Mailpile
A self-run email client built around local control and privacy.
Mailpile is an open-source email client and personal webmail server intended to keep mail under the user’s control rather than inside a hosted service. It combines mail search, organization, and encryption-oriented workflows, with development currently focused on a Python 3 rewrite and modernization effort.
Why it stands out
- Designed as software users run themselves, reducing dependence on a centralized mail provider.
- Combines email-client functions with a personal webmail-server approach.
- Open AGPLv3 codebase with public development resources and community channels.
- Explicitly community-funded, with no advertising-based business model described.
Good to know
- The homepage states Mailpile is being rewritten and lists the current release as “tbd,” so it may not be ready as a stable everyday client.
- Running it yourself means users must manage local installation and availability rather than simply signing into a hosted service.
- The project is in a modernization transition from Python 2 to Python 3, which may affect documentation, compatibility, or install paths.
Photos
Privacy-conscious email users who want a self-run mail client instead of relying on a hosted webmail provider. Search and organize existing email locally on a personal machine. Experiment with an open-source approach to encrypted email workflows. Follow or contribute to a community-funded privacy email project.
Self-hosted/personal email client model; mail search and organization; encryption-focused email handling; AGPLv3-licensed source code; community support, blog updates, GitHub code, bug tracker, wiki, and discussion forum.
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Similar sites elsewhere
- Mozilla Thunderbird — thunderbird.net
- Claws Mail — claws-mail.org
- K-9 Mail — k9mail.app
- Proton Mail — proton.me/mail
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