Sterna Mail review
A free, open-source Android client with privacy controls and a unified inbox.
Reviewed by iTechGuides Editors · Editorial team · Updated Oct 2026
Sterna Mail is a free, open-source email client for Android, aimed at people who want private email handling across multiple accounts. It supports JMAP as well as conventional IMAP and SMTP providers, bringing messages into a unified inbox. Conversation threading, search, offline local caching, snoozing, scheduled sending, undo send, and calendar-invitation previews cover everyday email workflows. The app is distributed through F-Droid and as a direct APK, and its privacy approach avoids Google services, tracking, advertising, analytics, crash reporting, and third-party SDKs.
The Free plan costs 0 and includes JMAP support, IMAP/SMTP support, a unified inbox, offline local cache, and scheduled sending. There are no paid tiers described, so the product keeps its pricing straightforward rather than separating core features across subscription levels. Its integration surface is focused on established email protocols and privacy-related components: JMAP, IMAP, SMTP, OpenKeychain, and UnifiedPush. OpenPGP encryption is available through OpenKeychain, while remote-image and tracking-pixel blocking add privacy controls inside the mail experience.
Sterna Mail suits Android users who want a no-cost, open-source client with offline access, multi-account organization, and privacy-focused defaults. It is a particularly direct fit for JMAP users, while IMAP/SMTP support covers conventional providers. The main trade-off is platform coverage: the app is Android-only, so people needing a desktop or iOS email client should choose a product with broader platform support. It also favors a focused email experience over a wider ecosystem, although calendar invitation previews and UnifiedPush support extend its practical reach.
Sterna Mail pros and cons
- Where it wins
- Supports JMAP, IMAP, and SMTP providers
- Combines multiple accounts in one unified inbox
- Blocks remote images and tracking pixels
- Where it doesn't
- Android-only coverage limits device choice
- OpenPGP encryption works through OpenKeychain
- No paid tier for expanded plan options
Sterna Mail fact sheet, pricing and score →
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