What is the benefit of IMAP over POP3?

[aphex]

Is there any substantial benefit to using IMAP?

 

[AccruedExpenditure]

imap seems to be more reliable in my experience

 

[minendo]

IMAP stores on server, Pop3 is downloaded to client.

 

[bunker]

I can check my email from mulitple locations since IMAP stays on the server.

 

[DeviousTrap]

Originally posted by: minendo
IMAP stores on server, Pop3 is downloaded to client.

Not neccessarly.

If you are using a mail client such as outlook the messages are also downloaded and saved locally for faster loading.

 

[Cerebus451]

With IMAP, the messages typically stay on the server. Users can create folders on the server, organize their messages, etc. POP3 is merely a means for users to download messages. It depends on how you want to access the messages. I use IMAP on my e-mail server at home so I can use Horde/IMP to read and organize my e-mail, instead of having to rely on downloading to Outlook or other such program.

 

[Ynog]

Can't pop3 clients be set to leave mail on the server.

 

[TeeJay1952]

IMAP allows you to unblock your account without intervention from Tech Support of the ISP. Plus you can check email from anywhere without changing configurations.

 

[DeviousTrap]

Originally posted by: Ynog
Can't pop3 clients be set to leave mail on the server.

Yes.

IMAP is also designed for you to keep folders on the server so that you can organize your email messages.

 

[aphex]

Originally posted by: TeeJay1952
IMAP allows you to unblock your account without intervention from Tech Support of the ISP. Plus you can check email from anywhere without changing configurations.

Its on my own server, so thats not a concern.

Im just wondering if its worth it to use IMAP...

 

[johnjbruin]

I just use pop3 with the setting to leave messages on server for 2 weeks. This way my laptop and desktop stay in sync with incoming mail.
But you're SOL if you want to keep outgoing mail synchronized with pop3.