For many PC users, Microsoft Outlook has been the go-to program for managing email, calendars and contacts for decades.
But change is coming. Microsoft has confirmed that classic Outlook be discontinued in 2029, with the newer Outlook for Windows being positioned as the future replacement.
For some users, this change may not be a problem. If you are using Microsoft 365 email, the newer Outlook may suit your needs. However, not every business uses Microsoft 365 for email. Many small businesses still use other types of email accounts, including IMAP, POP or hosted email services connected to their domain name. Microsoft’s own documentation notes that the new Outlook supports Microsoft 365, Outlook.com, Gmail, Yahoo, iCloud, IMAP and POP accounts, but on-premises Exchange accounts are not supported and POP and IMAP is not fully supported.
For business owners who rely on a familiar desktop email program, this is a good time to start looking at alternatives. The good news is that there are several modern email apps available that are well worth considering.
Why look beyond Outlook?
You might want to explore other email programs if you:
- use IMAP or POP email accounts
- manage several email addresses
- want a more traditional desktop email experience
- prefer software that is not tied so closely to Microsoft 365
- need strong search, calendar and contact features
- want a cleaner or simpler interface
Three popular Outlook alternatives are eM Client, Thunderbird and Mailbird. Each one suits a slightly different type of user.
1. eM Client
eM Client is a polished, all-in-one email program that includes email, calendars, contacts, tasks and chat in one place. It supports a wide range of email services, including IMAP, Exchange and POP accounts, and is available across Windows, macOS, iOS and Android.
Some of its useful features include:
- email, calendar and contacts in one app
- support for IMAP, POP and Exchange accounts
- built-in translation tools
- strong search features
- a sidebar showing contact history and attachments
- support for email encryption, including PGP and S/MIME
eM Client is a good choice for users who want something that feels modern and professional, without losing the features they are used to in Outlook.
2. Thunderbird
Thunderbird is a free, open-source email program from Mozilla. It has been around for many years and is known for being flexible, reliable and highly customisable. Mozilla describes Thunderbird as a secure, feature-rich email client that supports POP, IMAP, SMTP and Exchange, and runs on Windows, macOS, Linux and Android.
Thunderbird may suit users who want:
- a free email program
- strong customisation options
- add-ons and extensions
- support for multiple email accounts
- a unified inbox option
- a program that is not locked into one major provider
Thunderbird is probably the most flexible option of the three. It may not feel as polished as some commercial email apps, but it is dependable and gives users a lot of control.
3. Mailbird
Mailbird is designed for users who want a clean, simple and modern email experience. It focuses on speed, ease of use and productivity. Mailbird offers a unified inbox, app integrations and customisation options, with a strong focus on helping users manage multiple accounts in one place.
Mailbird may be a good fit if you want:
- a modern interface
- a unified inbox
- quick setup
- app integrations
- a simple email workspace
- fewer technical settings to worry about
It can also integrate with popular tools such as Google Calendar, Dropbox, WhatsApp and Slack, which may appeal to users who like having everything connected in one place.
Which Outlook alternative is best?
There is no single best option for everyone. As a general guide:
- Choose eM Client if you want a polished, Outlook-style replacement with lots of built-in features.
- Choose Thunderbird if you want a free, flexible and open-source option.
- Choose Mailbird if you want something simple, modern and productivity-focused.
If you are currently using classic Outlook, you do not need to panic. Support is expected to continue until at least 2029. But it is worth being aware of the changes and planning ahead, especially if your business uses IMAP, POP or non-Microsoft email hosting.
A reliable email setup is essential for most businesses. Taking the time to choose the right email app now can help avoid frustration later.