It’s an issue all computer users face: Would it make more sense to download a desktop e-mail client like Sparrow or Postbox or is Web-based e-mail like Gmail the best choice? Unsurprisingly, there isn’t a clear answer. For many computer users a high-end desktop e-mail client is the best choice. For just as many other individuals, Web-based e-mail is more efficient. Fortuitously, the Lifehacker Web site recently ran a story identifying which computer users are better suited to desktop e-mail and who should consider using Web-based e-mail. The list, though by no means definitive, certainly helps answer the desktop-vs.-Web-based e-mail dilemma.
When desktop makes sense
The Lifehacker story does an excellent job identifying which people are good for which system. For example, Lifehacker recommends that you select a desktop e-mail client if you frequently end up accessing e-mail messages when you’re offline. For obvious reasons, you can’t do that using a Web-based e-mail system. A desktop system might make more sense, too, in the event you own several different e-mail addresses with several different domains. Finally, if you utilize security measures – including encryption or digital signing – or you plan to filter your e-mail messages by subject header, sender or keywords, a desktop client may be the better option for you.
When Web-based e-mail makes sense
Lifehacker provides a list, too, that will help you determine whether a Web-based e-mail system is the better option for you. First, if you prefer a single inbox for all your e-mail, Web-based e-mail might make more sense in your case. Secondly, if you only maintain a small number of e-mail addresses, you might choose Web-based e-mail. This kind of e-mail is practical, too, if you do the majority of your work at the office or at school. Often, your employer or school won’t let you download and install a desktop e-mail client on their computers.
The good news
No matter if you go with desktop or Web-based e-mail services, the good news is that there are more options than ever before when it comes to e-mail. At one time e-mail was pretty much ignored by technology companies. Today, though, companies have launched a multitude of e-mail services, both Web-based and desktop, which will make organizing and managing your e-mail messages an easier task than ever before.