Whether you want to launch a new online project or you need a way to communicate with friends and family, a reliable email service is a must.
While free email platforms offer the basics, dedicated email services generally look more professional, inspire trust, and offer customization options, helping you promote your brand. They may also provide improved email user interfaces, better security, and productivity tools -- including templates, SEO, and AI -- that you won't find in limited, free plans.
I've found the best email hosting services for individuals, small businesses, and large organizations. Whether you need secure email, a custom email address, scalable infrastructure, or a security focus, my recommendations will meet your needs.
Also: The best web hosting services: Expert tested
In ZDNET's January update, we performed a thorough review of our recommendations for the best email hosting services for 2026, including refreshing copy and revising our FAQs. Considering its recent price hikes, we have also removed Rackspace from our recommendations.
Get more in-depth ZDNET tech coverage: Add us as a preferred Google source on Chrome and Chromium browsers.
Best personal data removal service deals of the week Incogni - Exclusive Deal: 55% Off Incogni Individual Annual Plan With Code "ZDNET" : $162 (save $198) Deals are selected by the CNET Group commerce team, and may be unrelated to this article.
What is the best email hosting service right now?
My favorite email hosting provider is Google Workspace. If you want a familiar email hosting provider that offers plenty of storage with a direct and easy-to-understand pricing structure, tailored email addresses, and reliable infrastructure, this is the right host for you. Business starter plans are available for $7 per user per month on an annual plan, although sometimes, they are available on sale.
Free email accounts are on offer for individual users.
... continue reading