Definitely Worth a Look for SMB B2Bs
Overall Satisfaction with AWeber
I currently use AWeber on behalf of a client company in the training and management consulting space. We use it to send out weekly blog updates to opt-in subscribers as well as periodic campaigns such as webinar registrations. AWeber makes it easy to build an opt-in subscriber list from the client's website, segment the list, stay in touch with current subscribers, and encourage subscribers to take additional actions (such as viewing a video or scheduling an appointment).
- List building: AWeber makes it easy to grow opt-in subscribers through customizable signup forms as well an integration with tools like Sumo and Hustle Pro.
- List segmentation: with a little more information about each subscriber, it's easy to create custom segmented lists based on different criteria.
- Deliverability: AWeber enforces opt-in rules to keep spammers out of its system and improve deliverability rates for reputable users. We rarely have issues with our messages from AWeber being routed to spam folders.
- Double opt-in: AWeber makes it easy to set up double opt-in to make extra certain you have a high-quality mailing list.
- Pricing for very small companies: While AWeber's pricing is competitive overall, it would be nice if there were a free level for beginners and those just starting to build a list, and if the lowest pricing tier had a higher ceiling on subscribers, such as 2,000 instead of 500.
- Standard template design: Though it's possible to send beautiful emails with AWeber, their "out of the box" standard designs for templates and forms are somewhat dull and outdated.
- Reporting glitches: We've occasionally had issues with the reporting not being accurate, but these instances are the exception rather than the rule, and AWeber support is generally very responsive in solving these issues.
- List growth: AWeber's forms and integrations have helped us steadily grow our opt-in subscriber list over time.
- Subscriber engagement: The messaging options and templates help us engage with subscribers and get high open and click rates.
- Reporting: Other than the rare, occasional glitches alluded to earlier, the reporting and metrics are timely and actionable.
MailChimp is a great "starter" email service, especially for consumer businesses. AWeber offers a bit more power and sophistication, especially for B2B companies, while still being easy to use and price competitive. Constant Contact had seemed to lag in features for a while though it has now largely caught up. However, it's got a more complex pricing model and is less attractive for users who send multiple messages per month to a smaller list.