Ghost vs Substack(2026)
Ghost is better for teams that need own your content and list. Substack is the stronger choice if zero upfront cost. Ghost is open-source (from $9/mo) and Substack is freemium (from $0).
Full feature breakdown, pricing details, and pros & cons below.
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Ghost
Ghost is an open-source publishing platform combining a blog, newsletter, and membership/subscription tool in one. Self-host for free or use Ghost(Pro) — ideal for independent publishers.
Starting at $9/mo
Visit GhostSubstack
Substack is the leading newsletter platform where writers publish for free and earn from paid subscriptions. With a built-in network effect and discovery features, it drives organic subscriber growth.
Starting at $0
Visit SubstackHow Do Ghost and Substack Compare on Features?
| Feature | Ghost | Substack |
|---|---|---|
| Pricing model | open-source | freemium |
| Starting price | $9/mo | $0 |
| Open source (MIT) | ✓ | — |
| Newsletter + blog combo | ✓ | — |
| Paid memberships | ✓ | — |
| Custom themes | ✓ | — |
| Built-in SEO | ✓ | — |
| Comments | ✓ | — |
| Recommendations | ✓ | — |
| Free newsletter hosting | — | ✓ |
| Paid subscriptions | — | ✓ |
| Podcast hosting | — | ✓ |
| Network/discovery | — | ✓ |
| Notes (social feed) | — | ✓ |
| Web publication | — | ✓ |
| Referrals | — | ✓ |
Ghost Pros and Cons vs Substack
Ghost
Substack
Should You Use Ghost or Substack?
Choose Ghost if…
- •Own your content and list
- •No transaction fees self-hosted
- •Beautiful publication design
Choose Substack if…
- •Zero upfront cost
- •Built-in discovery network
- •Simple setup