If you're a small business owner thinking about
making the switch to Linux, no doubt you've heard that compatibility can sometimes be a problem. Linux offers knowledgeable users unparalleled control over their operating systems, but many email clients don't work on the Linux platform. This leaves users to find their own solutions to managing email. Fortunately, there are some great email clients for Linux that many find just as good as those found on other operating systems.
Some of the best Linux email clients, such as Thunderbird, are cross-platform, which means users can enjoy the same interface and performance regardless of what operating system they are using. These are important because users are sometimes required to use systems other than Linux, and being able to import and export email is simply easier on a cross-platform client. Added bonus: Open-source clients tend to have better features overall, according to techradar.com. For small business owners and employees who need to extract email data, any of these clients should suffice when combined with tools like
Experian CASS certification solutions.
Thunderbird
According to Lifehacker.com, Thunderbird tops the list of possible Linux email clients, and for good reason: Thunderbird offers pretty much everything you could want in an email client. Developed by Mozilla, the ever-popular creator of the Firefox browser, Thunderbird starts out simple and enables you to expand with multiple add-ons as you like. Mozilla constantly improves Thunderbird, as well; if Thunderbird needs to adapt to changing developments in operating systems or user needs, chances are it will do so fairly quickly. The only area where Thunderbird lacks is in Microsoft Exchange support. For users who need to access their mail through Exchange for their work, Thunderbird, unfortunately, fails to deliver.
Evolution
According to Techradar.com, Evolution would hold the top spot in this list—if it were cross-platform. The fact that Thunderbird is so highly regarded gives some perspective on the quality of Evolution. One of the most important features for Evolution users is its ability to work with Microsoft Exchange. If you need Exchange for work, Evolution may be the perfect client for you. Evolution also provides more robust email and calendar integration. The calendar feature of Thunderbird is one of its weaker traits, making Evolution stand out in this particular area.
Claws Mail
Claws Mail goes in the opposite direction of its competitors, aiming for a lightweight client that will appeal to users who prefer a minimalist approach to their email integration. According to NixCraft, Claws Mail is one of the top five cross-platform email clients available. Claws Mail is popular, fast and open-sourced, and it comes with its own set of add-ons. While it does not necessarily compete with the top two on this list, it is a good choice for those using a super-lightweight desktop on a small machine, such as a netbook.
Linux users can use any of these email clients to experience the same level of functionality as they would on any other operating system. Whatever your needs, there is likely a quality email client available now that will meet them.
