Both are polished, modern email clients that go well beyond utilitarian design, and both now run on Windows and Mac – but eM Client pulls ahead once you factor in security, backup and customization.
Head-to-head comparison
|
Mailbird |
eM Client |
| Desktop platforms |
Windows and Mac |
Windows and Mac |
| Mobile app |
iOS and Android
(since October 2026) |
iOS and Android |
| PGP and S/MIME |
Not natively supported |
Built-in |
| App password protection |
Not supported |
Yes |
| Automatic backup |
Unavailable |
Yes |
| UI customization |
Premade themes and few custom color and image background choices |
Premade themes and fully customizable Theme editor |
| Productivity tools |
Email templates, Canned responses
(no macros available) |
Email templates, QuickTexts,
Quick Actions (macros) |
| Free tier |
1 account
(but some accounts only available for Mailbird Premium users) |
2 accounts, any provider |
| Integrations |
Yes, with Mailbird Premium
(WhatsApp, Slack, calendar) |
Calendar, tasks, contacts, chat – all native and available with any license |
| Pricing model |
Annual/lifetime |
Annual/lifetime |
| Best for |
Windows/Mac users wanting app integrations |
Anyone who wants security, backup, and mobile app in one client |
Why eM Client is the better long-term pick
Mailbird closed its biggest gap by launching a Mac version in 2024 and mobile apps in 2026, so platform support alone is no longer the deciding factor – both clients now cover Windows, Mac, Android and iOS.
Where eM Client still pulls ahead is everywhere else that matters for a serious daily driver: built-in PGP/S-MIME message encryption for sensitive email, app-level password protection, automatic backup so you’re not responsible for your own data safety net, and deeper customization – not just themes, but also a number of useful features such as Quick Actions (macros) and Profiles.
Where Mailbird might still make sense
If you specifically want Mailbird’s exact integrations (like its WhatsApp panel) or its particular interface style, it remains a strong, fully capable option.
FAQ
Which is the better all-around choice?
eM Client, mainly due to built-in message encryption, password protection, and automatic backup – none of which Mailbird currently offers.
Does Mailbird have a Mac version?
Yes, since October 2024.
Does Mailbird support message encryption?
Not natively – eM Client is the option to pick if PGP/S-MIME encryption matters to you.
Can I try both before committing?
Yes, both offer free trials or limited free tiers – but only eM Client lets you test encryption and backup as part of that trial.
Does either support Exchange accounts?
Yes, both support Exchange/IMAP. However, Mailbird requires Premium license to connect accounts via Exchange.
Read the Full Mailbird vs eM Client Breakdown here.
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