10 Best Gmail Alternatives: Private & Without a Phone Number

Gmail is the go-to email provider for many, but it’s not perfect. If privacy is a concern, Google’s data collection might feel intrusive. Plus, the mandatory phone number verification and deep ties to the Google ecosystem can be limiting.

What is a good alternative to Gmail? While Gmail still dominates the market with 1.8 billion of the 4.48 billion global users¹, there are plenty of reliable options for business and personal use. Some even focus on privacy, offering end-to-end encryption, strong spam filtering, and the freedom to sign up without a phone number.

Whether you’re running out of storage, worried about privacy, or just ready for a change, this guide will help you find an email provider that fits your needs. Let’s get started!

Editor's Note: Transparency is one of our core values at vpnMentor, so you should know we are in the same ownership group as ExpressVPN. However, this does not affect our review process.

10 Best Gmail Alternatives in 2025

1. Proton Mail — Robust Privacy Features to Protect Your Emails From Snoops

Proton Mail is a secure, privacy-focused email service based in Switzerland, protected by strong privacy laws. It offers end-to-end encryption, zero-access architecture, and features like password-protected emails and Proton Sentinel, which uses AI and human monitoring to protect high-risk accounts from attacks.

Even on its free plan, you get 1 GB of storage, up to 150 emails per day, and access to encrypted Proton Calendar and Drive. Proton Mail also supports email aliases, spam filtering, tracker blocking, IP address protection, and auto-replies. You can also send encrypted messages to non-Proton Mail users via a secure link, protected by a password and an optional self-destruct timer.

For added security, it supports two-factor authentication, including hardware keys like YubiKey. Paid plans unlock more features like custom domains, Proton Mail Bridge for desktop clients, and Dark Web Monitoring, which alerts you if your credentials appear in known data breaches.

You don't need a paid subscription to use this feature

Proton Mail is open-source, ad-free, and easy to use, with intuitive apps for iOS, Android, and web, plus import tools that make switching from Gmail seamless. Customer support is limited on the free plan, but premium users get faster and more direct assistance. With over 100 million accounts created², Proton Mail is a trusted alternative for anyone who values privacy without compromising usability.

2. Tuta (Formerly Tutanota) — Encrypted Calendar and Email With Built-In End-to-End Protection

Tuta is a privacy-focused email and calendar service offering built-in end-to-end encryption for emails, attachments, and calendar events. It encrypts not only message content but also subject lines and contact details, ensuring that even metadata stays private. The platform is open-source, ad-free, and funded solely by subscriptions — not external investors — reinforcing its independence and commitment to user privacy.

You get access to features like spam filtering

Tuta’s free plan includes 1 GB of storage, while paid plans unlock advanced features like custom domains, multiple encrypted calendars, unlimited search, and priority customer support. Its apps are available across major platforms, and the service runs entirely on renewable energy, aligning privacy with sustainability.

While Tuta doesn’t support PGP, IMAP, or POP (to preserve end-to-end encryption), it remains a strong alternative to Gmail for users who value security, transparency, and a clean, modern interface.

3. Fastmail — Custom Domains and Spam Filtering for Business-Ready Email Solutions

Fastmail is a privacy-respecting email service headquartered in Australia, with user data stored on secure servers in the United States. It offers its interface in over 30 languages, making it a global solution for individuals, freelancers, and businesses. With custom domain support, masked email aliases, and excellent spam filtering, Fastmail helps keep your inbox secure and clutter-free.

Fastmail supports custom domains starting from the Standard plan, making it ideal for professional communication. The interface is clean and minimalist, designed for simplicity and efficiency, with built-in tools like calendar, contacts, message snoozing, pinned emails, and robust spam filtering to keep your inbox tidy.

You can add up to 100 domains in one account

While it doesn’t offer end-to-end encryption, Fastmail supports secure transmission protocols like SMTP, IMAP, CalDAV, and CardDAV, ensuring data is protected in transit. The Masked Email feature, offered in partnership with 1Password, adds a layer of privacy by letting users create unique aliases for logins and subscriptions.

The Standard plan includes 60 GB of storage (50 GB for mail and 10 GB for files), and a free trial is available for new users. Fastmail offers responsive customer support and is independently operated, giving users more control and transparency than many big-name providers.

4. Zoho Mail — A Productivity-Driven Email Service With Seamless Business Tool Integration

Zoho Mail is a secure, ad-free email platform built for productivity and professional use. It stands out for its seamless integration with the wider Zoho ecosystem, including tools like Zoho CRM, Zoho Projects, Zoho Creator, and more. This tight integration allows users to manage communication and workflows from a single, unified platform.

One account works across all Zoho products

The service includes built-in productivity apps such as a calendar, tasks, notes, contacts, and bookmarks. Users can collaborate on emails by sharing drafts for review and feedback, making it ideal for teams. Zoho Mail also supports email templates, advanced filtering, and multiple email aliases, offering flexibility and control.

Security features include two-factor authentication, encryption at rest and in transit, and S/MIME support for enhanced email encryption. The Masked Email feature and Zia AI assistant help improve privacy and boost writing efficiency with smart suggestions and email summaries.

The free plan offers essential features with 5 GB of storage and single-domain support, while paid plans unlock custom branding, more storage (up to 1 TB), and advanced management tools. Although IMAP/POP access is not available on the free tier, Zoho Mail remains a powerful alternative to Gmail, especially for businesses seeking strong privacy, integration, and productivity features in one place.

5. Mailfence — Advanced Customization and PGP Support for Secure, Personalized Communication

Mailfence is a secure email provider that offers built-in OpenPGP support for end-to-end encrypted emails and digital signatures. Unlike many email services, it lets users manage their own encryption keys, allowing for full control over secure communication. It supports custom domains on paid plans and works across web and mobile devices via its native web app or progressive web app (PWA). Registration is possible without a phone number, and the platform is entirely ad-free.

You can even set an expiration date for the key

Beyond email, Mailfence includes a full productivity suite with an encrypted calendar, contacts, and document storage. It also supports POP, SMTP, IMAP, and Exchange ActiveSync, making it compatible with third-party email clients. Users benefit from features like email aliases, advanced filtering, and two-factor authentication. It also complies with key email authentication standards like SPF and DKIM for added security.

Mailfence uses non-US SSL/TLS certificates, runs on green energy, and donates a portion of revenue from its Ultra plan to organizations that support digital rights, such as the EFF and European Digital Rights. It maintains a transparency report and provides selected components for open audit. While it doesn’t encrypt subject lines or metadata (a limitation of OpenPGP), Mailfence ensures that your email content stays private.

6. Yahoo Mail — A Popular Email Platform With Generous Storage

Yahoo Mail remains one of the most recognizable email platforms. It offers 1 TB of free storage, allowing you to store years' worth of emails and large attachments without worrying about space limits. The service includes helpful inbox management tools, such as automatic message categorization (e.g., travel, receipts, promotions) and one-click unsubscribe, which make it easier to manage clutter.

This is several times more than what the industry average provides

The platform also features customizable themes, a built-in calendar, contacts, and notes, and mobile apps that make it convenient to access your inbox on the go. Yahoo Mail includes spam and phishing protection and offers the Account Key login system — a password-free sign-in method that uses push notifications to verify access from your mobile device.

While Yahoo Mail is easy to use and offers generous storage, the free version includes ads, and its lack of custom domain support may be a drawback for business users. Additionally, the service has faced serious security breaches in the past. However, features like disposable email addresses (available through Yahoo Mail Plus) contribute to its continued appeal for everyday personal use.

7. Outlook — Professional Email Management With Advanced Organization and Integration Options

Outlook (formerly Hotmail) is a professional email service from Microsoft that offers seamless integration with its productivity tools, including Word, Excel, OneDrive, and Microsoft Teams. It features Focused Inbox, which separates important emails from less relevant ones, and includes a built-in calendar, contacts, and task management, making it ideal for both work and personal use.

You can also use the filtering system to find important messages even faster

The free version provides 15 GB of email storage and 5 GB of OneDrive cloud storage. While it includes helpful features like file sharing from OneDrive, theme customization, and advanced search, it also displays ads, which some users find cluttered. Outlook uses AI-powered protections to detect phishing attempts and block malicious emails, although its spam filtering is sometimes considered less effective than Gmail’s.

Upgrading to Microsoft 365 unlocks additional features, such as 50 GB of mailbox storage, 1 TB of OneDrive, email encryption, ad removal, and access to the full Microsoft Office suite. Outlook also supports file attachments up to 20 MB, with larger files easily shareable via OneDrive links. With options like Outlook Copilot (AI assistant) available to paid users, it remains a robust and feature-rich choice for users seeking a professional email solution with deep productivity integrations.

8. iCloud Mail — A User-Friendly and Secure Email Solution for Apple Devices and More

iCloud Mail is Apple’s secure, privacy-focused email service designed to work seamlessly across its ecosystem. Users with an Apple ID can access an @icloud.com address and manage their mail via Apple’s native Mail apps on iPhone, iPad, and Mac, or via the web. iCloud Mail includes built-in tools like calendar, contacts, and notes integration, and allows the use of email aliases, S/MIME encryption (optional), and 2FA for account protection.

Although iCloud Mail doesn’t offer end-to-end encryption by default, it does secure messages in transit and at rest and supports spam filtering, folder organization, and up to 500 mail rules to sort incoming messages. Custom email domains are available to iCloud+ subscribers, which also enables features like Hide My Email for creating disposable aliases.

Any changes made in the web version are automatically synced across all devices

The service provides 5 GB of free iCloud storage, which is shared across mail, photos, and other Apple services. POP3 is not supported, but IMAP and SMTP access ensure compatibility with most modern email clients. While customization options are more limited than some alternatives, iCloud Mail remains a strong, ad-free choice — especially for users deeply integrated into the Apple ecosystem.

9. Posteo — Privacy-Focused Email With Green Hosting and Full Encryption Support

Posteo is a privacy-first email provider based in Germany, designed for users who value security, anonymity, and sustainability. The service supports OpenPGP and S/MIME encryption and even allows you to encrypt metadata, including subject lines and sender information — a rare feature among email providers. It also separates payment information from user accounts to enhance anonymity, even when paying via PayPal or credit card.

You can also monitor the progress of experimental feature development

With 2 GB of base storage (expandable up to 20 GB), Posteo includes support for email aliases, calendars, contacts, and document storage, all of which can be encrypted. It integrates easily with most email clients via IMAP, SMTP, and POP3 and offers robust spam filtering, DANE for DNS-based authentication, and the ability to create detailed mail rules — despite not offering custom domains or native mobile apps.

What sets Posteo apart is its ethical and environmental commitment. The company is 100% user-financed, uses energy-efficient hardware powered by green energy from Green Planet Energy, and supports digital rights and environmental NGOs through donations. Its operations are fully transparent, with no ads, no tracking, and optional features like a warrant canary and transparency reports.

10. StartMail — High-Security Email for Privacy-Conscious Individuals

StartMail is a secure, privacy-focused email provider based in the Netherlands, developed by the team behind the private search engine StartPage. It complies with strict European privacy regulations and is designed to protect your data from surveillance and third-party tracking. StartMail offers PGP encryption and one-click secure messaging, allowing users to send encrypted emails to non-users using password protection.

You can also set the service to automatically encrypt all your emails

A standout feature of StartMail is its support for unlimited aliases, which help you mask your real email address and avoid spam. Each account includes 20 GB of storage (more for business users), two-factor authentication, and compatibility with custom domains, making it a strong option for individuals and businesses alike. Users can access StartMail via webmail or through third-party apps on mobile devices using IMAP/SMTP protocols.

While StartMail doesn’t offer a free plan or dedicated mobile apps, it allows for anonymous payment via Bitcoin and prioritizes ease of use with a clean, Gmail-like interface. Its commitment to user privacy, secure data handling, and flexible email management make it an excellent alternative to mainstream providers for those serious about email security and control.

Quick Comparison Table: Best Gmail Alternatives

This table provides a clear overview, helping you compare storage options, pricing, and key features for each provider to find the best Gmail alternative for your needs.

Why Look for Gmail Alternatives?

From data collection concerns to limited flexibility and rising costs, there are compelling reasons to consider other options — especially if you value security, simplicity, or independence from Big Tech.

1. Privacy Concerns with Gmail

Gmail's data collection practices have long raised concerns among privacy-focused individuals. Google scans your emails to deliver personalized ads, improve its services, and gather user insights.

While convenient, this level of access can feel intrusive, especially if you value confidentiality. Many alternatives offer end-to-end encryption, zero-access policies, and strict privacy laws so no one—not even the provider—can read your emails.

2. Storage Limitations

Gmail’s free 15GB storage is shared across all Google services, including Drive, Photos, and email. If your storage fills up, incoming emails may bounce, disrupting your communication.

While Google does offer paid storage upgrades, alternatives often provide dedicated email storage or more generous plans at a lower cost, ensuring your inbox stays accessible without unexpected interruptions.

3. Phone Number Requirements

Signing up for a Gmail account requires phone verification, which can be a significant drawback if you value anonymity or are wary of sharing personal data. This requirement can exclude users in restrictive regions or those simply seeking a private, hassle-free sign-up process.

Many alternatives allow you to create an account without needing a phone number, giving you more flexibility and control.

4. Google Workspace Pricing

Google Workspace is a powerful suite of business tools, but its pricing can quickly become expensive, particularly for small businesses or individuals.

Alternatives often provide comparable tools at more affordable rates. This includes custom domains, advanced filters, and productivity integrations, making them a practical choice for budget-conscious users seeking robust email solutions.

Features to Consider When Choosing a Gmail Alternative

Not all email services are created equal. When evaluating alternatives to Gmail, it’s important to look beyond brand names and focus on the features that actually impact your security, usability, and productivity. Here are the key factors to keep in mind:

End-To-End Encryption

Privacy is a major priority when switching email providers. End-to-end encryption ensures that only you and your intended recipient can read your emails. Unlike Gmail, which scans messages for personalized services, many alternatives offer zero-access encryption, keeping your communications secure and private.

Storage Space

Email storage can quickly run out, especially if you handle large attachments or high email volumes. While Gmail’s free tier offers 15GB shared across Google services, alternatives often provide dedicated email storage, with options to expand at affordable rates for better flexibility.

Custom Domain Support

For businesses and professionals, using a custom domain adds credibility and a polished look to your communication. Providers that support custom domains often include business tools, robust spam filtering, and advanced management features.

Migration Tools

Switching email providers shouldn’t mean losing access to your important data. Look for alternatives that offer easy migration tools to transfer emails, contacts, and calendars from Gmail without hassle. This allows for a smooth transition while preserving your communication history.

Integration Capabilities

If you rely on productivity tools like calendars, task managers, or cloud storage, consider an email provider that integrates seamlessly with your existing workflows. Strong integration capabilities help maintain efficiency and keep all your tools connected.

How to Migrate From Gmail

By following these steps, you can smoothly migrate from Gmail without losing important data or missing essential emails:

Step 1. Export Your Gmail Data

1. Go to Google Takeout.
2. Select Mail and any other data you'd like to export (e.g., Contacts, Calendar).
3. Click Next step.
4. Choose your preferred file format (e.g., .zip) and delivery method.
5. Click Create export.
6. Google will prepare your data and email you a download link when it's ready.
7. Download the archive to your device.

Step 2. Set Up Email Forwarding

This ensures you don’t miss any emails sent to your old address during the switch:

1. Open Gmail and click the gear icon, then go to See all settings.
2. Click the Forwarding and POP/IMAP tab.
3. Click Add a forwarding address and enter your new email address.
4. Confirm the verification email sent to your new inbox.
5. Return to Gmail settings, select Forward a copy of incoming mail, and choose whether to keep or archive Gmail copies.
6. Click Save Changes.

Step 3. Transfer Your Contacts

1. Go to Google Contacts.
2. Click Export in the left menu.
3. Choose the export format — vCard (best for Apple Mail or privacy-focused providers) or CSV (best for Outlook or general use).
4. Download the file.
5. Go to your new email provider’s Contacts section and use the Import option to upload your contacts.

Step 4. Update Connected Accounts

This step helps avoid missing important updates, invoices, or password resets:

1. Make a list of services linked to your Gmail (e.g., social media, subscriptions, banking, work tools).
2. Log in to each and update your email address in the account settings.
3. Update your backup/recovery email if applicable.
4. Adjust notification settings so future messages go to your new inbox.

Free vs Paid Email Services

Free email services can be convenient, but they often come with trade-offs. You might run into limits on storage, see ads in your inbox, or miss out on important features like advanced security or customization. For businesses or anyone who needs more control and privacy, these limitations can become frustrating.

That’s where paid email services come in. They typically offer more storage, stronger encryption, and support for custom domains — plus priority customer support if something goes wrong. If you’re looking for a secure, professional, and ad-free email experience, investing in a paid service is usually worth it.

FAQs on Gmail Alternatives

Which email service is the most secure?

ProtonMail is often regarded as the most secure email service available today because it combines end-to-end encryption, zero-access encryption, and strong legal protections under Swiss privacy laws. This means that even ProtonMail itself can’t read your emails — only you and your intended recipient can.

Is it possible to set up an anonymous Gmail account?

It’s nearly impossible to create a truly anonymous Gmail account. Google typically requires phone number verification, and even if you bypass that step temporarily, the service still collects identifying data like your IP address and device information. Gmail is designed for convenience and integration, not anonymity. If privacy is your main concern, it's better to choose an email provider built specifically for that purpose.

Can anyone access or read my emails?

If you're using a secure, privacy-focused service like ProtonMail or Tuta, your emails are end-to-end encrypted, meaning not even the provider can read them. Only you and your intended recipient have the keys to decrypt the message. So, whether your emails can be accessed depends entirely on the service you use and the level of encryption it provides.

But if you're using a mainstream email service like Gmail, yes — your emails can technically be accessed or read by the provider. While Gmail doesn't let humans read your messages manually, it scans your emails automatically for things like ad targeting, spam filtering, and smart features. In legal cases, your data could also be handed over to authorities if requested.

Can I transfer my Gmail messages to a different email service?

Yes, you can transfer your Gmail messages to a different email service. Most providers support importing emails via IMAP, which lets your new inbox pull in messages from Gmail. Some also offer migration tools that help you transfer not just emails, but also contacts and calendars. You can also set up email forwarding from Gmail to make sure new messages go to your new address.

How can I delete my Gmail account?

You can delete your Gmail account by going to your Google Account settings. First, make sure to migrate your data to the new email system if needed. Then, under the Data & Privacy section, you’ll find the option to delete a Google service. From there, you can choose to delete just Gmail (without deleting your entire Google account).

Google will ask you to confirm your identity, review what you’re deleting, and provide an alternate email address to retain access to other Google services like Drive or YouTube. Once confirmed, your Gmail address and all its messages will be permanently deleted.

Conclusion

Gmail remains a popular choice but its phone number requirement and data collection drive many to seek alternatives. Options like ProtonMail, Tuta, and Zoho Mail cater to privacy-focused individuals, while services like Outlook and iCloud Mail offer seamless integration with their ecosystems.

Whether you prioritize security, ease of use, or ad-free experiences, these Gmail alternatives provide versatile features to suit your needs. Switching to one of these platforms can help you take control of your email experience while safeguarding your personal information.

References

1. https://cropink.com/email-marketing-statistics
2. https://proton.me/blog/proton-100-million-accounts?utm_source=chatgpt.com