Quick Overview
- 1#1: Proofpoint Email Protection - Delivers advanced AI-driven protection against phishing, malware, spam, and business email compromise in email environments.
- 2#2: Mimecast Email Security - Provides comprehensive cloud-based email security with targeted threat protection, impersonation defense, and archiving capabilities.
- 3#3: Microsoft Defender for Office 365 - Safeguards Microsoft 365 email from advanced threats like phishing, malware, and safe attachments using AI and behavioral analysis.
- 4#4: Abnormal Security - Uses behavioral AI to detect and prevent sophisticated email attacks including phishing, BEC, and account takeovers without rules or signatures.
- 5#5: IRONSCALES - Combines AI-powered detection with human intelligence for real-time phishing prevention and user training via autonomous response.
- 6#6: Barracuda Email Security - Offers multi-layered email protection against spam, phishing, malware, and ransomware with cloud-based archiving and continuity.
- 7#7: Cisco Secure Email Threat Defense - Provides enterprise-grade email security with advanced malware protection, anti-phishing, and threat intelligence integration.
- 8#8: Check Point Harmony Email & Collaboration - Secures email and collaboration apps like Office 365 and G Suite against zero-day threats using cloud-native sandboxing and AI.
- 9#9: Trend Micro Email Security - Protects against email-borne threats with machine learning-based detection for spam, phishing, and advanced persistent threats.
- 10#10: Sophos Email Protection - Delivers synchronized security for email with anti-phishing, malware removal, and DLP features integrated into a broader platform.
Tools were selected based on advanced threat detection capabilities, quality of protection, user-friendly interfaces, and overall value, prioritizing solutions that balance performance with accessibility and cost-effectiveness.
Comparison Table
Email threats are evolving, making robust security software essential for protecting data. This comparison table features top tools like Proofpoint Email Protection, Mimecast Email Security, Microsoft Defender for Office 365, Abnormal Security, IRONSCALES, and others, equipping readers to evaluate key features, effectiveness, and fits for their needs.
| # | Tool | Category | Overall | Features | Ease of Use | Value |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Proofpoint Email Protection Delivers advanced AI-driven protection against phishing, malware, spam, and business email compromise in email environments. | enterprise | 9.6/10 | 9.8/10 | 8.7/10 | 9.0/10 |
| 2 | Mimecast Email Security Provides comprehensive cloud-based email security with targeted threat protection, impersonation defense, and archiving capabilities. | enterprise | 9.2/10 | 9.5/10 | 8.7/10 | 8.6/10 |
| 3 | Microsoft Defender for Office 365 Safeguards Microsoft 365 email from advanced threats like phishing, malware, and safe attachments using AI and behavioral analysis. | enterprise | 8.8/10 | 9.2/10 | 8.7/10 | 8.4/10 |
| 4 | Abnormal Security Uses behavioral AI to detect and prevent sophisticated email attacks including phishing, BEC, and account takeovers without rules or signatures. | enterprise | 9.2/10 | 9.6/10 | 9.1/10 | 8.7/10 |
| 5 | IRONSCALES Combines AI-powered detection with human intelligence for real-time phishing prevention and user training via autonomous response. | enterprise | 8.7/10 | 9.2/10 | 8.4/10 | 8.1/10 |
| 6 | Barracuda Email Security Offers multi-layered email protection against spam, phishing, malware, and ransomware with cloud-based archiving and continuity. | enterprise | 8.2/10 | 8.5/10 | 7.8/10 | 8.0/10 |
| 7 | Cisco Secure Email Threat Defense Provides enterprise-grade email security with advanced malware protection, anti-phishing, and threat intelligence integration. | enterprise | 8.6/10 | 9.1/10 | 8.2/10 | 8.0/10 |
| 8 | Check Point Harmony Email & Collaboration Secures email and collaboration apps like Office 365 and G Suite against zero-day threats using cloud-native sandboxing and AI. | enterprise | 8.4/10 | 9.1/10 | 7.7/10 | 8.0/10 |
| 9 | Trend Micro Email Security Protects against email-borne threats with machine learning-based detection for spam, phishing, and advanced persistent threats. | enterprise | 8.1/10 | 8.4/10 | 7.9/10 | 7.8/10 |
| 10 | Sophos Email Protection Delivers synchronized security for email with anti-phishing, malware removal, and DLP features integrated into a broader platform. | enterprise | 8.4/10 | 9.1/10 | 8.0/10 | 8.2/10 |
Delivers advanced AI-driven protection against phishing, malware, spam, and business email compromise in email environments.
Provides comprehensive cloud-based email security with targeted threat protection, impersonation defense, and archiving capabilities.
Safeguards Microsoft 365 email from advanced threats like phishing, malware, and safe attachments using AI and behavioral analysis.
Uses behavioral AI to detect and prevent sophisticated email attacks including phishing, BEC, and account takeovers without rules or signatures.
Combines AI-powered detection with human intelligence for real-time phishing prevention and user training via autonomous response.
Offers multi-layered email protection against spam, phishing, malware, and ransomware with cloud-based archiving and continuity.
Provides enterprise-grade email security with advanced malware protection, anti-phishing, and threat intelligence integration.
Secures email and collaboration apps like Office 365 and G Suite against zero-day threats using cloud-native sandboxing and AI.
Protects against email-borne threats with machine learning-based detection for spam, phishing, and advanced persistent threats.
Delivers synchronized security for email with anti-phishing, malware removal, and DLP features integrated into a broader platform.
Proofpoint Email Protection
enterpriseDelivers advanced AI-driven protection against phishing, malware, spam, and business email compromise in email environments.
Precision Threat Protection (PX) behavioral AI engine for proactive detection of zero-day threats and BEC
Proofpoint Email Protection is a top-tier cloud-based email security platform designed to defend against advanced threats like phishing, malware, spam, ransomware, and business email compromise (BEC). It employs AI-driven Precision Threat Protection, including URL click-time analysis, attachment sandboxing, and behavioral analysis to detect and block attacks before or after delivery. The solution integrates seamlessly with Microsoft 365, Google Workspace, and other ecosystems, providing detailed threat visibility, DLP controls, and compliance reporting for enterprise-scale protection.
Pros
- AI-powered Precision Threat Protection with low false positives
- Comprehensive BEC and impersonation detection
- Seamless integration and advanced analytics/reporting
Cons
- High cost unsuitable for small businesses
- Steep learning curve for initial setup
- Resource-intensive for some environments
Best For
Large enterprises and organizations needing enterprise-grade, AI-enhanced email security against sophisticated threats.
Pricing
Quote-based enterprise pricing, typically $6-$15 per user/month depending on features, volume, and contract length.
Mimecast Email Security
enterpriseProvides comprehensive cloud-based email security with targeted threat protection, impersonation defense, and archiving capabilities.
Targeted Threat Protection with polymorphic engines that dynamically block evasive impersonation and BEC attacks
Mimecast Email Security is a cloud-native platform delivering advanced protection against email-based threats like phishing, malware, ransomware, and business email compromise (BEC). It combines AI-driven detection, URL and attachment sandboxing, impersonation defense, and data loss prevention (DLP) to safeguard inboxes. Beyond security, it offers email archiving, continuity, and compliance tools for seamless operations during outages.
Pros
- AI-powered Targeted Threat Protection excels at detecting sophisticated BEC and impersonation attacks
- Seamless integrations with Microsoft 365, Google Workspace, and SIEM tools
- Robust DLP, archiving, and continuity features ensure compliance and uptime
Cons
- Pricing is enterprise-focused and may be costly for small businesses
- Advanced configurations have a learning curve for non-expert admins
- Rare false positives require tuning for optimal performance
Best For
Mid-to-large enterprises needing comprehensive email security, compliance, and business continuity.
Pricing
Quote-based; typically $6-12 per user/month based on features and volume.
Microsoft Defender for Office 365
enterpriseSafeguards Microsoft 365 email from advanced threats like phishing, malware, and safe attachments using AI and behavioral analysis.
Zero-hour auto purge (ZAP) that automatically removes malicious emails post-delivery across the organization
Microsoft Defender for Office 365 is a comprehensive cloud-based email security solution designed to protect organizations from advanced email threats like phishing, malware, and business email compromise. It leverages AI and machine learning for real-time detection, scanning emails, attachments (via Safe Attachments), and URLs (via Safe Links) before they reach users. Additional capabilities include anti-impersonation protection, zero-hour auto purge (ZAP), and attack simulation training to enhance security awareness.
Pros
- Seamless integration with Microsoft 365 ecosystem for unified management
- Advanced AI/ML-driven threat detection with low false positives
- Robust features like ZAP, Safe Attachments, and Safe Links for proactive defense
Cons
- Limited flexibility for non-Microsoft email environments
- Potential for higher costs when purchased standalone
- Steeper learning curve for custom policy configurations
Best For
Mid-to-large enterprises already invested in the Microsoft 365 suite seeking integrated, enterprise-grade email security.
Pricing
Included in Microsoft 365 E3/E5 plans; standalone Plan 1 at ~$2/user/month, Plan 2 at ~$5/user/month (annual commitment).
Abnormal Security
enterpriseUses behavioral AI to detect and prevent sophisticated email attacks including phishing, BEC, and account takeovers without rules or signatures.
Behavioral AI engine that analyzes emails in the context of user and entity behavior for unprecedented threat detection accuracy
Abnormal Security is an AI-native email security platform that protects against advanced threats like business email compromise (BEC), phishing, account takeovers, and malware using behavioral analysis and machine learning. It integrates seamlessly with Microsoft 365 and Google Workspace, providing real-time detection, autonomous remediation, and post-delivery protection without relying on traditional signatures or sandboxing. The platform excels in identifying anomalous user behaviors and intent behind emails, achieving high accuracy with minimal false positives.
Pros
- Superior behavioral AI detects sophisticated attacks like BEC with industry-leading accuracy
- Low false positive rates and autonomous remediation reduce alert fatigue
- Rapid deployment with no hardware required and seamless cloud integrations
Cons
- Premium pricing may be steep for smaller organizations
- Primarily focused on cloud email providers (Microsoft 365, Google Workspace)
- Advanced reporting and customization require some learning curve
Best For
Mid-to-large enterprises with Microsoft 365 or Google Workspace needing advanced, AI-driven protection against targeted email threats.
Pricing
Custom enterprise pricing, typically $8-12 per user per month depending on features and volume.
IRONSCALES
enterpriseCombines AI-powered detection with human intelligence for real-time phishing prevention and user training via autonomous response.
Autonomous Phishing Response (APR), which uses AI to detect, report, and remediate threats in seconds without manual intervention
IRONSCALES is an AI-powered email security platform specializing in phishing protection and threat remediation for enterprises. It combines machine learning with human intelligence to detect sophisticated attacks, offering autonomous response capabilities that automatically quarantine malicious emails. The solution also includes integrated user awareness training, threat hunting tools, and detailed analytics to strengthen overall email defenses.
Pros
- Autonomous Phishing Response (APR) enables rapid, hands-free remediation
- High detection rates for advanced phishing with AI-human hybrid approach
- Seamless integration with Microsoft 365 and Google Workspace
Cons
- Custom pricing can be expensive for smaller organizations
- Initial setup and configuration may require IT expertise
- Focuses primarily on email, with less emphasis on broader attachment sandboxing
Best For
Mid-to-large enterprises needing proactive, automated phishing defense and employee training integration.
Pricing
Custom enterprise pricing, typically $4-7 per user per month based on volume and features.
Barracuda Email Security
enterpriseOffers multi-layered email protection against spam, phishing, malware, and ransomware with cloud-based archiving and continuity.
AI-driven Targeted Attack Protection with behavioral analysis and sandboxing for zero-day threats
Barracuda Email Security is a robust platform designed to protect organizations from email-based threats including spam, phishing, malware, and ransomware through AI-driven filtering and global threat intelligence. It provides inbound/outbound email protection, data loss prevention, encryption, and archiving capabilities, available as a cloud service or on-premises appliance. The solution integrates with Microsoft 365, Google Workspace, and other email systems for seamless deployment and management.
Pros
- High-accuracy AI-powered threat detection with low false positives
- Flexible deployment options (cloud, on-premises, or hybrid)
- Comprehensive compliance tools including DLP and archiving
Cons
- Pricing can be higher for small businesses
- Management interface feels dated compared to competitors
- Occasional setup complexity for custom integrations
Best For
Mid-sized enterprises needing reliable, scalable email security with strong compliance features.
Pricing
Cloud subscriptions start at ~$4/user/month (billed annually); on-premises appliances from $5,000+ one-time plus support fees.
Cisco Secure Email Threat Defense
enterpriseProvides enterprise-grade email security with advanced malware protection, anti-phishing, and threat intelligence integration.
AI-powered impersonation defense that analyzes subtle behavioral cues to block sophisticated BEC attacks
Cisco Secure Email Threat Defense (ETD) is a cloud-native email security gateway that delivers advanced protection against phishing, malware, ransomware, and business email compromise (BEC) using AI, machine learning, and Cisco Talos threat intelligence. It scans inbound, outbound, and internal email traffic in real-time with features like URL defense, attachment sandboxing, and impersonation detection. ETD integrates seamlessly with Microsoft 365, Google Workspace, and Cisco's SecureX platform for unified threat management and rapid response.
Pros
- Leverages Cisco Talos for world-class threat intelligence and high zero-day detection rates
- Multilayered defenses including AI-driven BEC and ransomware protection
- Seamless integration with major email platforms and Cisco security ecosystem
Cons
- Premium pricing may not suit small businesses
- Steeper learning curve for admins unfamiliar with Cisco tools
- Full capabilities shine best in Cisco-centric environments
Best For
Mid-to-large enterprises with Microsoft 365 or hybrid email setups needing scalable, AI-powered threat defense.
Pricing
Subscription-based enterprise pricing upon request; typically $5-15 per user/month depending on volume and features.
Check Point Harmony Email & Collaboration
enterpriseSecures email and collaboration apps like Office 365 and G Suite against zero-day threats using cloud-native sandboxing and AI.
AI-driven Behavioral Anomaly Detection for preventing Business Email Compromise (BEC) by analyzing sender and recipient patterns in real-time
Check Point Harmony Email & Collaboration is a cloud-delivered security platform designed to protect email and SaaS collaboration applications like Microsoft 365 and Google Workspace from sophisticated threats such as phishing, malware, ransomware, and business email compromise. It employs AI/ML-driven detection, real-time sandboxing, behavioral analysis, and DLP to block attacks before they reach users. The solution provides unified visibility and management across email ecosystems, integrating seamlessly with existing cloud environments.
Pros
- Advanced AI and machine learning for zero-day threat detection and BEC prevention
- Seamless integration with Microsoft 365 and Google Workspace
- Comprehensive DLP and account takeover protection with unified dashboard
Cons
- Complex setup and management for smaller teams without dedicated IT staff
- Premium pricing may not suit budget-conscious SMBs
- Limited on-premises support compared to pure cloud-native competitors
Best For
Mid-sized to large enterprises needing enterprise-grade protection for cloud email and collaboration tools.
Pricing
Subscription-based starting at around $6-10 per user per month, with enterprise volume discounts and custom quotes.
Trend Micro Email Security
enterpriseProtects against email-borne threats with machine learning-based detection for spam, phishing, and advanced persistent threats.
BareMetal Sandbox™ for hardware-accelerated detonation of suspicious emails and attachments
Trend Micro Email Security is a cloud-based platform that protects organizations from email threats like phishing, spam, malware, ransomware, and business email compromise (BEC). It uses AI-driven machine learning, behavioral analysis, and sandboxing to detect and block advanced persistent threats in real-time. The solution integrates seamlessly via API with Microsoft 365, Google Workspace, and other email systems, eliminating the need for MX record changes.
Pros
- Leverages global threat intelligence from Trend Micro's Smart Protection Network for high detection rates
- Advanced sandboxing with BareMetal Sandbox™ for zero-day threat analysis
- Seamless API integrations reduce deployment complexity
Cons
- Occasional false positives requiring admin tuning
- Quote-based pricing lacks transparency for SMBs
- Dashboard interface can feel cluttered for non-expert users
Best For
Mid-to-large enterprises needing robust, scalable cloud email security with strong APT protection.
Pricing
Custom quote-based; typically $3-6 per user/month for standard plans, scaling with volume and advanced features.
Sophos Email Protection
enterpriseDelivers synchronized security for email with anti-phishing, malware removal, and DLP features integrated into a broader platform.
Cephalon AI engine that uses deep learning to proactively block novel polymorphic threats without signatures
Sophos Email Protection is a cloud-native email security gateway that safeguards inboxes from spam, phishing, malware, ransomware, and business email compromise (BEC) attacks. It employs AI-driven engines, SophosLabs threat intelligence, and sandboxing for attachments and URLs to detect both known and zero-day threats in real-time. Designed for integration with Microsoft 365, Google Workspace, and on-premises systems, it offers policy-based filtering, data loss prevention (DLP), and detailed reporting within the Sophos Central management console.
Pros
- AI-powered detection with Cephalon deep learning for zero-day threats
- Seamless integration with Sophos XDR and endpoint protection
- Robust BEC and ransomware email protection with strong sandboxing
Cons
- Pricing is quote-based and can be premium for small businesses
- Steeper learning curve for users new to Sophos ecosystem
- Limited customization for highly specialized compliance needs
Best For
Mid-to-large enterprises already using Sophos products or seeking unified threat management across email and endpoints.
Pricing
Subscription-based, custom quotes per user/year starting around $4-6/user/month; contact Sophos for details.
Conclusion
Evaluating the array of top email security tools reveals Proofpoint Email Protection as the top choice, leading with advanced AI to tackle phishing, malware, and business email compromise. Mimecast Email Security and Microsoft Defender for Office 365 follow closely, offering exceptional cloud-based and Microsoft ecosystem-focused protection, respectively. Organizations should align their selection with specific needs, but Proofpoint’s AI-driven capabilities make it a standout pick for comprehensive threat defense.
Secure your organization’s email infrastructure by trying Proofpoint Email Protection—leverage its cutting-edge features to stay ahead of evolving threats and protect critical communications.
Tools Reviewed
All tools were independently evaluated for this comparison
