Hotmail and Outlook offer online email services, and both are Microsoft services designed for different types of users and serve different purposes. These are primarily designed for business and personal use and integrate with other Microsoft products and comprehensive features.
What is Hotmail?
Hotmail is a popular online web-based email service, launched in 1996, and later acquired by Microsoft in 1997. Hotmail is an easy-to-use and reliable webmail service that has grown over the years to keep up with preferences and to change user needs. It continues to be a well-liked option for people who need a simple and free email service.
What is Outlook?
Outlook is part of the Microsoft 365 Office suite and email software developed by Microsoft. Unlike Hotmail, a web-based email service, Outlook is a desktop-based program that can be installed on a mobile device and computer.
Features Comparison
Here are features comparison between Hotmail and Outlook:
User Interface
Microsoft Hotmail has undergone numerous redesign updates over the years, with the latest layout featuring a subtle design that highlights minimalism and ease of use. The user interface is modern in appearance, with clean and intuitive navigation.
At the same time, Outlook has a more complex user interface than Hotmail, with various settings windows that can be modified to suit the user’s requirements. The user interface features a toolbar with speedy access to frequently used functions and features.
Storage and File Attachment Limits
Hotmail provides a free storage capacity of 15 GB on OneDrive, which can amass email attachments and other files in the cloud. So, users can access them from anywhere with an active internet connection.
Outlook.com provides users a free cloud capacity of 5 GB on OneDrive/ SkyDrive, but with the help of a Microsoft 365 subscription, it can be upgraded to up to 6 TB. This provides users with more data storage space than Hotmail and allows for storing a superior number of email attachments and other files in the cloud.
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Integration with Other Services
Hotmail offers app integration with a series of other Microsoft services, including:
- OneDrive
- Skype
- Office Online
- and Xbox Live
Therefore, users easily manage and access their files, share and edit documents online, play games, and video call with contacts within the Hotmail interface.
Outlook also provides integration with a variety of other Microsoft services, including:
- OneDrive
- Skype
- Office Online
- and Teams
In addition, Outlook can be a broad choice of third-party services integration, including Trello, Google Drive, and Dropbox, with add-ins.
Security and Privacy
Hotmail and Outlook are equally committed to providing a secure connection and private email experience. Hotmail and Outlook use security encryption actions to control privacy settings and provide guard user data, phishing protection and spam filtering.
The email address-focused inbox attributes are unique to Hotmail and Outlook, respectively, and are designed to give extra shields like two-factor authentication against unwanted and spam emails.
Pros and Cons of Hotmail and Outlook
Here are the pros and cons of Hotmail and Outlook:
Pros of Hotmail
- Simple and easy-to-use interface
- Integration with other Microsoft services
- Customization options
- Free large storage capacity (up to 15 GB)
- Send large files (up to 25 MB in size as attachments)
- Create and use web-based aliases
- Flexibility in email management
And many more!
Cons of Hotmail
- The interface is sluggish and slow, mostly while dealing with great volumes of emails.
- Features and interfaces are not as advanced (outdated user interface) as Outlook.
- Does not offer scheduled emails and video conferencing.
- Spam filtering issues and limited storage capacity
- Account security concerns
Pros of Outlook
- Outlook provides a comprehensive productivity suite, including task management, note-taking, email, calendar, chat and desktop app availability.
- Advanced search and filtering options.
- Create custom rules and filters with security features.
- Highly professional and customizable interface
- Integration with Microsoft 365
And many more!
Cons of Outlook
- Complexity learning curve and Slow load
- Difficult to use and limited personalization options
- Potential for crashes and bugs
Which One Should You Choose?
Ultimately, the choice between Outlook and Hotmail will depend on the preferences, integration needs, user interface preferences and precise requirements of every user. By evaluating the only drawbacks and features of each service, users can decide which service is best-matched for their email management desires.
Factors to Consider When Choosing Between Hotmail and Outlook
- Accessibility
- User Interface
- Storage Space
- Security and Privacy
- Integration with other Services
- Backup and migration options
- Trial and errors
By considering these factors, users can make an informed judgment on which email service best meets their preferences and needs.
Final Thoughts
Finally, regardless of which service you choose based on your preference, it’s key to practice experimentation, exchange or switching email providers and do superior email cleanliness, such as enabling two-factor authentication and regularly deleting unnecessary emails.
