ProtonMail vs Gmail: Which is Better and Why?

ProtonMail vs Gmail: Using Different Email Providers

This article talks about the difference between Gmail and ProtonMail. Both providers have a similar interface, but both are very different.

Gmail offers a wider variety of features for more personal use, whereas Proton Mail is strictly a secure email service, sending mail with end-end encryption.

If security is number one on your list of email service properties, maybe Proton Mail is the one for you.

However, if you find yourself looking back through older emails, or having tons of email thread conversations, Gmail will provide a better service.

Let's go through the different aspects of both email providers and conclude with the pros and cons of both!

ProtonMail vs Gmail

By the end of this article, you will see the clear differences between these two email providers and decide which one works best for you and your lifestyle.

Similarities

Although both Proton Mail and Gmail are very different, they do have some similar features.

• Both allow you to use a custom domain.
• They have similar easy-to-use interfaces.
• Both have apps and web versions.
• Can access support via helpful knowledge bases.
• Both offer free versions and paid versions.

Security and Privacy

Let's run through the differences between ProtonMail vs Gmail privacy and security.

• Gmail uses Transport Layer Security, also known as TLS. This means a message is encrypted as it’s sent and decrypted once it hits the recipient's mailbox. Emails are delivered securely, but once they are opened, anyone can access the message if the account is left logged in or hacked.
• When creating an account with Gmail you are asked to input a lot of personal details and information. Gmail also takes some data from your search history to personalise advertisements you see within Google.
• Proton Mail uses End-to-End Encryption. This means all messages are delivered securely and can only be opened with a password every time. You can also set emails to self-destruct after a set time.
• Proton Mail is based in Switzerland, well known for its strict data and privacy laws.
• You do not need to input any personal information when creating an account with Proton Mail, you can even use an anonymous email address.

To conclude ProtonMail vs Gmail security, you are more likely to have emails leaked or hacked using Gmail. Although the email service is secure, once your messages are delivered, they’re no longer private or secure.

If you are often sending delicate information via email, Proton Mail may be your choice. Read more about the most secure email providers in our blog.

Special Features

Gmail

• The paid version of Gmail is part of Google Workspace. This means you also receive benefits from other Google apps.
• With Gmail, you can start a video or text chat via your inbox.
• Gmail creates automatic smart filters and categories for your messages.
• You can input event details straight into your Google Calendar with Gmail.
• Gmail has Smart Compose and Smart Reply features, saving you time when writing messages.
• Gmail has fast and advanced software that is updated often.

Proton Mail

• Proton Mail is specifically optimized for email productivity and it’s very simple to use.
• You don’t need to download any software to use Proton Mail.
• With Proton Mail, you are just paying for the emailing service.
• However, you do gain access to ProtonDrive, which is basically like cloud storage for emails and attachments.
• Proton VPN offers high-speed Swiss VPN that safeguards your privacy.

Business or Personal?

Gmail is a better email provider for personal use for a lot of reasons.

Proton Mail is a better email service to use for businesses that are solely focused on privacy and security.

If your business shares a lot of important data and information via email, using Proton Mail is a great idea.

However, if you’re a business that has a lot of conversation threads and mailing lists, and uses email a lot, Gmail would be more beneficial. Also, if you want to search for older emails, keep messages, and organise them into folders and categories then Gmail will work best.

Proton Mail is mostly for sending secure emails, and that’s it. You can still use Proton Mail to send emails and have Gmail as your main business account.

For example, if you need to send a secure email, set up an account with Proton Mail and send the message. Be sure to send the passcode to the recipient of your email so they can access it. You don’t need to primarily use Proton Mail.

Storage

Gmail vs ProtonMail storage breakdown is below.

Gmail offers a better storage plan for free and basic users, whereas ProtonMail only offers a better storage plan the more you pay.

Other Differences

• Other desktop email clients like Apple Mail and Microsoft Outlook allow you to integrate Gmail accounts.
• To use a desktop app for ProtonMail, you will have to download the ‘wrapper’ app.
• With ProtonMail, your messages are not indexed, and you won’t be able to locate conversations or old emails as Gmail does.
• Gmail has a help widget where you can search for answers within the app.
• Gmail doesn’t provide contact options. However, you can ask questions in the Gmail Help Community Forum. If you are a Gmail admin, you do gain access to contact support. ProtonMail will send you to their support page via the web.
• Depending on your plan, you can only send a certain number of emails with ProtonMail and have a restricted number of addresses with one account.

Here are some of the best paid email services and best free web-based email providers if you are looking for an alternative to your mail service.