s built for teams that need reliable plug-and-play options without technical overhead.

Drip caters to ecommerce-focused teams that need flexible, real-time integrations. Its depth in store platforms and custom APIs makes it ideal for brands relying on live customer data to personalize experiences.

Campaign Monitor is designed for marketers who prioritize quality over quantity in integrations. With 250+ curated connections and robust API options, it’s best for teams that want seamless, dependable performance across major platforms.

quotation mark

Girls Who Code leveraged Campaign Monitor's Salesforce integration with custom fields for deeper list precision, helping them achieve a 40% email open rate, 22% click-to-open rate, and a 150% increase in student applications.

Read the case study here →

8. Pricing & scalability

Constant Contact offers affordable entry, Drip targets premium ecommerce, Campaign Monitor provides predictable growth

Feature Constant Contact Drip Campaign Monitor
Starter Offer 30-day free trial (100 email sends) 14-day free trial (no credit card required) 30-day free trial (500 contacts, 500 email sends, 3 users, drag-and-drop builder, templates, basic reporting)
Most Popular Standard: $35/mo (automation and AI features) $39/mo (2,500 contacts) — unlimited emails, full features, workflows, onsite campaigns, API access, and support Essentials $29/mo ($2.90 first month) — unlimited contacts & email sends, inbox preview, automations, AI Writer, transactional emails, priority support
Pricing Model Tiered (Lite $12/mo → Standard $35/mo → Premium $80/mo), pricing scales with contacts Single plan starting at $39/mo, scales with contacts Tiered plans (Free → Lite $12/mo → Essentials $29/mo → Premier $159/mo) with unlimited emails from Essentials upward
Best for → Businesses desiring affordable, feature-rich marketing plans with easy scaling Brands needing straightforward, all-inclusive pricing with no surprises Best for brands wanting predictable, lower-cost entry plans with strong email features and optional SMS add-ons

Constant Contact is ideal for businesses that want affordable, feature-rich marketing plans. Its tiered pricing makes it easy for small teams to start simple and scale as they grow, keeping costs predictable.

Drip fits brands that prefer straightforward, all-inclusive pricing without hidden fees. With a single plan structure that scales by contacts, it’s particularly appealing for ecommerce businesses that want unlimited sends and advanced workflows from the start.

Campaign Monitor works best for brands seeking predictable pricing with flexible growth paths. Its lower entry cost and tiered options give teams confidence, while optional SMS add-ons and strong email features support long-term scalability.

9. Support & resources

Constant Contact excels in onboarding, Campaign Monitor leads in expert guidance

Feature Constant Contact Drip Campaign Monitor
Support Availability Phone and live chat support included with all plans; also offers live “Ask a Trainer” sessions Email support Monday–Friday, 9 am–5 pm Central Time (via in-app or email) Email, phone, knowledge base, tutorials, and deliverability experts available
  • Americas: Mon–Fri, 6 am–5 pm PST/PDT
  • Australia & Asia: Mon–Fri, 9 am–5 pm AEST/AEDT
  • Europe: Mon–Fri, 9 am–5 pm BST/GMT
Support Response Time Responsive support; “Ask a Trainer” sessions enhance real-time help. Ask a Trainer (Monday to Friday, 8am-8pm, ET) Only one support channel available Fast response times praised
Knowledge Resources Help center, tutorials, webinars, community Q&A. Resource Center with blogs, guides, webinars, videos, plus Help Center & Release Notes Extensive help center, Knowledge Base, training videos, and email academy (even on free plan)
Onboarding Assistance 1:1 onboarding on higher tiers. Free migration & onboarding support for accounts with 17,500+ contacts Professional services team available
Best for → Small businesses who want hands-on support and coaching. Brands needing reliable support and expert migration help Best for brands that want personalized onboarding, expert deliverability guidance, and extensive self-serve resources.

Constant Contact is best for small businesses that value hands-on coaching and guided onboarding. Its live “Ask a Trainer” sessions and accessible phone/chat support make it especially appealing for beginners who need more personal help.

Drip is a strong choice for brands managing large contact lists that require smooth migration and ongoing reliability. Its onboarding support for accounts with 17,500+ contacts ensures enterprise-scale users can transition with minimal friction.

Campaign Monitor works well for brands wanting expert deliverability guidance and a deep library of self-serve resources. Its professional services team and extensive knowledge base provide confidence for marketers focused on long-term campaign quality.

quotation mark

"Been working with Campaign Monitor for 10+ years… Not only does the platform make sending highly-customized emails easy and fun, their support team is phenomenal… Highly recommend."

JoAnn H., Creative Account Manager (G2)


What people are saying about Campaign Monitor…

★★★★★

"Love Campaign Monitor..."

★★★★★

"An agency using Campaign Monitor for over a decade."

★★★★★

"Pioneers of Agency EMM"

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The verdict: Constant Contact wins for simplicity, Drip excels for ecommerce focus, but Campaign Monitor offers the best balance

Cure Brain Cancer Foundation switched from Mailchimp to Campaign Monitor for better branding control, cost-efficiency, and automation scale, ultimately raising $1.6M AUD in one campaign (exceeding their $1.5M target) with a 90% reduction in non-fundraising registrants.


Read the case study here ➔

Try Campaign Monitor free for 30 days

Experience the perfect balance of powerful features and user-friendly design with Campaign Monitor by Marigold. Get professional templates, intuitive automation, and exceptional support without the complexity or pricing surprises.

No credit card required. Experience the difference with Campaign Monitor's user-friendly platform and see why thousands of businesses have made the switch.

Need Help Migrating? Our team of experts will help you seamlessly transition to Campaign Monitor with our professional services team.

  1. 01

    Sign up & get 90% off your first month.

    Start your free trial in under 60 seconds. No credit card needed.

  2. 02

    Import or build your list

    Migrate your contacts instantly or build fresh lists with our simple tools.

  3. 03

    Launch your first campaign

    Create stunning emails with drag and drop and send to thousands in minutes.

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