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Thunderbird vs eM Client

Published On December 16, 2024 - Last Modified On March 30, 2026

Thunderbird vs eM Client Comparison Image

Meet the contenders

Whether you're a freelancer, small business owner, or corporate executive, there's an email app for you. We're here to help you decide.

Let's look at how these two email apps stack up against each other.

Thunderbird Logo

Thunderbird

Thunderbird is a free, open-source, cross-platform email client that’s managed by a core staff and a community of volunteer developers. Although the app is already quite robust, there are optional add-ons that you can install to enhance its functionality. So, when it comes to cost-effective email client apps, you can’t go wrong with free—there are no separate paid versions.

eM Client Logo

eM Client

eM Client sets itself apart as one of the most customizable email clients available. You can personalize not only the user interface (with a flexible layout and dozens of themes), but also the way the app handles email. Available for Windows, macOS, and most recently, Android and iOS, eM Client is suitable for professional and personal users who want complete control over every aspect of their email experience.

Thunderbird vs eM Client: A side-by-side comparison

Thunderbird LogoThunderbird
eM Client LogoeM Client

Operating system

WindowsmacOSLinuxAndroid

WindowsmacOSAndroidiOS

Versions

Free

Free

Personal

Business

Price(s)

  • Free

  • Free: Free license for personal, non‑commercial use (registration required)

  • Personal: $39.95 (one-year subscription)

  • Business $49.95 (one-year subscription)

Notable features

  • Multi-account support

  • Unified inbox

  • Extensive library of add-ons

  • End-to-end encryption (S/MIME and OpenPGP)

  • Junk mail filtering

  • Spam filtering

  • Phishing protection

  • Built-in chat

  • Built-in newsgroup and RSS reader

  • Tabbed email interface

  • Customizable user interface

  • Multi-language support (currently translated into 65 languages)

  • Multi-account support

  • Unified inbox

  • Highly customizable user interface

  • Message encryption (PGP and S/MIME)

  • Anti-mail tracking

  • Built-in chat

  • Integration with real-time communications tools (e.g., Google Meet, Microsoft Teams, and Zoom)

  • AI-tools through ChatGPT integration

  • Touch and gesture support for touch screen devices

  • Multi-language support (available in 20 languages)

  • Instant email translations (supports 45 languages)