Owning your own SMTP server can help improve your deliverability, sender reputation, and security. However, picking the right one can be challenging. Below are some of the best SMTP servers we’ve tested.
The Best SMTP Servers
1. MailerSend
MailerSend is a standout SMTP server choice because of its developer-friendly design and robust email infrastructure. With features like an intuitive drag-and-drop email builder, a generous free tier, and advanced API capabilities, it’s a versatile tool for both transactional and marketing emails. It also offers analytics and personalization tools, making it ideal for tailoring communications to your audience.
Key Features:
- Drag-and-Drop Email Builder: Easily create and customize emails with a user-friendly interface.
- Advanced API Integration: Integrates seamlessly with your existing applications to enable efficient email delivery.
- Comprehensive Analytics: Provides detailed insights into email performance metrics like opens, clicks, and bounces.
- Personalization Options: Allows dynamic email content for personalized recipient experiences.
- Robust Security: Includes features like DKIM, SPF, and DMARC to secure your emails against phishing and spoofing.
Why do we recommend it?
MailerSend is recommended for its blend of user-friendliness and developer-centric tools, making it suitable for both beginners and advanced users. I found that its robust analytics and customization capabilities set it apart from competitors.
Who is it recommended for?
MailerSend is ideal for businesses of all sizes needing reliable email infrastructure, especially startups and developers looking for a customizable SMTP server with API access and strong analytics.
Pros:
- Developer-Friendly API: The platform offers a powerful and well-documented API for seamless integration with applications.
- Customizable Email Templates: A rich library of templates ensures email designs align with branding and communication goals.
- Transparent Reporting: Provides detailed reports on email performance, helping users optimize their campaigns.
- Generous Free Tier: Supports startups and small businesses with free access to essential features.
Cons:
- Limited Advanced Features in Free Plan: Some premium features require a paid subscription, limiting the free tier’s functionality.
- Setup Complexity for Non-Developers: Non-technical users may find API setup or advanced features challenging without additional support.
- Deliverability May Require Tweaks: Initial email deliverability can depend on proper domain configuration, which may require extra effort.
2. SMTP2Go
SMTP2Go is a reliable SMTP server solution known for its focus on deliverability and compliance with email regulations. It offers powerful features like global email routing, real-time analytics, and easy integration, making it an excellent choice for businesses prioritizing email reliability. With a clean, user-friendly interface and robust customer support, it simplifies email management for organizations of all sizes.
Key Features:
- Global Email Delivery: Ensures fast and reliable email delivery through optimized routing.
- Real-Time Analytics: Tracks performance metrics, including delivery rates and engagement data, in real time.
- Bounce and Complaint Handling: Automatically processes bounces and complaints to maintain sender reputation.
- Email Authentication Tools: Includes SPF, DKIM, and DMARC setup assistance for improved email security.
- 24/7 Customer Support: Provides round-the-clock assistance for troubleshooting and setup.
Why do we recommend it?
SMTP2Go is recommended for its emphasis on email deliverability, compliance, and user-friendly tools. I noted that its real-time tracking and global infrastructure make it ideal for businesses targeting diverse audiences.
Who is it recommended for?
SMTP2Go is perfect for businesses seeking a robust, reliable SMTP server for transactional and marketing emails. It’s especially useful for companies requiring global email delivery and detailed performance analytics.
Pros:
- Excellent Deliverability Rates: Optimized routing ensures emails reach inboxes consistently across the globe.
- User-Friendly Dashboard: The intuitive interface makes it easy to monitor and manage email performance.
- Compliance with Regulations: Helps users adhere to GDPR and other global email standards.
- Detailed Reporting Tools: Real-time tracking and insights assist in optimizing campaigns.
Cons:
- Higher Cost for High Volumes: Pricing can be less competitive for businesses sending a large volume of emails.
- Limited Customization for Templates: Template design options are not as extensive compared to some competitors.
- Potential Learning Curve: Advanced features like authentication setup may be challenging for beginners.
3. SendPulse
SendPulse is a versatile SMTP server solution that stands out for its multi-channel communication capabilities. It combines email with SMS, chatbots, and push notifications, making it a one-stop platform for engaging customers. Its ease of use, powerful automation features, and cost-effective plans make it ideal for businesses looking to streamline communication efforts.
Key Features:
- Multi-Channel Messaging: Integrates email, SMS, chatbots, and push notifications for cohesive communication.
- Email Automation: Provides pre-built workflows for tasks like welcome sequences and abandoned cart reminders.
- Rich Template Library: Offers a wide range of customizable email templates for diverse campaigns.
- Subscriber Segmentation: Enables targeted messaging with advanced segmentation tools.
- Real-Time Reporting: Tracks key metrics like open rates, click-through rates, and conversions for optimization.
Why do we recommend it?
SendPulse is recommended for its ability to manage multiple communication channels in one platform, offering businesses a streamlined way to engage with their audience. I learned that its automation features and intuitive interface make it a standout choice for enhancing customer communication.
Who is it recommended for?
SendPulse is ideal for small to medium-sized businesses and marketers seeking an affordable, easy-to-use platform to manage email campaigns alongside SMS and chatbots. It’s especially beneficial for those aiming to integrate multiple communication channels into their strategy.
Pros:
- All-in-One Platform: Combines email and other communication channels, reducing the need for multiple tools.
- Easy-to-Use Interface: Simplifies campaign creation and management, even for non-technical users.
- Robust Automation Tools: Helps businesses save time with pre-built workflows for repetitive tasks.
- Affordable Pricing Plans: Offers competitive pricing, especially for small businesses.
Cons:
- Limited Advanced Features for Free Plan: Some powerful tools and analytics require a paid plan.
- Learning Curve for Multi-Channel Features: New users may need time to fully understand and utilize all channels effectively.
- Occasional Deliverability Issues: Some users report minor issues with email delivery rates in specific regions.
4. Brevo
Brevo (formerly Sendinblue) is a robust SMTP server platform tailored for businesses needing a versatile communication tool. It combines email, SMS, and CRM capabilities into one user-friendly system. With its scalable features, advanced automation, and commitment to data privacy, it’s a top choice for businesses of all sizes looking to streamline their customer communication efforts.
Key Features:
- Omni-Channel Communication: Combines email, SMS, and chat for seamless customer engagement.
- Advanced Marketing Automation: Offers customizable workflows to automate repetitive tasks like lead nurturing.
- Built-In CRM: Simplifies customer relationship management with integrated contact organization tools.
- Personalized Email Campaigns: Supports dynamic content for tailored customer experiences.
- Data Privacy Compliance: Ensures adherence to GDPR and other data protection regulations.
Why do we recommend it?
Brevo is recommended for its combination of email, SMS, and CRM features, making it a comprehensive tool for managing customer communication. I discovered that its scalable pricing and strong focus on automation and compliance set it apart in the market.
Who is it recommended for?
Brevo is ideal for businesses of all sizes that need an integrated platform to manage email campaigns, SMS communication, and customer data. It’s particularly suited for companies prioritizing automation and regulatory compliance.
Pros:
- Comprehensive Feature Set: Combines email, SMS, and CRM in a single platform for enhanced efficiency.
- Scalable Plans: Offers features suitable for small businesses and enterprise-level organizations alike.
- User-Friendly Interface: Simplifies the creation and management of campaigns, even for beginners.
- Strong Privacy Focus: Adheres to global data protection standards, ensuring user trust.
Cons:
- Limited API Functionality in Basic Plans: Advanced integrations may require upgrading to higher-tier plans.
- Occasional Lag in Support Response: While generally helpful, support response times can vary during peak hours.
- Template Customization Limitations: Some users find the email template editor less flexible compared to competitors.
5. Mailjet
Mailjet is a reliable SMTP server platform designed for businesses seeking a balance between simplicity and advanced functionality. Known for its collaborative email design tools and scalable infrastructure, it’s ideal for both transactional and marketing email campaigns. With a strong focus on deliverability and ease of use, Mailjet is a dependable solution for organizations of all sizes.
Key Features:
- Collaborative Email Editor: Allows teams to design and edit emails in real time, enhancing workflow efficiency.
- Advanced API Integration: Enables seamless integration with applications for sending automated and transactional emails.
- Personalization Tools: Supports dynamic content to tailor emails to individual recipients.
- Real-Time Reporting: Offers detailed analytics on email performance, such as delivery rates, opens, and clicks.
- GDPR Compliance: Ensures full compliance with data protection regulations for safe email practices.
Why do we recommend it?
Mailjet is recommended for its emphasis on collaboration, scalability, and user-friendly design tools. I observed that its strong deliverability rates and compliance features make it a practical choice for businesses aiming to send reliable and engaging emails.
Who is it recommended for?
Mailjet is perfect for teams that require collaborative email design capabilities and businesses requiring scalable email solutions. It’s especially beneficial for organizations managing both marketing and transactional email campaigns with a focus on GDPR compliance.
Pros:
- User-Friendly Collaboration Tools: The real-time editor makes it easy for teams to work together on email campaigns.
- Scalable Infrastructure: Handles both small-scale and high-volume email sending without compromising deliverability.
- Comprehensive Reporting: Provides valuable insights to help optimize campaigns and improve engagement.
- Global Compliance: Maintains adherence to GDPR and other data protection standards, fostering trust.
Cons:
- Limited Features in Basic Plan: Access to advanced tools like segmentation requires upgrading to higher-tier plans.
- Occasional Template Editor Bugs: Some users have reported minor glitches when customizing templates.
- Learning Curve for Advanced Features: Non-technical users may need extra time to master API integrations and advanced workflows.
6. Postmark
Postmark is a high-performance SMTP server platform specifically designed for transactional emails. Known for its unmatched email deliverability and developer-friendly features, it ensures timely and reliable email delivery for mission-critical applications. With its clean interface, detailed analytics, and focus on transparency, Postmark is an excellent choice for businesses that prioritize speed and reliability in their email communications.
Key Features:
- Transactional Email Optimization: Specializes in sending transactional emails with unmatched speed and reliability.
- Real-Time Email Tracking: Tracks delivery, opens, and clicks in real time for complete visibility into email performance.
- Message Streams: Separates transactional and broadcast emails to ensure deliverability and organizational clarity.
- Developer-Friendly API: Provides robust and well-documented APIs for seamless application integration.
- Strict Security Measures: Includes support for SPF, DKIM, and DMARC to safeguard email authenticity and prevent spoofing.
Why do we recommend it?
Postmark is recommended for its exceptional reliability and focus on transactional emails, making it a trusted choice for critical communications. I noticed that its developer-friendly features and transparent reporting set it apart for businesses that need performance and dependability.
Who is it recommended for?
Postmark is ideal for developers and businesses focused on transactional email delivery, such as password resets, account notifications, and receipts. It’s especially suited for organizations that prioritize email speed, deliverability, and detailed tracking.
Pros:
- Unparalleled Deliverability: Optimized for transactional emails, ensuring they reach inboxes quickly and reliably.
- Simple and Clean Interface: Offers a no-nonsense dashboard that is easy to navigate, even for first-time users.
- Detailed Logging and Analytics: Provides transparent reporting, helping developers troubleshoot and optimize email workflows.
- Developer-Focused Features: Robust APIs and webhooks cater specifically to developers needing advanced integration capabilities.
Cons:
- Limited Marketing Email Functionality: Focuses heavily on transactional emails, offering limited features for marketing campaigns.
- No Free Plan: While it offers a free trial, there’s no permanent free tier, which may not suit very small businesses.
- Basic Template Options: Template customization options are functional but not as extensive as competitors focused on design.
7. Mailgun
Mailgun is a powerful SMTP server platform designed for developers and businesses that require reliable email infrastructure. It excels in sending transactional and marketing emails with high deliverability and advanced analytics. With its robust API, scalable plans, and focus on performance, Mailgun is a top choice for organizations that prioritize flexibility and technical integration.
Key Features:
- Advanced API for Developers: Provides a comprehensive API for seamless integration and email sending automation.
- Email Deliverability Tools: Includes tools like inbox placement monitoring and dedicated IPs to improve deliverability.
- Detailed Analytics and Insights: Tracks email performance metrics such as delivery, opens, and clicks in real time.
- Scalable Sending Infrastructure: Handles high volumes of email without compromising reliability or speed.
- Email Validation Service: Verifies email addresses to maintain a clean and effective mailing list.
Why do we recommend it?
Mailgun is recommended for its high deliverability rates and developer-friendly features, making it a strong choice for businesses that value flexibility and performance. I found that its scalable infrastructure and robust analytics ensure reliability and transparency in email communications.
Who is it recommended for?
Mailgun is ideal for developers, technical teams, and businesses managing high-volume transactional and marketing emails. It’s especially suited for organizations requiring advanced deliverability tools and seamless API integration.
Pros:
- Developer-Centric Design: Offers extensive API capabilities and integration options tailored for technical teams.
- High Deliverability Rates: Tools like dedicated IPs and monitoring ensure emails reliably reach inboxes.
- Comprehensive Reporting Features: Provides real-time insights to help optimize email campaigns and improve engagement.
- Scalable for Any Business Size: Adapts to the needs of startups and enterprises alike with flexible plans.
Cons:
- Technical Expertise Required: The platform’s developer-centric nature may be overwhelming for non-technical users.
- Advanced Features at Extra Cost: Features like dedicated IPs and enhanced deliverability tools require higher-tier plans.
- No Built-In Design Tools: Lacks an email template editor, requiring external tools for design.
8. Postmastery
Postmastery is a specialized SMTP server platform designed for businesses and email service providers looking to optimize their email deliverability and infrastructure. Known for its advanced deliverability monitoring tools and in-depth analytics, it provides unparalleled insights into email performance. With a focus on custom solutions and expert support, Postmastery is ideal for organizations with complex email needs.
Key Features:
- Deliverability Monitoring: Tracks email performance with tools to identify and resolve deliverability issues.
- Custom Email Infrastructure: Offers tailored solutions to optimize your existing email systems.
- Comprehensive Analytics: Provides detailed reports on bounce rates, feedback loops, and reputation metrics.
- Expert Consultation Services: Includes access to deliverability experts for strategic guidance and troubleshooting.
- Advanced Security Features: Supports SPF, DKIM, DMARC, and other protocols to enhance email authenticity.
Why do we recommend it?
Postmastery is recommended for its unparalleled focus on email deliverability and expert guidance, making it a top choice for businesses with complex email operations. I noted that its customized solutions ensure that even the most demanding email environments can perform at their best.
Who is it recommended for?
Postmastery is ideal for email service providers and large businesses with sophisticated email infrastructure needs. It’s especially suitable for organizations that require expert consultation and advanced deliverability tools to maximize their email performance.
Pros:
- Focus on Deliverability: Specialized tools help businesses achieve consistently high inbox placement rates.
- Customizable Solutions: Tailors email infrastructure to meet unique business requirements.
- Expert-Led Support: Offers in-depth consultations and actionable advice from email deliverability specialists.
- Detailed Reporting: Provides granular insights into email performance, aiding in data-driven decisions.
Cons:
- High Learning Curve: Advanced features may be challenging for users without technical expertise.
- Costly for Small Businesses: Best suited for medium to large enterprises, as pricing reflects its premium services.
- Limited Out-of-the-Box Features: Requires integration or customization for full functionality, which might extend setup time.
How to Pick an SMTP Server That’s Right For You
- Evaluate Compatibility with Your Email Client and Systems Ensure the SMTP server is fully compatible with your existing email clients and platforms, such as Outlook, Gmail, or custom applications. Check for seamless integration through standard protocols like SMTP AUTH and TLS. The server should also support your programming languages or frameworks, such as Python’s smtplib or PHP’s mailer libraries, for transactional emails. Verify whether it accommodates your specific use case, whether for marketing campaigns, transactional messages, or internal communication.
- Assess Authentication and Encryption Features A secure SMTP server must enforce authentication protocols, such as SMTP AUTH or OAuth2, to verify users. Look for support for encryption standards like STARTTLS or SSL/TLS to protect email traffic in transit. This is particularly important for maintaining compliance with regulations like GDPR or HIPAA if sensitive information is involved. Ensure the server offers robust logging to track authentication attempts and detect unauthorized access.
- Check Delivery Speed and Reliability Reliable SMTP servers should offer high uptime, typically 99.9% or better, to ensure uninterrupted email delivery. Evaluate the server’s reputation for deliverability, as poor reputation can lead to emails being flagged as spam or rejected outright. Test delivery times during peak and off-peak hours to ensure consistency. Look for features like automatic retry mechanisms and error tracking to handle undelivered messages efficiently.
- Ensure Scalability for Your Needs If your email volume is expected to grow, ensure the SMTP server can scale to meet your needs without degradation in performance. Some servers offer tiered pricing based on the number of emails sent, while others may limit throughput for lower-tier plans. Choose a provider that offers flexible plans and transparent pricing. Consider whether features like burst handling and queuing systems are included for handling spikes in email volume.
- Evaluate IP Reputation Management Select an SMTP server that actively manages its sending IP reputation to prevent your emails from landing in spam folders. Dedicated IP options allow you to control your reputation without being affected by other users on shared IPs. Look for tools that provide real-time monitoring of blacklists, deliverability statistics, and suggestions for improving your reputation. Servers with DMARC, SPF, and DKIM setup capabilities enhance authentication and prevent spoofing.
- Look for Advanced Monitoring and Reporting Tools An SMTP server with robust reporting features enables you to track email performance and troubleshoot issues. Ensure the server provides detailed logs for sent, delivered, bounced, and failed emails. Dashboards that offer insights into engagement metrics like open and click rates can help refine your email strategy. Look for API access to integrate monitoring data with other analytics tools for deeper insights.
- Confirm Integration Options with Other Tools SMTP servers should easily integrate with your existing workflows and third-party tools. Look for compatibility with marketing automation platforms, CRM systems, or analytics tools. Popular options like SendGrid, Postmark, or Amazon SES often come with pre-built connectors or APIs for seamless integration. Test the API to ensure it supports your custom requirements, such as templated emails or real-time updates.
- Assess Customer Support and Documentation Strong support is critical, especially when resolving issues related to email deliverability or configuration. Look for providers offering 24/7 customer support through multiple channels, such as chat, email, or phone. Comprehensive documentation, including setup guides, troubleshooting tips, and API references, is essential for technical teams. Providers with active communities or forums can also be valuable for finding solutions.
- Check Compliance and Security Certifications If your emails involve sensitive or regulated data, ensure the SMTP server complies with relevant standards. Check for certifications like SOC 2, ISO 27001, or compliance with GDPR, HIPAA, or CAN-SPAM. These certifications demonstrate the provider’s commitment to data protection and security. Servers with built-in data loss prevention (DLP) measures offer additional safeguards against unauthorized data exposure.
- Compare Pricing Models and Cost Efficiency SMTP server pricing varies based on features, email volume, and additional services like dedicated IPs or analytics. Compare providers for cost efficiency while ensuring they meet all your technical requirements. Avoid overpaying for features you don’t need, and check for hidden costs like additional API calls or exceeding email quotas. Evaluate free or trial plans to test the server before committing to a subscription.
