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 mobile access and long-term flexibility.
Head-to-head comparison
|
Mailbird |
eM Client |
| Desktop platforms |
Windows and Mac |
Windows and Mac |
| Mobile app |
None |
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, so platform support alone is no longer the deciding factor – both clients now cover Windows and Mac.
Where eM Client still pulls ahead is everywhere else that matters for a serious daily driver: native mobile apps that sync with the desktop inbox, 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 exclusively check email from a desktop or laptop and never need a mobile app and 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 native mobile apps, 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, backup, and mobile sync 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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