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Substack or Medium? That is the Question!



Publishing your writing through blogging is not a dying art. Our clients ask us often to determine for them whether Medium or Substack is a better platform for them to use. And yes, our fearless leader has blogs on both. Here are our thoughts on the platforms. Questions, get in touch.


Medium and Substack are both popular platforms for writers to create and share their blogs. While they serve a similar purpose, there are some key differences between the two.


Monetization

Medium offers a Partner Program that allows writers to earn money based on the engagement their articles receive. Writers can earn through the Medium Partner Program's revenue share, which distributes a portion of the subscription fees paid by Medium members.


Substack enables writers to monetize their content through a subscription-based model. Writers can charge a monthly or annual fee for access to their exclusive content. Substack takes a 10% cut of the subscription revenue.


Content Control

Medium provides a platform where writers can publish their articles and reach a wider audience. However, the ownership and control of the content primarily remain with Medium.


Substack offers writers more control over their content. Writers own their subscriber list and have the freedom to migrate to other platforms if needed.


Community and Discoverability

Medium has a large and active user base, making it easier for writers to gain exposure and reach a wider audience. It offers features like tags, publications, and a recommendation algorithm that helps promote articles to relevant readers.

Substack focuses more on building a loyal subscriber base. While it provides tools for writers to build their community, discoverability is primarily driven by the writer's own marketing efforts.


Blog Types

Medium is well-suited for a wide range of blog types, including personal essays, opinion pieces, how-to guides, and informative articles. It caters to a diverse audience and covers various topics.


Substack is often preferred by writers who want to create a newsletter-style blog with a more personal touch. It is suitable for writers who want to build a dedicated subscriber base and deliver exclusive content directly to their audience's inbox.

Ultimately, the choice between Medium and Substack depends on your goals as a writer. If you prioritize monetization through engagement and prefer a wider reach, Medium may be a better option. On the other hand, if you value content control, building a loyal subscriber base, and offering exclusive content, Substack might be more suitable.


Reach out with any questions.

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