What is the difference between hotmail and outlook?

The editor of Downcodes will take you to understand Hotmail and Outlook, two common email services. Although both are provided by Microsoft, they differ significantly in name, interface, functionality, and history. This article will dive into these differences to help you better understand the two services and choose the email solution that's right for you.

name and history

Hotmail was created in 1996 as one of the first free web mail services. Over time, it was acquired by Microsoft and renamed Outlook.com in 2013. Outlook is a mail client application that was originally part of the Microsoft Office suite and is used for email, calendar, contacts, and task management. It also has a web version called Outlook on the Web.

interface

The interfaces of Hotmail and Outlook.com are largely similar, with modern, intuitive user interface designs that are easy to use. The Outlook client has a richer interface and provides more advanced functions, suitable for users who need more powerful email management tools.

Function

Both Hotmail and Outlook.com provide a series of basic email functions, such as sending and receiving emails, folder management, spam filtering, etc. The Outlook client has a wider range of features, including advanced calendar and task management, integrated contact management, email rules and automation, and offline access.

Integration

Outlook.com is generally easier to integrate seamlessly with other Microsoft services (such as OneDrive, Calendar, Office Online, etc.), allowing users to more conveniently access and share files, calendars, and documents. The Outlook client can also integrate accounts from other email providers, such as Gmail, Yahoo, etc., allowing users to manage multiple email accounts in one application.

Customizability

The Outlook client allows users more customization options, including custom email rules, signatures, view settings, etc., to suit their personal needs. Hotmail and Outlook.com offer some customization options, but relatively few.

FAQ

1.Are Hotmail and Outlook the same thing?

Yes, Hotmail and Outlook are actually different names for the same email service. Hotmail was one of the earliest web email services and was later acquired by Microsoft and renamed Outlook.

2. What are the differences in interface and functionality between Hotmail and Outlook?

Outlook's user interface and functionality have been continuously improved and updated to make it more modern and powerful. Compared to the early days of Hotmail, Outlook offers more organizational tools, calendaring, cloud storage integration, and better security and spam filtering.

3. Do I need to migrate to Outlook?

If you're still using Hotmail, Microsoft encourages users to migrate to Outlook.com as Outlook offers better performance, security, and new features. The migration process is usually seamless and you can keep your Hotmail address and email.

4. Do I need to pay to use Outlook?

Outlook offers free basic email service, but also offers a paid Office 365 subscription that includes more features like desktop Office apps, additional cloud storage, and more advanced email management.

5.Is the Hotmail address still available?

Yes, the Hotmail address is still valid and can be used with Outlook.com. Microsoft isn't doing away with Hotmail addresses, but integrating them into Outlook.com.

Does Outlook offer better privacy and security?

Yes, Outlook.com has stronger security and privacy control options, including advanced spam filtering, malware detection, and two-step verification to protect your email account.

Hope this article can help you understand the difference between Hotmail and Outlook. Which one you choose depends on your personal needs and preferences. Whichever you choose, remember to update your security settings regularly to keep your email account safe.