Outlook vs Kolab Now
A comprehensive comparison to help you decide if Kolab Now is the right EU alternative to Outlook for your needs.
Outlook
Outlook is Microsoft's email and calendar service, part of the Microsoft 365 ecosystem. Microsoft processes data in the US and has been subject to criticism from European data protection authorities, particularly regarding Microsoft 365's telemetry data collection practices.
Kolab Now
Kolab Now launched in 2013 as a public service built on the open-source Kolab groupware platform, operated by Apheleia IT AG (formerly Kolab Systems AG) from Bern, Switzerland. It provides a full groupware suite — email, calendars, contacts, tasks, notes, and file storage — hosted entirely in Switzerland under Swiss privacy law. The company is a founding contributor to Collabora Online and champions software freedom as a core principle.
Our Verdict
Why choose Kolab Now
- +GDPR-compliant data handling ensures EU privacy standards.
- +EU-based servers in Switzerland for data residency assurance.
- +Open source client allows for transparency and customization.
- +End-to-end encryption option enhances email security.
Things to consider
- -Migration from Outlook may require manual data transfer.
- -Lacks OneDrive integration for file sharing.
- -Learning curve for users new to open source platforms.
Privacy Winner: Kolab Now
Your data stays in the EU and is protected under GDPR, free from US CLOUD Act access.
Ready to try Kolab Now?
Feature Comparison
Outlook
🇺🇸Microsoft
Kolab Now
🇨đź‡Apheleia IT AG
US Data Storage
Data subject to US CLOUD Act and may be accessed by US authorities
EU Data Protection
Data protected under GDPR with EU-only data residency
Certifications & Compliance
No certifications listed
Reasons to Switch
- âś“GDPR-compliant data handling ensures EU privacy standards.
- âś“EU-based servers in Switzerland for data residency assurance.
- âś“Open source client allows for transparency and customization.
- âś“End-to-end encryption option enhances email security.
Things to Consider
- !Migration from Outlook may require manual data transfer.
- !Lacks OneDrive integration for file sharing.
- !Learning curve for users new to open source platforms.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Kolab Now a good replacement for Outlook?
Yes, Kolab Now is a GDPR-compliant European alternative to Outlook. It offers similar functionality while ensuring your data stays within EU jurisdiction and is protected under strict European privacy laws.
Is Kolab Now GDPR compliant?
Yes, Kolab Now is a European company that fully complies with GDPR regulations. Your data is stored in EU data centers and is not subject to US surveillance laws like the CLOUD Act.
How much does Kolab Now cost?
Kolab Now offers subscription pricing. Visit their website for current pricing details and to compare plans based on your specific needs.
Where is my data stored with Kolab Now?
Kolab Now stores data in EU data centers, ensuring compliance with European data protection regulations and keeping your information within EU jurisdiction.
Other EU alternatives to Outlook
Ready to make the switch to Kolab Now?
Take control of your data privacy by switching to an EU-based alternative.