Whether you’re hitting Mailbird’s account limits on the free tier, want a mobile app that synchronizes with your desktop inbox, or just want to compare your options, here’s how the leading alternatives measure up.
Our top pick: eM Client
eM Client is the most direct upgrade path from Mailbird: it matches Mailbird’s unified inbox and account flexibility, runs on both Windows and macOS just like Mailbird now does, and adds several things Mailbird doesn’t offer – native mobile apps, built-in message encryption (PGP/S-MIME), app password protection, automatic backup, and deeper customization through Quick Actions and Profiles.
Reasons people look for a Mailbird alternative
Want a mobile app that syncs with the desktop inbox, since Mailbird doesn’t have one
Need message encryption for sensitive email, which Mailbird doesn’t offer
Want to password-protect the app itself, or automatic backup of their data
Want a genuinely free option that isn't limited to a single account
Want deeper workflow customization – Quick Actions (macros) or Profiles
How the rest compare
Thunderbird is free and cross-platform, but its interface is more traditional than Mailbird's. While it does offer Android and F-Droid mobile app, it has no iOS app.
Spark focuses on cloud-based syncing across desktop and mobile and remains especially popular with Apple users.
Outlook is a strong choice only for users already committed to the Microsoft ecosystem.
eM Client combines a traditional desktop email client with native mobile apps, making it one of the closest all-around replacements for Mailbird.
FAQ
What’s the best alternative to Mailbird overall?
eM Client, since it covers everything Mailbird does on desktop plus native mobile apps.
Does Mailbird have a Mac version now?
Yes, since October 2024 – but it still lacks a mobile app, which is where eM Client pulls ahead.
Do these alternatives support the same integrations (calendar, messaging apps)?
eM Client includes calendar, tasks, contacts, and chat natively, without needing separate add-ons.
See the Full Mailbird vs eM Client Comparison here.