Windows Mail and Windows Live Mail are both mail client programs, but there are some key differences between the two.
1. Inclusion: Windows Mail is included as part of the Windows Vista operating system, while Windows Live Mail is a separate program that can be downloaded for free from Microsoft’s website.
2. Features: Windows Mail is a basic mail client that allows you to send and receive emails. It supports POP3 and IMAP protocols, as well as SMTP for sending emails. It also includes a calendar and contacts manager. On the other hand, Windows Live Mail offers additional features such as a news reader, feed aggregator, and the ability to synchronize with web-based email services like Outlook.com and Gmail.
3. Interface: Windows Mail has a simple and straightforward interface, with a traditional toolbar and menu system. It has a clean and minimalistic design, focused primarily on email functionality. Windows Live Mail, on the other hand, has a more modern and visually appealing interface. It features a ribbon toolbar, similar to Microsoft Office applications, which provides easy access to various mail and productivity features.
4. Compatibility: Windows Mail is specifically designed for Windows Vista and is not officially supported on newer versions of Windows. In contrast, Windows Live Mail is compatible with Windows 7, Windows 8, and Windows 10. This means that if you are using a newer version of Windows, you will need to use Windows Live Mail if you want a built-in mail client.
5. Integration: Windows Mail is tightly integrated with other Windows Vista applications, such as the Windows Contacts and Windows Calendar. This allows for seamless integration and synchronization of email, contacts, and calendar events. Windows Live Mail, on the other hand, can be used as a standalone application and is not as tightly integrated with other Windows components.
6. Support: As Windows Mail is an older program, support for it may be limited. Microsoft has discontinued support for Windows Vista, so there may be compatibility issues or security vulnerabilities that are not addressed. Windows Live Mail, being a newer program, is more likely to receive updates and support from Microsoft.
Personally, I have used both Windows Mail and Windows Live Mail. I found Windows Mail to be a simple and reliable mail client, but it lacked some of the advanced features and integration options of Windows Live Mail. Windows Live Mail provided a more modern and feature-rich experience, and I appreciated the ability to synchronize my emails with my web-based email accounts. I would recommend using Windows Live Mail if you have a newer version of Windows and require additional features beyond basic email functionality.