Many users choose Outlook as their e-mail client and PIM (Personal Information Manager). As a component of the Microsoft Office suite, it is often a standard solution (in connection with the Microsoft Exchange Server) for businesses. Many freelancers and small companies cannot afford solutions intended for large businesses, but there are numerous e-mail management programs besides Outlook that are available for free.
Outlook for Mac does not support Apple iCloud calendar (CalDAV) and contact (CardDAV) synchronization. Outlook for Mac does support iCloud Mail. For steps on how to configure your iCloud email account in Outlook for Mac, go to the 'More Information' section of this article. Sep 24, 2018 Today, we are announcing the general availability of Office 2019 for Windows and Mac. Office 2019 is the next on-premises version of Word, Excel, PowerPoint, Outlook, Project, Visio, Access, and Publisher.
Thunderbird
- The announcement comes hot on the heels of Google's recently launched Gmail redesign, and promises changes to the company's Outlook desktop and mobile apps, as well as its webmail service.
- Updated October 16, 2018 A free email client comes installed and ready for use with macOS, and macOS Mail is not a bad program at all. However, you might want to examine its free alternatives.
- The 8 Best Free Email Clients for Mac in 2018 Take a test drive with these free email programs for the Mac.
The Mozilla mail client Thunderbird is certainly one of the most frequently used Outlook alternatives - both among private users and in companies. The open source solution is also available free of charge. The basic version of the program is rather streamlined and provides you with the most used basic functions.
The most important facts at a glance:
- Free open-source solution
- Available for Windows and Mac
- Encryption possible
- Administration of RSS feeds possible
A big plus: Numerous add-ons are available. This means that the email program can be expanded for example with modules for date and task administration. However, the add-ons and extensions are tailored to the respective version. If you want to update your version of Thunderbird, you must also update add-ons, or wait until the appropriate versions are available. Here are the advantages and disadvantages of Thunderbird at a glance:
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Clear structure | Becomes unclear quickly if user if demanding and over-uses the possibilities |
| Practical functions for message management and categorization | Add-ons must be updated separately |
| Individually expandable through numerous add-ons |
SeaMonkey
SeaMonkey presents an all-round solution for office communication. It also includes an HTML editor as well as a browser, e-mail, and chat client. Mail organization is carried out via instructions defined by the user and further features such as flexible sorting and visual highlighting are also available. The encryption takes place according to S/MIME. SSL/TLS encryption must first be activated manually.
The most important facts at a glance:
- Available for Windows, Mac, and Linux
- Read receipts
- Digital signature
- Integration in LDAP directory services
- Customizable spam filter
- Administration of several accounts possible
For a non-commercial open-source project, SeaMonkey users get an enormously comprehensive Outlook alternative that goes far beyond the actual function of an email client. SeaMonkey is basically many different Mozilla projects bundled together.
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| High security standards | Irregular updates |
| Very comprehensive complete office package | Several functions need to be manually activated |
| Many important functions for the corporate environment, e.g. digital signature or acknowledgement of receipt |
Evolution
The electronic organizer Evolution is an e-mail and groupware program that has proved very popular among Linux users as a free Outlook alternative. It supports all the important functions that Outlook offers: In addition to the administration of e-mail traffic, contacts, appointments, tasks and notes can also be organized.
The most important facts at a glance:
- Available for Linux
- Adaptive junk email filter
- Connection with Microsoft Exchange Server possible
- RSS reader
The encryption takes place via GPG and S/MIME. Evolution is also suitable for professional use, and collaboration servers and the Microsoft Exchange Server are supported.
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Suitable for professional use | Many interfaces linking to calendars or contact databases of other services |
| Interface easy to understand with only a few limitations |
Spike
The client Spike was released in 2013 and combines the functions of classic e-mail programs with those of modern messenger apps. As soon as you link a private mailbox to the app, irritating elements such as subject lines or signatures become a thing of the past, while the elementary mail client functions - such as the central inbox, calendar, or contact management - are integrated into the modern messenger environment. It is no coincidence that the manufacturer describes Spike as a “conversational e-mail app.”
The most important facts at a glance:
- Available for Windows, Mac, iOS, and Android as well as web applications
- Collaboration features such as group chats
- Connections to cloud services such as Google Drive, Dropbox and OneDrive
- Integrated file manager
Spike also relies on modern standards when it comes to security: With a single click, any communication including attached files can be encrypted (AES-256), so that your messages are optimally protected against unauthorized access. Recipients who do not use the app can also decrypt the received messages with a single click. Unlike Outlook, Spike is free for private users - monthly fees are charged for integrating business email accounts.
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Cross-platform thanks to web app | No dark theme for desktop |
| Easy linking between mail and messenger | No third party integrations |
| Team features are integrated by default | Expensive for companies |
eM Client
The program eM Client is an e-mail client for private and business use. Like its predecessors in the list, the free program for Windows and macOS offers standard functions for appointments and contact management, as well as an integrated instant messenger. However, free use without any restrictions is only for private users: commercial use as well as the use of more than two accounts require you to purchase the Pro license.
The most important facts at a glance:
- Available for Windows and Mac
- RSS reader
- Integrated Instant messenger
- Automatic updates
The program supports all major basic services, including Gmail, Exchange, iCloud, and Outlook. The list of supported email technologies also includes POP3, SMTP, IMAP, EWS, and AirSync. Some additional features such as the translation function and the extremely fast full test search function make every day work easier. Secure communication is ensured via SSL/TLS standards, encryption is via S/MIME.
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| High security standards | Free version only for up to two accounts and for private use only |
| Many synchronization features | |
| Smooth date import | |
| Touch support |
Mailbird
An Outlook alternative that is completely free of charge for private users (companies pay either a one-time fee or an annual fee) is Mailbird available for Windows. The email solution allows you to unify and manage your messages and contacts from multiple accounts into a single inbox. With lots of free themes, you can design the interface according to your wishes.
The most important facts at a glance:
- Available for Windows
- Drag-and-drop contact manager
- Powerful attachment search function
- Shortcut keys for various actions such as writing, replying, forwarding, etc.
Mailbird provides interfaces to numerous apps, enhancing your mailbox with useful features for organization, interaction, and teamwork. For example, you can integrate WhatsApp, Twitter, Google Calendar, Dropbox, and Slack into your email client to transform it into a multi-functional platform.
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Modern, attractive design | No filter function |
| Integration of various additional tools such as Slack or WhatsApp possible | Some features are missing in the free edition |
| Snooze function |
Pegasus Mail
Pegasus Mail is one of the original e-mail programs – it’s been around since 1989 and is continuously being developed further. The mail client supports mailboxes in UNIX format and is regarded as a simple, but powerful, and above all, free Outlook alternative. Pegasus is POP3 and IMAP4 compatible and also supports SMTP, LDAP, PH, and SSL.
The most important facts at a glance:
- Available for Windows
- Sophisticated filter function
Don't be fooled by Pegasus’ simple and rather unspectacular design. The program is not only very clear and easy to use, it also offers some practical additional functions, such as a sophisticated, programmable filter function. The mail service offers a mass mail function that can not only be used by private users, but also for marketing purposes.
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Simple, but powerful | Complicated configuration |
| High security standards | Less attractive user interface |
| Freely programmable filter function |
1&1 IONOS Hosted Microsoft Exchange
As another alternative to Outlook, we present the product Hosted Microsoft Exchange from 1&1 IONOS. Microsoft is a groupware system that enables access to contacts, appointments, and e-mail databases within a company from anywhere in the world. In short, you can open Microsoft Office anywhere you want.
The Exchange server can also be obtained directly from Microsoft. However, the hosted exchange solution from 1&1 IONOS is considerably beneficial to a company’s IT department. It saves the cost of purchasing a sophisticated IT infrastructure. Hosted Microsoft Exchange from 1&1 IONOS provides the required server infrastructure.
What the 1&1 IONOS offer also includes is an all-round carefree package: In addition to the Outlook software as a desktop version and the management of mailboxes via Microsoft Exchange, you also receive your own e-mail domain.
The most important facts at a glance:
- Management of inboxes via Microsoft Exchange
- Microsoft Outlook software
- Real-time synchronization
- Mobile access to all data
- 25 GB mailbox storage for each employee
The Microsoft Exchange package minimizes the acquisition costs for a server structure and offers even more advantages: The administration effort is reduced because the provider takes care of mailbox maintenance, updating virus scanners and spam filters and continuously running software updates. All data is hosted on security servers with a specially secured infrastructure. If you are looking for a professional e-mail client solution, the 1&1 IONOS variant is a good Outlook alternative - even if it is not available free of charge per se.
The offer may be too extensive for private users, but it is a good option for freelancers and entrepreneurs and especially for small and medium-sized companies. If you understand the importance of a professional appearance and high security standards, then you’ll benefit from an ideal price-performance ratio.
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Individual e-mail domain included | Not a free Outlook alternative |
| Highest security standards | Not suitable for private users |
| Hardware acquisition and administration taken care of by provider | |
| Microsoft Outlook software is included in package |
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OX App Suite
The last alternative to Outlook is the OX App Suite. The application package from the German manufacturer, Open-Xchange, offers a complete office suite, including word processing, address management and also an Outlook alternative thanks to OX Mail. The app suite is intended to be used as collaboration software and operates completely in the cloud. Working with the mail app can therefore be done completely via a web interface. With HTML5 as the basis, users can take care of their e-mail needs from any device with a current browser.
OX Mail allows multiple user accounts to be managed from a single interface. For example, private and business messages can be managed on one display. With folders and markers as well as an extensive search function, users always have an overview of everything. The web interface enables access to the e-mail inbox no matter which platform you’re using. Apps for iOS and Android are also available for mobile use.
The most important facts at a glance:
- Part of an extensive office suite
- Spam and virus protection
- Software-as-a-service
- Cloud-based web interface
- Mobile apps for iOS & Android
- GDPR-compliant
The software package also includes other apps that are needed in everyday office life. Since everything is organized via the cloud, you can easily share documents, address books and appointments with colleagues and business partners.
Pros | Cons |
Individual e-mail domain included | Not a free Outlook alternative |
Highest security standards | |
Complete office suite | |
Mobile apps | |
GDPR complaint | |
Platform independent |
G suite
Outlook For Mac 2018 Download
The Internet giant Google is also offering their own Outlook alternative. Their G Suite|URL platzhalter is a comprehensive office package, designed for professional use. In addition to Gmail, Google’s email service, suite users have access to text creation platforms and cloud storage ((collaboration tools|e-mail/e-mail-technik/collaboration-tools-die-besten-loesungen-im-vergleich/)). Many users already use one or more of these apps in a free version. Gmail’s freemail service is particularly popular. However, if you opt for the fee-based G Suite, you will receive full access to each application’s range of functions, and can also secure a professional email connection for business communication.
In contrast to their freemail offer, Gmail offers ad-free access to work platforms and professional management through G Suite. Company administrators can manage their employees’ accounts centrally, and subsequently adapt them individually to the company’s needs. This includes assigning roles.
The most important facts at a glance:
- Part of a large office suite
- Software-as-a-service
- Plenty of storage space
- Web interface
- Mobile apps for iOS and Android
- GDPR compliant
G suite can be operated entirely through a web interface. Just like you’re accustomed to with Google, the controls are very clear and the user can quickly reach all functions. With regards to features, since it’s a suite, all the apps are closely connected. For example, you can easily move file attachments to cloud storage and edit them there with Google Docs. Scheduling appointments or holding online meetings also works with Gmail thanks to extensive integrations.
Users can purchase the G Suite through 1&1 IONOS. No matter which of the two monthly rates you choose, a professional email address with a self-selected ending is included. Of course, access to all Google apps is also available.
Advantages | Disadvantages |
Individual email domain included | Not a free Outlook alternative |
Complete office suits | |
Mobile apps | |
GDPR compliant | |
Can be used on multiple platforms |
Overview of all mail clients
| Available for | Portable version | Security | Supports | Digital signature | License | Price | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Thunderbird | Windows, Mac OS X, Linux... | ✔ | PGPS/MIME | POP, POP3, IMAP, SMTP, NNTP, IPv6 | ✔ | MPL/GPL/LGPL | Free |
| Windows, macOS, Linux | ✔ | S/MIMESSL/TLS | POP3, IMAP4, SMTP, NNTP | ✔ | MPL/GPL/LGPL | Free | |
| Linux | - | S/MIME | POP3, IMAP, SMTP, NNTP, LDAP | ✔ | LGPL | Free | |
| Spike | Windows, macOS, iOS, Android | ✔ | AES-256 | IMAP | - | Freeware, proprietary | Free, but use is limited |
| Windows | - | SSLT/TLS, S/MIME | POP3, IMAP, SMTP,EWS | ✔ | Freeware, proprietary | Free, but use is limited | |
| Mailbird | Windows | - | SSL/TLS | POP3, IMAP, SMTP | ✔ | Freeware, proprietary | Free, but use is limited |
| Pegasus Mail | Windows | - | S/MIME, OpenSSL | POP3, IMAP4, SMTP, NNTP, LDAP v2 | ✔ | Freeware, proprietary | Free |
| 1&1 IONOS Hosted Microsoft Exchange | Windows, macOS | ✔ | n/a | POP3, IMAP4, SMTP, LDAP v2 | ✔ | - | Fee-based |
| OX App Suite | Windows, macOS, Linux, iOS, Android | ✔ | n/a | POP3, IMAP4, SMTP, LDAP v2 | n/a | - | Fee-based |
| G Suite | Windows, macOS, iOS, Linux, Android | ✔ | n/a | POP3, IMAP4, SMTP, LDAP v2 | ✔ | - | Fee-based |
Outlook alternatives for mobile devices
Outlook For Mac 2016 Uservoice
Outlook is not usually the first choice for mobile internet users. Depending on the operating system, smartphones and other mobile devices come equipped with e-mail programs, calendars, and contact management functions. The pre-installed apps are a good solution for private users and Google apps are especially popular on Android devices. The same also applies to businesses, which increasingly consider Google products as the go-to choice. Synchronizing different apps, calendars, e-mails, and contacts is not complicated and Apple users can use pre-installed products and dock these onto an Exchange account or a Google app.
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