I have been using gmail/google for a long time now (decade or more). But the systems I have come to rely on have been getting enshitified. With their new AI advertisements popping up like crazy…Im just done.
Anyone have a good alternative to gmail? Im looking for something that will not break the bank.
For a bit there, I was running my own email server, but spam and issues with my internet provider (other email servers kept thinking my domain was spamming others) made it hard to keep up. I just dont have the patience anymore for that.
I was thinking of trying out proton or namecheaps offerings and seeing if I like them.
I am used to working with thunderbird but can use online portals if needed. If they have ac alendar that might be a bonus. Personally, I want minimal or no AI. And I want the company to be trusted and in business for at least 5 years.
Any good recommendations?


Self started email servers are commonly marked as spam just because its new.
I would suggest the OVH email offerings. They’ve been in business a long time and don’t price gouge their customers for basic features.
https://www.ovhcloud.com/en/emails-exchange/
It’s not because it’s new. It’s because of email security standards (DMARC, SPF, etc.) [that people often get wrong] that are more strictly enforced for domains with no reputation.
Also, I’m not sure going from Google to Microsoft is a step up, honestly. But if all you’re trying to accomplish is self hosting email (without improved data privacy), they seem like an easy starting point.
[Edit]
I’m aware of those features too. What I was alluding to is domain age and your ASN are factored into the spam filters.
If you have a fresh domain on a residential network for example. You can have everything set up perfectly and still be marked as spam.
But you’re right that those features are commonly misconfigured or omitted. Without a full autopsy on the issue I’m just throwing darts into the darkness.
Using a Microsoft product does feel bad morally, but it does provide the easiest experience while being cost effective.