Systeme.io vs MemberPress: Which One is Right for You?

Ever wondered whether Systeme.io or MemberPress is the right tool for your business? Both platforms cater to online entrepreneurs, offering membership site solutions. However, they serve different types of users—one being an all-in-one business platform, while the other specializes in WordPress-based membership management. Having explored both platforms extensively, I can break down their differences to help you determine which aligns with your goals.

Disclaimer: This article is based on publicly available information. Please verify pricing and features on the official websites, as updates may occur.

Systeme.io vs MemberPress: Quick & Simple Comparison

Feature	Systeme.io	MemberPress
Ease of Use	Beginner-friendly with intuitive interface	Requires WordPress knowledge; setup can be complex
Sales Funnels	Built-in advanced funnel-building tools	Not natively supported; requires additional plugins
Marketing Automation	Multi-channel automation (email, sales funnels, memberships)	Basic automation; primarily email-focused
CRM & Lead Management	Integrated contact management & segmentation	Relies on WordPress user management; limited CRM features
Membership & Courses	Fully integrated with sales funnels; unlimited members	Robust membership features; integrates with WordPress
Webinars	Not natively supported	Not natively supported
Landing Pages	Drag-and-drop page builder with templates	Depends on WordPress theme or additional plugins
Integrations	Moderate third-party integrations	Extensive integrations via WordPress ecosystem
Customer Support	24/7 chat & email support	Email support & community forums
Pricing	Free plan available; paid plans start at $19/month	Starts at $179.50/year
Free Trial	Free plan available	No free trial; 14-day money-back guarantee
Best For	Entrepreneurs, course creators, businesses seeking an all-in-one solution	WordPress users, bloggers, content creators focusing on membership sites

What is Systeme.io?

Systeme.io is a robust marketing platform that provides an all-in-one solution for running an online business. Whether you need sales funnels, email automation, course hosting, or lead management, Systeme.io handles everything in a single system. It has become a preferred choice for digital entrepreneurs who want a seamless business management system.

Who Should Use Systeme.io?

Systeme.io is designed for:

• Entrepreneurs managing online sales and marketing
• Course creators and coaches selling memberships
• Small businesses looking for a complete marketing solution
• Agencies managing multiple clients (with higher-tier plans)

If you want a centralized platform to manage marketing, sales, and automation, Systeme.io is a solid option.

What Is MemberPress?

MemberPress is a WordPress plugin designed to transform your website into a powerful membership site. It allows users to build membership levels, restrict content, and manage subscriptions seamlessly within the WordPress environment. While it excels in membership management, MemberPress relies on additional plugins or integrations for advanced marketing features.

Who Should Use MemberPress?

MemberPress is perfect for:

• WordPress users seeking to add membership functionality
• Bloggers and content creators who rely on membership revenue
• Developers looking for a customizable membership solution
• Businesses already invested in the WordPress ecosystem

If your primary focus is creating a membership site within WordPress, MemberPress is a great option.

Systeme.io vs MemberPress – Key Similarities and Differences

While Systeme.io and MemberPress both offer membership site solutions, they differ in their approach. Let’s examine their similarities and differences.

Similarities

• Both offer tools to manage memberships and subscriptions.
• Each provides content restriction features to control access.
• Both integrate with third-party tools to expand functionality.
• Each platform has a free plan or trial to test its features before committing.

Differences

Feature	Systeme.io	MemberPress
Ideal For	Businesses needing an all-in-one marketing solution	WordPress users focusing on membership sites
Sales Funnels	Advanced funnel-building tools included	Requires additional plugins
CRM & Lead Management	Full contact tracking and sales automation	Basic user management via WordPress
Membership & Courses	Built-in course hosting & member areas	Robust membership features within WordPress
Webinar & Video Hosting	Not natively supported	Not natively supported
Landing Pages	Fully customizable templates	Depends on WordPress theme or plugins
Customer Support	Live chat, email, and ticket support	Email support & community forums

Pricing and Plans 

When choosing between Systeme.io and MemberPress, understanding their pricing structures is crucial to determine which platform aligns best with your business needs. Let’s dive into the details of each.

Systeme.io Pricing

Systeme.io offers a range of pricing plans to accommodate various business sizes and requirements. Here’s a breakdown:

Plan	Cost (Monthly)	Contacts	Sales Funnels	Blogs	Courses	Students	Automation Rules	Custom Domains	Evergreen Webinars	Free Migration
Free	$0	2,000	3	1	1	Unlimited	1	1	No	No
Startup	$27	5,000	10	5	5	Unlimited	5	3	No	No
Webinar	$47	10,000	50	10	20	Unlimited	10	10	Yes	No
Unlimited	$97	Unlimited	Unlimited	Unlimited	Unlimited	Unlimited	Unlimited	Unlimited	Yes	Yes

Note: Systeme.io offers a 30% discount on annual plans.

MemberPress Pricing

MemberPress provides three primary pricing tiers, each tailored to different levels of functionality:

Plan	Cost (Annual)	Membership Sites	Courses	Integrations	Support
Basic	$359	1	Yes	Standard	Email
Plus	$599	Up to 2	Yes	Advanced	Priority
Pro	$799	Up to 5	Yes	All	Priority

Note: MemberPress offers a 14-day money-back guarantee but does not provide a free trial.

Pricing Comparison

Feature	Systeme.io	MemberPress
Free Plan	Yes	No
Starting Price	$27/month	$359/year
Free Trial	Yes	No
Annual Discount	30%	No

Winner: Systeme.io – With its free plan, flexible monthly pricing, and comprehensive features, Systeme.io is the more budget-friendly choice for businesses of all sizes. MemberPress, while powerful, requires a higher upfront investment with no free plan.

User Experience & Ease of Use

Your marketing platform should be easy to navigate, whether you’re a beginner or an experienced entrepreneur. Let’s see how Systeme.io and MemberPress compare in terms of usability.

Systeme.io

Systeme.io is designed for simplicity. The platform offers an intuitive dashboard with an easy-to-use drag-and-drop builder for creating sales funnels, landing pages, and email campaigns. Even beginners can quickly set up a membership site or an online course without needing technical expertise.

Additionally, Systeme.io provides step-by-step guides, tutorial videos, and in-platform tooltips to help users get started. The interface is minimalistic, ensuring a smooth workflow without unnecessary complications. However, because it is an all-in-one platform, mastering all its tools may take some time, especially for those new to digital marketing.

MemberPress

MemberPress, on the other hand, is a WordPress plugin. While this gives users the flexibility of using their existing WordPress website, it also comes with a learning curve. Setting up MemberPress requires familiarity with WordPress, and users must install and configure additional plugins for full functionality, such as payment gateways, email marketing tools, and page builders.

Although MemberPress offers a clean interface, managing membership levels, subscriptions, and content restrictions can be overwhelming for beginners. The platform does provide documentation and support, but users may still need third-party plugins or developers for customization.

Comparison Table: User Experience

Feature	Systeme.io	MemberPress
Ease of Use	Simple and beginner-friendly ✅	Requires WordPress knowledge and setup ❌
Dashboard Design	Clean and intuitive ✅	Dependent on WordPress interface ❌
Learning Curve	Lower learning curve ✅	Requires familiarity with WordPress ❌
Onboarding Support	Tutorials, tooltips, and step-by-step guides ✅	Documentation and knowledge base ✅

🏆 Winner: Systeme.io – If you’re looking for a straightforward, beginner-friendly platform that doesn’t require additional plugins, Systeme.io is the better choice. However, if you’re already experienced with WordPress and want more flexibility, MemberPress can be a great option.

Sales Funnel & Automation Capabilities

A strong sales funnel and automation system can help businesses maximize revenue and improve customer engagement. Here’s how Systeme.io and MemberPress compare.

Systeme.io

Systeme.io is built with sales funnels in mind. It offers a drag-and-drop funnel builder that allows users to create high-converting landing pages, upsells, downsells, and checkout pages—all within the same platform.

Its automation features allow businesses to set up email sequences, trigger specific actions based on user behavior, and nurture leads effectively. Systeme.io supports multi-step funnels, integrating sales pages, lead capture forms, and email marketing in one seamless workflow.

Unlike MemberPress, Systeme.io does not require third-party integrations for building and managing sales funnels, making it a great choice for users who want an all-in-one system.

MemberPress

MemberPress does not have built-in sales funnel features. Since it is primarily a WordPress plugin for membership management, users need additional plugins like ThriveCart, ClickFunnels, or WooFunnels to create a structured sales funnel.

For automation, MemberPress allows basic email notifications and access restrictions based on membership levels. However, for advanced automation, integrations with tools like Zapier or ActiveCampaign are required.

Comparison Table: Sales Funnels & Automation

Feature	Systeme.io	MemberPress
Sales Funnel Builder	Fully integrated with drag-and-drop tools ✅	Requires third-party plugins ❌
Automation	Multi-step automation, email sequences, and triggers ✅	Limited; requires integrations ❌
Upsells & Downsells	Built-in upsell/downsell features ✅	Needs third-party plugins ❌
Lead Management	CRM and lead segmentation included ✅	Limited, depends on WordPress tools ❌

🏆 Winner: Systeme.io – Systeme.io wins in this category because of its built-in sales funnel and automation features. MemberPress users need multiple integrations to achieve the same functionality, making Systeme.io a more convenient choice.

Membership & Course Creation

Both Systeme.io and MemberPress support online courses and membership sites, but they differ in their approach.

Systeme.io

Systeme.io provides a fully integrated course and membership site builder. Users can create unlimited courses, host video lessons, add downloadable resources, and structure content with modules and lessons.

Since it is an all-in-one platform, Systeme.io allows businesses to sell memberships directly through its funnel builder and handle payments without third-party tools. It also supports student progress tracking, quizzes, and certificates of completion.

MemberPress

MemberPress is primarily designed for membership sites rather than full course platforms. Users can restrict content based on membership levels and provide exclusive access to members.

For course creation, MemberPress has an add-on called MemberPress Courses, which provides a learning management system (LMS). However, this feature is relatively basic compared to Systeme.io and lacks built-in quizzes, certificates, and progress tracking.

Comparison Table: Membership & Courses

Feature	Systeme.io	MemberPress
Membership Site Builder	Fully integrated ✅	Fully integrated ✅
Course Creation	Built-in LMS with quizzes and tracking ✅	Requires add-ons, limited features ❌
Payment Integration	Direct checkout pages and sales funnels ✅	Requires additional WordPress plugins ❌
Student Management	Student progress tracking & certificates ✅	Basic course management ❌

🏆 Winner: Systeme.io – Systeme.io provides a complete course-building experience, while MemberPress is more focused on membership access rather than advanced course creation. If you plan to create and sell courses, Systeme.io is the superior choice.

Integrations & Customization

For businesses that require third-party tools, integration options are essential.

Systeme.io

Systeme.io offers moderate third-party integrations, primarily focused on payment gateways (Stripe, PayPal), email marketing, and webinar tools. However, since it is an all-in-one platform, many functions (funnels, email marketing, automation) are built-in, reducing the need for integrations.

MemberPress

MemberPress, being a WordPress plugin, supports extensive third-party integrations via WordPress’s ecosystem. It connects with a wide range of tools, including email marketing platforms (Mailchimp, ConvertKit), CRM software, analytics tools, and more.

Comparison Table: Integrations & Customization

Feature	Systeme.io	MemberPress
Third-Party Integrations	Moderate ✅	Extensive ✅
Customizability	Limited to built-in tools ❌	Highly customizable via WordPress ✅
Payment Gateways	Stripe, PayPal ✅	Stripe, PayPal, Authorize.net ✅

🏆 Winner: MemberPress – If you need extensive integrations and customizability, MemberPress is the better choice. However, for users who prefer an all-in-one system with fewer dependencies, Systeme.io is more convenient.

Pros and Cons of Systeme.io

Pros

✅ Beginner-Friendly & Easy to Use
Systeme.io is designed with simplicity in mind. Its user-friendly interface and drag-and-drop editor make it easy for beginners to set up sales funnels, landing pages, email campaigns, and membership sites without technical skills. Unlike MemberPress, which requires WordPress knowledge, Systeme.io works as a standalone platform with no extra setup.

✅ All-in-One Marketing & Membership Solution
Systeme.io combines multiple business tools into one platform, including sales funnels, email marketing, automation, membership sites, and course hosting. This eliminates the need for third-party integrations, making it a cost-effective and streamlined solution for online business owners.

✅ No Need for WordPress or Extra Plugins
Unlike MemberPress, which requires a WordPress website and additional plugins for full functionality, Systeme.io operates independently. Users don’t need to worry about plugin compatibility, WordPress updates, or technical maintenance.

✅ Affordable Pricing with a Free Plan
Systeme.io offers a completely free plan, making it one of the most budget-friendly platforms for online entrepreneurs. Even its paid plans are significantly cheaper than MemberPress, making it accessible for solopreneurs and small businesses.

✅ Built-In Affiliate Management
Systeme.io includes an affiliate marketing system that lets users create, manage, and track their affiliate programs directly within the platform. MemberPress, on the other hand, requires additional plugins (such as AffiliateWP) to enable affiliate program management.

✅ Fast & Simple Membership Site Setup
With Systeme.io, users can quickly create membership sites without needing external plugins or complex integrations. The platform allows businesses to set different membership levels, control access, and automate content delivery seamlessly.

✅ No Transaction Fees
Unlike some platforms that charge additional fees on sales, Systeme.io allows users to keep 100% of their revenue—even on lower-tier plans.

Cons

❌ Limited Advanced Customization
While Systeme.io is easy to use, it lacks deep customization options compared to MemberPress. Users who want advanced branding control or highly personalized designs may find it somewhat restrictive.

❌ Basic Course Features
Although Systeme.io supports course hosting, it does not have advanced LMS features like certificates, quizzes, or detailed student progress tracking. MemberPress Courses (an add-on) offers a more structured course-building experience.

❌ Limited Third-Party Integrations
Systeme.io comes with built-in tools, reducing the need for third-party apps. However, if you rely heavily on external CRM, analytics, or automation tools (such as Zapier or HubSpot), you may find its integration options limited compared to MemberPress.

❌ No Mobile App
Unlike some competitors, Systeme.io does not offer a mobile app for managing business operations on the go. Users must access the platform via a web browser, which may not be as convenient.

Pros and Cons of MemberPress

Pros

✅ Powerful Membership Management
MemberPress is specifically designed for membership sites, offering robust access control, content restriction, and subscription-based monetization. Users can create multiple membership levels, drip content over time, and set expiration rules with ease.

✅ Deep WordPress Customization
Since MemberPress is a WordPress plugin, it provides endless customization options. Users can integrate it with page builders like Elementor and customize their site’s design and functionality as much as they want.

✅ Supports Advanced LMS Features
With the MemberPress Courses add-on, users get an LMS (Learning Management System) that allows for structured course creation. It includes features like progress tracking, quizzes, and certifications, making it a better option for course creators compared to Systeme.io.

✅ Extensive Third-Party Integrations
MemberPress supports a wide range of third-party tools, including email marketing platforms (Mailchimp, ConvertKit), CRM software, analytics tools, and automation platforms like Zapier. Systeme.io, in contrast, has fewer integration options.

✅ Better for Established WordPress Users
If you already have a WordPress website, MemberPress is an ideal choice because it integrates seamlessly into your existing setup. You can use your preferred themes, page builders, and plugins without being locked into an all-in-one system.

Cons

❌ Requires WordPress & Additional Plugins
MemberPress only works on WordPress, meaning users need to set up and maintain a WordPress website before using it. Additionally, many essential features (such as affiliate management or advanced automation) require extra plugins, which can increase costs and complexity.

❌ No Built-In Sales Funnel or Email Marketing
Unlike Systeme.io, which includes sales funnels, email marketing, and automation, MemberPress does not have built-in marketing tools. Users need to integrate third-party services to set up automated funnels or email sequences.

❌ No Free Plan
MemberPress does not offer a free plan, and its pricing starts at $179 per year, which can be expensive for small businesses or beginners. Systeme.io, on the other hand, offers a completely free plan with core features included.

❌ Steeper Learning Curve
Since MemberPress relies on WordPress, users must have some technical knowledge to set up and manage their site properly. Installing and configuring additional plugins for payments, automation, and integrations can be overwhelming for beginners.

❌ Limited Customer Support
Unlike Systeme.io, which provides live chat support, MemberPress only offers email support and a community forum, which might not be ideal for users who need immediate assistance.

Which One Should You Choose?

💡 Go with Systeme.io if:
✅ You need a budget-friendly, all-in-one platform with sales funnels, email marketing, membership sites, and automation built-in.
✅ You’re a beginner looking for an easy-to-use system that doesn’t require technical setup or WordPress knowledge.
✅ You want affiliate program management without needing additional plugins.
✅ You prefer a free plan or a low-cost solution without sacrificing essential marketing features.

💡 Go with MemberPress if:
✅ You already have a WordPress website and want a powerful membership management system.
✅ You need deep customization and want to control your site’s design, structure, and integrations.
✅ You’re a course creator who requires an LMS with quizzes, certifications, and progress tracking.
✅ You rely on third-party integrations for email marketing, automation, and CRM software.

Final Thoughts

So, which platform is best for your business? The answer depends on your needs! 🚀

If you’re looking for a hassle-free, all-in-one solution that includes membership sites, sales funnels, email marketing, and automation without relying on WordPress, Systeme.io is the better choice. It’s more beginner-friendly, cost-effective, and doesn’t require additional plugins.

However, if you’re comfortable with WordPress and want a flexible, highly customizable membership platform, MemberPress is the right fit. It provides strong membership site tools and LMS features, but you’ll need extra plugins for sales funnels and automation.

👉 Still unsure? Systeme.io offers a free plan, and MemberPress has a 14-day money-back guarantee, so you can test both and see which one works best for your business! 🚀

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Which platform is more beginner-friendly?

Systeme.io is definitely more user-friendly, especially for beginners.

2. Does MemberPress offer a free trial?

Yes, MemberPress does offer a free trial for those looking to dip their toes before diving in.

3. How customizable is Systeme.io compared to MemberPress?

While Systeme.io offers decent customization, MemberPress takes the crown in this category.

4. Which platform offers better support?

Both platforms have commendable support, but MemberPress slightly edges out with its comprehensive knowledge base.

5. Can I migrate from one platform to the other?

Yes, migration is possible, though it might require some tech-savviness or external help.