7 Best Mail apps for mac
Let's face it: your inbox is probably the hub of your asynchronous communication. For Mac users, there's a world beyond Apple Mail that can transform how you handle those incoming messages. Tools like Spark and Mailmate aren't just email clients – they're asynchronous communication powerhouses that help you take control of your inbox. Spark, for instance, gets what modern async communication needs: it lets you snooze emails until you're ready to deal with them, schedule messages to send later (because maybe 3 AM isn't the best time to ping your colleague), and even collaborate on email responses with your team.
But here's where it gets really interesting: apps like Newton and Airmail are changing the game with features built specifically for thoughtful, measured responses. Newton's read receipts and send later features mean you can time your communications perfectly, while Airmail's ability to turn emails into tasks fits perfectly into an asynchronous workflow. These aren't just mail apps – they're communication command centers that respect both your time and your recipient's. The best part? They integrate seamlessly with other Mac apps and services, so your asynchronous communication flows naturally into your existing workflow. When you need to write those carefully considered responses we talked about earlier, these tools give you the space and features to do exactly that.
Apple Mail
Best for: Anyone who wants a reliable, no-frills email experience right out of the box If you're looking for a straightforward email client that just works, Apple Mail is your answer. It's the perfect starting point for most Mac users, offering unified mailboxes that bring all your accounts together in one place. The smart mailboxes feature is particularly clever – it automatically sorts your messages based on rules you set up, helping you maintain inbox zen without extra effort. And since it's built right into macOS, you get seamless integration with your calendar, contacts, and reminders. The best part? It's completely free and requires zero setup if you're already in the Apple ecosystem.
Microsoft Outlook
Best for: Power users who need their email client to be a complete workplace hub Think of Outlook as your digital office manager. It's not just an email client; it's a full-featured workspace where you can switch between different profiles for work, personal, and side projects. Each profile keeps its own set of mailboxes, calendars, and settings, so you can maintain clear boundaries between different areas of your life. While it might seem like overkill for simple email needs, it's a powerhouse for those who live in their inbox and need robust organization tools. The free version gives you plenty to work with, though the real magic happens when paired with a Microsoft 365 subscription.
Spark
Best for: Email enthusiasts who want to transform their inbox into a productivity powerhouse. Spark is like having a personal email assistant who knows exactly how you like things organized. The Command Center isn't just another feature – it's a complete rethinking of how you navigate your inbox, making email management feel less like a chore and more like a breeze. The smart sorting capabilities are genuinely intelligent, learning from your habits to prioritize what matters most. While the free plan is generous, the Premium version at $4.99/month unlocks collaborative features that make team email management a joy. It's perfect for those who want to fall in love with email again.
Canary Mail
Best for: Security-conscious users who want AI assistance without compromising privacy Canary Mail brings something unique to the table: serious security features combined with cutting-edge AI. The SecureSend feature is a standout, letting you send encrypted emails to anyone, even if they don't use Canary. But what really sets it apart is the AI Copilot, which helps manage your inbox while keeping your data private. The free version gives you a solid taste of what's possible, but the Pro version at $49/year unlocks the full potential of both security and AI features. It's the perfect choice for users who want modern email features without sacrificing privacy.
Mailspring
Best for: Users who want a snappy, customizable email experience without breaking the bank. If speed is what you're after, Mailspring delivers in spades. Its lightning-fast search capability means you'll never lose an important email in the depths of your inbox again. The free version is surprisingly capable, but the Pro version at $8/month takes it to another level with powerful automation tools and deep customization options. The app truly shines in its ability to handle massive email archives without breaking a sweat, making it perfect for users who need to manage large volumes of email efficiently.
Mimestream
Best for: Gmail power users who want a more Mac-like experience Mimestream is like the perfect translator between Gmail and macOS. At $4.99/month, it brings the best of both worlds: Gmail's powerful features wrapped in a native Mac interface that feels right at home on your desktop. It's not trying to reinvent email – instead, it takes what works about Gmail and makes it work better on your Mac. The app respects Gmail's layout and features while adding Mac-specific touches that make everything feel more natural. If you live in Gmail but want a more refined Mac experience, this is your app.
Postbox
Best for: Detail-oriented users who need powerful organization and search capabilities in a privacy-focused package. Postbox is like having a master file clerk for your digital communications. Its unified inbox is more than just a collection of accounts – it's an intelligent hub that makes managing multiple email addresses feel effortless. What really makes Postbox stand out is its advanced search capability, which goes beyond simple keyword matching to help you find exactly what you need, when you need it. The email templates feature is a game-changer for anyone who finds themselves writing similar emails repeatedly, saving precious time while maintaining consistency. The privacy-focused approach means your data stays yours, and the one-time payment of $49 for a lifetime license makes it an attractive option for users who prefer to own their software outright rather than subscribe to yet another service. It's the perfect choice for professionals who want a mature, feature-rich email client that respects both their privacy and their workflow needs.