Cold Email vs LinkedIn InMails
Cold email and LinkedIn InMails both reach professionals directly. Each platform has distinct advantages for B2B prospecting depending on your audience and approach.
Feature Comparison
| Feature | Cold Email | LinkedIn InMails |
|---|---|---|
| Cost | $0.05-0.50 per email | $0.80-10+ per InMail |
| Response Rate | 1-5% | 10-25% open rate |
| Character Limit | Unlimited | 1,900 characters |
| Daily Volume | Hundreds possible | 50 InMails/month typical |
| Targeting | Email required | Profile-based targeting |
| Follow-up | Multi-touch sequences | Limited follow-up |
| Profile Context | Research needed | Profile visible |
Cold Email Advantages
Volume
Send far more messages at lower cost.
Sequences
Multi-touch follow-up campaigns.
Length
Communicate detailed value propositions.
Cost Efficiency
Much lower per-prospect cost.
LinkedIn InMails Advantages
Profile Context
See prospect background while messaging.
No Email Needed
Reach anyone with a profile.
Platform Trust
Professional context may increase response.
Real-time Status
See if prospect is active on LinkedIn.
Best For
Choose Cold Email if:
- High volume outreach
- Multi-touch sequences
- Cost-conscious campaigns
- Detailed messaging
Choose LinkedIn InMails if:
- -When email is unknown
- -Decision-maker targeting
- -Profile-based personalization
- -Limited outreach volume
Pricing Comparison
Cold Email
$0.05-0.50 per email
LinkedIn InMails
$79.99+/month for Sales Navigator + credits
The Verdict
Use cold email for volume and sequences. Use LinkedIn InMails for targeted outreach when emails are unavailable or for profile-based personalization.
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