Although recent statistics show that less than 3% of subscribers view email in text-only format, it is recommended to include a plain-text version of the creative for all messages, especially for emails that rely heavily on images. The plain-text version should be added as part of the multi-part Multipurpose Internet Mail Extensions (MIME) message, a best practice that can help maintain deliverability, conversions, and overall email performance.
The case for plain text
- Some subscribers do not want to receive HTML messages.
- Some mobile devices cannot support automatic image rendering but will display a plain text version of an email.
- Spammers aren't likely to include plain text versions of their message, so using plain text may help signal spam filters that your message is less likely to be spam.
- Although uncommon, some email clients or apps do not display HTML emails and only render plain text email.
Recommendations
- Include a plain text version (via MIME) even if the HTML creative features elements to counteract the default images off setting, like a text pre-header and alt-text.
If subscribers are unable (or unwilling) to view an HTML message, these elements are irrelevant. Provide these subscribers with a message that best renders in their preferred environment (in this case, one that is all text).
- Offer the option of a plain text message as part of a preference center.
This allows subscribers to choose which messages they would prefer to receive in plain text. For example, some subscribers may prefer to receive transactional or service-related messages in text and newsletters and promotional offers in HTML.
