6 Best Email Clients for Windows in 2024

best email clients for windows cover image with a window

Email usage has seen a significant uptick in the last few years, and there are more mail services and apps than ever before. According to a Microsoft study, the average employee spends 57% of their time communicating; this includes online meetings and emails. The heaviest email users were found to spend about 2 hours a day on just email management.

Given these statistics, it makes sense that many users would love the features of an email client — a tool to simplify and optimize the email experience.

To complement our guide on the best email clients for Mac, we found the best email clients for Windows users and compiled them below.



What Does an Email Client Do?

An email client is a software application that allows you to send, receive, and manage your emails. With this software, users can enjoy a range of features that simplify email management.

Below are the key functions of an email client:

  • Composing and sending emails: Users can create new messages, add recipients, write the content, and attach files.
  • Receiving and organizing emails: The client fetches emails from an email server and organizes them into folders like inbox, sent, drafts, and more.
  • Managing contacts: People can store and manage contacts, making it easier to address emails.
  • Filtering and searching: Email clients often have features to filter emails based on keywords or senders, and search for specific messages.
  • Offline access: Some clients allow users to download emails to a device, so they can access messages even when they’re not connected to the internet.

Email clients are classified into these types:

Email client typesDescription
Web-basedIt can be accessed through a web browser, and no installation is required.
DesktopThis email client is installed on computers.
MobileThis email client is an app that works on smartphones and tablets.
Types of email clients

Users running the Windows operating system on their computers will need to choose an email client that works on Windows. Below we explain what features are important in Windows email clients.


15 Factors to Consider When Choosing an Email Client for Windows

Keep these 15 points in mind when shortlisting an email client for your Windows PC:

  1. Support for mailbox providers: Ensure the client supports multiple email protocols (POP3 or IMAP) and can integrate seamlessly with popular email services like Gmail, Outlook, Yahoo, etc.
  2. Calendar integration: Look for integration with a calendar, which can be crucial for managing appointments within the same interface.
  3. Speed: The client should be fast, even with large inboxes and multiple accounts.
  4. Customization: Features like themes, layout options, and customizable toolbars can enhance the user experience.
  5. User interface: The client should be intuitive and easy to navigate, especially if you’re switching from another platform.
  6. Search function: Look for powerful search options to find emails quickly, including search filters for attachments, specific senders, or date ranges.
  7. Filtering/Sorting: Robust filtering, tagging, and sorting features help organize your inbox efficiently.
  8. Email threads: This feature groups related emails, making it easier to follow conversations.
  9. Encryption: Ensure the client supports encrypted emails for both sending and receiving (SSL/TLS, PGP support).
  10. Offline access: Check if the email client allows offline access to emails and the ability to draft emails without an internet connection.
  11. Stability: Read reviews and testimonials on the client’s reliability and frequency of crashes or bugs.
  12. Support for scripts: Advanced users may appreciate the ability to create custom rules or scripts to automate email management.
  13. Cross-platform support: If you use multiple devices, choose a client that syncs seamlessly across them.
  14. Cost: Determine whether you need a free or paid version. Paid versions often offer advanced features, premium support, and better security options.
  15. Customer support: Reliable customer support can be crucial if you run into issues.

We used these criteria when shortlisting the best email clients for Windows, and we’ve listed them below.


6 Best Email Clients for Windows

As the most widely-used operating system in the world, many developers are focused on creating software products for Windows users. “Email clients” is a popular category, and there are numerous options to choose from.

Finding high-quality ones is challenging, but users should be happy with one of these:

  1. Microsoft Outlook,
  2. eM Client,
  3. Thunderbird,
  4. Mailspring,
  5. Mailbird,
  6. Spark Mail.

Let’s quickly compare their features before studying each email client more closely.


Comparison of Top 6 Windows Email Clients

The key differences between the top 6 email Windows clients at a glance:

Email ClientMS OutlookeM ClientThunderbirdMailspringMailbirdSpark Mail
PriceFree$19.95

/year

Free$8

/month

$27

/year

$7.99

/month

Mailbox SupportAllAllAllAll All
Color codes for multiple accounts
Send later
Snooze emails
Dark Mode
Folders/Tags
Mobile app
Search functionalityGoodAvgGoodGoodAvgAvg
Message preview
Unified Inbox
One-click unsubscribe
Comparison of the top 6 email clients for Windows

Next, we share more details on each of these email clients and explore their highlights.


Microsoft Outlook: Best Windows Email Client for Integrations

MS Outlook
Microsoft has revamped Outlook to be faster and more responsive

Outlook from Microsoft is the default option for most people seeking an email client that runs on Windows. This app gets the top spot because Microsoft created it — so compatibility and user experience will be on par with the Windows operating system.

It integrates seamlessly with the broader Microsoft Office suite. Outlook is widely used in professional environments and is more than just an email client; it also offers calendar, task, and contact management features, as well as note-taking capabilities.

Due to its deep integration with other Microsoft services like OneDrive, Teams, and SharePoint, Outlook is a preferred choice for both businesses and individuals.

Microsoft Outlook: Features

  1. Email management: Outlook supports multiple email accounts using IMAP, POP3, and Exchange, with advanced filtering, sorting, and categorization options.
  2. Calendar integration: Users get a fully integrated calendar for scheduling meetings, appointments, and events, with support for shared calendars and meeting invitations.
  3. Tasks: The built-in task management tool allows users to create, assign, and track tasks directly within the client.
  4. Contact management: Outlook has robust contact management features, including the ability to sync with global address lists and social media accounts.
  5. Integration with MS Office: A key advantage of Outlook is seamless integration with Microsoft Office apps (Word, Excel, PowerPoint), OneDrive, and SharePoint, enabling easy sharing and collaboration.
  6. Focus Inbox: This new feature automatically sorts the inbox into “Focused” for important emails and “Other” for less critical messages, helping to prioritize attention.
  7. Search functionality: Advanced search options make it easy to find specific emails, contacts, or calendar events across all accounts.
  8. Security features: Outlook comes with enterprise-grade security; the client features built-in encryption, advanced threat protection, and phishing filters.
  9. Integration with Microsoft Teams: Direct integration with Teams helps seamless communication and collaboration; Outlook supports meeting scheduling and chat features as well.

eM Client: Best Email Client for Cross-Platform Use

eM Client for Windows
eM Client is available on various platforms and syncs, offering users a seamless experience

eM Client is a comprehensive email client for Windows (and macOS, iOS, and Android) designed to simplify email management while offering powerful features for both personal and professional use.

With support for various email services, integrated calendar and contact management, and a user-friendly interface, eM Client is a versatile tool that caters to a wide range of users. It offers a catalog of themes so users can play around with the look and feel. The client also has AI features to help compose emails and supports more than 20 languages.

eM Client: Features

  1. Multi-service support: eM Client supports multiple email accounts from various providers like Gmail, Outlook, Yahoo, and more.
  2. Integrated calendar+contacts: It syncs with Google Calendar, iCloud, and Exchange, offering seamless calendar and contact management within its interface.
  3. Powerful search: eM Client offers zippy search capabilities and advanced filtering options to help users quickly find and organize emails.
  4. Multichat support: Users can access chat features within the email client, using services like MS Teams, Google Workspace, and more.
  5. Email snoozing: Users can snooze emails on this app, so they reappear in the inbox at a more convenient time.
  6. Encryption support: eM Client offers end-to-end encryption with PGP and S/MIME to ensure secure email communication.
  7. Task integration: The app supports task management, enabling users to create tasks and schedule events directly from the inbox.
  8. Customizable interface: Users can access a range of themes, layout options, and customizable toolbars for a personalized user experience.
  9. Email templates: The app allows the creation of custom email templates and signatures, saving time on repetitive tasks.
  10. Touch and gestures support: This email client supports shortcuts in the form of gestures and touch actions, letting users work faster.
  11. Third-party integrations: eM Client integrates with cloud storage services like Google Drive, OneDrive, and Dropbox, as well as other productivity tools.

Mozilla Thunderbird: Best Open-Source Email Client for Windows

Thunderbird for Windows
Thunderbird is surprisingly feature-packed for a free email client

If you’re a big fan of open-source software and love the work the Mozilla Foundation is doing to promote a healthy and open internet, choose Thunderbird as your email client.

The email client is also available on macOS and Linux and is developed by Mozilla, the creator of the Firefox web browser. Thunderbird is known for its flexibility, extensive customization options, and strong emphasis on privacy and security.

Mozilla Thunderbird: Features

  1. Support for various mail providers: Users can access multiple email accounts from providers such as Gmail, Yahoo, and Outlook.
  2. Customizable UI: The interface is highly customizable with a variety of themes, layout options, and add-ons to enhance functionality and personalize the user experience.
  3. Robust security: A key strength of this email client is the built-in support for S/MIME and PGP encryption and phishing protection. Regular updates ensure security and privacy.
  4. Search/Filtering: The app supports powerful search functionality with advanced filtering options, allowing users to organize and find emails quickly.
  5. Message tags for organization: Thunderbird supports tagging messages, custom folders, and smart folders for better organization of the inbox.
  6. Add-ons/Extensions: Like Firefox, Thunderbird offers users a vast library of add-ons and extensions. These can be used to add new features or enhance existing ones, such as calendar integration, task management, and more.
  7. Spam filters: Intelligent spam and junk mail filtering are coded into the app, with adaptive filters that learn over time to improve accuracy.
  8. RSS feed integration: A built-in RSS feed reader allows users to subscribe to and read news feeds directly within Thunderbird.
  9. Lightning calendar: Integrated calendar and task management is possible through the Lightning add-on, enabling users to schedule and track events and tasks alongside their emails.
  10. Cross-platform availability: Thunderbird works on Windows, macOS, and Linux, making it a versatile option for users across different operating systems.

Mailspring: Best Email Client for Speed and Efficiency

Mailspring for Windows
Mailspring for Windows

Mailspring has a clean and simple user interface

Mailspring is a modern email client for Windows (also available on macOS and Linux) designed to offer a sleek and efficient email management experience. The software went open-source 3 years ago, letting users tinker with code for customization purposes.

Known for its clean interface, powerful search capabilities, and built-in productivity tools, Mailspring is all about simple, efficient email management. It supports a variety of email providers, and the user experience is on par with that of premium email clients. For users looking for a balance between functionality and aesthetics, Mailspring is a solid option.

Mailspring: Features

Mailspring is a great email client for Windows because users can:

  1. Add multiple accounts: Mailspring supports IMAP and SMTP protocols, allowing users to manage multiple email accounts from providers such as Outlook, Gmail, Yahoo, and more.
  2. View a unified inbox: The client combines emails from all email accounts into a single, unified inbox, simplifying email management.
  3. Use read receipts and track links: The software supports built-in read receipts and link tracking, enabling users to see when emails are opened or links are clicked.
  4. Schedule emails: On Mailspring, users can schedule emails to be sent at a later time, which is ideal for managing messaging across different time zones.
  5. Access advanced search: The client features a powerful search engine that quickly filters and locates specific emails or attachments across all email accounts.
  6. Apply customizable themes: Mailspring comes with several themes and layout options, allowing users to customize the look and feel of the client to match their preferences.
  7. Utilize translation: The built-in translation helps ensure clear and accurate communication in multiple languages without needing an external app.
  8. Implement keyboard shortcuts: Mailspring offers extensive keyboard shortcut support for faster navigation and email management.
  9. Sync across platforms: Using Mailspring on multiple devices is seamless because the app syncs settings, signatures, and preferences. This ensures a consistent experience on all platforms.

Mailbird: Best Email Client for Customization

Mailbird for Windows
Mailbird’s user interface supports a wide range of customization options

Mailbird is a user-friendly email client for Windows that focuses on simplicity, speed, and integration with various apps and services. The email client has won multiple awards and has been featured on numerous tech websites, indicating its popularity with users.

Mailbird supports multiple email accounts and integrates with a wide range of popular productivity tools. The email client has also added AI features recently, which can help compose emails and write quick replies. Mailbird is highly customizable and supports multiple languages and recently released version 3.0.

Mailbird: Features

Key features of Mailbird include:

  1. Unified inbox: Users can add multiple email services and combine emails into one unified inbox, making it easier to manage and view messages across accounts.
  2. Integration with popular apps: Mailbird works seamlessly with popular apps like Google Calendar, Slack, WhatsApp, Dropbox, Evernote, and more, allowing users to manage their workflows directly from the email client.
  3. Speed Reader: This built-in speed reading tool helps users quickly scan through emails, improving email processing efficiency.
  4. Customizable layouts and themes: Mailbird offers a range of layout and theme options, enabling users to personalize the look and feel of the client.
  5. Snooze: Like other email clients on this list, this app allows users to snooze emails, temporarily removing them from the inbox and bringing them back at a chosen time.
  6. Attachment search: Mailspring includes a powerful search function that helps users quickly find attachments across all their emails.
  7. Keyboard shortcuts: This client supports customizable keyboard shortcuts that speed up processes such as composing, replying, forwarding, and more.

Spark Mail: Best Email Client for Clutter-Free Use

Spark Mail for Windows
Spark Mail for Windows

Spark Mail helps users refine their email experience by offering various productivity-boosting features

Spark Mail is an email client designed to help users manage their inboxes more efficiently. Spark makes this possible by focusing on visual simplicity, making the email client popular with users who want a clutter-free user experience. The software is available on both Windows and Mac operating systems.

It offers a variety of tools to prioritize important emails, collaborate with team members, and maintain an organized inbox. Spark Mail also offers AI features to help write emails as well as summarize email chains.

Spark Mail: Features

Spark Mail is a feature-packed email client:

  1. Smart Inbox: Automatically categorizes emails into Personal, Notifications, and Newsletters, helping users focus on what’s most important.
  2. Gatekeeper: This Spark Mail feature helps users fight spam and block senders.
  3. Shared Inbox: Spark Mail allows team members to share emails, discuss them privately, and draft responses together in real time.
  4. Set Aside: This function lets users snooze emails to reappear at a more convenient time, ensuring important messages are addressed at the right moment.
  5. Reminders: Mailspring lets users set reminders to follow up on emails that haven’t received a reply, helping to maintain communication flow.
  6. Spark +AI: Spark Mail now supports AI features that help users craft emails and write replies. Users can also generate summaries for long email threads.
  7. Customizable notifications: Users can customize notifications for specific contacts or threads, ensuring they only get alerts for important emails.
  8. Integration with third-party apps: Integrates with tools like Trello, Asana, Evernote, and more, allowing users to manage tasks and projects directly from their inbox.
  9. Natural language search: Spark features a powerful search engine that allows users to find specific emails or attachments using natural language.
  10. Command Center: Users can create and edit keyboard shortcuts with this feature, enhancing productivity when dealing with emails

Campaign Refinery: Never Worry About Inbox Placement Again

As an email marketer, you shouldn’t be concerned about email clients — unless you’re working with poor email service providers or using spammy tactics, of course.

If you’re experiencing poor email performance and none of your emails are landing in the inbox, you need to seriously consider Campaign Refinery as your email partner.

As the number 1 email deliverability solution in the industry, we know exactly what it takes to inbox consistently and help you achieve superior results.

Let’s review the advantages of being a Campaign Refinery sender:

  • Robust automation: You get a powerful automation builder to run complex email campaigns that nurture your leads.
  • Automated list cleaner: This tool will sniff out and neutralize all invalid emails on your list, protecting your reputation and making you a trusted sender.
  • Mandatory authentication: We require all clients to implement protocols such as SPF, DKIM, and DMARC, which makes you appear legitimate to mail services.
  • Engagement tools: If you want to see your engagement metrics skyrocket, our Gamification and Evergreen Flash Sales features will help you do exactly that.
  • Affordable pricing: At Campaign Refineruy, you only pay for what you use. With our credit system, you will find yourself targeting small segments and improving results.

When you join Campaign Refinery, you can stop worrying about email clients and services and simply focus on your marketing strategy.

Apply today to become a Campaign Refinery member and experience top-tier email marketing performance!

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