Microsoft Outlook has been a popular email client for many years, but there are lots of free options available for someone who isn’t looking to purchase the software. Before you put down any money for Outlook, try these seven free alternatives that are sure to save you some cash.
- Mailbird
For those who are only looking to use Outlook for its email service, paying $45 or more is a waste of money. For a cleaner, lighter email client, Mailbird is a fantastic choice. In 2014, Mailbird won IT World’s “Best Windows Email Client” award. While you can use this service just for email, you can also use the task and calendar features that are available. There is a pay option, but the free version is more than enough for all your emailing needs. - Windows 8/8.1/10 Mail
The newer Windows operating systems come equipped with an email client, which means you don’t need to spend extra money on Outlook. The features depend on which version you’re using, but all have amazing features that make it much better than Outlook. One of the best features is the ability to sync Windows’ People and Calendar apps, so all of your info is together. You’re also able to access your email address for Outlook, Gmail, Yahoo, and other accounts in one place, meaning you don’t have to export any contacts or notify people of an email change. - eM Client
eM Client is more than just email. It also has a calendar, contacts, and a task organizer. If you’re worried about losing your contacts, this service can import your old Outlook contacts. The free version works very nicely, and one of the best things about this service is that the search is fast and clean. You can also customize eM Client’s appearance to suit your preference. - Windows Live Mail
If you don’t have a newer operating system, you have the option of using Windows Live Mail. It’s incredibly easy to set up and is included on every Windows computer on the market. It works well and has seamless integration with Live accounts. Not only can you import your contacts, but you can also import critical messages, folders, and more. This program works as a simple mail client that serves all of your needs. - Thunderbird
Thunderbird is Mozilla’s email client, and it’s exactly what you’d expect from the same developers who made Firefox. There are tons of features you can use and add-ons you can download to improve your experience. No other email service provides as much customization as Thunderbird. If those features aren’t enough to sell you, it also imports your contacts from almost all other email clients. Bravely, Mozilla states, “Firefox is to Internet Explorer, Thunderbird is to Outlook.” - Inky
If you’re the type of person who worries about Internet Message Access Protocol (IMAP) and Post Office Protocol (POP), Inky is the client you need, because it offers both types. If you want to access your email from your office computer and your home computer, IMAP allows you to access it. If you don’t want copies of your email stored on a server, POP is your choice. Inky lets you set up your email based on your preference. In addition, Inky is also super-easy to use and enables you to import your contacts into your new client. - Pimero
While you do have the option to pay for “Standard” or “Professional,” the free version of Pimero works great for email. It has a calendar you can sync with others, and it’s easy to import your contacts from Outlook. Of course, Pimero is easy to use and allows you to access your email with ease. Additionally, you can also reach your email on your mobile device through the Pimero app.
