Getting media coverage is difficult if your press release never reaches the right journalists, publications, or news syndication networks. In my experience reviewing PR and marketing platforms for small businesses, the best press release distribution services help businesses increase visibility, improve SEO reach, and distribute announcements more efficiently without requiring manual media outreach.
To help you find the right platform, I tested the seven top press release distribution companies based on pricing, distribution reach, turnaround times, targeting tools, ease of use, and overall value. After comparing the leading providers, I found EIN Presswire stands out as the best overall press release distribution service for small businesses because of its affordability, broad distribution network, and business-friendly features.
Best press release distribution services at a glance
To ensure we provide readers with the best answers, the Fit Small Business editorial process adheres to strict standards, including rigorous research, assessment, and provider scoring.
Furthermore, I leverage the following experience when reviewing business software and marketing platforms:
- Over 14 years of editorial research and writing
- Over six years of writing expert reviews about sales and business technologies
- Over two years in insurance sales and team management
- Almost two years in sales territory management
Sales & Marketing Analyst at Fit Small Business
For this guide, I evaluated the seven best press release distribution services based on pricing, media reach, turnaround times, SEO visibility, audience targeting tools, ease of use, and overall value for small businesses. My full methodology included evaluation of editorial support, analytics features, international distribution capabilities, and real customer feedback to assess how well each platform performs for real-world PR and media outreach.
What makes EIN Presswire the overall best press release distribution service?
Pros
- Sends your press release to news outlets, broadcast networks, and search engines
- Can embed media for free
- Has same-day distribution
Cons
- Lacks proofreading or writing services
- Can only embed one image on the first plan and one video on all plans
- Doesn’t send to bloggers or influencers
- You want to send a press release to major news outlets, TV networks, and search engines
- You have longer press releases (from 700 to 2,500 words)
- You have video press releases
Why I chose EIN Presswire
After comparing multiple press release distribution services, EIN Presswire consistently stood out to me for balancing affordability with broad media reach. Many lower-cost platforms limit distribution capabilities or charge extra for features like SEO and media embeds, but EIN Presswire includes those features up front. I also found its same-day distribution especially valuable for small businesses that need fast visibility for announcements, product launches, or company news.
One limitation is that EIN Presswire does not provide writing or proofreading services, so businesses need to come prepared with a polished press release. The entry plan also limits image uploads, which may not work well for highly visual campaigns. Still, for businesses that mainly care about reach, turnaround time, and overall distribution value, EIN Presswire remains one of the strongest all-around press release distribution services I reviewed.
EIN Presswire can send your press release to news sites, broadcast networks, and search engines, all on the same day. It’ll also host your press release on its website.
EIN Presswire pricing
What makes PRWeb by Cision the best for online press release distribution?
Pros
- Automatically optimizes press releases for search engines
- Has unlimited images and video on all press releases
- Has 24- to 48-hour turnaround times for your press release to be published
Cons
- Has no distribution of print or broadcast media—everything is online
- Offers professional proofreading only on higher plans from $340
- Only offers sending to bloggers and influencers on the highest plan
- You want to specifically grow your business’s online presence and credibility
- You have a 100% ecommerce business and want to exclusively capture an online market
Why I chose PRWeb by Cision
PRWeb impressed me most with online visibility and search-focused distribution. In my experience reviewing PR platforms, many services prioritize syndication volume but overlook how releases actually perform in search results. PRWeb’s keyword optimization and strong online publishing network make it one of the better choices for businesses trying to improve discoverability through Google and other search engines.
I also like that PRWeb supports multimedia-rich releases, which can improve engagement for digital audiences. The downside is that wider syndication is reserved for more expensive plans, making it less budget-friendly than some competitors. However, for businesses focused on SEO visibility, online publishing, and brand exposure through a trusted Cision-backed platform, PRWeb is still one of the more reliable press release services available.
PRWeb is one of the largest online news distribution networks in the world, guaranteeing your news story is visible online.
PRWeb by Cision pricing
What makes IssueWire the best free (and inexpensive) distribution service?
Pros
- Offers a 100% free press release with SEO optimization and social media sharing
- Has inexpensive plans—can be distributed to online and broadcast news outlets for just $45
- Lets you include up to five images and four links in your press release on all plans, including the free plan
Cons
- Only your first press release is free
- Doesn’t distribute free press releases to any news sites or broadcast networks, just hosts on IssueWire.com
- Has IssueWire ads in the first three plans
- You’re absolutely budget-strapped and need a free way to get your news story online
- Your news story or announcement isn’t major enough to warrant national coverage
Why I chose IssueWire
IssueWire delivers some of the best value I have found for businesses with limited PR budgets. Its free plan includes features that many competitors reserve for paid tiers, including image support, links, SEO optimization, and social media distribution. For startups or smaller businesses testing press release distribution for the first time, that low barrier to entry makes a noticeable difference.
The tradeoff is that the free plan does not guarantee placement with journalists or major media outlets, and its overall distribution network is smaller than that of premium services. I also found its editorial guidelines stricter than those of some competitors. Still, if your goal is affordable online visibility rather than large-scale national media coverage, IssueWire offers more functionality at lower price points than most press release distribution companies I reviewed.
IssueWire provides 100% free press release hosting and distribution, as well as lower-than-average paid plans from $21.
IssueWire pricing
What makes eReleases the best for same- or next-day distribution?
Pros
- All press releases are automatically sent the following day before 9 a.m. Eastern
- Same-day distribution is also available upon request
- Distributes to over 100,000 journalists plus online news sites
- All press releases have SEO optimization and go through two editorial reviews
Cons
- The first plan, costing $399, only allows up to 400 words (add $150 for every 100 additional words)
- Embedding images and YouTube videos costs an extra $150 and $200 respectively
- Doesn’t distribute to radio or TV stations
- You need your press release sent out within the same or the following day
- You want wide distribution across print and digital media and have a press release with fewer than 400 words
Why I chose eReleases
What stood out to me most about eReleases was its speed. It’s one of the few press release distribution services that prioritizes rapid turnaround with next-day distribution and same-day options upon request. That makes it especially useful for urgent announcements, crisis communications, or product launches where timing matters as much as reach.
I also appreciate that every release goes through an editorial review before distribution, which can help improve professionalism and increase the chances of media pickup. The biggest drawback is cost. eReleases is more expensive than many alternatives, and advanced features like multimedia embeds, influencer outreach, and expanded targeting often require additional fees. Even so, for businesses that value fast distribution and editorial support over the lowest possible pricing, eReleases remains one of the strongest premium options available.
eReleases stands out for being able to expedite your press release for next-day—or same-day—distribution.
eReleases pricing
Why does Newswire have the best audience targeting tools?
Pros
- Targets press release distribution by industry and location (local, regional, national, or international)
- Has three-tier editing process
- Offers same-day or rush publishing
Cons
- Charges extra for video embedding and social media distribution
- Can only include one image in your press release
- Doesn’t guarantee same-day distribution
- You need to target audiences in a specific region or state
- You have an industry-specific press release and want to appear in trade publications
- You want to distribute your press release to international outlets
Why I chose Newswire
Newswire stood out in my evaluation because of its advanced audience targeting capabilities. Rather than focusing solely on mass distribution, it gives businesses more control over where their releases appear by allowing targeting based on geography, industry, audience type, and campaign reach. That level of precision can make a significant difference for businesses trying to reach specific markets or investor audiences.
The downside is that targeted and international campaigns can become expensive compared with simpler distribution platforms. However, Newswire balances that with strong reporting tools, editorial review, and flexible targeting options. For businesses running strategic PR campaigns instead of one-off announcements, I found Newswire far more customizable than many lower-cost competitors.
Newswire allows you to send your press release to specific regions or industries for precise targeting.
Newswire pricing
What makes GlobeNewswire the best for multinational distribution?
Pros
- Distributes press releases to 150-plus countries and 35 local languages
- Offers free Newswire Analytics to measure performance
- Includes various media snippets such as photos, videos, audio, and live-streaming
- Has an artificial intelligence (AI) press release generator
Cons
- Has no clear pricing; entirely dependent on your project and PR needs
- Has received low user ratings on third-party review sites like TrustRadius
- You want news coverage in multiple countries and regions
- You want media-heavy press releases including video, audio, and images
- Your data-oriented business wants post-distribution reports and performance analytics
Why I chose GlobeNewswire
GlobeNewswire is one of the most enterprise-focused platforms I reviewed, particularly for multinational distribution and investor communications. Its global reach, multilingual support, translation services, regulatory filing tools, and analytics capabilities make it much more advanced than a standard press release service. I also like that it supports industry and geographic targeting at an international scale.
The tradeoff is that GlobeNewswire may be excessive for smaller businesses sending occasional announcements, and its pricing structure is less transparent than self-service competitors. Still, for companies managing global PR campaigns, investor relations, or multilingual announcements, GlobeNewswire offers infrastructure and international reach that very few press release distribution platforms can match.
Globe Newswire sends press releases to 158 countries and in 35 languages. It also hosts them on its website.
GlobeNewswire pricing
GlobeNewswire offers custom pricing for every business based on your industry, content, time range, and other factors.
What makes Linking News the best for mass distribution?
Pros
- Can instantly mass-send your press release to 700-plus media outlets, including major networks like NBC and CBS
- Offers press releases that are all white-labeled (no Linking News branding, just your business’s)
- Has a very easy process—just fill out a form and submit your press release
Cons
- Lacks targeted press release distribution, either by location or industry
- Doesn’t offer SEO optimization or an editorial review of your press release
- Doesn’t host published press releases on its website
- You need mass, not targeted, distribution of your press release
- Your primary goal is to gain brand awareness from a general audience
Why I chose Linking News
Linking News made it to this list because of the sheer scale of its distribution network. Its packages focus heavily on broad online syndication and guaranteed placements, which can help businesses quickly expand their brand presence across news sites, search engines, and online publications. For businesses primarily focused on visibility, backlinks, and fast online exposure, that large-scale distribution approach can be especially useful.
The downside is that it lacks some of the editorial support, targeting controls, and relationship-management tools offered by higher-end PR platforms. It also requires users to prepare their own release before submission. Even so, for businesses seeking straightforward mass distribution and a stronger online brand presence, Linking News remains a practical, low-maintenance option.
Linking News offers mass press release distribution if you want your story to reach a general audience. It covers everything from major news sites like CNN to industry publications like MarketWatch.
Linking News pricing
Why use a press release service?
Sending your press releases manually can be more affordable, but press release distribution services have more than their fair share of benefits that make them better for PR. For one, sending a press release isn’t always straightforward—you’ll need to build your contact list and write your pitch, among others. Established press release services take care of all that for you, among other benefits.
- Wider reach: Paid distribution services already have established networks and partnerships with media outlets, journalists, influencers, news aggregators, and more. Purchasing their services will allow you to tap into their extensive reach and gain exposure to more potential readers or viewers.
- Targeted distribution: Since PR experts commonly handle PR distribution services, they often offer advanced targeting options to reach specific industries or demographics. Making sure your press releases are being seen by the right people increases the chances of getting your story on the news and generating audience engagement.
- Improved credibility: Journalists and media professionals often look to trusted distribution channels as a source for their content. Paid distribution helps legitimize your press release and improves your chances of gaining media attention.
- Analytics and tracking: The best PR distribution services offer post-distribution reports and analytics that give insights into how well your press release performed. The metrics in these reports can help you refine your PR strategy to improve campaign performance in the future.
- Resource efficiency: Looking for and reaching media contacts and outlets isn’t just time-consuming. It can also lead to multiple dead ends. A press release service can handle the logistics of finding and contacting outlets, making it possible to redirect PR efforts to other channels.
How to choose the best press release service for your business
Cost is usually a top consideration, especially for small businesses and startups that want to issue press releases to build brand awareness, publicity, and sales. However, other key factors would make one press release service better for your needs. When choosing the right press release service for your story, consider these factors.
- Distribution speed: If time is of the essence (like with a crisis management press release), then look for press release companies that offer same-day distribution options.
- Your target audience: Some distribution services target mass audiences, while some offer hyper-targeted distribution by location or industry. Evaluate which of the two targeting types (mass or specific) your story requires. A general interest story might suit a mass distribution service, while a location-specific announcement will require targeting services.
- Placement guarantees: It’s important to consider the types of newswires, networks, and media outlets you want your press release to be published on and look for services with plans that provide guaranteed placements. In addition, note whether your press release will only be online for a short period or in perpetuity.
- Ability to add hyperlinks: Usually, backlinks to your website will be set to “no follow” when published on a newswire or media outlet, which limits SEO value. However, they still facilitate web traffic to your site, which brings interested readers your way (and the extra traffic positively impacts your website’s SEO).
- Ability to embed multimedia: Images and video assets add interest and engagement to your press release. Specifically, interactive media can even get up to 50% more engagement and 15% more link clicks.
- Direct-to-journalist emails: Journalists are always looking for stories to cover, so many subscribe to general or industry-specific emails from platforms like EIN Presswire and eReleases. Look for distribution services that send your story directly to their subscribers in addition to mass distribution.
- Editorial support: No one wants to send an announcement to the public sphere only to find that their press release was published with typos, grammatical errors, or less-than-stellar formatting, headlines, and structure. To ensure a good press release stands out, tap into services that come with professional editing and reviews.
Methodology: How did I evaluate the best press release distribution services?
The best press release distribution services do more than publish announcements online. I looked for platforms that help businesses maximize media reach, improve SEO visibility, and distribute press releases efficiently to relevant journalists, news sites, and media outlets. I also evaluated whether each service offered enough value for small businesses at its price point.
- Cost (25%): Pricing was a major factor in my evaluation. I compared starting costs per release, multimedia support, turnaround times, included distribution features, and whether writing services were available. I also considered whether providers offered good value at lower pricing tiers.
- General Features (25%): I evaluated core distribution capabilities, including media reach, turnaround times, word count limits, multimedia support, backlinks, and industry or geographic targeting.
- Niche Features (25%): I gave higher scores to platforms with advanced PR and marketing tools like SEO optimization, analytics and reporting, social media sharing, video press releases, and blogger or influencer outreach.
- Customer Support (10%): I assessed customer support availability, live chat or phone support, knowledge bases, tutorials, and onboarding resources.
- Expert Score (15%): My expert score reflects hands-on evaluation of each platform based on feature quality, ease of use, value for money, and overall effectiveness for small business PR and media outreach.
Frequently asked questions (FAQs)
A press release distribution service is a service that can send your press release to journalists and media outlets so they can write about it for their audience, in effect gaining media coverage for your brand. It’s the most guaranteed way to get your story published in the media. With a press release distribution service, you’ll only need to submit your press release via its website, and it’ll automatically be sent to news outlets in one or two days.
The best overall press release service, especially for small businesses, is EIN Presswire. It offers both wide and targeted distribution, depending on your needs, including targeting by location and industry. It also allows multiple links, multimedia, and up to 700 words for your press release, starting at $99.95 for one press release. EIN Presswire is a leader in the industry, and its network includes thousands of digital and print publications.
The cost to release a press release depends on the service you choose. Some offer it completely free, like IssueWire, but will contain significant limitations. Others have a starting cost of $399, like eReleases, but offer all-inclusive plans. However, the average starting cost to release a press release is approximately $223 from the top services. Expect to pay more for extra services like press release writing or hyper-targeted distribution.
Bottom line
There are many press release distribution services available for businesses like yours to gain public attention, which is both a good and bad thing. Ultimately, choosing the best service for your business will come down to your specific needs, priorities, and budget. Either way, the platforms featured are some of the best in the business.