Medium vs Substack for writers: which platform suits which goals?

By FastBuySale Newsroom · 9 Nov 2026 · 16m ago

Two different models

Medium and Substack both let writers publish online, but they work differently. Medium is a large reading platform with recommendations, topics and publications that help stories reach readers who may not know the writer. Substack is built around newsletters: readers subscribe to a writer's publication by email, and posts arrive in their inbox as well as on the web and app. Understanding these models helps you choose the platform that matches your goals.

Comparison at a glance

| Feature | Medium | Substack |

|---|---|---|

| Main model | Reading platform with recommendations | Email newsletter platform |

| Earning | Partner programme based on member engagement | Paid subscriptions set by the writer |

| Audience ownership | Followers stay on the platform | Exportable email list |

| Discovery | Strong built-in recommendations | Growing network recommendations |

| Best for | Reach, experiments, evergreen articles | Loyal readers, regular newsletters |

How Medium works for writers

Writers publish stories that can be distributed to readers through topic feeds, recommendations and publications. Stories can be placed behind the member paywall, and eligible writers in the partner programme earn based on how paying members read and interact with their work. Earnings depend on reading time, engagement and the number of members reading, so they can vary greatly from month to month. Writers do not need to build an audience before publishing, which makes the platform attractive for beginners who want to test topics and improve their writing.

How Substack works for writers

Writers create a publication and invite readers to subscribe by email. Posts can be free or reserved for paid subscribers, and writers choose their own subscription prices, often with monthly and annual options. The platform keeps a share of paid subscription revenue, commonly 10%, and the payment processor charges additional fees. Writers own their email list and can export it, which gives them more control and protection if they decide to move platforms later.

Worked example: Medium earnings

Ade publishes eight stories a month, each taking about 4 hours to write, so 32 hours in total. If his partner programme earnings are 160 dollars for the month, he earns 5 dollars an hour. If one story becomes popular and earnings rise to 480 dollars, his hourly earnings become 15 dollars. Earnings vary because they depend on member engagement.

Worked example: Substack earnings

Bea has 2,000 free subscribers and 100 paid subscribers paying 6 dollars a month, so gross revenue is 600 dollars. If the platform keeps 10%, that is 60 dollars. If payment processing costs about 4% of gross, that is roughly 24 dollars more. Bea keeps about 516 dollars before taxes. She spends around 30 hours a month writing, so she earns about 17 dollars an hour. If she grows to 300 paid subscribers on the same terms, her monthly take-home rises to about 1,548 dollars. The percentage calculator on this site helps with these sums.

Discovery and growth

Medium's recommendation system can show your stories to readers who have never heard of you, which can lead to fast growth when a story resonates. However, visibility can drop as quickly as it rises, and changes to the recommendation system can affect reach. Substack growth usually starts slowly, because you need to bring readers yourself through social media, your network, guest posts and collaborations. The platform's recommendations network, where publications recommend each other, and its app have made discovery easier, but steady growth still depends on consistent, valuable posts.

Owning the relationship with readers

An email list is one of the most valuable assets a writer can build, because it lets you reach readers directly regardless of social media algorithms or platform changes. On Substack, the list is exportable and you can move it to another provider. On Medium, followers stay on the platform, although writers often add a link to a newsletter or personal website. If long-term independence matters to you, building an email list early is wise wherever you publish.

Writing style and frequency

Medium rewards evergreen articles that answer questions or share stories that remain relevant, and popular stories can earn for months. Substack readers expect a regular schedule, such as weekly, and often value a personal voice, analysis or community. Consider which rhythm suits you and whether you prefer writing standalone articles or a continuing conversation with subscribers.

Tools and features

Both platforms offer simple editors, images, embeds and basic statistics. Medium adds publications run by editors, highlights and responses. Substack includes email delivery, paid subscription management, podcasts, video, community threads, chat and recommendations. Substack also lets you use a custom web address for a fee. Neither platform requires coding or hosting skills, which makes both accessible for beginners.

Which platform suits which goals

Choose Medium if you want to start writing without an audience, test ideas quickly, earn from reading time and benefit from built-in discovery. Choose Substack if you want to build a direct relationship with readers, publish on a regular schedule, own your list and earn predictable subscription revenue. Writers with an existing following on social media often do well on Substack, while those starting from scratch may find early traction easier on Medium.

Using both platforms

Many writers combine the two. They publish selected articles on Medium for reach and include a short invitation to subscribe to their newsletter, then send deeper analysis or exclusive posts to Substack subscribers. Check each platform's rules on republishing content and avoid sending the same post everywhere without adding value, because readers may notice and unsubscribe.

Risks to consider

Both platforms can change their rules, fees or recommendation systems, which can affect income. Medium earnings can fall when distribution changes, and Substack income depends on retaining paid subscribers, who may cancel. Diversify where possible by building an email list, a personal website and other income streams, such as freelance writing or digital products. Keep records of earnings and fees, because platform income is usually taxable.

Disclosure and honesty

If you include affiliate links or sponsored content in posts, disclose them clearly. Advertising rules expect writers to tell readers about financial relationships that might affect their recommendations. Clear disclosure also protects reader trust, which is the foundation of income on both platforms.

Getting started on either platform

Start by choosing a focused topic and a clear audience. Write a short description of what readers will get and how often. Publish several pieces before promoting heavily, so new readers find a body of work. Track which posts attract readers and subscribers, then write more of what works. Review results after three to six months before deciding whether to focus on one platform or continue with both.

Measuring success

On Medium, track reads, reading time, followers and earnings per story. On Substack, track open rates, subscriber growth, conversion from free to paid and cancellations. Calculating earnings per hour of writing shows which approach rewards your time best and helps you plan the balance between platforms.

Pricing a paid newsletter

If you choose Substack, set a subscription price that reflects the value and frequency of paid posts. Many writers offer an annual plan at a discount to encourage commitment and reduce monthly cancellations. Keep some posts free so new readers can sample your work, and make the paid benefits clear, such as extra posts, full archives, community threads or early access. Review pricing once you have data on conversion rates and cancellations, and grandfather loyal early subscribers at their original price if you raise rates. A small number of committed paying readers can produce meaningful income, which is why audience trust matters more than raw subscriber counts.

Time commitment

Both platforms reward consistency. Plan a realistic schedule, such as one quality post a week, and batch research and drafting so you can keep it up during busy periods.

Reader questions

Questions about writing platforms? Send them through the Ask page on this site.

Disclaimer

This article is for general information only. Platform rules, fees and payouts change, so check current terms. No income is guaranteed.

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