Proton encrypted email is the world's largest private messaging platform with over 100 million users. Unlike Gmail or Outlook, Proton encrypted email uses end-to-end encryption so not even Proton can read your messages — and it's free to start.
Get Your Free Encrypted Inbox →Free plan includes 1GB storage, 150 messages/day. No credit card required.
Google and Microsoft scan your inbox for ads and AI training. Your personal conversations fund their business model.
Proton encrypts every email on your device before it leaves. Not even Proton can read your messages.
Based in Switzerland, Proton operates under some of the world's strongest privacy protections.
| Feature | Proton | Gmail | Outlook |
|---|---|---|---|
| End-to-end encrypted | ✅ | ❌ | ❌ |
| Zero-access encryption | ✅ | ❌ | ❌ |
| No ad scanning | ✅ | ❌ | ❌ |
| Open source | ✅ | ❌ | ❌ |
| Swiss privacy jurisdiction | ✅ | ❌ | ❌ |
| Free tier | ✅ | ✅ | ✅ |
| Custom domain support | ✅ (paid) | ✅ (Workspace) | ✅ (M365) |
$0/mo
Get started with basic encrypted email
$4.99/mo
For individuals who need more
$12.99/mo
Full suite — email, VPN, drive, calendar
Yes. The Free plan gives you encrypted email at no cost — 1GB storage and 150 messages per day. No credit card required.
Yes. You can set up Proton to forward from your old provider while you transition, or use both side by side.
Yes. All Proton clients are open source and independently audited. Anyone can verify the code.
Yes, with a paid plan. You can send and receive from your own domain — fully encrypted.
Gmail's confidential mode just controls forwarding — Google still scans your emails. Proton cannot see your emails at all.
Join 100+ million people who have already switched. Your first inbox is free.
Get Your Free Proton Mailbox →This site is an affiliate of Proton. We may earn a commission if you upgrade to a paid plan.
How email evolved from the ARPANET era through Gmail's dominance to today's encrypted renaissance. Learn why 100 million people switched to Proton Mail.
Read the full history →We compared Proton Mail, Tuta, Mailfence, StartMail, and Hushmail on encryption, privacy, and features. See which secure email provider fits you best.
Compare Providers →Taking HIPAA training? Clear answers about PHI safeguards, encrypted email requirements, and which services are actually HIPAA-compatible.
Read the HIPAA Guide →Step-by-step guide to Outlook's [encrypt] subject line method — plus why Proton Mail makes encryption simpler for everyone you email.
Read the Tutorial →