Thunderbird alternatives: 6 apps ranked by verified data
Common reasons people leave Thunderbird: no web version and no released iOS app yet, and add-ons sometimes break after major updates. We ranked 6 alternatives by how directly each one replaces Thunderbird, then by reviews, real visits and how recently each app's facts were checked against its own website. Mailspring currently ranks first.
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Show all 6 alternativesThe best Thunderbird alternative for…
The highest-ranked app in this list for each need.
Best Thunderbird alternative for most people
MailspringAn open-source desktop client with a more modern look and optional Pro features.
Best Thunderbird alternative for a free option
FairEmailOpen-source, privacy-focused Android client with very deep settings.
Best Thunderbird alternative for a free plan you can upgrade
eM ClientA polished Windows and Mac client with strong Exchange and calendar support.
Best Thunderbird alternative for open source
GearyA lighter, conversation-based open-source client for the GNOME desktop.
Best Thunderbird alternative for Mac
NeoMuttA terminal mail reader for people who want full keyboard control and scripting.
Best Thunderbird alternative for Windows
BlueMailA free cross-platform client that also covers iOS, which Thunderbird does not yet.
Best Thunderbird alternative for Linux
MailspringAn open-source desktop client with a more modern look and optional Pro features.
Best Thunderbird alternative for iPhone and Android
BlueMailA free cross-platform client that also covers iOS, which Thunderbird does not yet.
Thunderbird alternatives: common questions
What is the best alternative to Thunderbird?
Mailspring ranks first right now. An open-source desktop client with a more modern look and optional Pro features. eM Client and FairEmail follow it in our ranking.
Is there a free alternative to Thunderbird?
Yes. Mailspring (free plan + paid), eM Client (free plan + paid), FairEmail (open source) and Geary (open source) have a free option. Check each app's verified facts for current plan limits.
Is there an open-source alternative to Thunderbird?
Yes: Mailspring, FairEmail, Geary and NeoMutt.
Which Thunderbird alternatives work on Linux?
Mailspring, Geary, NeoMutt and BlueMail run on Linux.
Why do people switch from Thunderbird?
The complaints we hear most: no web version and no released iOS app yet; add-ons sometimes break after major updates; exchange setups can need extra configuration.
How is this list ranked?
Every app is scored with the same published formula: how directly it replaces Thunderbird, reviews (weighted by verification), visits from AppBreakup, how recently its facts were checked against its own website, and reader votes.