Compare Aster Mail vs. Mailu

Aster Mail is a complimentary, open-source email service that offers end-to-end encryption for users seeking genuine privacy without cumbersome technical requirements. The encryption process occurs directly on your device, ensuring that our servers never have access to your messages or any associated metadata. Utilizing the widely accepted OpenPGP standard with RSA-4096 keys, Aster ensures that you are not bound to a single provider; your keys can be used seamlessly with GPG, Thunderbird, or any compatible PGP client, and they are easily discoverable via WKD and public key servers. For communications between Aster users, the service employs a Signal-inspired X3DH and Double Ratchet protocol, providing enhanced forward secrecy. Each subscription tier comes with encrypted email capabilities, support for custom domains, free aliases, protection against trackers, and unrestricted access across both web and desktop platforms. The complete codebase is available under the AGPL v3 license on GitHub, allowing for thorough audits, and it features a public warrant canary along with a clear vulnerability disclosure policy. The free tier provides 10 GB of encrypted storage, along with 5 aliases and 1 custom domain. Paid subscriptions begin at just $2.99 per month, and all servers are conveniently located in Germany, ensuring compliance with stringent data protection regulations. Users can feel secure knowing their communications are protected by top-notch encryption standards.

Mailu is a versatile and straightforward mail server offered through a collection of Docker images, designed as free and open-source software that encourages user feedback and contributions. The objective of this project is to deliver an easy-to-install and maintain mail server that is comprehensive and avoids the inclusion of proprietary tools or unrelated features that are frequently part of mainstream groupware solutions. Key functionalities of Mailu encompass: A standard email server setup supporting IMAP and IMAP+, SMTP, and Submission with automated configuration profiles for various email clients. Sophisticated email capabilities, including aliases, domain aliases, and custom routing options. Web-based access featuring multiple webmail interfaces alongside an administrative dashboard. User-centric functionalities such as aliases, auto-reply, auto-forward, and the ability to fetch accounts from other servers. Administrative features that cater to global management, making announcements, domain-specific delegation, and setting quotas. Robust security measures that enforce TLS protocols, integrate DANE and MTA-STS, utilize Let's Encrypt for certificates, provide outgoing DKIM signatures, and incorporate an anti-virus scanner alongside Snuffleupagus for enhanced protection against malware and harmful attachments. Effective anti-spam tools that include auto-learning algorithms, greylisting techniques, DMARC and SPF support, and measures to prevent email spoofing. Overall, Mailu stands out as a comprehensive solution for users seeking a reliable and secure mail server environment.