phpList

phpList is one of the oldest open-source email marketing platforms, built on PHP and MySQL. It's been free to self-host since 2001 and handles everything from list import to complex segmentation and multi-step campaigns. The codebase is straightforward to deploy on any shared or dedicated server.

It works well for small publishers, nonprofits, and teams comfortable with basic server management. Compared to newer tools, phpList is mature and battle-tested but not as polished in the UI; it's best for users who prioritize low cost and full control over a modern interface.