When creating a new automation, you will see these two triggers as the top option:
New Subscribers
Existing List
If you’re unsure which one to choose, here’s a simple breakdown to help you decide.
New Subscribers
Use New Subscribers when you want your automation to start as soon as a new contact joins your list.
This is ideal for:
Web form signups
API integrations
Real-time lead capture
Example:
A user fills out a form on your website → they are added to your list → your automation starts immediately.
This means your first email is sent based on the exact moment they subscribed, making it perfect for welcome sequences and onboarding flows.
More information about Web forms and API can be found here Emercury Web Forms and API
Existing List
Use Existing List when you already have an existing list of contacts and want to start an automation for them.
This is ideal for:
Re-engaging an existing audience
Launching a campaign to a full list or segment
Starting automation “from today” for current subscribers
How it works:
The first email is typically sent as a broadcast to the selected list
Follow-up emails are then sent based on your automation logic:
Opens or clicks → emails are sent individually (drip-style)
Time-based conditions → emails are sent in scheduled batches
Key Difference
New Subscribers → Starts automation when a contact is added (real-time, per user)
Existing List → Starts automation for an existing group (campaign-style start)
Which one should you choose?
Building a welcome or nurture flow for new leads? → Use New Subscribers
Working with an existing list or running a campaign? → Use Existing List
If you’re not sure which option fits your use case, feel free to reach out, we’re here to help!