WordPress optin form plugins work well to increase your email subscription rate.
When someone subscribes to your list, they permit you to contact them with marketing messages in the future.
In this article, we will discuss what opt-in plugin forms are, the different types of forms available, and how to select the correct plugin for your needs.
We will also review the top 15 WordPress opt-in plugins available today.
Contents
What Are WordPress Opt-in Form Plugins?
An opt-in form is a feature on a website that allows visitors to subscribe to your email list.
The word “opt-in” means that the visitor says it’s OK for you to contact them about your products and services.
Opt-in forms are an essential tool for any email marketer because they help you grow your list of subscribers.
Types of WordPress Opt-in Form Plugins
You can choose from five basic opt-in forms.
1. Pop-up Boxes
Pop-up boxes appear as a small box that pops up on the screen.
Many marketers choose to use it in the lower right-hand corner of a web page.
2. Modal Boxes
Modal boxes are similar to pop-ups, but they appear in the middle of the screen.
3. Slide-in Boxes
Slide-in boxes are opt-ins that appear as a small box sliding in from the side of the screen.
4. Sidebars
Sidebars are opt-ins that appear in the sidebar of a website, usually on the right side.
They can be static or they can scroll with the page.
5. Notification Bars
Notification bars are opt-ins that appear at the top or bottom of a website, usually across the entire width of the screen.
Why Use a WordPress Opt-in Form Plugin?
Typically, you’ll use an opt-in form plugin for two reasons.
Increase Conversions
The first reason to use an opt-in form plugin is to increase conversions.
A conversion is when a website visitor takes the desired action that you want them to take.
For example, if you have an eCommerce store, a conversion would be when someone buys something from you.
If you have a blog, a conversion might occur when someone subscribes to your email list.
Allow Visitors to Opt-in to Emails
An opt-in form allows a visitor to subscribe to your email list so that you can contact them in the future. It’s different from a general contact form.
In this case, the visitor specifically states that they want to receive marketing messages from you.
The benefit of this is that you can send targeted emails to people who already show an interest in your products or services.
It can lead to more sales and more customers because you’re only contacting people who want to hear from you.
How to Choose the Right Opt-in Plugin
Consider the following four factors when selecting your next WordPress opt-in form plugin.
1. Integration
You’ll want to make sure that the plugin integrates with your email service provider (ESP).
For example, if you use MailChimp to send your emails, you need a plugin that provides a built-in MailChimp integration.
That way, each new lead is automatically added to your MailChimp list.
2. Ease of Use
The best plugins have a user-friendly interface and provide step-by-step instructions.
They also offer customer support in case you run into any problems.
3. Performance
The plugin should not slow down your website.
A slow website can lead to lower conversion rates and fewer subscribers.
4. Flexibility
The plugin should be flexible so that you can customize it to match your branding.
For example, the plugin should make it simple to change the colors, fonts, and text of the opt-in form.
Best WordPress Opt-in Form Plugins
It’s time to take a look at the best plugins available.
1. Thrive Leads
Thrive Leads is a popular popup plugin that allows you to create opt-in forms and pop-ups.
Best For
Marketers who want to increase conversions.
Notable Features
- A/B testing
- Built-in integrations
- Analytics and reporting dashboard
Pros
- Includes many different types of forms
- Offers a simple drag and drop editor
- Easy to use
- Helps you use content targeting rules
- The triggers help to segment your list
Cons
- A paywall locks some features
- High traffic sites may experience slowdowns
- Integrations sometimes require resetting
Is Thrive Leads Hard To Use?
No, the dashboard is a simple and intuitive for users.
There shouldn’t be any stumbling in the menus.
Pricing & Plans
- Thrive Suite: $99 per quarter or $299 annually
When purchasing Thrive Leads inside the Thrive Suite, you also get Thrive Quiz Builder, Thrive Optimize, Thrive Architect, Trive Comments, and four other plugins.
Our Take
Thrive Leads is an excellent plugin for increasing conversions.
It’s easy to use and offers a wide range of features.
2. MailOptinLite
MailOptinLite is a powerful WordPress opt-in form plugin.
It allows you to create beautiful opt-in forms and manage your leads in one place.
Best For
Beginners looking for a simple way to collect emails.
Notable Features
- Lightbox popups
- Exit-intent popups
- Slide-in boxes
Pros
- Easy to set up A/B tests
- Integrates with many popular email marketing platforms
- Makes default WordPress signup forms look more attractive
- Can create gated content with the tool
- Reporting and analytics
Cons
- The free version (Lite) offers limited options
- No live chat support
- Offers a limited number of templates
Is MailOptinLite Hard To Use
No, the plugin includes a simple dashboard.
Pricing & Plans
- Lite: $0 per year
- Standard: $89 per year
- Pro: $199 per year
- Agency: $399 per year
Our Take
MailOptinLite is a good WordPress opt-in form plugin if you’re looking for something to get started with.
You’ll need to upgrade to a paid plan for the best features.
3. ConvertPro
ConvertPro allows you to create high-converting opt-in forms.
Best For
Businesses with high-traffic sites looking for an easy way to increase conversions.
Notable Features
- Drag and drop editor
- Exit-intent technology
- Mobile-friendly designs
Pros
- Integrates with popular email marketing platforms
- Action triggers can increase engagement
- Fast loading forms
- Offers on-click text popups
- Easy A/B testing features
Cons
- The template library is on the smaller size
- Can’t optimize forms for better performance on tablets
- Doesn’t include lightbox features
Is ConvertPro Hard To Use?
No, it’s easy to use due to its easy to follow design.
Pricing & Plans
- Convert Pro: $89 per year
- Growth Bundle: $249 per year
Our Take
ConvertPro is easy to use and offers a variety of features, including drag-and-drop editing, exit-intent technology, and mobile-friendly designs.
4. Opt-in Panda
Opt-in Panda is a WordPress opt-in form plugin that allows users to hide content until website visitors subscribe.
Best For
Marketers who require a gated content feature.
Notable Features
- Will integrate with services like GetResponse, Mailchimp, and more
- The unique content locking feature encourages the opt-in
- Four types of locks are available
Pros
- Allows single and double opt-ins
- Loads quickly
- Optimized for mobile devices
- Locked content remains visible for SEO purposes
- Integrates easily with Visual Composer
Cons
- Sometimes loses its integration connections
- It will potentially frustrate some site visitors
- Support isn’t always responsive
Is Opt-in Panda Hard To Use?
It’s a simple WordPress plugin to use, so the design is very intuitive for users to implement into their regular WordPress management.
Pricing & Plans
- Free
Our Take
Opt-in Panda is an excellent choice if you want the gated content feature.
5. PopUpMaker
PopUpMaker allows you to create both lightbox popups and inline forms.
With this plugin, you can choose from a variety of templates and customize them to match your website’s design.
PopUpMaker also includes a powerful email marketing integration that lets you connect your opt-in forms to your email list.
Best For
An eCommerce store will appreciate this plugin.
Notable Features
- Popups for content upgrades
- Opt-in boxes that open automatically
- Upsell and cross-sell slide-ins
Pros
- Integrates with WP Forms, Ninja Forms, and more
- Popups for product categories
- Product popups
- Can target specific browsers and countries
- Add videos and images to popup forms
Cons
- Limited templates
- No preview option
- The editor is a little confusing
Is PopUpMaker Hard To Use?
No, but it takes time to understand the dashboard.
Pricing & Plans
- Start: $87 per year
- Grow: $147 per year
- Optimize: $247 per year
Our Take
PopUpMaker is a solid tool that will help you increase your conversion rate.
However, the lack of templates and preview options may be a dealbreaker for some users.
6. ConvertBox
ConvertBox is a powerful tool that allows you to customize opt-in forms based on repeat visitor history or email subscriber status.
Best For
Bloggers, course creators, and affiliate marketers.
Notable Features
- Pass data to and from an email service provider
- Drag and drop editor
- Real-time tracking and analytics
Pros
- A/B testing
- Exit intent forms
- Personalize by name and other data
- Easily segment leads
- Use countdown timers to encourage the opt-in
Cons
- Could use improvements with its page-by-page reporting
- No monthly pricing option
- An overwhelming number of features for new marketers
Is ConvertBox Hard To Use?
It’s easy to use the dashboard.
However, there are a dizzying array of options.
Pricing & Plans
It offers one $ 495-lifetime pricing option
Our Take
ConvertBox is the best tool on the market for customizing the user experience based on past interactions with your brand.
7. Holler Box
Holler Box is a plugin that allows you to create pop-ups and opt-ins for your website.
Best For
Agencies and small business owners.
Notable Features
- A/B testing
- Exit intent options
- Customizable design
Pros
- Integrates with major email marketing platforms
- Can create banners
- Includes a website chat feature
- Use callout popups
- Select when and where popups display
Cons
- More expensive than other options
- Plugin sometimes returns confusing error messages
- Integrations need to be reset periodically
Is Holler Box Hard To Use?
It’s easy to use for most users.
An intuitive design makes it so that there isn’t a ton of trial and error in trying to find what you want.
Our Take
Holler Box is an effective tool for increasing your website’s engagement.
8. Hustle
Hustle will help you improve website conversions via its opt-in forms.
Best For
Any type of business currently struggling to convert website traffic into leads.
Notable Features
- Unique opt-in forms for mobile devices and desktops
- CSS customization options
- Smart triggers for slide-ins and popups
Pros
- Includes social sharing buttons
- Integration with a variety of email service providers
- Supports both Gutenberg and Classic Editor in WordPress
- The Recaptcha option fights spam
- Analytics and reporting
Cons
- Some users report that the plugin deletes itself
- Integrations don’t always “fire”
- The support team isn’t responsive
Is Hustle Hard To Use?
No, it’s easy to install and use without much learning involved.
Pricing & Plans
- Free
Our Take
Hustle does have some cons.
However, most plugins do.
The pros far outweigh them.
9. Icegram
Icegram helps you grow and nurture your tribe.
Best For
Any type of business can use Icegram.
Notable Features
- Automated relays and saved submissions
- Security checks
- Offers 12 different types of messaging features
Pros
- Comes with ready-to-use campaigns
- Behavior triggers
- Retargeting
- Analytics
- Unlimited usage
Cons
- The dashboard isn’t intuitive
- Multiple options cause some confusion
- You need to sometimes reset its integrations
Is Icegram Hard To Use?
You should plan to take the time to understand all the dashboard options at first.
Pricing & Plans
- Free
Our Take
The wide range of features makes Icegram a worthy choice.
10. Sumo
Sumo is a free WordPress opt-in form plugin that offers a wide range of features and options.
Best For
All types of businesses can put the power of Sumo to work.
Notable Features
- Welcome mat features
- Smart Mode list builder popup
- Click triggers
Pros
- Can set it up in under 60 seconds
- Offers a free-forever plan
- Integrates with all major email service providers
- Can customize the forms to match your website’s color scheme
- Social media share buttons
Cons
- The free version includes Sumo branding
- The paid plan is expensive
- The interface isn’t as intuitive as other options
Is Sumo Hard To Use?
No, but the interface takes some getting used to.
Pricing & Plans
- Free
- Pro: $39 per month
Our Take
Sumo is a nice tool for businesses of all sizes.
The free plan is generous and the paid plan packs in interesting features.
11. Bloom
Bloom is a plugin created by Elegant Themes.
Best For
Bloggers, affiliate marketers, and eCommerce businesses can use Bloom.
Notable Features
- Time popups
- Scrolling opt-in forms
- On-click forms
Pros
- Over 100 templates to choose from
- Exclude specific website pages
- Integrates with plenty of email software
- Automatic fly-in popup forms
- Can lock premium content
Cons
- Doesn’t include a drag and drop form builder
- No exit-intent popup options
- Can’t purchase it as a standalone plugin
Is Bloom Hard To Use?
Users find it intuitive and have little hassle getting up and running.
Pricing & Plans
You must purchase an Elegant Themes membership to use Bloom.
- Annual: $89 per year
- Lifetime: $249
Our Take
Bloom works well for anyone already using the Elegant Theme platform.
12. OptinMonster
OptinMonster is one of the most popular plugins available, with a lot of features and an easy-to-use interface.
Best For
People who want to increase conversions with powerful pop-ups, exit-intent forms, and floating bars.
Notable Features
- Floating bars
- Lightbox popups
- Scroll boxes
Pros
- Integrates well with major email service providers
- Use gamified wheels
- Over 100 templates are available
- Geolocation targeting
- Easily add unique content to each opt-in form
Cons
- Customer support isn’t as responsive as other options
- CSS features don’t always work well
- The free plugin version provides limited features
Is OptinMonster Hard To Use?
No, it’s a relatively simple WordPress plugin with a design that should allow for a seamless implementation.
Pricing & Plans
- Free
- Basic: $9 per month
- Plus: $19 per month
- Pro: $29 per month
- Growth: $49 per month
Our Take
OptinMonster is one of the industry’s leaders.
It’s well worth the investment when using a paid plan.
13. Elementor Pro Popup Builder
Elementor Pro Popup Builder is one of the most versatile plugins on the market.
Best For
All business types.
Notable Features
- Simple drag and drop editor
- Build custom opt-in forms
- Display conditions and triggers
Pros
- No coding skills required
- Content lock features
- Exit intent popup forms
- Use it for sales promotions
- Upsell features
Cons
- Exit animations are not as good as other options
- No split testing features
- Reporting features aren’t as robust as other plugins
Is Elementor Pro Popup Builder Hard To Use?
No, the drag and drop builder makes it easy to use.
Pricing & Plans
- Essential: $49 per year
- Expert: $199 per year
- Agency: $399 per year
Our Take
If you’re looking for a plugin that comes with almost every essential feature, consider using Elementor Pro Popup Builder.
14. WP Subscribe
WP Subscribe is one of the most user-friendly WordPress optin form plugins available.
Best For
All types of businesses can put WP Subscribe to work.
Notable Features
- Popup animations and triggers
- Popup previews
- Attractive designs
Pros
- Show related articles inside your popup forms
- No coding required
- Mobile-friendly designs
- Supports shortcodes
- Opt-in forms come optimized for speed
Cons
- The plugin stops working periodically
- Fewer features than other options
- Support always helps but sometimes takes a while to respond
Is WP Subscribe Hard To Use?
No, it’s easy to implement and users should have little issue navigating the program.
Pricing & Plans
- Free plan for one site
- Unlimited sites plan: $19
- Unlimited sites membership: $199
Our Take
WP Subscribe is a good choice if you’re looking for an opt-in form plugin that’s easy to use and doesn’t require any coding.
15. MailPoet
MailPoet is a freemium WordPress opt-in form plugin that allows you to create beautiful opt-in forms and manage your subscribers.
Best For
Bloggers and affiliate marketers with smaller businesses.
Notable Features
- Single and double opt-in forms
- A/B split testing
- Drag and drop editor
Pros
- Use images in your opt-in forms
- Can use the built-in MailPoet email plugin
- Use it to send newsletters
- Basic engagement analytics
- Plenty of templates
Cons
- Must upgrade for detailed statistics
- Google Analytics integration requires a paid plan
- Best segmentation options come with paid plans only
Is MailPoet Hard To Use?
No, it’s a simple plugin to learn and use.
Pricing & Plans
- Starter: Free
- Creator: $8 per month
- Business: $10 per month
- Agency: $30 per month
Our Take
MailPoet is a quality WordPress opt-in form plugin for those just starting their online business.
The paid plans are affordable.
WordPress Opt-in Form Examples
Looking at examples of companies and brands using WordPress opt-in forms helps when you need ideas for your WordPress website.
FabFitFun makes good use of a simple opt-in form in the footer of its website.
At Backlinko.com, Brian Dean uses an effective “above-the-fold” opt-in form to attract new subscribers.
He makes sure website visitors understand that they won’t find Dean’s newsletter content on his website.
On his website, Neil Patel, uses a full-page opt-in form.
It encourages visitors to enter their website URL to receive a free website audit.
Jon Morrow gives his Smart Blogger visitors an interesting exit-intent popup when they try to leave.
It uses an industry-relevant image and offers a 3-part video series.
How To Use an Opt-in Form in WordPress
It’s simple to set up an opt-in form using a plugin in WordPress.
You can install most plugins directly from your WordPress dashboard by going to Plugins > Add New and searching for the plugin by name.
Once you install the plugin and activate it, you’ll need to configure it according to your needs.
Each plugin offers its own settings page where you can add fields, customize the form’s appearance, and more.
If you can’t find the plugin by searching for it, then you can always download it from the WordPress.org plugin directory and upload it to your site manually.
After installing and activating your favorite plugin, follow these steps.
Select the opt-in form type you want to use on your website.
There are many different types of opt-in forms, so be sure to choose the one that’s right for you.
Configure the plugin settings to match your preferences.
You can usually find the settings page by going to Settings > Optin Forms in your WordPress dashboard.
Place the opt-in form on your website using a shortcode or widget.
Most plugins will provide a shortcode that you can copy and paste into any post or page on your site.
Test the opt-in form to make sure it’s working properly.
Be sure to test all the fields and submit the form several times to make sure everything is working as it should.
Wrapping Up
WordPress optin form plugins make it easy to collect email addresses from your website visitors.
Most plugins offer a wide range of customization options.
Select one or two from the above list and investigate them in detail.
Choose the one that meets your needs and put it to use on your site.