Choosing the right email provider can be overwhelming, with so many free options available offering different features, storage limits, and security levels.
Most providers also come with trade-offs like limited functionality, intrusive ads, or concerns about data privacy.
If you’re looking for a simple, hassle-free email experience, you shouldn’t have to become an expert to make the right choice.
Having conducted a lot of research on email safety and privacy, I know email providers better than most.
"Understanding the nuances of email security can save you from potential data breaches and privacy invasions."
Mike Wakefield, CTO, Beyond Encryption
Here's a rundown of the best free email providers of 2024, with the information you need to make the best choice.
I've also put together a guide on the best secure email services.
Long story short, the best free email provider overall is Outlook.
Outlook.com stands out for its robust integration with Microsoft Office apps, user-friendly interface, and organisational features.
It offers generous storage and strong security, making it ideal for both personal and professional use.
The only downside of Outlook, like most free providers, is that you will be shown ads.
However, you can opt out of personalised advertising in Outlook so your data isn't used for ad targeting.
You can also install a free secure email add-in, like our own (Mailock), to protect your emails and attachments from common threats.
Read on for the full list of providers, including their pros and cons.
When you're evaluating free email providers, you should consider the following key features:
"It's essential to choose an email service that aligns with your daily workflow and security needs."
Adam Byford, CCO, Beyond Encryption
Outlook.com, formerly known as Hotmail, offers robust integration with Microsoft Office apps and 15 GB of free email storage.
It features a Focused Inbox for prioritising important emails, seamless integration with Microsoft services like Word, Excel, and Teams, and supports various platforms, making it a versatile choice for many users.
Gmail is the most popular email service worldwide, offering 15 GB of free storage shared across Google services like Drive and Photos.
It tightly integrates with Google's suite of productivity tools, including Docs, Sheets, Slides, and Calendar.
Known for its user-friendly interface and powerful search capabilities, Gmail is a solid choice for both personal and professional use.
It also offers features like customisable email templates, multiple email signatures, and smart replies to boost productivity.
Proton Mail is a privacy-focused email service based in Switzerland, offering end-to-end encryption and 1 GB of storage on the free plan.
It's ideal for people who prioritise security and privacy. Proton Mail is part of the broader Proton ecosystem, which includes Proton VPN and other privacy tools.
"For users concerned about privacy, choosing an email provider with end-to-end encryption is an easy choice."
Emily Plummer, Marketing Director, Beyond Encryption
Zoho Mail is a professional email service ideal for businesses, offering custom domain options and 5 GB of free storage.
It integrates well with Zoho’s suite of productivity tools and provides strong security features. Zoho Mail is ad-free and provides a high level of privacy.
iCloud Mail offers seamless integration with Apple devices and services, providing a clean, ad-free email experience.
With 5 GB of free storage shared across all iCloud services, it’s perfect for users invested in the Apple ecosystem.
Yahoo Mail stands out with its generous 1 TB of free storage and customisable interface.
It offers powerful search capabilities and unique features like viewing all attachments in one place, though it includes ads in the free version.
"While storage is abundant with some providers, always consider the trade-offs like security and user experience."
Carole Howard, Head of Networks, Beyond Encryption
AOL Mail offers 1 TB of free storage and is known for its simple, user-friendly interface.
It includes basic email features and spam filtering, making it a reliable option for long-term email storage.
Mail.com provides 65 GB of free storage and allows users to choose from over 100 different domain names.
While it offers basic email features, its large attachment size limit is a significant advantage.
Tuta (formerly Tutanota) is a privacy-focused email provider offering 1 GB of free storage with end-to-end encryption.
It's ad-free and prioritises user privacy, making it a strong choice for security-conscious individuals.
Mailfence offers robust security features, including end-to-end encryption and digital signatures.
While it provides only 500 MB of free storage, it’s ideal for users who need secure communication.
When choosing the best email provider, it's important to consider your specific needs and priorities:
Choosing the right free email provider depends on your needs for storage, security, integration, and usability.
Providers like Outlook.com and Gmail offer a balance of features and storage, making them excellent all-round choices.
If privacy and security are your top priorities, consider options like Proton Mail or Tuta, or use the Mailock add-in with Outlook.
You can create a free Mailock account to secure your Outlook emails.
Think about what you’ll use your email account for, and pick the provider that suits you best.
| How we tested: In our evaluation of free email providers, we reviewed a range of services to give you a clear view of each option. We focused on key features like storage capacity, attachment limits, and security protocols. We also assessed each provider’s usability, integration options, and overall performance. |
Outlook.com is a top choice for its Microsoft Office integration, organisational tools, and 15 GB of storage, while Gmail is great for anyone who relies on Google services.
Yes, Gmail offers 15 GB storage, smart features, and Google Workspace integration, though privacy-focused users may prefer Proton Mail or Tutanota.
Proton Mail and Tutanota excel in privacy with end-to-end encryption and no tracking, while Outlook can be improved with secure add-ins like Mailock.
Outlook is ideal for Microsoft Office users and offers strong security. Gmail suits those who use Google Workspace and need advanced search features.
Yes, sign up at Outlook.com for 15 GB of storage, Office app access, and two-factor authentication. The free version includes ads.
Yahoo Mail and AOL Mail offer 1 TB of free storage, but Gmail and Outlook’s 15 GB come with more advanced features and security.
How Private Is Your Gmail, and Should You Switch?, The Guardian, 2021
The Best Email Encryption Services of 2024, PCMag, 2023
Best Secure Email Providers in 2024, TechRadar, 2024
Secure Email Providers to Protect Your Privacy in 2024, CyberNews, 2024
Sam Kendall, 16.04.25