All You Need to Know About Gmail Alternatives in 2021

The popular email service Gmail is used by millions worldwide.

13:28 25 January 2021

It is free and simple to navigate, with built-in features that have proved popular amongst businesses and individuals alike. It was developed by the search engine giant Google (heard of it?) in 2004 and is a cloud-based service. Whilst it’s popularity is unarguable it does have its limitations, and many are starting to question whether it may be worth considering other options. Why?

 

Privacy 

 

You may be concerned about how Google collects your data. It has been a subject of debate covered by the media in recent years. If you’re one of the millions of Gmail users, it may be unsettling to know that google may hold onto your data forever, unless you set it up not to. Google pulls all the data from your Gmail accounts such as trips, bills and purchases. Google then uses this information for targeted ads and content it thinks may interest you based on your information. Oh, the joys of marketing! So, what alternatives are available if you want to explore life beyond google and embrace a more secure email service? 

 

There are a variety of options to choose from. If security is your priority the experts over at allthingssecured.com/reviews/email/best-alternatives-gmail/ suggest several email providers that provide different services. They also recommend trying out the services by setting up a test account before making a commitment to make sure it’s exactly what you want. 

 

Here are a few alternatives I have found in my search: 

 

Yandex 

 

Yandex mail is a good option if you don’t want to pay a subscription. It’s a great alternative to Gmail because it has a built-in scan function that blocks spam, malware and phishing. It automatically keeps a note of all activity making it easy to identify anything suspicious. It has mixed reviews, but definitely provides a more secure email option. 

 

GMX

 

Like Yandex, GMX is free to use. It has very positive reviews. GMX is ideal if you like a little ‘more’ from your email service. It has great organizational features such as an integrated address book. It provides users with the option of using it on a desktop or mobile device. But most importantly it has powerful antivirus and spam filters, as well as the option to add end to end encryption for individual emails. GMX pride themselves on creating a service to protect your privacy. 

 

ICloud mail 

 

If you are a lover of Apple products then iCloud mail is the perfect solution. As with all Apple products, it is very user friendly. 

 

In terms of security, the guys at netchip comment that iCloud mail is generally a safe email service with its two-step verification feature. 

 

Apple has historically made security high priority when developing their products so it is worth researching their website and what they offer. They have a great customer support department so discussing it with them personally is advisable. 

 

Runbox

 

The company that created Runbox is based in Norway. Norway is a country with very strict privacy rights so it would be judicious to set up an account with Runbox if privacy is your primary concern. However, it isn’t free but there are a variety of plans you can choose from depending on your requirements. 

 

Runbox provides end to end encryption of all emails so only you can read them. It also runs no ads and is free from data tracking.

 

The downside is that it doesn’t, as yet, have a mobile app option, but this may be a small price to pay when it comes to protecting your data. 

 

If protecting the environment is something you like to contribute to then it’s good to note that the Runbox data centres only use clean and renewable energy. Great to make you feel like you’re promoting cleaner earth. 

 

Posteo 

 

Another good option for protecting the environment is Posteo. Based in Berlin, Posteo only uses sustainable energy from Greenpeace. They also have a great website that is informative and easy to navigate. There is also a substantial section on data protection and privacy which provides details that are reassuring to new users. Security features include IP striping and signing up without using personal details. 

 

Thexyz

 

A super contemporary website, stylish interface and a plethora of security features, Thexyz combines usability with peace of mind. No ads, private data and extra privacy options if required. Well worth checking out their website. Not a free option, but monthly subscriptions are affordable. 

 

So, although it seems like it, Google no longer has a monopoly on email services. New options are being developed every day with the same, if not better features than Gmail. Do your research and I’m confident you will find the ideal mail service provider for your needs.