Best alternatives to Thunderbird

The highly extensible, open source Thunderbird email client is very popular among techies. But if you’re a casual email user, it might not be your most intuitive option—especially if you simply want to send and receive email.

The free, open source Thunderbird email client is a favourite among  budget-conscious users unwilling to financially commit to an email app and power users who enjoy its robust set of add-ons. But is it the best choice for you?

Despite its highly extensible features, some casual users find Thundersbird’s design and interface antiquated and rather cluttered compared to modern design standards. Is it time to try another email app?

Let’s see what else is out there.

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. Superhuman

Superhuman is a keyboard-focused email client that supports a variety of email providers, including Gmail and Outlook. With more than 100 keyboard shortcuts, Superhuman is designed for professional users and teams who need to collaborate regularly. Although an excellent option for professionals who manage large volumes of messages every day, Superhuman’s robust business and productivity tools may be a bit overkill for casual users.

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…

Thunderbird is a versatile and powerful email client that caters to tech-savvy users who want to do more than simply send and receive messages. Some might even want to be actively involved in the development of the app—or at the very least shape the future direction of the app as a member of its open source community.

But if design and user interface play a big part of your email experience, or if you’re a casual user who simply wants to send and receive emails, you might want to look at some of the other offerings listed in this article.