Content Creators’ Showdown: Substack, WordPress, or Medium?

When I first started exploring platforms for content creation, I stuck to the tried-and-true options. But recently, I came across Substack and was intrigued. It’s a platform I had heard of in passing, but I hadn’t taken the time to dive into what it offers or how it compares to giants like WordPress and Medium. With so many creators asking which platform is “best,” I decided to take a closer look.

This post breaks down Substack, WordPress, and Medium to help you decide which one might suit your content needs. Let’s dig in.

Substack: A Newsletter-Centric Approach

Substack is all about email newsletters, giving writers and creators a way to reach their audience directly in their inboxes. It’s simple, straightforward, and great for anyone who wants to monetize their writing with subscription options.

Pros:

• Easy to Use: Substack has a straightforward interface that makes it simple to get started, even for beginners.
• Direct Audience Connection: By focusing on email newsletters, Substack allows you to connect directly with your audience, bypassing algorithms.
• Monetization Made Simple: Writers can monetize their content through subscriptions without needing advanced technical skills or third-party tools.
• Focus on Writing: With minimal distractions, Substack prioritizes the creation and distribution of quality content.

Cons:

• Limited Customization: Substack offers basic design options, which may not appeal to those who want more control over their brand’s look and feel.
• App Limitations: The app has usability issues, such as losing progress when switching devices and a lack of features like article queues or better navigation.
• Email-First Approach: While the focus on newsletters is great for certain creators, it might not be ideal for those looking for a traditional blog or website experience.
• Revenue Sharing: Substack takes a percentage of your subscription income, which can add up as your audience grows.

I scrolled through reviews of Substack, and while some users loved its simplicity and focus on quality content, others were frustrated by the app’s lack of features. For example, one reviewer praised the platform for resisting “algorithmic junk” and “TikTokification trends,” describing it as a wholesome alternative to most social media. Another user highlighted its ease of use and appreciated the ability to access Substack through both the browser and app.

However, frustrations were common in the negative reviews. Many users pointed out that the app does not save progress when switching devices, which can be particularly frustrating for those consuming long-form content. Others mentioned the lack of a queue for audio content, making it inconvenient for listeners on the go.

Some users also found navigation within the app to be clunky. For example, returning to a previous page often resulted in losing their place, and the inability to view reading history made it harder to revisit previous articles. Additionally, the “notes” feature and overall app design were criticized for feeling underdeveloped compared to the platform’s potential.

While Substack clearly appeals to those who value simplicity and quality writing, its limitations in functionality and usability can be a dealbreaker for more tech-savvy users.

WordPress: The Veteran of Versatility

WordPress is one of the most popular content management systems in the world, powering over 40% of all websites. It’s highly versatile, allowing users to create anything from simple blogs to fully functional business websites, online stores, and more. Whether you’re a beginner or a seasoned developer, WordPress offers tools that can cater to your needs.

Pros:

• Highly Customizable: With thousands of free and premium themes and plugins, you can create a website tailored to your exact needs. From SEO tools to e-commerce integrations, the possibilities are endless.
• Ownership and Control: Unlike platforms like Medium or Substack, WordPress gives you full control over your website, including its design, functionality, and monetization.
• Flexibility: WordPress works for nearly any type of website—blogs, portfolios, e-commerce, podcasts, and more.
• Scalable: It’s a platform that can grow with you, whether you’re a hobby blogger or running a high-traffic website.

Cons:

• Steeper Learning Curve: For beginners, WordPress can feel overwhelming, especially when learning about hosting, plugins, and site maintenance.
• Ongoing Maintenance: You’ll need to handle updates, backups, and security to keep your site running smoothly.
• Costs Can Add Up: While WordPress itself is free, hosting, premium themes, and plugins can quickly add to your expenses.

Why I Love WordPress:
WordPress has been my go-to platform for years, and for good reason. I started on WordPress.com, which is great for beginners, but as my needs evolved, I transitioned to WordPress.org. The flexibility and control it offers are unmatched. For example, I use WordPress to manage my freelance web design business, my brother’s podcast website, and even my personal blog. Each site has its own unique design and functionality, all thanks to the wide range of tools available.

WordPress does require more effort upfront, but if you’re willing to invest the time, it pays off. Whether you want a professional website, a creative blog, or an online store, WordPress gives you the freedom to build exactly what you envision.

Medium: A Hub for Writers and Readers Alike

Medium, founded in 2012 by Twitter co-founder Evan Williams, is a blogging platform designed to bring writers and readers together. It focuses on storytelling, thought-provoking ideas, and fostering conversations. Unlike WordPress or Substack, Medium emphasizes community and reader interaction over individual branding or site customization.

Pros:

• Simple and User-Friendly: Medium offers a clean and intuitive interface, making it easy to start writing without worrying about technical setup.
• Built-In Audience: With a large community of readers and writers, your content has the potential to reach a wider audience without needing heavy promotion.
• Monetization Opportunities: The Medium Partner Program allows writers to earn money based on how much time members spend reading their content.
• Focus on Writing: Medium eliminates distractions like site design and maintenance, so you can focus solely on creating content.

Cons:

• Limited Customization: Medium doesn’t allow much room for branding or personalizing your page, which can make it difficult to stand out.
• Dependency on Medium’s Algorithm: Your content’s visibility is heavily reliant on how well it performs within Medium’s ecosystem, which can be unpredictable.
• No Full Ownership: Since your content is hosted on Medium, you don’t have full control over its distribution or longevity.
• Earnings Can Be Inconsistent: While the Partner Program is a great opportunity, income depends on reader engagement and Medium’s algorithm, which can fluctuate.

Medium operates more like a social platform than a traditional blogging platform. Writers can post their stories and articles, while readers can engage through claps (a form of liking), comments, and sharing. For those looking to publish without worrying about design or technical setup, Medium offers a quick and polished solution.

However, the lack of control can be a drawback. Content creators looking to build a unique brand or maintain ownership of their audience may find Medium limiting compared to WordPress or Substack. Still, it’s a great choice for those who want to focus solely on writing and reaching a broader audience.