Skip to main content
I'm visiting as a:

Best Creative Automation Platforms for Publishers

Pencil alternatives

8 tools scored in the same category. 8 score higher than Pencil's 2.0/5.

Ranked by independent composite score, not by payment. Nobody on this page paid to be here.

#1CeltraFair Fit

Creative automation and dynamic ad production

Scores 1.3 higher than Pencil

3.3
out of 5
#2Smartly.ioMarginal Fit

Creative production plus media buying automation

Scores 0.8 higher than Pencil

2.8
out of 5
#3CapeLimited

Programmatic creative and dynamic ad serving

Scores 0.6 higher than Pencil

2.6
out of 5
#4CreatopyLimited

Design and scale ad creatives from templates

Scores 0.4 higher than Pencil

2.4
out of 5
#5AdCreative.aiLimited

AI-generated ad creative and scoring

Scores 0.4 higher than Pencil

2.4
out of 5
#6AbyssaleLimited

API-first creative generation for bulk campaigns

Scores 0.3 higher than Pencil

2.3
out of 5
#7HunchLimited

Creative automation tied to campaign performance

Scores 0.2 higher than Pencil

2.2
out of 5
#8BannerflowLimited

In-house banner production and creative management

Scores 0.2 higher than Pencil

2.2
out of 5

Common questions

What is the best alternative to Pencil?

On Benchmark Grid's independent scoring, Celtra is the highest-scoring alternative in Best Creative Automation Platforms for Publishers at 3.3/5, against Pencil at 2.0/5. Which is right for you depends on your publication's size, revenue model and vertical.

Why would a publisher move away from Pencil?

Our assessment didn't flag significant limitations. Publishers usually move for cost or fit reasons rather than capability.

Are these alternatives ranked by paid placement?

No. Every tool here is ranked by a composite score set by SODP's editorial team across 12 criteria. Vendors cannot pay for inclusion, for a score, or for a position on this page.

Benchmark GridBY SODP · STATE OF DIGITAL PUBLISHING

Independent benchmarks for every kind of publisher, including news & editorial, magazines, B2B & trade media, creator newsletters, brands, broadcasters, and community-driven sites. We evaluate the platforms that help you grow, engage, and retain audiences — with scores that are never influenced by vendors.

© 2026 Benchmark Grid by SODP. All rights reserved.

✦ Independent Research · ✓ Hands-On Testing · News, Magazines, B2B Media, Newsletters, Brands, Broadcasters & Communities

SODP Benchmark is an independent editorial publication. We do not accept payment from vendors for inclusion, ranking, or score changes.

Still Curious?Another quick read