Email preview text
Email Preheader Character Count
The preheader text is the short preview that appears beside or below the subject line in many inboxes. Counting it before sending helps keep the useful part visible on mobile and prevents boilerplate text from taking over the preview.
Practical preheader length ranges
| Email type | Practical range | Preheader text example |
|---|---|---|
| Newsletter | 40 to 90 characters | Five short guides for cleaner landing page copy. |
| Product update | 45 to 100 characters | See what changed in the character counter this week. |
| Promotion | 35 to 80 characters | Download the checklist before the campaign closes. |
| Lifecycle email | 45 to 100 characters | Finish your draft with a faster word and character check. |
How to write useful preheader text
- Do not repeat the subject line word for word.
- Use the preheader to add context, urgency, or the next detail.
- Put the most useful words first because inboxes cut preview text differently.
- Count spaces and punctuation with the Character Counter.
- Compare the draft with the Email Subject Line Character Limit guide so the subject and preview work together.
Subject line and preheader examples
| Subject line | Better preheader | Why it works |
|---|---|---|
| New writing tools are live | Try cleaner reports, faster counting, and updated guides. | Adds detail without repeating the subject. |
| Your weekly SEO checklist | Review title length, snippets, and CTA copy before publishing. | Shows what the reader will get. |
| Last day to download | Save the landing page checklist before the link expires. | Clarifies what is being downloaded. |
Quick checking workflow
- Write the subject line first.
- Write a preheader that adds a second reason to open.
- Paste both into the Character Counter.
- Shorten the preheader from the end only after the first useful words are clear.
- For recurring campaigns, compare it with Newsletter Subject Line Length.
Related tools
Character Counter, Email Subject Line Character Limit, Newsletter Subject Line Length, Word Counter, and Call to Action Character Count.