Windows 11 comes with the built-in Mail app set as the default email client. While it’s lightweight and functional, many users prefer alternatives like Outlook, Thunderbird, Gmail (via browser), or other desktop email apps. If you’d rather use a different email client, you can easily switch.
In this guide, we’ll walk you through how to change the default mail app in Windows 11, why you might want to, and how to fix issues if the setting doesn’t stick.
Key Takeaways (Quick Summary)
Windows 11 lets you choose your default email app for handling mail links and actions.
You can change it through Settings > Apps > Default Apps.
Common alternatives include Outlook, Mozilla Thunderbird, eM Client, and webmail via browsers.
If the new default app doesn’t appear, you may need to reinstall or re-register it.
Why Change the Default Mail App in Windows 11?
Here are a few reasons you might want to switch:
You prefer advanced features in Outlook, Thunderbird, or another client.
You want to open mailto links in Gmail or another webmail service instead of the Windows Mail app.
You already use a business email solution and don’t want multiple apps.
The default Mail app feels too basic or buggy.
Method 1: Change Default Mail App via Settings
This is the most straightforward way to set your favorite mail app.
Steps:
Press Win + I to open Settings.
Go to Apps > Default apps.
Scroll down the list and select the email app you want to set (e.g., Outlook, Thunderbird).
Under MAILTO or Email-related protocols, click the app currently set (Mail).
Choose your preferred mail app from the list.
✅ Done! Now all email links will open in your chosen app.
Method 2: Set Default Mail App by File Type
Some mail clients also register specific file types (like .eml). You can assign them individually:
Open Settings > Apps > Default apps.
Scroll down and choose your preferred mail app.
Assign it to handle file types like:
.eml→ Email message files.msg→ Outlook message files
Method 3: Change Default Mail App for Mailto Links
Sometimes you only want to change how mailto links behave (like clicking an email link on a webpage).
Steps:
Open Settings > Apps > Default apps.
Scroll to the bottom and click Choose defaults by link type.
Look for MAILTO.
Change it from Mail to your preferred app (e.g., Outlook, Gmail in browser).
đŸ‘‰ If you want Gmail, set it to your browser (Chrome, Edge, or Firefox) and configure the browser to handle mailto links.
Method 4: Use Browser for Gmail or Webmail
If you use Gmail or another webmail service, you can make your browser the default handler.
For Chrome:
Open Gmail in Chrome.
Click the handler icon in the address bar (two diamonds).
Select Allow to let Chrome open mailto links.
For Microsoft Edge:
Open Gmail in Edge.
Go to Settings > Cookies and site permissions > Protocol handlers.
Allow Gmail as the default mailto handler.
Now, whenever you click an email link, it will open Gmail in your browser.
Troubleshooting: Mail App Won’t Change
If you set a new default and it keeps reverting:
Update Windows 11 – bugs in early builds caused defaults not to stick.
Reinstall the app – sometimes the chosen app isn’t registered properly.
Run SFC/DISM scans – corrupted system files may block changes:
Check Group Policy (business PCs) – admins may lock defaults.
Popular Alternatives to Windows 11 Mail App
| Email Client | Best For |
|---|---|
| Microsoft Outlook | Business users, Microsoft 365 integration |
| Mozilla Thunderbird | Free, open-source, customizable |
| eM Client | Gmail/Exchange sync with clean UI |
| Mailbird | Lightweight, fast, multiple accounts |
| Browser + Gmail | Simple, no extra software |
Conclusion
Changing the default mail app in Windows 11 is simple and only takes a minute. Whether you want Outlook for work, Thunderbird for customization, or Gmail in your browser, Windows 11 gives you the flexibility to choose.
By customizing your email client, you’ll make sure that every mail link opens exactly where you want — boosting productivity and avoiding frustration.
FAQs
1. Can I uninstall the default Mail app in Windows 11?
Yes, you can remove it via PowerShell, but it’s optional since you can just change the default app.
2. Why doesn’t my mail app appear in the default apps list?
You may need to reinstall it or check if it supports Windows 11 default app registration.
3. Can I set Gmail as the default mail app?
Yes, but only through your browser’s mailto handler (Chrome, Edge, or Firefox).
4. Does changing the default app affect Outlook and Teams integration?
No, those apps will continue working independently with Microsoft accounts.
5. Is it safe to change the default mail app?
Yes — Windows 11 allows this safely, and you can switch back anytime.