Substack Review: The Trap of Centralised Platforms for Content Creators

Much like any social network or publishing platform — Medium, Blogger, Tumblr — when you create content on a site that doesn't belong to you, you're really working for that platform. It's a bit like deciding to renovate the flat you're renting: in the end, it's the landlord who truly benefits. So work with open source instead, like Ghost or WordPress.

The Hidden Dangers of Substack

Losing Control of Your Data

Your content and data belong to Substack
Risk of having your account removed without warning
Total dependence on a privately owned platform

Excessive Long-Term Costs

A hefty 10% commission on your revenue
No way to diversify your income streams
Locked inside a closed ecosystem

Major Technical Limitations

No API for integrations
Very limited customisation
No control over your infrastructure
Basic marketing features

Ghost: The Open-Source Solution That Respects Your Independence

Full Ownership of Your Data

A 100% open-source platform
Hosted on your own server or self-hosted
Total control over your infrastructure
Simple export and import

Freedom to Monetise

No commission on your revenue
Integration with multiple payment systems
The ability to create bespoke offers
Diversify your income streams

Technical Power

A complete, well-documented API
Unlimited customisation
Optimised performance
Integration with all your tools

Our Recommendation

Despite its apparent simplicity, Substack poses a serious risk for content creators. The platform can change its terms, raise its commission, or even close your account at any moment. Ghost offers an ethical, high-performing and cost-effective alternative over the long term.

Why Choose Ghost

A fixed, predictable monthly cost
No commission on your revenue
Complete protection of your data
Full technical freedom
An active and supportive community

Substack's initial free tier masks a dangerous business model that thrives on creators' dependence. Invest in your independence with Ghost, an open-source solution that genuinely belongs to you. As it happens, this very site is built with Ghost.