Which is cheaper, AWS SES or Customer.io?

Pricing varies by tier and usage. Check both tools for current rates.

Does AWS SES have a free tier?

Yes, AWS SES offers a free tier with messageChargesPerMonth: 3000, durationMonths: 12.

AWS SES has moderate switching cost. Customer.io has significant switching cost. AWS SES is easier to switch away from.

AWS SES

Amazon Simple Email Service for high-volume transactional and marketing email

Switching Cost: moderate

Customer.io

Automated messaging platform for targeted emails, push notifications, SMS, and in-app messages based on user behavior

Switching Cost: significant

The free tier advantage goes to AWS SES, which offers a no-cost entry point that Customer.io lacks.

Pricing philosophy differs — AWS SES charges usage-based, but Customer.io takes a tiered approach.

For early-stage teams or experimental projects, AWS SES's free tier provides valuable runway without commitment.

For early-stage teams or experimental projects, AWS SES's free tier provides valuable runway without commitment.

Free Tier

AWS SES

Has a free tier option

Pricing Model

Different

Tools charge using different pricing philosophies

Switching Costs

AWS SES

Lower switching costs for easier migration