DidTheyReadIt vs Mailcastr

DidTheyReadIt tracks sent email and alerts the sender when a recipient opens a tracked message. Receipts can show the opening time, how long the message remained open, and an approximate location based on the reader’s IP address. To set up tracking, users add.DidTheyReadIt.com to the recipient address; instructions cover Outlook, Thunderbird, Gmail, Yahoo, Hotmail, Mac users, and other email clients. An optional Auto-Tracker is described as a Windows beta with email-program and browser plugins. A paid PDF add-on creates trackable PDF copies and reports when and where they are opened. For a message sent to multiple recipients, the service tracks the message rather than each person, so it cannot name the opener; location may offer a clue. The free subscription costs nothing, though trial duration and message limits may vary. The privacy policy says the service does not save or copy messages sent through its online services.

Mailcastr provides email tracking and analytics for Gmail. After its Chrome plugin is installed on a PC, it tracks emails sent from then on, recording opens and showing historical activity in a dashboard. Chrome notifications can report opens in real time, and the service can track link clicks and provide device and location information. The BASIC plan costs nothing and includes tracking with Mailcastr branding, a web dashboard, push notifications, and Android and iOS apps. ANNUAL costs $5 a year and adds unlimited tracking, removes the branding, includes location and device information, and provides priority chat/email support. Both plans list mobile apps and push notifications. Mailcastr offers a free trial, but does not state its duration; its pricing page also lists a 14-day money-back policy. The site says it does not access users’ mailboxes or track their activities. It labels tracking mail from any device as coming soon. Its terms say service or order-form limits may apply and describe commercially reasonable safeguards for information security, confidentiality, and integrity.