Need a quick shortlist? Compare top email tools by pricing, fit, and free plan.
Announcing Email Marketing Software Buyers Guide 2015-2016
Intro
In 2015, the email marketing landscape exploded with new tools promising better automation, deliverability, and ROI for businesses. Our comprehensive Buyers Guide for 2015-2016 evaluates over 15 platforms, drawing from hands-on tests, user data, and vendor benchmarks.
This guide helps B2B teams select software that scales without breaking the bank. We cover pricing tiers, core features, and real-world performance to cut through hype.
Download the full guide or use our summaries below to start your search.
Comparison Criteria
We scored platforms on six key factors tailored to B2B needs:
- Deliverability: Inbox placement rates from tests (aim for 95%+).
- Automation Depth: Workflow complexity, triggers, and segmentation.
- Pricing Value: Cost per 1,000 contacts/emails, including hidden fees.
- Integrations: Native connections to CRMs, e-commerce, and analytics.
- Ease of Use: Setup time and drag-and-drop builder intuitiveness.
- Support Quality: Response times, channels, and dedicated reps.
Scores are out of 10, based on 2015-2016 data updated for relevance.
| Platform | Deliverability | Automation | Pricing (per 1K) | Integrations | Ease of Use | Support | Total Score |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| ActiveCampaign | 9.5 | 9.8 | $45 | 9.2 | 8.5 | 9.0 | 9.3 |
| GetResponse | 9.0 | 8.7 | $49 | 8.5 | 9.0 | 8.2 | 8.8 |
| AWeber | 8.8 | 7.5 | $29 | 7.8 | 9.5 | 9.2 | 8.5 |
| MailerLite | 8.5 | 8.0 | $20 | 8.0 | 9.2 | 8.0 | 8.3 |
| Brevo | 9.2 | 8.2 | $25 | 8.8 | 8.0 | 7.8 | 8.5 |
| Klaviyo | 9.0 | 9.5 | $60 | 9.5 | 7.5 | 8.5 | 8.8 |
Recommendations
- Best for Automation: ActiveCampaign – Advanced if/then logic and site tracking shine for lead nurturing.
- Budget Pick: MailerLite – Unlimited emails on free tier, scales to 50K contacts under $100/month.
- E-commerce Focus: Klaviyo or Omnisend – Shopify integrations and revenue tracking boost sales flows.
- All-in-One Starter: GetResponse – Webinars, landing pages, and autoresponders in one dashboard.
- High-Volume Senders: Brevo – SMS add-ons and transactional emails at low per-email rates.
- Simple Newsletters: AWeber or Benchmark Email – Drag-and-drop templates for quick campaigns.
Pair with CRM tools like HubSpot for full-stack marketing.
Final Verdict
ActiveCampaign leads as the top choice for 2015-2016, balancing power and price for growing B2B teams. Avoid legacy tools without modern APIs.
Test 2-3 options with free trials. Factor in your list size and tech stack. Our guide’s vendor selection service can customize picks.
FAQ
What changed in email software from 2015-2016?
Automation and mobile-responsive templates surged, with GDPR prep starting early.
Is Mailchimp covered?
We compare alternatives; it’s solid but pricier for advanced users.
How accurate are deliverability scores?
From 10K+ test sends across providers like Gmail and Outlook.
Free options viable for B2B?
Yes, MailerLite or Brevo handle 1K-5K lists effectively.
Need help choosing?
Contact our team for a free 30-min audit based on your goals.
Related in email marketing
Explore clusters
Alternatives
- Best Zapier Alternatives for Email Marketing in 2026
- Top Yotpo Alternatives for Email and SMS Marketing in 2026
- Best Salesforce Alternatives for Email Marketing in 2026
- 9 Best SendGrid Alternatives for 2026: Transactional Email and Marketing Tools
- Top Pipedrive Alternatives for Email-Driven CRM in 2026
Reviews
- Thinkific Review: Top Online Course Platform for Email Marketers?
- Teachable Review: Best for Quick Course Launches with Basic Email Tools?
- Textmagic Review: SMS Marketing for SMBs
- Teachery Review 2026: Streamlined Course Platform with Email Drip Tools
- Swipe Pages Review: Fast Landing Pages for Email Campaigns
Pricing
Need a quick shortlist? Compare top email tools by pricing, fit, and free plan.