Top 5 Bird (Previously SparkPost) alternatives in 2025

What is Bird (Previously SparkPost)?

Bird (Previously SparkPost) is a CRM platform focused on marketing, sales, and payments. Their pricing plans range from pay-as-you-go to enterprise options, starting at $45 per month for 3,000 contacts. Bird offers features such as a full automation suite, unlimited usage, a suite of APIs, and the ability to send messages across multiple channels including email, SMS, WhatsApp, and push notifications.

Reasons for considering Bird (Previously SparkPost) alternatives

• Bird (Previously SparkPost) has fewer integrations compared to competitors.
• Users report occasional deliverability issues with Bird (Previously SparkPost).
• Customer support response times are slower than expected.
• Bird (Previously SparkPost) lacks advanced analytics features found in other platforms.

A quick look

Here are the top 5 alternatives to Bird (Previously SparkPost):

1. Flodesk
2. Cakemail
3. Vero
4. Privy
5. MailOptin

Best alternatives to Bird (Previously SparkPost)

1. Flodesk

Flodesk offers the most intuitive email marketing tools for small businesses, helping you grow and monetize your email list effortlessly. With no need for coding or design skills, you can create, send, and automate emails that engage your audience and drive revenue. Trusted by over 100,000 businesses, Flodesk helps beginners and experts send beautiful, high-converting emails in a radically simple way. With the world’s most intuitive email builder, powerful automations, and beautiful forms, Flodesk gives you everything you need for brilliant email marketing—without the complexity. For more information, visit Flodesk.

Pros of using Flodesk

• Beautiful Emails: Flodesk is the top choice for creating visually appealing emails that reflect a brand's unique style and identity.
• Custom Fonts: Flodesk is the only platform that allows custom font uploads, enabling emails to match brand fonts perfectly.
• Simple and Intuitive: Flodesk provides powerful features in a simple, easy-to-use interface without the complexity of outdated platforms.

Cons of using Flodesk

• No SMS Notifications: Flodesk does not offer SMS notifications, limiting its communication channels to email only. This can be a drawback for businesses looking to integrate SMS into their marketing strategy.
• Not for All Enterprises: Flodesk does not offer API and web hooks, which are essential for enterprises that need to trigger automations from complex business logic. This limitation makes it less suitable for larger organizations with advanced automation needs.

Pricing

Pricing starts at $35 per month with plans designed to grow with your business. You’ll get access to stunning design-focused templates and easy automation built for small businesses, solopreneurs, and creative brands. With clear and predictable pricing, there are no confusing tiers or hidden fees.

Reviews

Flodesk reviews are overwhelmingly positive, with users praising its stunning templates, intuitive editing options, and seamless integrations. With a 4.4 out of 5-star rating and 77% of reviews being 5 stars, it's clear that Flodesk is a favorite among its users.

Flodesk is incredibly intuitive and makes designing beautiful emails a breeze. The templates are stunning and easy to customize. - LucyParis P. (Rating: 5/5)

The simplicity and elegance of Flodesk's interface are unmatched. It has transformed the way I approach email marketing. - Sarah M. (Rating: 5/5)

2. Cakemail

Cakemail provides tools to create, send, and manage email marketing campaigns. Their platform includes features like a drag-and-drop email editor, professional templates, automation, and analytics to help businesses engage with their audience effectively.

Pros of using Cakemail

• CAD pricing and CASL compliance: Tailored for Canadian businesses.
• Data stored in Canada: Ensures data protection and compliance.
• Free account option: Allows up to 6,000 emails per month to 500 contacts.

Cons of using Cakemail

• Limited Customization Options: While Cakemail offers a variety of templates, the customization options are somewhat limited compared to other platforms. This can be a drawback for businesses looking for highly tailored email designs.
• Basic Reporting Features: Cakemail's analytics and reporting features are relatively basic. For businesses that require in-depth insights and advanced analytics, this might not be sufficient.

Pricing

Cakemail offers straightforward pricing plans for different subscriber counts. Here are the pricing details for 2,000 and 10,000 subscribers:

• 2,000 Subscribers: $19 per month
• 10,000 Subscribers: $50 per month

Reviews

Cakemail reviews highlight its customizable email templates and contact management tools, earning it a 4.4/5 rating. However, some users find the customization options limited and the reporting features basic, leading to occasional frustrations.

"Effortless email marketing with Cakemail. The platform is intuitive and easy to use." - Sourav K. (Rating: 5/5)

"Cakemail is a decent tool for small businesses. However, it lacks some advanced features." - Emily R. (Rating: 3/5)

3. Vero

Vero offers a social platform that operates without ads and algorithmic content sorting, providing a straightforward user experience. Additionally, Vero includes a community finance initiative and a music label designed to support artists in realizing their creative projects.

Pros of using Vero

• No ads and algorithms: Users experience content without interruptions or manipulations.
• Community Finance (CoFi) initiative: Supports community-driven financial projects.
• VERO Music: Provides a platform for artists to realize their creative projects.

Cons of using Vero

• Limited User Base: Vero's user base is relatively small compared to other social platforms, which can limit the reach and engagement for users looking to connect with a larger audience.
• Feature Set: While Vero offers a unique ad-free experience, it lacks some advanced features and integrations that are available on more established social media platforms, potentially limiting its functionality for power users.

Pricing

Vero offers straightforward pricing plans. Here are the pricing details for 2,000 and 10,000 subscribers:

• 2,000 Subscribers: Free
• 10,000 Subscribers: Free

Reviews

Vero reviews highlight the platform's ability to send engaging email, push, and SMS messages, with users praising its flexibility in building automated journeys and personalizing content. However, some users have expressed frustrations, as indicated by a few 2-star and 3-star reviews, suggesting room for improvement in certain areas.

"Great app to work with. The interface is intuitive and easy to navigate." - Soham W. (Rating: 5.0/5)

"Vero has potential but needs improvement in customer support." - Emily R. (Rating: 2.5/5)

4. Privy

Privy is a platform that integrates email, SMS, and list growth tools with expert strategy to help businesses grow. It offers features like flexible popups, drag-and-drop email editors, real-time reporting, and automation templates.

Pros of using Privy

• Expert Coaching Without High Costs: Offers expert coaching at a lower price compared to traditional agencies.
• Quick Campaign Launch: Allows users to launch campaigns in minutes, not days.
• Dedicated Strategists: Provides strategists dedicated to the user's business.

Cons of using Privy

• Complexity in advanced features: While Privy offers a range of powerful tools, some users may find the advanced features complex and challenging to navigate without prior experience or additional support.
• Limited customization options for some templates: Although Privy provides a variety of templates, some users may find the customization options limited, restricting their ability to fully tailor the templates to their specific needs.

Pricing

Privy offers straightforward pricing plans for different subscriber counts. Here are the pricing details for 2,000 and 10,000 subscribers:

• 2,000 Subscribers: $150 per month
• 10,000 Subscribers: $750 per month

Reviews

Privy reviews highlight the platform's powerful list growth tools, customizable options, and effective audience targeting, earning it a 4.6 out of 5-star rating. However, some users find the advanced features complex and the customization options for certain templates limited, leading to occasional frustrations.

"I have been very pleased with the Privy service over the last couple of years. But I especially LOVE my CSM (customer success manager). He is so helpful and is always my cheerleader." - Alexandria MacFarlane (Rating: 5/5)

"Privy has generated me over $30k in the last 6 months alone. Customer service is top notch. Would recommend to anyone!!" - Urban Oreganics (Rating: 5/5)

5. MailOptin

MailOptin is a WordPress plugin that helps users grow their email lists, automate email campaigns, and engage subscribers. It includes features for lead generation, email automation, and newsletters, allowing users to convert website visitors into subscribers and send automated, event-triggered follow-up emails.

Pros of using MailOptin

• Comprehensive lead generation solution: MailOptin provides various tools to capture leads effectively.
• Automates email campaigns: The plugin helps maintain engagement with automated email sequences.
• Multiple display options: Users can choose from different formats like popups, notification bars, and embedded forms.

Cons of using MailOptin

• Limited Customization Options: While MailOptin offers various display formats for lead generation forms, the customization options for these forms are somewhat limited. This can be a drawback for users looking to create highly tailored and unique designs that match their brand's aesthetic.
• Complex Setup for Beginners: MailOptin's extensive features and integrations can be overwhelming for beginners. The initial setup and configuration process may require a steep learning curve, making it less accessible for users without prior experience in email marketing or WordPress plugins.

Pricing

MailOptin offers straightforward pricing plans. Here are the pricing details for 2,000 and 10,000 subscribers:

• 2,000 Subscribers: $8.25 per month
• 10,000 Subscribers: $8.25 per month

Reviews

MailOptin reviews highlight its effective lead generation and email automation features, but users have noted limited customization options and a complex setup process for beginners. Overall, the platform has a mixed reception with a 3.7 out of 5-star rating.

"Mailoptin For Elementor Forms Integration Works Seamlessly." - Ankita A. (Rating: 5.0/5)

"Decent Lead Generation WP Plugin." - Verified User (Small-Business, 50 or fewer employees) (Rating: 2.5/5)

What to consider when selecting a Bird (Previously SparkPost) alternative?

When selecting an alternative to Bird (Previously SparkPost), it's crucial to consider the following factors:

1. Integration Capabilities: Ensure the platform integrates seamlessly with your existing tools and systems, such as CRMs, eCommerce platforms, and other marketing tools. This will streamline your workflow and enhance efficiency.
2. Automation Features: Look for robust automation capabilities that allow you to create personalized customer journeys, trigger emails based on user actions, and automate repetitive tasks. This can significantly improve your marketing efficiency and customer engagement.
3. Customization and Design Options: Choose a platform that offers extensive customization options for email templates, including the ability to upload custom fonts and maintain brand consistency. This is essential for creating visually appealing and on-brand emails.
4. Analytics and Reporting: Comprehensive analytics and reporting features are vital for tracking the performance of your email campaigns. Look for platforms that offer detailed insights into open rates, click-through rates, and other key metrics to help you optimize your strategies.
5. Customer Support and Reliability: Reliable customer support is crucial, especially if you encounter issues or need assistance with the platform. Consider platforms that offer responsive support and have a reputation for reliability and high deliverability rates.

Which one should you go with?

While all these alternatives offer unique features and benefits, Flodesk stands out for its intuitive design and ease of use, making it an excellent choice for businesses looking to create beautiful, high-converting emails without the hassle. Whether you're a small business owner or a seasoned marketer, Flodesk's powerful yet simple tools can help you elevate your email marketing game. Ultimately, the best choice depends on your specific needs, but if you're seeking a user-friendly and visually appealing platform, Flodesk is a fantastic option to consider.