Is Mail Here to Stay? 2025 Alternatives to Gmail, Outlook default Apps
Email is definitely here to stay. In fact, as more people jump on the email marketing bandwagon, the volumes of emails are only going to keep growing.
For most of us, there are two key aspects of email that matter: the email provider and the email client.
- Email Provider: This is the service you use to actually send and receive emails (think Gmail, Outlook, Yahoo, etc.).
- Email Client: This is the app or software you use to read, compose, and manage your emails. Whether it’s the Gmail app, the Outlook app, or something else, this is what you interact with on a daily basis.
Most people stick to the default apps provided by their email providers, like the Gmail app or Outlook app for mobile and desktop.
These apps are convenient, easy to use, and come pre-installed on most devices.
But there’s a growing number of people looking for alternatives. Why? Maybe they want a fresher look, better features, or just something different. Or maybe are AI powered.
Actor helps with email management right inside Outlook and Gmail
So, how do those 3rd-party email apps work?
Third-party email apps are basically alternative apps that let you access your email accounts without using the default apps provided by Gmail, Outlook, or other major providers.
These apps often offer more customization, better UI, or unique features that the standard apps lack. Plus, they can sometimes help you manage multiple email accounts more easily.
Here are a few of the top alternatives you should check out in 2025:
1. Spark Mail
Spark is known for its clean design, smart inbox, and user-friendly interface. It automatically organizes your emails into categories like personal, work, newsletters, and so on, making it easier to find what you’re looking for. It also has team collaboration features, so it’s a great choice if you’re managing a business email account.
2. Airmail
Airmail is perfect for users who like to have more control over their email experience. It’s packed with customization options, so you can tweak everything to suit your needs. Airmail also supports multiple email accounts and integrates well with other apps like Evernote and Dropbox.
3. BlueMail
BlueMail is another strong contender, known for its beautiful interface and powerful features. It lets you manage multiple email accounts easily and even provides a unified inbox so you can see all your emails in one place, regardless of which provider they’re from. It’s also really customizable, which is perfect if you like to make everything your own.
4. Edison Mail
Edison Mail is a lightweight and fast email client that is known for its smart assistant features. It’s particularly good at filtering out spam and organizing your inbox with ease. The app also comes with features like unsubscribe options, a built-in calendar, and a simple, intuitive interface.
5. K-9 Mail
If you’re an Android user looking for an open-source option, K-9 Mail is a great alternative. It’s free, highly customizable, and works well for users who want more control over their email management. It also supports multiple email accounts and integrates with IMAP, Exchange, and other email protocols.
7. Aqua Mail
Aqua Mail is a versatile email client that works well for both personal and business use. It supports multiple email accounts, integrates with popular services like Google, Yahoo, and Office 365, and offers advanced features such as push notifications, email signatures, and custom themes. Aqua Mail is customizable, allowing users to tailor their experience to fit their specific needs.
8. MailMate
MailMate is a powerful email client for macOS, known for its extensive features and flexibility. It’s particularly great for power users who want more control over their email. MailMate supports a wide range of email protocols, including IMAP and SMTP, and includes advanced search and organizational tools. It’s ideal for users who need a feature-rich email app for professional use.
9. Mailspring
Mailspring is a cross-platform email client that boasts a beautiful, modern design with powerful features. It supports multiple accounts, including Gmail, Outlook, and IMAP. Mailspring includes built-in features like snooze, send later, and advanced search, making it a great option for users who need a flexible and efficient email experience.