ProtonMail vs HEY: Which Should You Choose in 2026?
Choosing between ProtonMail and HEY comes down to understanding what each tool does best. This comparison breaks down the key differences so you can make an informed decision based on your specific needs, not marketing claims.
By Toolradar Team · Last updated February 28, 2026 · Methodology
Short on time? Here's the quick answer
We've tested both tools. Here's who should pick what:
ProtonMail
Secure email that protects your privacy with end-to-end encryption and zero-access encryption.
Best for you if:
- • You want the higher-rated option (8.2/10 vs 8.0/10)
- • You want to try before committing
- • Provides end-to-end and zero-access encrypted email for privacy.
- • Blocks email trackers and offers features like hide-my-email aliases.
HEY
Email that screens your calls
Best for you if:
- • Email reimagined by Basecamp
- • Screener for incoming mail
| At a Glance |  ProtonMail |  HEY |
|---|---|---|
Price | Free + Paid | Paid |
Best For | Email Clients | Email Clients |
Rating | 82/100 | 80/100 |
| Feature | ProtonMail | HEY |
|---|---|---|
| Pricing Model | Freemium | Paid |
| Editorial Score | 82 | 80 |
| Community Rating | No ratings yet | No ratings yet |
| Total Reviews | 0 | 0 |
| Community Upvotes | 0 | 77 |
| Categories | Email ClientsEncryption | Email ClientsNewsletter Tools |
How ProtonMail and HEY Compare
ProtonMail
Secure email that protects your privacy with end-to-end encryption and zero-access encryption.
Free tier available · 82/100 score
HEY
Email that screens your calls
Paid · 80/100 score
Who Should Use What?
On a budget?
ProtonMail has a free tier. HEY is paid only.
Go with: ProtonMail
Want the highest-rated option?
ProtonMail: 82/100. HEY: 80/100.
Go with: ProtonMail
Value user reviews?
Neither has user reviews yet.
Go with: ProtonMail
3 Questions to Help You Decide
What's your budget?
ProtonMail is freemium. HEY is paid. ProtonMail lets you start free.
What's your use case?
Both are email clients tools. Compare their specific features to decide.
How important are ratings?
ProtonMail scores higher: 82/100 vs 80/100.
Key Takeaways
ProtonMail
- Higher score: 82/100 vs 80
- Free tier available
- Our pick for this comparison
HEY
- More community upvotes (77)
The Bottom Line
ProtonMail (82/100) is our pick.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is ProtonMail or HEY better?
ProtonMail scores 82/100 in our evaluation. ProtonMail is freemium and HEY is paid.
What are ProtonMail and HEY used for?
ProtonMail: Secure email that protects your privacy with end-to-end encryption and zero-access encryption.. HEY: Email that screens your calls.
What does ProtonMail cost vs HEY?
ProtonMail is freemium (free tier + paid plans). HEY is a paid tool. Visit their websites for detailed pricing.