IMAP vs POP: Which Email Setup Should You Use?
When setting up your email on a device or app (like Outlook, Apple Mail, Thunderbird, or your phone), you'll usually choose between IMAP and POP. Here's how they differ and which is better for your needs
Evans
Last Update vor 2 Monaten
Best for multiple devices – Emails stay on the server and sync across all your devices (PC, phone, tablet).
Access anywhere – View your Inbox, Sent, and Drafts from any device with internet.
No need to back up manually – Messages are stored online.
Recommended if:
You want to access the same mailbox from multiple devices.
Best for single-device use – Emails are downloaded and usually removed from the server.
Works offline – Once downloaded, emails are available even without internet.
You control storage – Reduces server space usage since emails are stored locally.
Optional setting:
"Leave a copy on the server" can allow other devices to access the same email temporarily.Recommended if:
You only use one device, have limited server space, or need full offline access.
| Feature | IMAP | POP |
| Emails stored on server | ✅ | ❌ (downloaded to device) |
| Sync across devices | ✅ | ❌ (unless special settings) |
| Works offline | ❌ (unless cached) | ✅ |
| Good for multiple devices | ✅ | ⚠️ (manual setup required) |
| Server space usage | Higher | Lower |
But if you’re working on one device and need offline access or want to conserve server space, POP can still be a good fit.