Email delays, spam flags, and failed deliveries are every business's worst nightmare. Whether it’s a marketing campaign or a simple notification, reliable email delivery is key.
The solution? Choosing the right SMTP server.
Here is our list of the best SMTP Servers:
- MailerSend Cloud-based email service for transactional and marketing emails, with a free tier and paid plans starting at $28/month.
- SMTP2Go High-performance SMTP provider with free plans (1,000 emails/month) and paid options starting at $15/month.
- SendPulse All-in-one platform for email, SMS, and web push notifications, offering free and paid plans from $8/month.
- Brevo (formerly SendinBlue) CRM and email marketing tool with 99% deliverability, free plans, and paid options starting at $8.08/month.
- Mailjet Collaborative email service for teams with different plans, starting at $17/month.
- AhaSend Simple SMTP server for transactional and marketing emails, offering free plans and paid options.
- Mailtrap Email testing tool for developers with free plans and paid options.
- Postmark Reliable transactional email service with pricing based on usage.
- SendGrid Scalable SMTP provider for bulk emails, offering free tiers and paid plans.
- Elastic Email Affordable email delivery service with SMTP and marketing features.
- SMTP.com High-volume SMTP service with fixed plans and pay-as-you-go options.
- Inboxroad SMTP relay service with high deliverability and dedicated IPs.
- Mailgun Developer-focused email API with advanced analytics, free tiers, and paid plans.
- Postmastery Transactional email specialist with a focus on deliverability.
In this guide, we’ll explore the top SMTP providers, their features, and pricing to help you pick the best fit for your needs.
Let’s get started!
The Best SMTP Server Providers
Key Features to Look for in an SMTP Server Provider:
When selecting an SMTP provider, consider the following features to meet your email needs:
- Deliverability: High deliverability rates ensure your emails reach inboxes rather than getting flagged as spam. Providers often optimize their infrastructure to achieve this by managing blacklists and handling bounce rates efficiently.
- Pricing: Cost structures vary widely. Many services offer pay-as-you-go models or monthly subscriptions, making it easy to find an option that fits your budget.
- Free Options: Some providers offer free plans with limited features, which are ideal for small businesses, startups, or testing environments.
- API Features: APIs enable seamless integration with your existing systems and provide automation opportunities for email sending, tracking, and analytics.
- Integration Options: Look for compatibility with platforms like WordPress, CRM systems, and newsletter management tools to streamline your email campaigns.
1. MailerSend
MailerSend is a cloud-based service designed for both transactional and marketing emails. Its drag-and-drop email builder allows users to create emails without technical expertise. It is preferred by developers because they can integrate emails into applications using its powerful API.
Real-time analytics help monitor delivery rates and engagement. These analytics help businesses optimize their campaigns. This service is ideal for businesses needing a simple, user-friendly platform to send transactional emails reliably.
Pros:
- Easy Setup: Quick integration with platforms like Heroku, React, and Next.js.
- Excellent Customer Support: Fast, helpful, and knowledgeable team.
- Good Deliverability: Emails often land in inboxes rather than spam.
- Affordable Pricing: Generous free tier (12K emails/month) and pay-as-you-go model.
Cons:
- Strict Account Approval: Some users are denied access without clear explanations.
- Spam Filtering Issues: Warm-up emails may land in spam or promotions.
- Scaling Costs: Becomes expensive for high email volumes.
MailerSend is recommended for startups and small businesses due to its free tier and competitive pricing. Paid plans start at $28/month. With excellent deliverability rates and a clean interface, MailerSend is perfect for those seeking an easy and efficient email solution.
2. SMTP2Go
SMTP2Go is a high-performance SMTP service provider known for exceptional deliverability and customer support. The platform allows up to 1,000 free emails monthly, with real-time tracking and reporting features. Its multiple server locations ensure fast, reliable email delivery worldwide.
Small to medium businesses can benefit from its focus on reliability and analytics. It is a dependable choice for transactional and marketing emails. SMTP2Go’s intuitive dashboard and user-friendly setup simplify email configuration for non-technical users.
Pros:
- Easy Setup: Works smoothly across devices like printers and scanners.
- Great Support: Quick response times and helpful assistance.
- Reliable Delivery: Emails land in inboxes, not spam.
- Affordable Plans: Flexible pricing for small and large users.
Cons:
- Approval Problems: Accounts may be suspended without clear reasons.
- Billing Limitations: Pay-as-you-go may not suit all businesses.
- Reporting Gaps: Limited historical data in reports.
SMTP2Go also offers robust support and integration options for seamless workflow implementation. Pricing starts with a free plan, and paid subscriptions begin at $15/month. For businesses needing reliable and efficient email solutions, SMTP2Go is an excellent option.
3. SendPulse
SendPulse is a comprehensive marketing platform offering email, SMS, and web push notification services. It features email automation tools that help businesses engage with their audience effectively. Users can set up multi-channel campaigns with SendPulse for personalized communication.
The platform is highly versatile. It serves businesses looking for an all-in-one marketing solution. SendPulse’s intuitive interface is suitable for both beginners and advanced users.
Pros:
- Easy to Use: Simple interface with multichannel marketing tools.
- Strong Automation: Helps set up personalized campaigns with ease.
- Affordable Plans: Competitive pricing, including a free tier.
- Responsive Support: Quick replies, even on weekends.
Cons:
- Delivery Issues: Delays in sending emails and SMS.
- Strict Moderation: Accounts and campaigns can be blocked unexpectedly.
- Limited Reporting: Analytics may not be as detailed as competitors.
SendPulse is ideal for small businesses and marketing teams aiming to streamline outreach efforts. A free tier allows access to essential features, with paid plans starting at $8/month. For businesses looking to combine multiple communication channels in one place, SendPulse is a practical and cost-effective choice.
4. Brevo (formerly SendinBlue)
Brevo is a solid CRM and email marketing platform. It offers features like 99% deliverability rates, marketing automation, and SMS marketing tools. Such features are ideal for businesses to run effective campaigns. Also, its user-friendly interface and integration options make it suitable for small and large enterprises.
Brevo is designed for businesses focused on email marketing and CRM solutions. The free plan includes basic features, while advanced tools are available in paid plans starting at $8.08/month.
Pros:
- User-Friendly: Intuitive interface, easy for beginners to navigate.
- Strong Automation: Advanced workflows for email marketing and lead generation.
- Affordable Plans: Free tier available with flexible pricing.
- Responsive Support: Quick and helpful customer service.
Cons:
- Strict Compliance: Requires explicit consent for marketing emails.
- Account Suspensions: Some users report unexpected bans without explanation.
- Limited Customization: Some users want more font and language options.
The platform’s combination of email marketing, CRM, and automation makes it ideal for businesses seeking to grow and maintain a strong customer base. It is also perfect for those enhancing their outreach strategies.
5. Mailjet
Mailjet is an email service provider tailored for team collaboration. It ensures seamless collaboration. As it allows multiple users to work on email campaigns in real time. In addition, its advanced analytics provide insights into campaign performance.
The platform also offers API integration for developers. With it, developers can easily incorporate Mailjet into applications. Additionally, Mailjet is perfect for marketing teams and agencies requiring collaborative email creation tools.
Pros:
- User-Friendly Platform: Easy to navigate, even for beginners.
- Responsive Support: Some users praise fast and helpful assistance.
- Good Pricing Plans: Competitive pricing with free and paid options.
- Reliable Delivery: Works well for transactional emails.
Cons:
- Account Suspensions: Many users report sudden bans without explanation.
- Billing Issues: Unjustified charges and difficulty obtaining refunds.
- Buggy Platform: Users experience login issues, UI glitches, and delivery delays.
With a free tier available and paid plans starting at $17/month, it caters to businesses of all sizes. Its emphasis on teamwork and usability makes it a standout choice for those prioritizing collaboration and flexibility in email marketing campaigns.
6. AhaSend
AhaSend is a straightforward SMTP server designed for simplicity and reliability. It provides a user-friendly interface and basic analytics. It is ideal for beginners or small businesses.
AhaSend ensures reliable delivery for transactional and marketing emails without overwhelming users with complex features. Small businesses or startups with minimal email needs will find it particularly appealing.
Pros:
- Outstanding Customer Support: Users praise the fast and helpful assistance.
- Reliability & Deliverability: Emails consistently reach inboxes without issues.
- Affordable Pricing: Competitive pricing makes it a great option for startups.
- Easy Setup & Simple API: Quick integration with minimal effort.
Cons:
- Lack of Advanced Features: Some users request additional functions like multi-business support and alarm systems.
- No Free Trial – No free trial, but a free plan is available.
The pricing starts with a free tier for up to 1,000 emails per month, with paid plans beginning at $5/month for up to 10,000 emails. Additional emails cost $0.50 per 1,000. AhaSend is an excellent choice for businesses seeking an affordable, no-frills email solution.
7. Mailtrap
Mailtrap is a testing tool for email delivery, specifically designed for developers and QA teams. It creates a safe environment to debug and test emails without sending them to real users.
Features include debugging tools, a collaborative workspace, and email previews. Mailtrap is recommended for developers who need to test email functionality during application development. It ensures no test emails reach actual users, reducing risks.
Pros:
- Strong Analytics: Tracks email performance with delivery rates and insights.
- Seamless Integration: Works with Jira, APIs, and SMTP.
- Post-Send Viewing: Access HTML, RAW data, and email logs after sending.
Cons:
- Limited Features on Lower Tiers: Free and basic plans have restricted inbox access and storage.
- Domain Verification Issues – Some users face setup problems with certain providers.
- No Free Trial for Premium Plans: Paid features aren’t available for testing before purchase.
The free plan is perfect for basic testing needs, while paid plans start at $15/month for additional features and users. Mailtrap is a must-have for teams requiring a secure and efficient way to test email workflows.
8. Postmark
Postmark specializes in delivering transactional emails quickly and reliably. It boasts high deliverability rates and real-time analytics to track performance. The simple API integration allows developers to incorporate it seamlessly into their applications.
Postmark is ideal for businesses prioritizing speed and reliability in sending critical transactional emails. It does not focus on marketing emails. Instead, it focuses on businesses with specific email needs.
Pros:
- High Deliverability: Emails reliably reach inboxes.
- Great Support: Fast, friendly, and knowledgeable.
- Easy to Use: Simple setup with clear guides.
- Fair Pricing: Scales well with separate servers.
Cons:
- Strict Spam Policies: Accounts may be suspended without warning.
- Support Delays: Not always fast for urgent issues.
- Limited Features: Lacks marketing automation tools.
Pricing begins at $15/month based on usage. This pricing ensures flexibility for companies of varying sizes. In addition, Postmark’s emphasis on performance and reliability makes it a trusted choice for businesses that value efficient email delivery.
9. SendGrid
SendGrid is a highly scalable cloud-based SMTP provider, ideal for enterprises needing bulk email solutions. It offers advanced analytics, dynamic email templates, and powerful API integrations.
Businesses can create, send, and track emails effortlessly. SendGrid is recommended for organizations requiring reliable and large-scale email delivery. Its features cater to both transactional and marketing email needs.
Pros:
- Strong API & Templates: Easy integration and dynamic templates.
- Good Deliverability: Emails avoid spam filters and reach inboxes.
- Detailed Analytics: Tracks opens, clicks, and unique interactions.
- Cost-Effective Plans: Free tier and competitive pricing for businesses.
Cons:
- Poor Customer Support: Slow response times and unhelpful service.
- Strict Account Suspensions: Many users report sudden bans without explanation.
- Billing & Upgrade Issues: Difficulties upgrading plans and unexpected charges.
The platform provides a free tier for small-scale use, with paid plans starting at $19.95/month. SendGrid’s robust infrastructure and comprehensive tools make it a popular choice for businesses of all sizes.
10. Elastic Email
Elastic Email is an affordable email delivery service offering SMTP and marketing features in one platform. It provides a flexible API, advanced analytics, and email validation tools to improve deliverability.
Elastic Email is cost-effective and designed for businesses needing a comprehensive yet affordable solution. It is suitable for startups and SMEs aiming to manage both transactional and marketing emails efficiently.
Pros:
- Great Customer Support: Fast, helpful, and knowledgeable team.
- Affordable Pricing: Competitive rates, especially for startups and small businesses.
- User-Friendly API: Easy integration and clear documentation.
- Good Transactional Email Features: Reliable tracking, templates, and automation.
Cons:
- IP Blacklisting: Shared IPs are sometimes blocked, requiring paid private IPs.
- Lack of Communication: Sudden plan changes without proper notice.
- Account Suspensions: Some users experience unexplained bans or slow reactivation.
Email marketing plans start at $29/month, while the API service begins at $19/month. Elastic Email’s low-cost, feature-rich offerings make it a top choice for budget-conscious businesses seeking reliable email services.
11. SMTP.com
SMTP.com is a dedicated SMTP service provider designed for high-volume email delivery. It offers features like reliable email delivery, real-time analytics, and dedicated IP options for improved performance.
SMTP.com is trusted by enterprises and businesses needing a dependable solution for sending large volumes of emails. The platform emphasizes deliverability. Its objective is to ensure critical emails reach the intended recipients.
Pros:
- Reliable Email Delivery: Some users experience good uptime and returns.
- Customer Support: A few reviews praise helpful agents.
- High Deliverability Rates: Trusted by businesses for reliable inbox placement.
- Scalable Infrastructure: Handles everything from a few emails to billions per month.
Cons:
- Difficult Cancellation: Requires multiple emails and a 30-day notice.
- Unexpected Charges: Complaints about auto-renewals and billing issues.
- Buggy Interface: Reports of login issues, dashboard glitches, and slow performance.
- Unresponsive Support: Many users find support slow or unhelpful.
Plans start at $25/month, with a pay-as-you-go option for flexibility. Its robust infrastructure, coupled with excellent support, makes it an excellent choice for businesses that prioritize email reliability and performance.
12. Inboxroad
Inboxroad is an SMTP relay service that focuses on ensuring high deliverability rates for businesses. It offers dedicated IP addresses, comprehensive analytics, and scalability to handle large email volumes.
Inboxroad is suitable for medium to large businesses with extensive email needs, especially those heavily reliant on email communication. Its emphasis on deliverability ensures that messages land in inboxes rather than spam folders.
Pros:
- High Deliverability: Reliable SMTP relay for improved inbox placement
- Dedicated IP & API: Supports seamless integration and custom email sending
- Real-Time Analytics: Tracks email performance and deliverability metrics
Cons:
- Limited Features: No automation, personalization, or list management
- No Free Trial: Must pay upfront to test the service
- Expensive Plans: Higher pricing compared to competitors
Pricing starts at $25/month, making it a competitive choice for organizations looking for performance-driven email solutions. Inboxroad’s reliability and focus on delivery make it ideal for businesses aiming to optimize their email campaigns.
13. Mailgun
Mailgun is a developer-focused email API service with advanced analytics and high deliverability rates. It provides tools for email validation and supports seamless API integration for automated email workflows.
Mailgun is ideal for tech-savvy businesses and developers needing robust tools to incorporate email functionality into their applications. It is also suited for startups and enterprises looking for flexibility and automation.
Pros:
- Strong Deliverability: Reliable inbox placement
- Responsive Support: Fast and knowledgeable help
- Detailed Analytics: Tracks performance and engagement
Cons:
- Account Flagging: Users report unclear restrictions
- Slow Support: Delays in urgent issue resolution
- IP Reputation Issues: Some face low IP scores
Mailgun offers a free tier for basic usage, with paid plans starting at $15/month. Its powerful features and developer-friendly tools make it a go-to solution for businesses seeking to streamline email processes.
14. Postmastery
Postmastery is an SMTP provider specializing in transactional email services with a focus on deliverability. It offers detailed analytics, dedicated IP options, and easy integration to ensure smooth email delivery.
Postmastery is recommended for businesses that prioritize transactional emails, such as order confirmations or password resets. Its reliability ensures that critical communications reach recipients without delay.
Pros:
- Expert Knowledge: Specialists in email infrastructure
- In-Depth Analytics: Postmastery Console provides deep insights
- Hands-On Support: Consulting for performance optimization
- Strong Privacy: Robust data protection policies
Cons:
- High Cost: May not suit small businesses
- Complex Features: Requires technical expertise
- Limited Scope: Focuses on deliverability, not full marketing
Pricing details are not publicly listed and require direct inquiries. Postmastery’s strong emphasis on deliverability and performance makes it an excellent choice for businesses with high standards for transactional email reliability.
Comparing SMTP Services
Here’s a summarized comparison table for the best SMTP servers and services mentioned previously:
| Provider | Features | Recommended For | Starting Price |
|---|---|---|---|
| MailerSend | API, email templates, analytics | Developers, transactional emails | $28/month |
| SMTP2Go | Detailed reporting, global servers | Global businesses | $15/month |
| SendPulse | Marketing automation, SMS integration | Marketers, SMBs | $8/month |
| Brevo (SendinBlue) | Marketing automation, analytics | Marketers, SMBs | $8.08/month |
| Mailjet | Collaboration features, segmentation | Marketers, teams | $17/month |
| Aha Send | Simple setup, reliable delivery | Startups, small businesses | $5/month for up to 10,000 emails |
| Mailtrap | Email sandbox for testing | Developers, QA teams | $15/month |
| Postmark | Fast delivery, transactional email tracking | SaaS, transactional emails | $15/month |
| SendGrid | Customizable templates, analytics | Marketers, businesses | $19.95/month |
| Elastic Email | Email templates, automation | Startups, marketers | $29/month for email marketing |
| SMTP.com | Email analytics, high deliverability | Enterprises, large campaigns | $25/month |
| Inboxroad | High inbox placement rates | Email marketers, enterprises | $25/month |
Conclusion
The right SMTP provider makes all the difference. Some are built for speed, others for marketing, and some focus on rock-solid deliverability. Your choice depends on what matters most to you: consider: reliability, cost, or features.
So, which one of these 14 best SMTP servers catches your eye? Have a favorite (or unfavorite)? Drop your thoughts below!
Not sure yet? Test a few with free trials and see what works best!
