The Best Tools for Creating Email Opt-In Forms
If you’re serious about growing your email list, you need high-converting opt-in forms, not just pretty ones.
Opt-in forms are often the first touchpoint a visitor has with your brand. Whether it’s a pop-up, sticky bar, slide-in box, or embedded form, the right tool can mean the difference between crickets and conversions.
In this post, we’re breaking down the best tools for creating email opt-in forms in 2025, based on ease of use, features, integrations, and results.
✅ What Makes a Great Opt-In Form Tool?
Before we dive in, here’s what to look for when choosing your opt-in form builder:
-
Design Flexibility – Can you match your brand easily?
-
Targeting & Triggers – Exit intent, scroll percentage, time delay, etc.
-
A/B Testing – To optimize performance over time.
-
Mobile Optimization – Forms must look great on phones.
-
Analytics – Track views, conversion rates, and test results.
-
Integrations – Easily connects to your email marketing platform.
Now, let’s explore the best tools available today.
1. ConvertBox (Best for Smart Targeting)
Why it stands out:
ConvertBox is known for advanced targeting, behavioral triggers, and personalization.
Top Features:
-
Show different forms based on user behavior or location
-
Embed forms inside blog content or as popups
-
Intelligent lead segmentation
-
A/B testing included
Best for:
Digital marketers, SaaS, course creators, and those with multiple funnels.
Pricing: One-time fee (limited-time lifetime offer available)
2. OptinMonster (Best for Advanced Features)
Why it stands out:
One of the most feature-rich tools on the market, ideal for serious list builders.
Top Features:
-
Drag-and-drop form builder
-
Exit-intent popups
-
Geolocation targeting
-
Dynamic content based on user data
-
Campaign triggers based on e-commerce behavior
Best for:
E-commerce stores, agencies, and high-traffic websites.
Pricing: Starts at $9/month
3. Elementor + Elementor Pro (Best for WordPress Users)
Why it stands out:
If you’re using WordPress and Elementor, this combo gives you tons of design control.
Top Features:
-
Embed forms anywhere on your site
-
Customize every visual element
-
Native integrations with Mailchimp, ConvertKit, ActiveCampaign, and more
-
Conditional logic for form behavior (Pro version)
Best for:
WordPress users who want design flexibility.
Pricing: Free with Pro starting at $59/year
4. Thrive Leads (Best for Bloggers & Course Creators on WordPress)
Why it stands out:
A WordPress plugin focused specifically on growing email lists with smart, conversion-focused forms.
Top Features:
-
Lightbox, inline, ribbon, slide-in, and screen filler forms
-
SmartLinks (show/hide forms to existing subscribers)
-
Detailed reports and A/B testing
-
Works seamlessly with Thrive Theme Builder
Best for:
Content creators and educators use WordPress.
Pricing: $99/year (part of Thrive Suite)
5. Mailchimp Forms (Best Free Starter Option)
Why it stands out:
Great for beginners who want a simple solution inside their email tool.
Top Features:
-
Embedded and pop-up forms
-
Basic design customization
-
GDPR-friendly
-
No coding required
Best for:
Small businesses or new bloggers just starting out.
Pricing: Free plan available
6. ConvertKit Forms & Landing Pages (Best for Creators)
Why it stands out:
Designed for creators who want minimal fuss and clean forms that just work.
Top Features:
-
Simple form builder
-
Embedded forms, slide-ins, and popups
-
Visual automation after opt-in
-
Works great with lead magnets (auto-deliver files)
Best for:
Bloggers, YouTubers, podcasters, and newsletter creators.
Pricing: Free up to 1,000 subscribers
7. Mailerlite (Best Value All-in-One Option)
Why it stands out:
Affordable and packed with features, even on the free plan.
Top Features: The Best Tools for Creating Email Opt-In Forms
-
Drag-and-drop form builder
-
Popups, embedded forms, and promotional bars
-
Automation workflows
-
Landing page builder included
Best for:
Solo entrepreneurs and small businesses on a budget.
Pricing: Free for up to 1,000 subscribers
8. Sleeknote (Best for E-Commerce & Personalization)
Why it stands out:
Focuses on e-commerce conversions and personalized form experiences.
Top Features: The Best Tools for Creating Email Opt-In Forms
-
Non-intrusive popups (great UX)
-
Smart segmentation
-
Product recommendation forms
-
Mobile-specific form versions
Best for:
Online stores and larger e-commerce brands.
Pricing: Starts at $62/month
Bonus Tips for Higher Conversions: The Best Tools for Creating Email Opt-In Forms
Regardless of the tool you choose, here’s how to make your forms actually work:
-
Offer a compelling lead magnet – not just “join my newsletter”
-
Use action-oriented CTA buttons like “Send Me the Guide.”
-
Show your form at the right time, not immediately
-
Test placements (blog sidebar, footer, in-content, exit popup)
-
A/B test copy, design, and triggers
Final Thoughts: The Best Tools for Creating Email Opt-In Forms
The “best” tool is the one that fits your tech stack, audience, and goals. Whether you’re a solo blogger, course creator, or e-commerce brand, there’s a perfect opt-in form tool for your needs.
The key isn’t just choosing the right software it’s using it strategically to deliver value from the first click.


