Email Marketing vs. Social Media ROI: Why Email Still Reigns in 2025
- Team Intrigue
- May 14
- 2 min read
In an age where social media dominates conversations, trends, and screen time, you might assume it's the most profitable channel for marketers. But according to the Litmus 2023 State of Email Report, that’s not the case.
The Numbers Speak for Themselves
📧 77% of marketers say email marketing delivers the highest return on investment (ROI)📱 Only 21% of marketers say the same for social media
These numbers reveal a striking gap—and it’s not new. For years, email has quietly outperformed social in terms of conversion, engagement, and cost-efficiency. In 2025, that gap is more relevant than ever as marketers face tighter budgets and growing pressure to show measurable impact.
Why Email Outperforms Social for ROI
Direct Audience Access: Email lands directly in inboxes, bypassing algorithms and distractions. You’re not at the mercy of platform changes.
Personalization Power: With tools like segmentation, automation, and AI, brands can craft highly personalized messages that drive results.
Owned vs. Rented Space: On social media, your followers are essentially rented. A platform update could slash your reach overnight. With email, you own your list.
Trackable Results: Email gives precise insights on open rates, click-throughs, and conversions—key data for optimizing ROI.
What Social Media Still Does Well
While email leads in ROI, social media shines in brand visibility, community engagement, and trend participation. It’s great for the top of the funnel—but may not always close the deal.
Smart marketers use both channels strategically: social for awareness, email for conversion.
Final Takeaway
If you’re deciding where to double down in 2025, let ROI be your guide. With 77% of marketers vouching for its profitability, email marketing deserves a top spot in your strategy—especially when budgets are tight and performance matters. Source: Litmus 2023 State of Email Report Explore our upcoming events at Intrigue, where we host Marketing, Advertising, and Tech Summits globally. To learn more about us and our events, visit SALESGASM
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