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What’s the Difference Between Ymail vs Yahoo mail, and Which Should You Use?

Yahoo Mail has long been one of the premier email providers. Among its offerings is Ymail, which might sound like a completely different service but is closely related to Yahoo Mail. One of its features, known as Ymail (pronounced ‘eh-may), sounds different but is actually very similar. In this piece, we discuss their differences so you can pick which best meets your needs; plus, we cover their history with Rocketmail as well as how to log back in if that service still applies to you. 

A Quick History: Yahoo Mail and Add-Ons for It 

From 1997, Yahoo Mail quickly rose to prominence as one of the premier email services worldwide. Offering free, easy-to-use access with unlimited storage capacity and connections to Yahoo News and Finance, its popularity soon spread worldwide. Over time, more features were added to increase user choice; for example, in 2008 Ymail emerged as an alternative service that provided users with more email address choices by offering domains not taken by other people at Yahoo Mail (@yahoo.com), such as being possible to claim usernames already taken elsewhere; on Ymail however not possible (@ymail.com).

Yahoo’s acquisition of Rocketmail in 1997 further strengthened its email platform. One of the earliest webmail services, Rocketmail has since been integrated with Yahoo Mail; users still use their Rocketmail credentials when signing in for Yahoo Mail services. 

Figuring Out the Differences: Yahoo Mail vs. Ymail Mail 

There are some small changes between Ymail and Yahoo Mail, but they look the same. Putting them in pieces: 

1. Domain Names

  • Yahoo Mail: @yahoo.com is the primary address for Yahoo’s email service. 
  • In 2008, an alternative domain named Ymail was also introduced allowing users to create email accounts with @ymail.com addresses.

Despite having different domain names, both services are hosted on the same platform and share features and functions.

2. Availability of Usernames 

Yahoo Mail had too many already-taken usernames, thus Ymail was created. If the desired name is already taken on Yahoo Mail, try switching over to using @ymail.com as an alternative. For instance if “[email protected]” has already been taken by another account holder. In such an instance it would be more appropriate to try “[email protected]”. 

3. How Professional People Seem 

Some people know Yahoo.com better than @ymail.com. This is true for business communication. Even though Ymail is just as useful, it may not be as well known, which could make it harder to use for work. 

4. Older options vs. newer ones 

People who have used Yahoo Mail for a long time like the original domain (@yahoo.com). 

People who want new choices or who had trouble finding usernames like Ymail. 

Features Shared by Both Ymail and Yahoo Mail 

People who use Ymail and Yahoo Mail can do the same things because they both use the same server system: 

1. Generous Storage Space: Yahoo Mail has 1TB of storage space, which is more than rivals like Gmail. 

2. Tools for organization: Folders, tags, and filters make it easy for users to order their emails. 

3. Protection Against Spam: Yahoo’s strong spam filters help keep inboxes clear of annoying messages. 

4. Adding Yahoo Services to Your Website: Email accounts make it easy to get to Yahoo Finance, Yahoo News, and Flickr. 

5. Compatible with mobile apps: For easy access while you’re on the go, the Yahoo Mail mobile app works with both @yahoo.com and @ymail.com emails. 

6. Share buttons and links to social media sites: With the Yahoo Mail Share Button, users can connect their email accounts to social media sites, making it easier to share and talk to others. 

The Role of Rocketmail in Yahoo’s History

In 1997, Yahoo purchased the first web-based email provider, Rocketmail. Rocketmail retained its identity for a while, even though Yahoo Mail eventually became their main product; some users can still access it currently. 

Rocketmail names are no longer available for new users to sign up for, but Yahoo Mail still works with them. These customers moved their emails and other features to Yahoo without any problems. 

Setting Up and Managing Ymail and Yahoo Mail Accounts

1. Creating an Account

It’s simple to create an account under either domain:

  • Go to the official Yahoo Mail website.
  • When registering, select between @yahoo.com and @ymail.com.
  • Type in the required information, such as your preferred username and password.

2. Recovering a Forgotten Account

Use Yahoo’s account recovery tool if you can’t remember your Yahoo Mail or Ymail login information.

  • Type in your phone number or email address for recovery.
  • To change your password, adhere to the instructions.

3. Rocketmail Sign-In

For those with Rocketmail accounts:

  • Go to the same login screen for Yahoo Mail.
  • After entering your password and Rocketmail address (such as [email protected]). 
  • Yahoo’s system will send you to your Rocketmail inbox.

4. Accessing Yahoo Mail on Third-Party Platforms

Users frequently favor using third-party programs like Outlook or Thunderbird to access Yahoo Mail or Ymail. This process requires:

  • Setting up IMAP or POP3 correctly is necessary for this operation.
  • For extra security, make sure two-step verification is turned on.
  • Generating an app-specific password if needed.

Ymail vs. Yahoo Mail: Pros and Cons

Pros of Yahoo Mail:

  • Established brand recognition.
  • Perceived as more professional.
  • Widely recognized in business and personal settings.

Cons of Yahoo Mail:

  • Username availability can be limited.

Pros of Ymail:

  • Offers more flexibility in username selection.
  • Ideal for new users seeking unique addresses.

Cons of Ymail:

  • Less recognizable than Yahoo Mail.
  • Might appear unfamiliar or unconventional in professional contexts.

Which One Should You Choose?

The decision between Ymail and Yahoo Mail ultimately depends on your priorities:

  • For Professionals: Yahoo Mail (@yahoo.com) is often the better choice due to its familiarity and perceived professionalism.
  • For Personal Use: Ymail (@ymail.com) is an excellent option if you’re looking for a unique username or a newer domain.
  • For Legacy Users: Rocketmail users can continue using their accounts seamlessly via Yahoo’s platform.

Guidelines for Using Yahoo Mail or Ymail Account Management:

  1. Enable Two-Factor Authentication: This additional safety measure will assist in your safeguard your account.
  2. Utilize Filters and Folders: Arrange your email by setting up filters based on specific senders or keywords. 
  3. Regularly Update Your Password: Changing your login credentials on a regular basis will enhance security.
  4. Monitor Spam and Phishing Emails: Be vigilant and report any suspicious or fraudulent emails.
  5. Explore Integrations: To boost efficiency, make use of Yahoo’s integrations with additional services.

In conclusion
Despite sharing a platform, Ymail and Yahoo Mail offer different advantages depending on your needs. Yahoo offers a wide range of options for both personal identities and company websites. Users of Rocketmail with previously created accounts can still browse them without any issues. The choice between Yahoo Mail and Ymail is yours. Both domains offer a reliable email service, plenty of capacity, and powerful features. You can rely on Yahoo’s email environment to function correctly regardless of the option you select.  

Vincent, 29, is the founder and editor of Latestly Australia, a premier blog covering lifestyle, travel, tech, and more. Based in Sydney, Australia, he’s passionate about curating content that informs and inspires readers with a uniquely Australian perspective. When he’s not writing or managing the blog, Vincent enjoys exploring new destinations and keeping up with the latest tech trends.