Hey friend,
You just finished a killer story. Where do you publish it?
Medium? Easy reach, built-in readers.
Substack? Direct fans, real money in your pocket.
I’ve been there. Back in 2022, I started on Medium—got views, some earnings. Then I tried Substack. Views slowed at first, but money felt steadier.
In 2026, the choice matters more than ever. Platforms changed. Algorithms shifted. Writers moved.
This Medium vs Substack comparison breaks it down with fresh 2026 stats. Pros, cons, earnings reality. My honest take as a writer who uses both.
Let’s figure out which fits you best. Medium vs Substack 2026
Why Compare Medium vs Substack 2026?
Both platforms help writers share ideas.
But they play different games.
Medium acts like a big magazine—built-in audience, algorithm pushes stories.
Substack feels like your own newsletter—direct emails to fans, you own the list.
In 2026, Medium still has millions of monthly readers (SimilarWeb shows steady traffic around 100M+ views).
Substack grew fast—over 35 million active subscribers, 5 million+ paid subs (latest reports).
Writers ask: Which pays better? Which grows faster?
Answer depends on your goals. Exposure? Control? Steady income?
I’ll show you real differences.
Key Differences: Medium vs Substack 2026 by Side
Let’s compare head-to-head.
- Audience Reach Medium wins for beginners. Built-in discovery via recommendations, publications, search. New writers get views quick. Substack? You build it. Starts slow unless you promote hard (Notes, cross-promo, social).
- Monetization Model Medium: Partner Program. Readers pay $5/month for unlimited access. You earn based on read time from members. Unpredictable—algorithm decides. Substack: Direct subscriptions. You set price ($5-10/month common). Keep ~90% after fees. Predictable once you have paid subs.
- Ownership & Control Medium: No email list. Followers stay on platform. If rules change, tough luck. Substack: You own emails. Export anytime. Build real business.
- Ease of Use Both simple. Medium: Write, publish, done. Substack: Set up newsletter, add paywall.
- Content Type Medium: Long essays, stories, broad topics. Substack: Newsletters, series, niche deep dives. Plus podcasts, chats, video beta.
- Fees & Payouts Medium: No upfront cost. Earnings vary (top 10% make good money, most under $100/month). Substack: 10% cut + Stripe fees. But direct and stable.
In 2026, many writers use both—Medium for reach, Substack for money.
Medium in 2026: Pros, Cons, and Real Stats–Medium vs Substack 2026
Medium still attracts educated readers (60%+ male, mostly under 50, US-heavy per SimilarWeb 2025-2026 data).
Pros:
- Instant audience—no marketing needed at start.
- SEO boost (high domain authority ranks articles fast).
- Easy to join publications for extra exposure.
- Clean editor, no setup hassle.
Cons:
- Earnings unpredictable. Algorithm changes hurt many.
- No direct reader emails.
- Competition high—millions of stories.
- Payouts based on member engagement, not direct sales.
Stats: Top writers earn thousands, but average low. Many report $50-200/month even with followers.
I earned decent on Medium early. But when algorithm shifted, views dropped. Frustrating.
Substack in 2026: Pros, Cons, and Latest Numbers
Substack exploded for independent creators.
Pros:
- Direct relationship—email inbox access.
- Predictable income. See paid subs in dashboard.
- Own your audience forever.
- Extra tools: Notes (like Twitter), recommendations, chats, podcasts.
- Higher earnings potential—top newsletters make millions.
Cons:
- Growth slower without promotion.
- Need consistent value to keep subs.
- 10% fee feels high at start.
Stats: Over 5 million paid subs platform-wide. Top earners pull $500k+. Average good writers hit $1k-5k/month with effort.
In 2026, Substack pushes features like native sponsorships (pilot), better growth charts. Feels like a real business tool.
Earnings Reality: Medium vs Substack Monetization 2026
This is what most writers care about.
Medium Partner Program: Share of membership pool. Depends on read time. Variable—$100 one month, $20 next.
Substack: You charge $5-12/month. Keep most. If 100 paid subs at $7, that’s ~$700/month after fees. Scales with growth.
Real talk: Substack wins for serious income. Many who left Medium report 3-10x more earnings once built.
But Medium easier for side cash without hustle.
My experience? Medium gave quick wins. Substack gave freedom and bigger checks.
Which Is Better for Beginners in 2026?
New writer? Start with Medium.
Low barrier. Publish today, get reads tomorrow. Build confidence. Learn what resonates.
Then cross-post to Substack. Grow list slow.
Got some audience? Lean Substack. Own growth. Monetize direct.
Niche expert? Substack shines—loyal fans pay monthly.
Broad topics? Medium’s algorithm helps.
Many smart writers do both.
How to Grow on Medium vs Substack in 2026
Medium tips:
- Strong hooks first 3 lines.
- Submit to publications.
- Use tags smart.
- Engage comments.
Substack tips:
- Post consistent (weekly).
- Use Notes for promo.
- Ask for recommendations.
- Offer free + paid tiers.
Cross-strategy: Publish free on Medium, tease paid on Substack.
Common Mistakes Writers Make Choosing Platforms
- Expecting overnight riches on either.
- Ignoring promotion on Substack.
- Sticking only to Medium when wanting control.
- Not testing both.
Try free. See what clicks.
My Final Pick: Medium vs Substack 2026
No one-size-fits-all.
Want quick exposure, low effort? Medium.
Want to build a real writing business, own audience, steady pay? Substack.
In 2026, I lean Substack for long-term. But Medium still great for discovery.
Best? Use both. Medium for traffic. Substack for income.
You’ve got the tools. Pick your path. Write more. Earn more.
How to Start a Profitable Blog in 2026 and Earn Money from Google AdSense (Even as a Beginner)
TAMZIDUL HAQUE 🖋️ Writer-
https://tamzidulhaque.com/ | https://passiveprofitsworld.com/
https://appsoftguide.com/ | https://medium.com/@tamzidulhaque
https://writers-hive.beehiiv.com/ | https://substack.com/@haquetalks
FAQs: Top Searched Questions on Medium vs Substack 2026
What is the main difference between Medium and Substack in 2026?
Medium uses algorithm discovery and shared revenue. Substack focuses on direct subscriptions and audience ownership.
Which pays more: Medium or Substack?
Substack usually pays more with direct subs. Medium earnings unpredictable based on engagement.
Is Medium still good for writers in 2026?
Yes—for quick reach and beginners. Great exposure, but less control.
Should beginners start on Medium or Substack?
Medium easier to start and get views fast. Then move to Substack for money.
Can you use both Medium and Substack?
Yes! Many writers cross-post. Use Medium for traffic, Substack for paid fans.
How much do writers earn on Substack in 2026?
Varies—top make millions, good ones $1k-10k/month with 100-1000+ paid subs.
Does Substack take a big cut?
10% plus Stripe fees. You keep most of subscription money.
Is Substack better for newsletters than Medium?
Yes—direct emails, ownership, tools like Notes and chats.
What are Medium stats in 2026?
Millions of readers, strong US traffic, educated audience.
Which has better growth potential in 2026?
Substack for long-term owned audience. Medium for fast viral hits.