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If you’re using Proton Mail today, you already know where it falls short. Storage fills up quickly, and search often struggles with older or large-volume mail. IMAP access is also restricted to higher tiers, which makes it harder to use your preferred desktop client without upgrading. These gaps add friction to daily work. That is why many users in 2025 are exploring secure email providers that offer more storage flexibility, faster performance, and tools that fit modern workflows.
Table of Contents
- Quick Summary
- Why Trust Our Reviews?
- What Is Proton Mail?
- Top 8 Proton Mail Alternatives
- 2. Fastmail
- 3. Mailfence
- 4. Canary Mail
- 5. Zoho Mail
- 6. StartMail
- 7. Mailbox (Formerly Mailbox.org)
- 8. Hushmail
Quick Summary
Proton Mail offers strong privacy, but many users outgrow its storage limits, slow search, and restricted IMAP access. These eight alternatives deliver faster performance, stronger admin controls, better collaboration, or deeper encryption, depending on what you need.
- Tuta: Best for full-mailbox, quantum-safe encryption.
- Fastmail: Best for speed, search, and IMAP reliability.
- Mailfence: Best for PGP control and encrypted collaboration tools.
- Canary Mail: Best for native apps, unified inboxes, and AI assistance.
- Zoho Mail: Best for teams that need built-in collaboration and admin controls.
- StartMail: Best for unlimited aliases and private IMAP workflows.
- Mailbox: Best for encrypted storage, office tools, and anonymous payments.
- Hushmail: Best for HIPAA-compliant email and secure client communication.
Why Trust Our Reviews?
First things first, every recommendation here is based on hands-on use and a clear evaluation framework. We look at how each tool performs in real workflows and how simple it is to manage. We also assess where it meaningfully improves day-to-day email operations. We cross-check our findings with current user feedback to keep the analysis grounded.
Our work with CX teams gives us a clear understanding of what actually matters in secure communication. Performance, usability, security, and long-term value stay at the center of every comparison. The goal is straightforward: you get clear, unbiased information to help you choose the right provider.
What Is Proton Mail?
Proton Mail is a secure email service that was launched in 2014 in Switzerland. It focuses on protecting message content through end-to-end encryption and strict zero-access storage policies. This setup makes email content readable only to you and the person you’re communicating with.
The platform includes an in-built encrypted calendar and cloud storage. It also offers custom domain support, so users get a private workspace for their daily communication. Additionally, you can create an account without sharing personal details like your phone number, address, or full name, which appeals to individuals who value more control over their privacy.
Key Features
- Proton Bridge support allows you to use Proton Mail with desktop clients like Apple Mail, Outlook, and Thunderbird.
- Email aliases, which help you separate work, personal mail, and sign-ups without exposing your primary address.
- Anti-tracking protection, blocking hidden trackers in incoming emails.
- Message expiration allows you to send emails that auto-delete after a set time.
Pricing
- Free: 1 GB storage & 1 email address
- Mail Plus: $4.99/month
- Proton Unlimited: $12.99/month
- Business Plans: Starting at $6.99/user/month
Why You Need a Proton Mail Alternative?
Proton Mail’s privacy is solid, but other parts of the experience can slow you down. Mailbox organization feels rigid as filters are limited, and importing older emails often takes longer than expected. Attachments can be slow to load, especially on mobile. Add to that inconsistent support response times, and it becomes clear why many users start looking for an alternative that’s easier to manage on a day-to-day basis.
Here are some of the issues in detail with user reviews:
- Search feels slow and incomplete, especially when looking for older emails or specific keywords buried in long threads.
“The entire page would start flashing as it searched for more emails that matched my search criteria. It was weird and very slow.” - Free storage runs out quickly because the 1 GB limit fills up fast, even with light email usage or occasional attachments.
“A little bit more space/cloud storage is needed.” - The experience varies across devices, and features aren’t consistent between the web, iOS, and Android apps.
“Unfortunately, there is not much feature parity among platforms.” - Using Proton Mail with a desktop client requires the Proton Mail Bridge, which is only available on paid plans and frequently encounters sync issues.
“On a Mac, you have to install an app called “ProtonMail Bridge” for it to work with your email clients. ProtonMail Bridge often randomly logs out.” - Mailbox and contact management tools are limited, which makes it harder to organize information or share details securely with others.
“Their contact system is pretty outdated, tho, and does not encrypt names and mail addresses.”
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Top 8 Proton Mail Alternatives
These eight Proton Mail alternatives directly target the areas where Proton Mail struggles. Slow search and basic collaboration come up often in user feedback. Limited IMAP access, minimal admin tools, and higher pricing round out the list of frustrations. Each alternative improves on a different part of the experience, making it easier to find a provider that fits your needs.
| Tool | Best For | Key Features | Pricing |
|---|---|---|---|
| Tuta | Stronger encryption coverage and quantum-safe protection | 1 GB free storage, end-to-end encryption, quantum-safe protocols, subject line encryption, open source | Free plan available, paid plans start from $3/month |
| Fastmail | Faster search, smoother performance, and full IMAP access | Fast server-side search, IMAP support, integrated calendar, masked email | No free plan, paid plans start from $5/month |
| Mailfence | Encrypted shared calendars, documents, and collaboration tools | 1 GB free storage, OpenPGP encryption, encrypted contacts, calendar, docs, digital signatures | Free plan available, paid plans start from $2.50/month |
| Canary Mail | Native macOS/iOS apps with encryption and built-in AI | End-to-end encryption, biometric lock, AI assistant, optimized for iOS/macOS | No free plan, paid plans start from $3/month |
| Zoho Mail | Users who need stronger admin controls and built-in integrations with Zoho workplace tools | 5 GB free storage, TLS/S/MIME support, admin panel, Zoho Workplace integrations | Free plan available, paid plans start from $1/month |
| StartMail | Unlimited aliases and flexible custom domain control | PGP support, unlimited aliases, secure private domains, Dutch privacy laws | No free plan, paid plans start from $4.99/month |
| Mailbox (Formerly Mailbox.org) | Lower pricing with flexible storage and feature add-ons | 2 GB free storage, PGP and server-side encryption, customizable storage | Free plan available, paid plans start from $1.06/month |
| Hushmail | HIPAA-compliant email for healthcare and regulated industries | End-to-end encryption, secure web forms, HIPAA compliance tools, US-based hosting | No free plan, paid plans start from $11/month |
1. Tuta (Formerly Tutanota)
Tuta is built for users who want every part of their mailbox encrypted, not just the message content. It encrypts email content, subject lines, contacts, and calendar entries by default, which keeps all daily communication private by default. It also uses post-quantum cryptography for long-term security.
As a ProtonMail alternative, Tuta appeals to users who want deeper encryption coverage without changing their workflow.
Key Features
- Quantum-safe encryption for your entire mailbox, covering emails, contacts, calendars, and metadata.
- Privacy-first local search, which lets you search your mailbox without exposing data to Tuta’s servers.
- Anonymous account setup, with no phone number or personal info required.
- No phone number or personal details required at sign-up.
- GDPR-aligned data handling with a true zero-knowledge model.
- Runs entirely on renewable energy.
Pros
- Encryption is always on, so you don’t have to change settings or turn anything on for your messages to stay private.
- No tracking or inbox scanning, which is helpful if you handle sensitive information like lead lists or supplier details.
- Simple to use and quick to learn, even if you’re new to secure email tools.
- “It’s encrypted by default, so I don’t have to flip a switch or check any settings. It’s just private.”
- “I like that ProtonMail doesn’t track me or read my emails, which is important when I’m dealing with lead lists or supplier conversations.”
- “What I like most about this software is that it is easy to learn to use on your own.”
Cons
- Feature development is slow, and newly announced updates often take a long time to roll out.
- Functionality isn’t consistent across devices, and features like search, notifications, or settings behave differently on the web, iOS, and Android.
- Limited integrations with marketing and productivity tools make it harder to fit Tuta into broader workflows that rely on platforms like ActiveCampaign or Google Sheets.
- “The only gripe I have with the Proton ecosystem is that its development is VERY slow, and announced features might take years before release.”
- “Unfortunately, there is not much feature parity among platforms.”
- “There’s no real integration with tools like ActiveCampaign (my email solution) or Google Sheets (my data solution), which makes it harder for me to slip it into my broader marketing stack. ”
Reviews are from Capterra
Pricing
Tuta offers a free plan that includes 1 GB of storage and basic encrypted email. Paid personal plans start at €3 per month and increase storage, allow multiple aliases, and unlock features like custom domain support. There’s no free trial available.
Best For
Users who need full-mailbox encryption, including subject lines and metadata. A good fit for people who don’t rely on external integrations or third-party tools.
Why it’s a Great Proton Mail Alternative?
Tuta encrypts what Proton Mail doesn’t touch: subject lines, inbox metadata, and your entire address book. It also uses post-quantum encryption by default, which Proton Mail is still rolling out. If you want full-surface encryption without manual settings or key handling, Tuta gives you stronger, always-on protection.
Recommended reading
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2. Fastmail
Fastmail provides users with a fast and responsive inbox, featuring a search function that can pull up older emails almost instantly. It includes detailed organization features like folders, labels, and filtering rules that help users sort thousands of emails quickly.
The service also supports full IMAP access, allowing you to connect easily with desktop apps such as Apple Mail and Outlook, and manage your email from your preferred client. As a Proton Mail alternative, Fastmail is a strong fit for users who want speed, easy inbox control, and consistent performance across devices.
Key Features
- Built-in calendar and contacts with automatic syncing across all devices.
- Private, ad-free email with no tracking, data mining, or hidden profiling.
- Custom domains and detailed alias management for separating personal, work, and newsletter inboxes.
- Masked email aliases through 1Password for safer sign-ups and reduced spam.
- Import and export tools for easy migration from Gmail, Outlook, and other providers.
- Support for standards like JMAP and IMAP, giving users the freedom to choose any email client.
Pros
- Useful tools like email masking and easy imports make it simple to reduce spam and bring in mail from other providers without extra steps.
- Wide domain options give users flexibility when creating addresses for personal or professional use.
- Clean, easy-to-use interface that’s quick to set up and feels straightforward, even for first-time users.
- “Features like masking are very innovative and a very much-needed feature to avoid spam emails. One more feature that excites me is the capacity to import emails from various other platforms, which has indeed made this platform very attractive.”
- “The choice of domains available for the user to choose from is very attractive.”
- “The interface is user-friendly and very attractive. It is easy to set up and use.”
Cons
- Incoming mail can occasionally be delayed, especially during periods of heavy server load or security attacks, which affects real-time visibility.
- Storage caps may feel limiting for heavy users, even with plans that go up to 360 GB (60 GB per person).
- There is no dedicated macOS app, so users rely on webmail or third-party email clients.
- “Occasionally, the servers can be slow, and it can take a while for it to update my incoming email. This doesn’t happen very often, but it is apparently the result of sustained hacking attacks.”
- “I wish there were more memory storage available for the user to store their data.”
- “There’s no client for macOS. The mobile iOS client is great, but I miss the simple, secure client on my desktop, and the webmail isn’t as convenient as an app.”
Reviews are from G2
Pricing
Fastmail does not offer a free plan, but you can try it with a 30-day free trial. Paid plans start at $5/month. Higher tiers include more storage, with options going up to 360 GB. All plans come with IMAP access, calendars, contacts, and an ad-free inbox.
Best For
Users who depend on IMAP access and rule-based inbox organization, and want consistent performance across desktop and mobile apps.
Why it’s a Great Proton Mail Alternative?
Fastmail gives you native IMAP and JMAP support. Proton Mail requires a Bridge app and still can’t match Fastmail’s speed or search accuracy. If you rely on Apple Mail, Outlook, Thunderbird, or need to pull up old emails instantly, Fastmail performs better and integrates more naturally into multi-device workflows.
Recommended reading
3. Mailfence
Mailfence offers encrypted email, along with built-in collaboration features that include calendars, contacts, groups, and document sharing. It uses OpenPGP, a standard for secure, key-based encryption that enables users to have full control over their keys and to exchange encrypted messages outside the Mailfence ecosystem.
This makes Mailfence a strong option for users who need encrypted communication along with simple collaboration features that Proton Mail doesn’t include.
Key Features
- Complete OpenPGP key management, including generating your own keys and importing or exporting existing ones.
- Digital signatures that confirm messages really came from the senders and haven’t been altered.
- You can communicate securely with people outside Mailfence, since it supports sending and receiving PGP-encrypted emails with external users.
- Encrypted document storage with options to control who can view or edit shared files.
- Security controls for your domain, including the ability to manage SMTP/POP/IMAP access for safer account handling.
- Team and group management, so admins can organize users, set permissions, and manage shared resources securely.
Pros
- Responsive support that helps users resolve issues quickly and keeps the service reliable.
- Strong privacy posture, backed by Belgian privacy laws and independently controlled servers that are protected from outside access.
- Straightforward interface that makes encrypted email and workspace tools easy to navigate, even for first-time users.
- “I like the prompt customer service and the option to back up emails. Not to mention that Mailfence is secure!”
- “I like data security and identity privacy, backed by judicial laws, a secure server from external institutions.”
- “Mailfence is easy to use and navigate.”
Cons
- Free storage is limited, and many users need to upgrade quickly because the 500 MB cap on emails runs out quickly.
- It takes time to adjust, especially for users coming from Gmail, as the interface and workflows initially feel different.
- Minimal formatting options, with basic fonts and minimal design controls when composing emails.
- “The free plan has only 500 MB of storage, which is fair anyway compared to other alternatives. However, I still had to upgrade to the entry level to receive 5GB.”
- “It took a bit of time to learn how to use this email platform seamlessly, especially after being a longtime Gmail user. I got over this fairly quickly, though, and now I use it regularly, and have no user issues.”
- “There is a limited design menu, so fancy fonts are out. Font sizes, too, are very basic.”
Reviews are from G2 and Capterra
Pricing
Mailfence’s free personal plan includes 1 GB of total storage — 500 MB for email and 500 MB for documents. Paid personal plans start at €2.50/month. Business plans follow a higher pricing range and offer larger storage options. Across the upper tiers, storage, aliases, and custom domain support increase, with capacities going up to 225 GB. There’s no free trial.
Best For
Users who prefer PGP encryption and can manage their own encryption keys. It’s a strong choice for anyone who needs encrypted scheduling and file sharing, since Proton Mail doesn’t offer those features.
Why it’s a Great Proton Mail Alternative?
Mailfence offers full OpenPGP control. You create, store, import, and export your keys. Proton Mail restricts you to its managed key system. Mailfence also adds encrypted documents, calendars, and group tools that Proton Mail lacks. If you want standards-based encryption plus basic team collaboration in one service, Mailfence covers more ground.
Recommended reading
4. Canary Mail
Canary Mail is an encrypted email app designed for individuals who prefer managing their inbox through native apps rather than a browser. It works across macOS, iOS, Windows, and Android, allowing users to manage email within the same interface on every device.
With features like a unified inbox, message snoozing, follow-up reminders, and AI-powered sorting, the app makes it easier to manage multiple accounts. It stands out from Proton Mail because these features are built into a whole app ecosystem rather than being limited to a web-only inbox.
Key Features
- Automatic key exchange that enables encryption without requiring users to handle PGP keys manually.
- Unified inbox that combines multiple accounts (Gmail, Outlook, iCloud, IMAP) into one view.
- AI assistance for email drafting and summarizing long threads.
- Natural-language search that lets you type requests the way you speak, like “emails from Alex last week.”
- Biometric locking on mobile to secure access with Face ID or fingerprint authentication.
- An offline mode that allows users to read and draft messages without an internet connection.
Pros
- Setup is quick and painless, and it connects cleanly with most major email providers.
- The development team actually listens, and they’re fast with fixes and improvements when users report an issue.
- Syncing is fast, and the interface is easy to get used to, especially on Apple devices, where the native design feels clean, familiar, and genuinely pleasant to work in.
- “Integrates seamlessly with email providers—easy to set up, albeit a non-issue for me.”
- “The dev team is very open to feedback and implements changes/bug fixes promptly.”
- “The platform is extremely intuitive to use and syncs fast across multiple devices. It’s beautiful and native to Apple UI, also suits my need of looking for a platform that is aesthetically pleasing.”
Cons
- Attachments can be harder to spot in long email threads, so it takes longer to locate the correct file.
- The app consumes excessive system resources, and some users have noticed that it uses more memory than other email clients.
- Occasional display issues with Gmail messages, though support is quick to help when they happen.
- “It’s a bit confusing to find attachments in long email conversations.”
- “Occasionally, I feel the memory footprint of Canary is larger than it should be compared to other apps I have tried.”
- “It is occasionally struggling to display some Gmail emails, but their customer support to address this has been excellent.”
Reviews are from G2
Pricing
Canary Mail offers a free plan for personal and student use. The Growth plan starts at $3/month and includes features like AI-powered assistance, calendar support, and advanced customization. The Pro+ tier includes PGP encryption, SecureSend, and additional security controls for users who need stronger privacy protections. A 7-day free trial is also available.
Best For
Users who want a dedicated email app instead of webmail and need a clean, fast interface across macOS, iOS, Windows, and Android.
Why it’s a Great Proton Mail Alternative?
Canary Mail gives you native apps on every major OS, while Proton Mail relies on a browser for core features like snooze and reminders. Canary also pulls all your accounts into one unified inbox, including Gmail, Outlook, and iCloud. If you want AI email summarization, follow-up reminders, and native speed across devices, Canary beats Proton Mail’s web-only experience.
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5. Zoho Mail
Zoho Mail is part of the larger Zoho Workplace suite, which bundles email with calendars, file storage, team chat, and office apps. Within Zoho Mail, teams get shared calendars, shared folders, a built-in task manager, and a social-style collaboration feed called Streams.
Admins can manage users, set rules, and control access from a single dashboard, making onboarding and day-to-day oversight much easier. As a Proton Mail alternative, Zoho Mail stands out because it functions as a complete business workspace rather than just a secure inbox.
Key Features
- Custom domain hosting allows businesses to create branded email addresses for teams and departments.
- S/MIME support, giving users certificate-based encryption and sender validation for secure communication.
- Email retention and e-discovery are useful for compliance, audits, and retrieving older messages across the organization.
- Advanced spam filtering and IP-based access rules add multiple layers of security for incoming and outgoing mail.
- Shared inboxes for team emails like support@ or sales@, with delegated access for smooth team collaboration.
- Seamless integration with Zoho apps like CRM, Projects, and Desk, creating a unified workflow between customer communication and daily operations.
Pros
- The interface is clean and easy to navigate, which makes everyday email management straightforward for teams.
- It’s completely ad-free and privacy-focused, giving businesses a professional environment without distractions.
- Startups can set up professional, custom-domain email addresses for free, which makes it a cost-friendly option for new teams.
- “One of the standout features of Zoho Mail is its clean and intuitive interface. It’s easy to navigate, which makes managing emails a breeze.”
- “I love that it’s a privacy-focused and ad-free email service that’s incredibly powerful for businesses.”
- “The standout feature for me is that it allows startups to obtain a professional email address at no cost.”
Cons
- Mobile and desktop notifications can lag, sometimes by several minutes, which makes real-time updates unreliable.
- Advanced settings and integrations can feel complex, especially for users who aren’t very technical.
- Lower-tier plans have limited storage, which can make sending or attaching larger files inconvenient.
- “What I find most frustrating is the delay in receiving notifications. Sometimes they arrive as late as five minutes after the event, and even at best, there’s usually at least a one-minute lag.”
- “Sometimes the advanced settings and integrations can be a bit complicated and take extra time to figure out, especially if you’re not very technical.”
- “The storage on lower-tier plans feels a bit limited, and attaching larger files can sometimes be inconvenient.”
Pricing
Zoho Mail offers a free plan that includes up to 5 GB of mail storage per user. Paid business plans start at $1 per user/month (Mail Lite) when billed annually, and scale up with increased storage, custom branding, and collaboration features. More advanced Workplace bundles that include email plus office-suite tools are available at higher tiers. A 15-day free trial is available.
Best For
Teams that want secure email plus simple collaboration features—like assigning tasks, sharing notes, and posting updates through Streams—without using separate apps. It works well for businesses that need email and team coordination in one workspace, not just encrypted messaging.
Why it’s a Great Proton Mail Alternative?
Zoho Mail acts as a workspace, not just an inbox. Proton Mail doesn’t offer shared folders, Streams posts, built-in tasks, or deep CRM integrations. Zoho also supports S/MIME, which Proton Mail doesn’t. If your team wants a secure email tied directly to project updates, customer records, and shared resources, Zoho Mail is more complete.
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6. StartMail
StartMail is a secure email service created by the team behind Startpage, the privacy-focused search engine. It focuses on giving users strong privacy without locking them into a separate ecosystem. You can use StartMail with your preferred email client through IMAP, whether that’s Apple Mail, Outlook, or Thunderbird. You can also set up custom domains and create unlimited aliases to control who can reach you.
It is a practical Proton Mail alternative for users who want a private email outside a web-only setup. It’s also helpful for people who use Apple Mail, Outlook, or Thunderbird and need unlimited aliases to separate personal, work, and signup addresses.
Key Features
- One-click PGP encryption, allowing users to send and receive encrypted emails without manual key setup.
- Unlimited disposable aliases, so users can generate new email addresses to block spam and protect their primary inbox.
- Private, ad-free search engine integration through Startpage for safer browsing inside the ecosystem.
- Secure mailbox export, enabling users to back up or migrate their entire email archive in encrypted form.
- Server-side filtering and sorting, which automatically organizes incoming messages based on rules you set.
- Dutch data-protection safeguards ensure that emails are stored under strong EU privacy laws with strict limits on government access.
Pros
- Strong alias controls, with both manual and time-limited aliases to help users reduce spam and protect their main address.
- Stable performance, with users noting consistent uptime and a generally smooth experience.
- Simple day-to-day workflow, since the service doesn’t require technical knowledge and feels straightforward to use over time.
- “I’ve subscribed for over a year. The service has never gone down.”
- “Provides the option to create alias email addresses on demand — both self-created and automatic, with time limits.”
- “Used this service for around a year and no issues really. Will renew.”
Cons
- Session timeouts can be inconsistent, logging users out earlier than expected.
- No full end-to-end encryption, which may not meet the needs of highly privacy-focused users.
- No anonymous signup, since a credit card is required and crypto payments aren’t supported.
- “It’s not bad, it’s mediocre. Drives me nuts that I set it to log me out in 24 hours, and it logs me out 3-4 times within that period. At $60 a year, I won’t be renewing it.”
- “StartMail does not utilise end-to-end encryption as far as I know, meaning they can theoretically access your emails.”
- “CC required to sign up. Thus, no anonymous signup (no crypto payments). Not impressed.”
Reviews are from Reddit
Pricing
StartMail does not offer a free plan, but you can try it with a 7-day free trial. Paid personal plans start at $4.99/month when billed annually and include 20 GB of storage plus unlimited aliases. Higher-tier plans add more storage and domain controls.
Best For
People who like sticking to their usual email apps on desktop or mobile. They want the flexibility of IMAP and strong privacy, without being tied to a single, proprietary interface.
Why it’s a Great Proton Mail Alternative?
StartMail gives you unlimited disposable aliases. Proton Mail charges for extra aliases and has stricter limits. If you juggle multiple online identities, sign up for many services, or rely heavily on Apple Mail or Outlook, StartMail fits better than Proton Mail’s locked ecosystem.
Recommended reading
7. Mailbox (Formerly Mailbox.org)
Mailbox is a German privacy-focused email service built for users who want strong security without giving up the flexibility of a traditional inbox. It works with any IMAP or POP client and supports custom domains. It includes a full suite of tools like encrypted cloud storage, calendars, tasks, and an online office editor.
You can also add storage or extra mailboxes individually, which gives you more control than Proton Mail’s fixed plan structure. For people comparing Proton Mail alternatives, Mailbox stands out if you need privacy plus extras like encrypted cloud storage, tasks, and document editing in one workspace.
Key Features
- Guard mailbox mode, which routes all incoming mail through a spam and virus shield before it reaches your inbox.
- Encrypted Drive storage, where files are protected with OpenPGP encryption and can be shared securely with links that expire.
- Anonymous payment options, including Bitcoin and cash. This allows users to maintain privacy at signup.
- Secure video conferencing (Mailbox Meet) is built directly into the platform with encrypted sessions.
- PGP key management is built in, so users can generate, store, and manage their encryption keys without external tools.
- Email aliases and multiple inboxes enable you to create different identities and manage them from one account.
Pros
- A clean, clutter-free interface that feels easier on the eyes compared to ad-heavy inboxes like Gmail.
- Very affordable pricing, giving users access to secure email and core features.
- Built-in productivity tools, including a calendar, document editor, and spreadsheet, so you can handle basic work tasks without switching apps.
- “Lovely user-interface. Very clean and straightforward. Nice not to have to endure adverts and other screen clutter. Compared to Gmail, it is a pleasure on the eyes.”
- “This email service has many advantages at a very low price of $1 per month, offering benefits that can be used by anyone in their work.”
- “It has an integrated calendar, a word processing application, and you can also use a spreadsheet.”
Cons
- The service can feel slow at times, with users noticing slight delays when navigating or loading messages.
- The login and two-factor authentication flow can be confusing, especially for people new to Mailbox’s older security setup.
- Some websites and services don’t always accept mailbox addresses, which can create friction when signing up for certain accounts.
- “Generally nice… But I’m finding it rather sluggish. Nothing horrible, but just enough to be a bit annoying.”
- “The website login interface and their ancient/very confusing 2FA were the biggest pain for me.”
- “Email isn’t accepted everywhere.”
Reviews are from G2 and Reddit
Pricing
Mailbox doesn’t offer a free plan, but the entry-level Light tier starts at €1/month and includes IMAP/POP access, spam and phishing protection, encrypted storage, and support for custom domains. Higher plans increase both mailbox and Drive storage, and you can add more space or additional mailboxes individually. There’s also a 30-day trial.
Best For
Mailbox is best for users who want a secure email that still works with traditional clients like Outlook, Apple Mail, and Thunderbird. It’s a good Proton Mail alternative for people who prefer IMAP/POP access, flexible add-ons, and a privacy-focused provider with built-in productivity features like an encrypted calendar, task manager, etc.
Why it’s a Great Proton Mail Alternative?
Mailbox gives you encrypted cloud storage, spreadsheets, document editing, and secure video meetings. Proton Mail requires separate apps and doesn’t offer encrypted office features. Mailbox also supports anonymous payments like Bitcoin and cash, which Proton Mail does not. If you want privacy plus a full productivity suite in one secure login, Mailbox offers more value.
Recommended reading
8. Hushmail
Hushmail is a secure email service built for professionals who work with sensitive client information, especially in healthcare, legal services, counseling, and financial advisory roles. It offers encrypted email, secure web forms, and electronic signatures designed to help organizations meet compliance requirements like HIPAA.
Unlike Proton Mail, which focuses more on personal privacy, Hushmail is structured to support regulated businesses that need encrypted communication and compliance documentation in one place.
Key Features
- HIPAA-compliant email, including a Business Associate Agreement (BAA) for covered entities.
- Encrypted web forms for secure intake, appointments, consent agreements, and file uploads.
- Built-in e-signatures allow clients to sign documents without leaving the secure environment.
- Automatic encryption, where emails between Hushmail users are encrypted by default, and non-Hushmail users receive a secure portal.
- Multiple domain options, including industry-specific domains (like @therapysecure.com) for healthcare and counseling.
- Mobile and desktop access, with support for iOS, Android, and IMAP for third-party email clients.
Pros
- Useful everyday features like mail forwarding, auto-replies, inbox folders, and encrypted messaging. It makes the service easy to use alongside existing workflows.
- Good storage for the price, providing users with enough room to store long-term email records without the need for an immediate upgrade.
- Features a dedicated iPhone app, making it easier for mobile users to manage secure messages on the go.
- “Many functions are available, like mail forwarding, auto reply, encryption, contact list, and box folders for organization.”
- “The cost is decent, and the storage space is very much for storing mail.”
- “Has a standalone app for iPhone.”
Cons
- You lose all account data if you reset your passphrase, which can be risky for users who don’t have local backups.
- The interface isn’t as intuitive as other secure email providers, so it may take more time to get used to.
- Lacks built-in antivirus and advanced spam filtering, which reduces protection against unwanted or harmful messages.
- “If you need to have your passphrase reset, you lose 100% of the data in your account.”
- “Not as straightforward to use as similar programs.”
- “It also has no features like antivirus and anti-spam protection.”
Reviews are from G2
Pricing
Hushmail offers tailored plans for different industries. For healthcare and HIPAA-compliant use, pricing starts at $11/month for a solo practitioner. Higher tiers increase account count, secure web forms, e-signatures, and custom branding. There’s no free plan, but all paid plans include a 14-day free trial.
Best For
Healthcare practices, therapists, legal professionals, and any regulated organization that must meet standards like HIPAA.
Why it’s a Great Proton Mail Alternative?
Hushmail provides HIPAA-ready email, encrypted forms, and e-signatures out of the box. Proton Mail does not offer BAAs, compliant intake forms, or secure client portals. If you’re a therapist, doctor, lawyer, or financial advisor and must meet strict compliance requirements, Hushmail covers the regulatory needs Proton Mail can’t support.
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Features to Look for in a Proton Mail Alternative
Before you choose a Proton Mail alternative, look closely at the areas where Proton Mail usually falls short. Compare how each provider handles encryption beyond the basics. Examine if it offers usable storage and supports collaboration features that Proton Mail lacks. Check if it makes migration easier than Proton’s limited import options. These factors will show you which service actually fixes the problems you’re trying to move away from.
1. What security protection do you actually need?
Choose providers with end-to-end encryption, zero-knowledge storage, and strong jurisdiction laws. Tuta offers full-mailbox, quantum-safe encryption. Mailfence gives you control of your PGP keys. Hushmail is the best fit if you need HIPAA-compliant encryption.
2. How much storage will you realistically use?
If Proton Mail’s limits slow you down, look for 5–20 GB on base plans or the option to buy extra storage. Zoho Mail and Mailbox offer generous space and add-ons. StartMail is reliable for long-term archiving with IMAP backups.
3. Does it support the way your team works?
If multiple people handle email, you need shared inboxes, delegated access, and good IMAP support. Zoho Mail has shared calendars, tasks, and Streams for teams. Mailbox adds an encrypted Drive and document editing. Fastmail syncs smoothly with Outlook, Apple Mail, and Thunderbird.
4. Will migration be smooth?
Look for automatic import tools and support for formats like MBOX, EML, and ICS. Fastmail offers the easiest import experience. Mailbox handles multiple file formats well. StartMail makes IMAP setup simple if you’re coming from a desktop client.
5. How reliable is the service once you switch?
Check the provider’s uptime record. Also check for speed, and whether support responds quickly when something breaks. Hushmail is dependable for regulated industries. Fastmail is fast and stable. Zoho Mail offers strong admin controls and consistent performance.
Choosing the Right Proton Mail Alternative
If Proton Mail slows you down with limited storage, uneven app performance, or weak collaboration tools, it’s a sign your mailbox needs to work harder for you. The alternatives in this guide address those issues in different ways, so the right choice depends on the specific bottleneck you want to eliminate.
Some providers focus on stronger encryption. Others offer faster search, more reliable IMAP support, or team features that Proton Mail doesn’t include. Choose the one that solves the problem you deal with most often.
Start with a short trial. Test migration speed, IMAP stability, search performance, and how well the mobile and desktop apps stay in sync. The goal is simple: move to an email service that removes friction instead of adding to it.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Is Proton Mail better than Gmail for privacy?
Yes. Proton Mail offers end-to-end encryption and zero-access storage, while Gmail scans data for personalization and uses server-side encryption. If privacy is your priority, Proton Mail is stronger.
2. Which is better: Proton Mail or Tuta?
Tuta offers deeper encryption coverage (including subject lines and metadata) and post-quantum protection. Proton Mail has a more polished interface and a larger ecosystem. Choose Tuta for maximum privacy and Proton Mail for a smoother UI.
3. Do Proton Mail alternatives support custom domains?
Fastmail, Mailfence, StartMail, Zoho Mail, and Mailbox all support custom domains on paid plans. Tuta and Hushmail also offer it on higher tiers.
4. Can I use third-party email clients with secure email services?
Yes, but it depends on the provider. Fastmail, Zoho Mail, Mailfence, Mailbox, and StartMail offer full IMAP/SMTP support. Proton Mail and Tuta require bridge apps unless you subscribe to higher plans.
5. Which Proton Mail alternative offers the most free storage?
Zoho Mail offers 5 GB of storage on its free plan. Mailbox offers 2 GB. Tuta and Mailfence offer 1 GB or less on free tiers.
6. Are there Proton Mail alternatives suitable for businesses?
Yes. Zoho Mail, Mailbox, Mailfence, and Hushmail (for healthcare) are business-ready with admin controls, team collaboration features, and domain management.
7. What are the main disadvantages of Proton Mail?
Common complaints include limited storage, slow or incomplete search, uneven app behavior across devices, basic collaboration features, and IMAP access locked behind higher plans.
8. Which secure email service is best for Mac and iOS users?
Canary Mail is the strongest option. It’s built natively for Apple devices, syncs quickly across macOS and iOS, and offers biometric locking and encrypted workflows.
9. How much does it cost to switch from Proton Mail to an alternative?
Switching is usually low-cost. Most services offer free plans or trials, and paid plans start around $1–$5/month. Migration itself is free unless you pay for extra storage or domain setup.
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