Best alternatives to Superhuman

Superhuman’s keyboard-based approach is built for speed and efficiency, catering to professional users who manage large volumes of email every day. But its steep learning curve and high price tag may force users to seek alternatives.

Email-heavy businesses and professionals who spend hours managing large volumes of email every day will appreciate Superhuman’s keyboard-centric user interface. Built for speed, efficiency, and real-time collaboration, it’s equipped with more than 100 keyboard shortcuts. But, unlike traditional email clients, Superhuman keyboard-focused workflow comes with a very steep learning curve. Is it the right choice for you?

Although an excellent option for professional and power users, Superhuman’s robust business and productivity tools may be a bit overkill for casual users—it can even be downright intimidating and overwhelming. And, at US$30 per month per user, it might be too steep for personal users and solopreneurs. Let’s take a look at some other email clients that might suit you better.

01. Mailbird

Mailbird is a flexible and easy-to-use email client that promotes elegant simplicity and powerful functionality, including multi-account management from most email providers (such as Gmail and Outlook), unified inbox, customizable interface, third-party integrations, and a streamlined workflow directly from your inbox. With a clutter-free design and pleasant user experience, Mailbird has become the go-to email app for more than 4M users who trust it with their personal and professional email.

02. 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.

03. 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.

04. Outlook for Windows

Outlook for Windows is a new email client and personal information manager that replaces the defunct Windows Mail and Calendar apps (which are no longer supported by Microsoft). This default email client app is included in most newer Windows 11 PCs shipped in 2024 and features tight integration with Microsoft 365 apps, AI tools, and a fresh design.

05. Spark

Spark is an email client that transforms how you interact with your inbox, helping you eliminate email clutter, minimize distractions, and stay organized. With its Smart Inbox and Gatekeeper features, Spark aims to ease email management and prevent unwanted senders from taking over your inbox. Its Premium version offers advanced tools, such as AI-powered assistance and team collaboration.

06. Zoho Mail Desktop Lite

Zoho Mail Desktop Lite is a free email client offered by the business email hosting service Zoho Mail. Available on Windows, macOS, and Linux, Zoho Mail Desktop Lite lets you access your messages from various email accounts, including Zoho Mail, Gmail, Outlook.com, Yahoo, and more.

07. Mailspring

Mailspring (formerly known as Nylas Mail) is an open-source email client that supports multiple accounts. Available in Free and Pro versions, Mailspring offers both basic and advanced features suitable for student, personal, and professional users.

08. Twobird

Twobird is a unique app that approaches email management as a to-do list. By combining your messages, calendar events, tasks, and notes into an agenda-like workspace, the cross-platform Twobird treats your email as one component of your overall productivity. This way, you only need one app to manage your daily tasks.

09. Kiwi for Gmail

Kiwi for Gmail lets you take the Gmail and Google Workspace experience out of the browser and onto your desktop. Whether you’re using a PC or a Mac, Kiwi can transform Gmail into a standalone desktop application and save you from having to juggle multiple browser tabs.

Closing thoughts…

Superhuman is an extremely fast and efficient email client that introduces a unique keyboard-centric way of managing your email. However, its high price tag and steep learning curve might put it out of reach for anyone except professional power users who manage very high volumes of email for several hours every day.

So, unless email plays a pivotal role in your daily routine and you don’t mind the time it takes to learn all the keyboard shortcuts, you might want to try one of the other email clients in this article