6 months later - I don't regret it at all.
There are just too many advantages to name them all, but let me list a few:
- All my email - everywhere. I have migrated email dating back to 2004 up to Google's servers. This means I can search my archives anywhere I have a connection.
- Searching using the power of Google - Lets just say that searching with other email systems is silly compared to Google's. I can find anything I need quickly and efficiently.
- Labels - only when needed. Rather than put 1 email in 1 folder (traditional way), you can put multiple labels on the same email. Efficient and just works.
- Unbelievably powerful filtering for dealing with email.
- SPAM filtering that is top-notch.
- Integrated calendar, RTM Tasks, Chat w/ SMS, Google Docs - shall I go on?
- Ability to easily backup my email using a local client (Thunderbird) or one of several apps such as Gmail Backup.
- Easily export or import contacts.
- IMAP and POP support if needed (for backup, etc).
- Persistent SSL connections now.
- No offline email unless I have a current backup in Thunderbird. Not really a big deal though.
- Attachments are 1 at a time. That can be a pain - but I can always use Thunderbird with IMAP for multiple attachments if needed.
What if Google fails or has an issue?
I periodically backup my email locally and those are backed up online. There have only been a few times that Google has had problems. Compared to previous issues with ISP's, etc, Google comes out a winner again.
Labels: email, gmail, google apps



