IMAP synchronizes the mailbox with the server. POP3 mainly downloads messages to the client.
In brief….IMAP is usually the most convenient choice today. POP3 can cause deviations or losses if messages are deleted from the server without a reliable local backup.
Solution A….
IMAP
IMAP keeps messages and folders on the server and synchronizes the playback status between multiple devices.
Key points…
- Adapted to smartphones and multiple computers
- Synchronize folders, flags and deletions
- Current ports: 143 or 993 with TLS
Solution B….
POP3
POP3 retrieves messages from the inbox and can delete them from the server according to configuration.
Key points…
- Simple operation
- May be suitable for local archiving on a single post
- Current ports: 110 or 995 with TLS
Comparative table….
| Criterion…. | IMAP | POP3 |
|---|---|---|
| Main storage | Server | Local Client |
| Several devices | Very suitable | Not suitable |
| Synchronization of folders | Yes | Not or very limited |
| Modern use | Current | Rarer |
Choose IMAP if…
You see the same box on multiple devices or want to keep the server-side structure.
Choose POP3 if…
You have a specific need for local recovery on one post and master the backups of this post.
Key takeaways
IMAP is usually the most convenient choice today. POP3 can cause deviations or losses if messages are deleted from the server without a reliable local backup.
Deepening the two notions….
← Back to all comparison…