Mailpile
Verified working Sep 19, 2026
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.
Alternative listings
Encrypted email with Swiss privacy protections and a usable free tier.
Privacy & security tools / big-tech alternativesProton Mail is an email service built around end-to-end and zero-access encryption, with apps for web, mobile, and desktop. It offers free personal accounts alongside paid plans that add storage, custom domains, extra addresses, aliases, and priority support. Proton is based in Switzerland and presents its service as an alternative to ad-supported inbox providers.
0 votesVisit siteAn encrypted email, VPN, storage, and password suite in one account.
Privacy & security tools / big-tech alternativesProton is a privacy-focused suite that combines encrypted email, calendar, VPN, cloud storage, documents, spreadsheets, password management, 2FA, video meetings, and an AI assistant. It offers free personal accounts alongside paid personal and business plans, with apps across major desktop and mobile platforms.
0 votesVisit site
Similar sites elsewhere
- Mozilla Thunderbird — thunderbird.net
- Claws Mail — claws-mail.org
- K-9 Mail — k9mail.app
- Proton Mail — proton.me/mail
1 of 3