Tired of Apple Mail opening every time you click an email link on your Mac? Whether you prefer Gmail, Outlook, Spark, or another client, you can easily change your default mail app on Mac to something that better fits your workflow.
In this guide, you’ll learn how to change the default mail app on macOS, troubleshoot common issues, and discover popular email alternatives to Apple Mail in 2025.
What Is the Default Mail App on Mac?
The default mail app is the program your Mac uses to handle all email-related actions by default. When you click an email address (like on a website), the system opens this chosen app to start a new message.
By default, macOS uses the built-in Apple Mail app. But if you’ve installed other email clients like Gmail (via browser), Microsoft Outlook, Spark, Airmail, or Thunderbird, you can choose any of them instead.
How to Change the Default Mail App on macOS (macOS Ventura, Sonoma, and Later)
Changing your default email app is quick and only takes a few steps.
Step-by-Step:
- Open the Apple Mail app
Even if you don’t use Apple Mail, you’ll need to open it at least once to access default settings. - Go to Mail > Settings (or Mail > Preferences on older macOS)
You’ll find this in the top menu bar. - Click the “General” tab
- Locate “Default email reader”
You’ll see a dropdown menu next to it. - Select your preferred email app
You should see a list of installed mail apps like Outlook, Spark, Airmail, etc. Choose the one you want. - Close the settings window
Your change will be saved automatically.
From now on, clicking any mailto: link will open your new default mail client.
If Your Email App Doesn’t Show Up
Sometimes your email client won’t appear in the dropdown. Try these steps:
- Make sure the app is installed properly
- Open the app at least once before setting it as default
- Update the app to the latest version
- Restart your Mac and try again
If it still doesn’t appear, the app may not support being set as default on macOS. Check with the app’s support documentation.
Using Gmail or Web-Based Email as Default
macOS doesn’t allow you to directly set a web-based email like Gmail as the default mail client. However, there are workarounds:
Option 1: Use a Third-Party App (Like MailTo or Google Notifier)
Apps like MailTo or Finicky can intercept mailto: links and open Gmail in your browser instead of Mail.
Option 2: Set Browser Extensions
If you use Chrome or Firefox, install a browser extension like:
- Mailto for Gmail (Chrome)
- Mailto: Gmail (Firefox)
These redirect mail links on webpages to open in Gmail.
Best Alternatives to Apple Mail in 2025
If you’re switching default apps, here are some popular email clients worth trying:
| Email Client | Best For | Key Features |
| Microsoft Outlook | Business users, Microsoft integration | Calendar, Teams, Office suite integration |
| Spark | Productivity-focused users | Smart inbox, snooze, delegation, templates |
| Airmail | Power users and customization fans | Integrates with productivity apps |
| Canary Mail | Privacy-first users | End-to-end encryption, AI summaries |
| Thunderbird | Open-source email and calendar | Free, customizable, multiple account support |
Choose the one that fits your style, workflow, and integration needs.
How to Check If the Default Mail App Has Changed
To test:
- Open Safari or any browser
- Click a mail link (mailto:[email protected])
- Your new default email app should open automatically
If Apple Mail still opens, repeat the steps in the Mail settings or check if the new app is fully updated.
Troubleshooting Common Issues
The “Default email reader” is greyed out
- Try opening and closing the Mail app again
- Restart your Mac
- Update macOS and the mail app
Mailto links still open in Safari or browser
- Check if browser extensions are overriding settings
- Reset default browser email handlers (in browser settings)
The new app opens but doesn’t create a new message
- Ensure it supports mailto links
- Check if it’s fully set up with an email account
Frequently Asked Questions
How do I set Gmail as my default mail app on Mac?
macOS doesn’t support web apps as default email clients. You’ll need to use a browser extension or a third-party app that redirects mailto links to Gmail.
Can I remove Apple Mail from my Mac?
Apple Mail is built into macOS and can’t be fully uninstalled. However, you can ignore it by setting a different mail app as default.
Will my contacts and emails transfer to the new mail app?
That depends. Most apps can import data from Apple Mail, but you may need to re-add your email account manually.
Can I have more than one default mail app?
No. macOS allows only one app to be set as the default email client at a time.
Does changing the default email app affect iPhone or iPad?
No. You’ll need to change the default mail app separately on iOS/iPadOS devices.
