Mail-in-a-Box vs Zimbra
In short: they tie on privacy, they tie on price, and they tie on features. The full comparison is below, last checked 25 October 2026.
Should you pick Mail-in-a-Box or Zimbra?
On the facts I track, these two are very close. Try both free where you can, and pick the one whose apps you like using.
| Feature | Mail-in-a-Box | Zimbra |
|---|---|---|
| Overall | Not rated | Not rated |
| Privacy | Not rated | Not rated |
| Price | Not rated | Not rated |
| Features | Not rated | Not rated |
| Cheapest plan | Open source Free | Open source Free |
| Free plan | Yes, open source | Open-source edition; paid Network Edition |
| Storage | Not confirmed | Not confirmed |
| Your own domain | ✓ Yes | ✓ Yes |
| End-to-end encryption | No | No |
| Company based in | United States | United States |
| Your data is kept in | Your own server | Your own server |
| Founded | 2013 | Unknown |
| Free trial | Free to download | Unknown |
| Funded by advertising | No | No |
| Works in any mail app | ✓ IMAP and SMTP | ✓ IMAP and SMTP |
| Calendar and contacts | ✓ Yes | ✓ Yes |
| Aliases | Yes | Yes |
| Open-source apps | ✓ Yes | ✓ Yes |
| Sign up without ID | No | No |
| White label | No | Unknown |
| Reader offer | None | None |
| Last checked | 25 October 2026 | 22 October 2026 |
Want to add another? Open this in the compare tool.
The key differences
- Mail-in-a-Box has a free plan (open source); Zimbra has Open-source edition; paid Network Edition.
Common questions
Can I use my own domain with Mail-in-a-Box or Zimbra?
Yes, both do. Mail-in-a-Box: Yes. Zimbra: Yes.
Where is my email stored with Mail-in-a-Box and Zimbra?
Both keep it in Your own server.
Price changes and news
No price changes for either since 22 October 2026. I check regularly and add any change here with its date.
The latest headlines: Mail-in-a-Box news · Zimbra news.
Moving your email
Moving between any two providers works the same way. Pick your two providers for the steps.