Email is still one of the most powerful tools on the internet. Journalists use it to protect sources. Activists use it to organize safely. Privacy fans use it to keep their lives private. But regular email is not always secure. Many popular providers scan messages, track behavior, and store data in ways that put users at risk.
TLDR: Encrypted email providers protect your messages from hackers, trackers, and even the provider itself. The best options combine strong encryption, privacy-friendly laws, and simple design. Proton Mail, Tutanota, and Mailfence lead the pack, but several other excellent services exist. Choose based on your threat level, budget, and ease of use.
Let’s break down the top 7 encrypted email providers that value your privacy as much as you do.
1. Proton Mail
Proton Mail is often the first name people hear. And for good reason.
It was founded by scientists at CERN. It is based in Switzerland. That matters because Switzerland has strong privacy laws.
Why people love it:
- End-to-end encryption by default between Proton users
- Zero-access encryption (even Proton cannot read your emails)
- Open-source apps
- Free plan available
Proton Mail also lets you send encrypted messages to non-Proton users. They receive a link and open the email with a password you provide separately.
It includes extras. A VPN. Cloud storage. Calendar. All privacy-focused.
Best for: Journalists and activists who need strong protection but want something easy to use.
2. Tutanota
Tutanota is another big player. It is based in Germany. It focuses fully on security and simplicity.
It automatically encrypts:
- Email content
- Subject lines
- Contacts
- Calendars
That subject line encryption is rare. Many providers leave subject lines visible.
Tutanota uses its own encryption system instead of PGP. This allows for a smoother experience across devices.
Pros:
- Strong end-to-end encryption
- No phone number required to sign up
- Affordable paid plans
Cons:
- Limited third-party integrations
Best for: Privacy fans who want a minimalist, no-nonsense solution.
3. Mailfence
Mailfence is based in Belgium. It takes a slightly different approach.
Instead of automatic encryption, it gives you powerful tools. Including full OpenPGP support.
This means you control your encryption keys. You generate them. You store them. You manage them.
Why this matters:
- You are not locked into one system
- You can communicate securely with other PGP users
- You keep full control
Mailfence also offers:
- Documents
- Calendars
- Contacts
It feels more like a secure productivity suite than just an inbox.
Best for: Advanced users and journalists familiar with PGP encryption.
4. StartMail
StartMail comes from the team behind Startpage, the private search engine.
It is based in the Netherlands. It supports PGP encryption. But it also allows password-protected emails for non-PGP users.
One unique feature is disposable email aliases. You can create temporary email addresses in seconds.
This is great for:
- Signing up for events
- Communicating with unknown contacts
- Avoiding spam
It is not free. But it is simple and polished.
Best for: Professionals who need encrypted communication and flexible identities.
5. Posteo
Posteo is a quiet privacy champion. Also based in Germany.
It is affordable. Very affordable. But do not confuse low cost with low quality.
Posteo offers:
- Strong encryption options
- Anonymous sign-up (no personal info required)
- Eco-friendly operations powered by green energy
You can even pay anonymously by mail with cash. That is rare.
Encryption is not fully automatic like Proton or Tutanota. You need to configure it. But guides are available.
Best for: Privacy purists who want anonymous accounts without big branding.
Image not found in postmeta6. CounterMail
CounterMail is built for serious security.
It uses diskless web servers. That means no hard drives to steal data from. Everything runs in memory.
It also supports:
- OpenPGP encryption
- Custom domain support
- USB key login option for extra security
The interface looks old-school. Not flashy. But that is not the point.
It is designed to resist attacks.
No free version exists. It is premium only.
Best for: Activists in high-risk areas who need hardened infrastructure.
7. Runbox
Runbox is based in Norway. Norway has strong privacy protections.
Runbox focuses on ethical standards and transparency.
It offers:
- Secure email hosting
- No scanning for ads
- Two-factor authentication
Encryption is available. But it is not as automatic as Proton or Tutanota. It supports PGP integration.
The company is small and independent. That appeals to many privacy fans.
Best for: Users who want private email hosting with a long track record.
What Makes an Email Provider Truly Secure?
Not all “secure” email services are equal. Marketing can be misleading.
Here is what to look for:
- End-to-end encryption: Only you and the recipient can read the message.
- Zero-access architecture: The provider cannot read your mail.
- Open-source code: Security experts can review it.
- Strong jurisdiction: The country’s privacy laws matter.
- Two-factor authentication: Extra login protection.
Also think about your own behavior.
Encryption will not protect you if:
- You reuse weak passwords
- Your device has malware
- You share sensitive details on social media
Security is a system. Not just a tool.
Which One Should You Choose?
It depends on your needs.
If you want the easiest secure option: Proton Mail or Tutanota.
If you are comfortable with encryption keys: Mailfence or CounterMail.
If anonymity during signup matters most: Posteo.
If you want disposable identities: StartMail.
If you prefer independent providers: Runbox.
Ask yourself:
- How high is my risk level?
- Am I protecting sensitive sources?
- Do I need to remain anonymous?
- Can I pay for privacy?
Be honest. Choose accordingly.
Final Thoughts
Privacy is not paranoia. It is preparation.
Journalists protect sources. Activists protect communities. Privacy fans protect freedom.
Encrypted email is one simple step.
Fortunately, you do not need to be a cybersecurity expert. Many modern providers make setup easy. Some take five minutes.
The biggest step is this: deciding that your data is worth protecting.
Because once your information is exposed, you cannot take it back.
Choose wisely. Stay secure. And keep your conversations yours.