Updated by Tina Sieber on January 21, 2017.
When I set up a virtual server for my website, I gained the ability to create professional email accounts using the same domain. As someone who's managed web hosting for years, I know this boosts credibility for any organization, so I eagerly upgraded my email setup.
Choosing the right webmail client was the next step. While I prefer web-based options over desktop clients—especially after years of relying on Gmail and self-hosted servers—it's essential to have a powerful webmail solution for on-the-go access. 6 Reasons You Should Ditch Using Desktop Email Clients in Favor of Web-Based Options makes the case clear for most MakeUseOf readers.
Among top webmail clients that rival desktop apps, Horde was my first choice—familiar but clunky. Then, on a whim, I tested Roundcube. Add the email client to your website with Roundcube. Here's my head-to-head comparison based on hands-on experience.
Roundcube's standout strength is its intuitive interface, blending simplicity with robust features akin to top desktop clients. I wish I'd switched sooner.
Check the main screen below—icons are self-explanatory, filters are a click away, and new mail counts appear instantly in the sidebar. Resizing panes is effortless with a drag.
Roundcube handles HTML emails seamlessly while prioritizing security, like blocking remote images until approved.
Advanced actions? View headers or download as .eml via the gear icon—no digging required. Everything's intuitive.
The Settings menu centralizes preferences, folder management, and identities for sending emails—streamlined and user-friendly.
Composing is clean with a familiar WYSIWYG editor. Toggle HTML/plain text easily, attach files via paperclip or the sidebar (+ button).
Roundcube matched every Horde feature I needed, but with a far superior, clutter-free design.
Horde's homepage feels dated and overcrowded with redundant links. Navigation lacks clarity, making it less professional.
Rich emails default to plain text, forcing extra steps like new windows to view properly—frustrating for HTML-heavy inboxes.
Horde shines in customization, offering deep server, filtering, and organization tweaks. But navigating the overwhelming options often requires trial and error.
Advanced filters impress: whitelists/blacklists auto-delete spam or route to folders. Creating rules via 'New rule' is straightforward.
The 'Organizing' suite mimics Outlook basics—address book, calendar, notes, tasks. Handy for quick checks alongside email, but redundant if you use Google Calendar or Outlook.
I've fully switched to Roundcube. Faster HTML handling and a polished interface save time daily—no Horde features missed.
That said, desktop clients might suit you better. You should ditch webmail for a desktop email client if... Or access Gmail offline: How to read Google mail on your desktop. For alternatives: The Best Free Email Accounts You Should Consider.
Have you used Horde or Roundcube? Share your experiences in the comments below.
