Mailcastr vs ReadNotify

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.

ReadNotify tracks email and document activity. It reports when tracked emails are opened, how long they are read, and whether they are forwarded or reopened. It can also track Word, Excel, PowerPoint, and PDF files. Reports may include approximate recipient location, IP address, email or browser software, language, and document activity. The service offers digitally signed proof of posting and opening with timestamps, along with self-destructing, ensured-receipt, and retractable email controls.

Notifications can arrive by email, SMS, or listed instant messaging services. The Gmail add-on works with Google Workspace, and the site also describes a Hotmail/Outlook OfficeJS app. Gmail access through POP or IMAP is not supported by the add-on. A free plan includes 20 tracked emails per month and two weeks of trial access to sender tracking and detailed recipient tracking. Monthly Select costs $3.99 a month; Basic costs $24 a year; Premium costs $36 a year. Subscriptions have email limits, and unused credits roll over while the subscription remains current. The service does not offer pay-as-you-go plans.