Runbox
ActiveOverview
Runbox is an email hosting service from Norway offering secure webmail, POP, IMAP, and SMTP access for use with any email client or device. It provides email storage, domain hosting, aliases, and administration tools, emphasizing privacy under Norwegian laws with no unauthorized data disclosure or usage tracking. Targeted at users seeking privacy-focused email alternatives to mainstream providers.
Key Features
- Secure Webmail - Professional webmail interface with encryption and secure connections.
- IMAP/POP/SMTP Support - Access via standard protocols (IMAP port 993 SSL, SMTP port 465 SSL) for desktop and mobile clients like Outlook, Thunderbird, Apple Mail.
- Email Storage - Up to 50 GB storage depending on plan.
- Domain Hosting - Support for up to 25 custom email domains.
- Email Aliases - Up to 100 aliases per account.
- Privacy Compliance - Adheres to Norwegian privacy laws, no tracking or unauthorized data sharing.
- Encryption - Secure connections with SSL/TLS for all access methods.
Pricing
| Plan | Price | Includes |
|---|---|---|
| Lite (inferred) | ~$20/year | Basic email storage, aliases, domains (details vary). |
| Max | €79.95/year (€6.66/mo) | 50 GB storage, 25 domains, 100 aliases; additional accounts €34.95/year. |
Platforms & Requirements
Runs on web browsers and supports any device via IMAP (mail.runbox.com:993 SSL), POP, SMTP (mail.runbox.com:465 SSL). Compatible with clients like Outlook, Thunderbird, Apple Mail on Windows, macOS, Linux, iOS, Android. No specific minimum requirements noted; standard email client setup required.
Integrations & Ecosystem
- IMAP
- POP3
- SMTP
- Outlook
- Thunderbird
- Apple Mail
- Mailbird
- Custom domains
Alternatives
| App | Difference |
|---|---|
| Proton Mail | Swiss-based with end-to-end encryption; free tier available, less focus on custom domains. |
| Tutanota | German provider with automatic encryption; open-source clients, no IMAP support. |
| Posteo | German eco-friendly email; flat pricing, strong privacy but smaller storage limits. |
| Mailbox.org | German service with calendar/drive; supports custom domains, broader productivity tools. |
Reputation
Runbox is regarded as a reliable privacy-oriented email provider, praised for Norwegian jurisdiction, no tracking, and long-term stability by users on forums like Hacker News. Strengths include strong IMAP/SMTP compatibility and custom domain support. Some note higher pricing compared to free alternatives and limited free tier.