Newsletter - plain text or HTML template?

[Dinghus]

A client of mine wants to start a newsletter that will have ads in it (very few). The question comes up as to whether to go with a nice HTML template with graphics etc or just a plain text newsletter.

I'm sure somebody here has some stats on which works best. Please share. :)

[stymiee]

Do both. It's relatively trivial to send an email as both from a web application.

[Dinghus]

Actually, it is becoming harder due to spam blockers on the hosting servers. His host does not allow sending HTML email from a website. That is why we are wondering which is better. Should he pay for a service like Constant Contact or just go with plain text from his website?

[incrediblehelp]

I agree do both. One that is easily printable and one that will attract web traffic.

[Dinghus]

So you are saying to hit members with 2 emails instead of just 1?

[incrediblehelp]

I am saying make both available from ONE email. Both can be available online from the website as well.

Also when you OPT-IN for this newsletter you should allow the end user to pick which option they want.

[Dinghus]

That's interesting. Now if you had to choose one over the other to do, which would you say does best?

[incrediblehelp]

I dont think you have to choose, just have the user choose during signing up process.