Plus, the mandatory phone number verification and deep ties to the Google ecosystem can be limiting.

Short on Time?

For added security, it supports two-factor authentication, including hardware keys like YubiKey.

10 Best Gmail Alternatives: Private & Without a Phone Number

Customer support is limited on the free plan, but premium users get faster and more direct assistance.

Providers like ProtonMail, Tuta, and Mailfence often support built-in PGP or OpenPGP encryption.

It’s especially useful for people who prioritize privacy like journalists, activists, or anyone handling sensitive information.

A screenshot showing how to enable Proton Mail’s Dark Web Monitor

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

Fastmail supports custom domains starting from the Standard plan, making it ideal for professional communication.

This tight integration allows users to manage communication and workflows from a single, unified platform.

Zoho Mail also supports email templates, advanced filtering, and multiple email aliases, offering flexibility and control.

A screenshot showing how to enable Proton Mail’s Dark Web Monitor

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

Registration is possible without a phone number, and the platform is entirely ad-free.

Beyond email,Mailfence includes a full productivity suite with an encrypted calendar, contacts, and document storage.

Users benefit from features like email aliases, advanced filtering, and two-factor authentication.

A screenshot showing how to enable Proton Mail’s Dark Web Monitor

It also complies with key email authentication standards like SPF and DKIM for added security.

Additionally, the service has faced serious security breaches in the past.

Outlook also supports file attachments up to 20 MB, with larger files easily shareable via OneDrive links.

A screenshot comparing Tuta’s email interface on mobile and desktop

It complies with strict European privacy regulations and is designed to protect your data from surveillance and third-party tracking.

Users can access StartMail via webmail or through third-party apps on mobile devices using IMAP/SMTP protocols.

Why Look for Gmail Alternatives?

A screenshot showing Fastmail’s registration page

While convenient, this level of access can feel intrusive, especially if you value confidentiality.

If your storage fills up, incoming emails may bounce, disrupting your communication.

This requirement can exclude users in restrictive regions or those simply seeking a private, hassle-free sign-up process.

A screenshot showing Zoho Mail’s app sidebar

Providers that support custom domains often include business tools, robust spam filtering, and advanced management features.

This allows for a smooth transition while preserving your communication history.

Strong integration capabilities help maintain efficiency and keep all your tools connected.

A screenshot showing the Mailfence encryption key generation page

Export Your Gmail Data

Step 2.

Transfer Your Contacts

Step 4.

For businesses or anyone who needs more control and privacy, these limitations can become frustrating.

A screenshot showing Yahoo Mail’s 1TB of free storage

Thats where paid email services come in.

This means that even ProtonMail itself cant read your emails only you and your intended recipient can.

Is it possible to set up an anonymous Gmail account?

A screenshot showing Outlook’s user interface

Can anyone access or read my emails?

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?

A screenshot showing the iCloud Mail user interface

Some also offer migration tools that help you transfer not just emails, but also contacts and calendars.

How can I delete my Gmail account?

Then, under theData & Privacysection, youll find the option to delete a Google service.

A screenshot showing Posteo’s GitHub page

From there, you could choose todelete just Gmail(without deleting your entire Google account).

Once confirmed, your Gmail address and all its messages will be permanently deleted.

References

Your data is exposed to the websites you visit!

A screenshot showing StartMail inbox

Visit ExpressVPN

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A screenshot showing how to enable Proton Mail’s Dark Web Monitor

A screenshot comparing Tuta’s email interface on mobile and desktop

A screenshot showing Fastmail’s registration page

A screenshot showing Zoho Mail’s app sidebar

A screenshot showing the Mailfence encryption key generation page

A screenshot showing Yahoo Mail’s 1TB of free storage

A screenshot showing Outlook’s user interface

A screenshot showing the iCloud Mail user interface

A screenshot showing Posteo’s GitHub page

A screenshot showing StartMail inbox