Quick Overview
- 1#1: Cision - Enterprise-grade PR platform offering press release distribution, media database, monitoring, and analytics.
- 2#2: Business Wire - Global press release distribution service reaching financial media, journalists, and targeted audiences.
- 3#3: PR Newswire - Leading wire service for multimedia press release distribution to newsrooms worldwide.
- 4#4: GlobeNewswire - Press release distribution network with regulatory filing and international reach.
- 5#5: Meltwater - AI-powered media intelligence platform for PR distribution, monitoring, and influencer outreach.
- 6#6: Prowly - All-in-one PR software for crafting, pitching, and distributing press releases to journalists.
- 7#7: Newswire - Digital press release distribution service with SEO optimization and targeted syndication.
- 8#8: EIN Presswire - Affordable press release distribution to thousands of news outlets and search engines.
- 9#9: PRWeb - Online press release service focused on SEO visibility and targeted distribution.
- 10#10: 24-7 Press Release - Budget-friendly platform for instant press release submission to major news wires.
We ranked these tools based on key factors including functionality (such as media targeting and multimedia support), user experience, reliability, and overall value, ensuring a curated list of top performers for various PR objectives.
Comparison Table
Explore this comparison table to evaluate top press release software, including Cision, Business Wire, PR Newswire, GlobeNewswire, and Meltwater. Discover how to assess features, pricing, and use cases, helping you select the platform that aligns with your communication objectives.
| # | Tool | Category | Overall | Features | Ease of Use | Value |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Cision Enterprise-grade PR platform offering press release distribution, media database, monitoring, and analytics. | enterprise | 9.5/10 | 9.8/10 | 8.2/10 | 8.0/10 |
| 2 | Business Wire Global press release distribution service reaching financial media, journalists, and targeted audiences. | specialized | 9.2/10 | 9.5/10 | 8.2/10 | 7.8/10 |
| 3 | PR Newswire Leading wire service for multimedia press release distribution to newsrooms worldwide. | specialized | 8.2/10 | 9.1/10 | 7.4/10 | 7.0/10 |
| 4 | GlobeNewswire Press release distribution network with regulatory filing and international reach. | specialized | 8.2/10 | 8.7/10 | 7.9/10 | 7.4/10 |
| 5 | Meltwater AI-powered media intelligence platform for PR distribution, monitoring, and influencer outreach. | enterprise | 8.3/10 | 9.1/10 | 7.4/10 | 7.7/10 |
| 6 | Prowly All-in-one PR software for crafting, pitching, and distributing press releases to journalists. | specialized | 8.7/10 | 9.0/10 | 8.8/10 | 8.2/10 |
| 7 | Newswire Digital press release distribution service with SEO optimization and targeted syndication. | specialized | 8.2/10 | 8.5/10 | 8.0/10 | 7.5/10 |
| 8 | EIN Presswire Affordable press release distribution to thousands of news outlets and search engines. | specialized | 7.8/10 | 7.5/10 | 8.5/10 | 8.8/10 |
| 9 | PRWeb Online press release service focused on SEO visibility and targeted distribution. | specialized | 7.6/10 | 8.0/10 | 8.2/10 | 6.8/10 |
| 10 | 24-7 Press Release Budget-friendly platform for instant press release submission to major news wires. | other | 6.8/10 | 6.5/10 | 8.2/10 | 7.5/10 |
Enterprise-grade PR platform offering press release distribution, media database, monitoring, and analytics.
Global press release distribution service reaching financial media, journalists, and targeted audiences.
Leading wire service for multimedia press release distribution to newsrooms worldwide.
Press release distribution network with regulatory filing and international reach.
AI-powered media intelligence platform for PR distribution, monitoring, and influencer outreach.
All-in-one PR software for crafting, pitching, and distributing press releases to journalists.
Digital press release distribution service with SEO optimization and targeted syndication.
Affordable press release distribution to thousands of news outlets and search engines.
Online press release service focused on SEO visibility and targeted distribution.
Budget-friendly platform for instant press release submission to major news wires.
Cision
enterpriseEnterprise-grade PR platform offering press release distribution, media database, monitoring, and analytics.
The proprietary media database with detailed journalist profiles, preferences, and contact data for hyper-targeted distribution.
Cision is a comprehensive PR and communications platform renowned for its press release distribution capabilities, leveraging the world's largest media database to target journalists and outlets precisely. It enables users to craft, distribute, and optimize press releases across global wires, social media, and trade publications while providing real-time analytics and media monitoring. The software integrates influencer outreach, relationship management, and reporting tools to streamline entire PR workflows for enterprise-scale operations.
Pros
- Massive media database with over 1.7 million contacts for precise targeting
- Global distribution to 170,000+ outlets and wires with multimedia support
- Advanced analytics, monitoring, and ROI measurement tools
Cons
- High cost suitable only for enterprises
- Steep learning curve for new users
- Complex interface can overwhelm smaller teams
Best For
Large enterprises, PR agencies, and corporations needing extensive media outreach and analytics.
Pricing
Custom enterprise pricing starting at $10,000+ annually; contact sales for quotes based on usage and features.
Business Wire
specializedGlobal press release distribution service reaching financial media, journalists, and targeted audiences.
Regulatory-compliant filings with automatic SEC EDGAR submission and international wire distribution.
Business Wire is a leading press release distribution platform that delivers news to thousands of journalists, financial professionals, and media outlets worldwide via its extensive network. It supports multimedia attachments, targeted distribution by industry or geography, and ensures compliance with regulatory requirements like SEC EDGAR filings. The service provides real-time analytics, guaranteed delivery reports, and integration with newsrooms for streamlined corporate communications.
Pros
- Vast global distribution network reaching 5,000+ websites and key wires
- Advanced targeting and multimedia support for maximum reach
- Detailed analytics and guaranteed delivery tracking
Cons
- High per-release pricing can be prohibitive for small businesses
- Complex setup for custom campaigns requires support
- Less emphasis on DIY editing tools compared to newer platforms
Best For
Established corporations and public companies seeking compliant, high-impact press release distribution.
Pricing
Per-release pricing starts at ~$450 for basic U.S. distribution, scaling to $2,000+ for global/multimedia; enterprise plans and subscriptions available.
PR Newswire
specializedLeading wire service for multimedia press release distribution to newsrooms worldwide.
Proprietary multi-channel distribution network with evergreen visibility on premium news sites and wires
PR Newswire is a premier press release distribution platform that allows businesses to publish and distribute news content to a vast network of journalists, media outlets, websites, and social channels worldwide. It provides tools for creating multimedia-rich press releases, targeted distribution by industry, geography, or audience, and real-time analytics to measure reach and impact. As part of Cision, it leverages decades of industry expertise for high-visibility placements and SEO benefits.
Pros
- Extensive global distribution network reaching 170,000+ journalists and 4,000+ sites
- Robust analytics including media pickups, views, and SEO performance tracking
- High credibility with guaranteed placements on major wires like AP and Reuters
Cons
- High pricing that may not suit small businesses or infrequent users
- Interface feels dated and has a learning curve for non-experts
- Limited free tools or templates compared to newer competitors
Best For
Established companies and PR professionals needing maximum media reach and detailed reporting for high-stakes announcements.
Pricing
Starts at $350 for basic U.S. distribution; premium global/multimedia packages range from $1,000 to $10,000+ per release.
GlobeNewswire
specializedPress release distribution network with regulatory filing and international reach.
Guaranteed publication in key financial platforms like Nasdaq and OTC Markets
GlobeNewswire is a premier press release distribution platform that connects businesses with journalists, financial media, and global news outlets for maximum visibility. It supports multimedia-rich releases, targeted distribution to specific audiences or regions, and provides detailed analytics on reach, views, and engagement. The service is particularly strong in financial and regulatory filings, ensuring compliance and rapid dissemination.
Pros
- Extensive global distribution network reaching over 60,000 media outlets
- Advanced targeting by industry, location, and journalist
- Comprehensive analytics including real-time tracking and guaranteed placements
Cons
- Premium pricing can be prohibitive for small businesses
- Interface feels more enterprise-oriented with a learning curve
- Limited free tools or templates for release creation
Best For
Mid-sized to large enterprises and public companies needing broad international exposure and financial media targeting.
Pricing
Starts at $499 for basic U.S. distribution, with international and premium packages ranging from $1,000 to $5,000+ per release based on reach and features.
Meltwater
enterpriseAI-powered media intelligence platform for PR distribution, monitoring, and influencer outreach.
AI-driven media monitoring across 250+ million sources in real-time for unparalleled global coverage
Meltwater is a robust media intelligence platform that combines press release distribution with comprehensive media monitoring and analytics. It enables users to send releases to a vast global network of journalists and outlets while tracking coverage across online, print, broadcast, and social media. The tool leverages AI for sentiment analysis, share of voice metrics, and actionable insights to refine PR strategies.
Pros
- Extensive global media database covering 300,000+ sources
- Advanced AI-powered analytics and real-time alerts
- Seamless integration of distribution, monitoring, and reporting
Cons
- High enterprise-level pricing
- Steep learning curve for non-expert users
- Limited customization for smaller-scale campaigns
Best For
Large enterprises and PR agencies requiring end-to-end media intelligence and global distribution capabilities.
Pricing
Custom enterprise pricing; typically starts at $20,000+ annually based on usage and features.
Prowly
specializedAll-in-one PR software for crafting, pitching, and distributing press releases to journalists.
Visual Newsrooms for creating interactive, multimedia-rich online hubs that captivate journalists and boost engagement
Prowly is a comprehensive PR platform that enables users to create, distribute, and track press releases through an intuitive interface and extensive media database. It features customizable visual newsrooms, journalist outreach tools, and real-time analytics to measure campaign impact and media coverage. Designed for PR professionals, it streamlines communication with journalists and enhances brand storytelling across digital channels.
Pros
- Extensive media database with verified journalist contacts
- Stunning customizable visual newsrooms for brand storytelling
- Robust analytics and reporting for campaign performance tracking
Cons
- Pricing can be steep for small teams or startups
- Limited third-party integrations compared to larger competitors
- Advanced customization requires a learning curve
Best For
Mid-sized PR agencies and marketing teams needing an all-in-one tool for press release distribution and media relations.
Pricing
Starts at $189/user/month for Standard plan; Premium at $425/user/month; custom Enterprise pricing available.
Newswire
specializedDigital press release distribution service with SEO optimization and targeted syndication.
Precise journalist and outlet targeting using proprietary media database
Newswire is a robust press release distribution platform that connects businesses with thousands of journalists, media outlets, and digital networks for maximum news visibility. It supports targeted distribution by industry, geography, and keywords, along with multimedia attachments and SEO-optimized formatting. Users benefit from real-time analytics, guaranteed placements on major wires, and customizable reporting to measure reach and engagement.
Pros
- Extensive global distribution network reaching 10,000+ outlets and sites
- Advanced targeting and multimedia support for tailored campaigns
- Comprehensive analytics and guaranteed wire placements
Cons
- High pricing can be prohibitive for small businesses or startups
- Limited free tier or self-service editing post-submission
- Less emphasis on built-in content creation tools compared to competitors
Best For
Mid-sized companies and PR professionals seeking reliable, high-reach distribution with strong analytics.
Pricing
Packages start at $999 for U.S. national distribution, scaling to $3,000+ for global and premium targeted plans.
EIN Presswire
specializedAffordable press release distribution to thousands of news outlets and search engines.
Guaranteed syndication to Google News for enhanced SEO and visibility
EIN Presswire is a press release distribution platform that enables users to submit and distribute news releases to over 200 news sites, journalists, bloggers, and aggregators including Google News and Yahoo. It provides a straightforward web-based interface for crafting and sending releases with support for multimedia attachments like images and videos. The service guarantees publication on its own high-authority site and offers tiered distribution options for broader reach.
Pros
- Affordable pricing starting under $100
- Inclusion in Google News and major aggregators
- Quick turnaround with guaranteed EIN site publication
Cons
- Limited advanced targeting or journalist outreach
- Basic analytics and reporting
- No integration with CRM or marketing tools
Best For
Small businesses, startups, and individuals seeking cost-effective press release distribution without needing premium PR agency features.
Pricing
Starts at $99.95 for standard 400-word distribution (5,000 readers), up to $399.95 for premium (115,000+ readers); pay-per-release model with no subscriptions.
PRWeb
specializedOnline press release service focused on SEO visibility and targeted distribution.
Guaranteed distribution to over 200 premium sites including Google News and Yahoo for enhanced SEO visibility
PRWeb is an established online press release distribution platform that allows users to create, optimize, and distribute news releases to thousands of journalists, bloggers, news sites, and search engines like Google News. It offers multimedia support, SEO optimization tools, and real-time analytics to measure reach, views, and engagement. Primarily used by businesses for brand visibility and backlink generation, it streamlines PR efforts without needing a full agency.
Pros
- Extensive distribution network reaching major search engines and news outlets
- User-friendly interface for quick release submission and multimedia embedding
- Detailed analytics dashboard for tracking impressions and clicks
Cons
- High pricing with variable ROI on pickups
- Limited targeting options compared to newer competitors
- Occasional reports of lower-quality placements and spam filters
Best For
Small to mid-sized businesses seeking broad, affordable media exposure without in-house PR expertise.
Pricing
Starts at $99 for Basic (limited distribution), $289 for Standard, $369 for Premium (full features and multimedia); volume discounts available.
24-7 Press Release
otherBudget-friendly platform for instant press release submission to major news wires.
24/7 instant approval and distribution to Google News and major search engines
24-7 Press Release is an online distribution service that allows users to submit and distribute press releases to over 400 news sites, search engines like Google News, and journalist databases. It offers a web-based editor for crafting releases with options for multimedia attachments and targeted distribution plans. The platform emphasizes affordability and speed, providing pay-per-release packages suitable for small-scale PR efforts.
Pros
- Affordable entry-level pricing
- Simple web-based submission process
- Fast 24/7 distribution to search engines
Cons
- Limited reach to major news outlets
- Basic reporting and analytics
- Generic distribution can feel spammy
Best For
Small businesses and startups seeking budget-friendly press release distribution for basic visibility.
Pricing
Pay-per-release plans start at $49 for basic (400+ sites), up to $399 for premium with multimedia and guarantees.
Conclusion
The 10 press release tools reviewed demonstrate diverse strengths, with Cision emerging as the top choice, boasting enterprise-grade features like comprehensive distribution, media database access, and analytics. Business Wire stands out for its global reach to financial media and targeted audiences, while PR Newswire excels with multimedia distribution to newsrooms worldwide. Each tool caters to distinct needs, ensuring a suitable option exists for every user.
Take the first step in enhancing your PR strategy by testing Cision—where robust capabilities and actionable insights can elevate your announcements to new heights.
Tools Reviewed
All tools were independently evaluated for this comparison