It looks like Proton Mail does not offer desktop client support on their free tier, and the use of something like Thunderbird with IMAP requires the paid tier exclusive Proton Bridge app. You will need to use their web client for email.
As for alternatives, I would go for an option that provides IMAP support without any sort of “lock in” like that of Proton or Tuta. I have used Disroot and Autistici and both have solid free tier plans, but they utilise manual verification. I currently use Autistici, but Disroot is good too and I’m sure there are plenty of other options, but just make sure to check their privacy policy and all that!
Disroot is a Dutch project that advocates for an open, decentralised web. They state that they do not collect or use your data for any purpose. They also host other services, like cloud storage and a SearXNG instance.
Autistici is an Italian group that is antifascist and against discrimination. They state that you cannot use their voluntary services if you do not share those principles. They will not host for commercial projects, institutions, political parties, and other entities that have the money to host their own services. Quoting from their about page:
Our principles are fairly straightforward: the world should not be run on money, should be rooted in solidarity, community, mutual help, equal rights and freedom, and social justice. Easy, isn’t it?
We support individuals, collectives, communities and groups whose political and social activities fit within this worldview and who share with us some fundamental principles: anti-fascism, anti-racism, anti-sexism, anti-militarism.
On top of that, one has to share our basic attitude towards money and the capitalistic world: a deep feeling of uneasyness and unrest.
It looks like Proton Mail does not offer desktop client support on their free tier, and the use of something like Thunderbird with IMAP requires the paid tier exclusive Proton Bridge app. You will need to use their web client for email.
As for alternatives, I would go for an option that provides IMAP support without any sort of “lock in” like that of Proton or Tuta. I have used Disroot and Autistici and both have solid free tier plans, but they utilise manual verification. I currently use Autistici, but Disroot is good too and I’m sure there are plenty of other options, but just make sure to check their privacy policy and all that!
Disroot is a Dutch project that advocates for an open, decentralised web. They state that they do not collect or use your data for any purpose. They also host other services, like cloud storage and a SearXNG instance.
Autistici is an Italian group that is antifascist and against discrimination. They state that you cannot use their voluntary services if you do not share those principles. They will not host for commercial projects, institutions, political parties, and other entities that have the money to host their own services. Quoting from their about page: