SMTP sends email. POP3 receives email. You need both - they serve different purposes. Use SMTP for outgoing, IMAP (not POP3) for incoming.
Factor
SMTP
POP3
Purpose
Send email
Receive email
Port
587 or 465
110 or 995
Modern Use
✅ Still used
❌ Use IMAP instead
SMTP
Protocol for sending outgoing email.
✓ Pros
Sends email
Universal standard
Works everywhere
✗ Cons
Can't receive email
Only outbound
POP3
Protocol for receiving email (downloads to device).
✓ Pros
Downloads email to device
Works offline
Email stored locally
✗ Cons
Outdated
Deletes from server
One device only
Use IMAP instead
The Verdict
You need SMTP for sending email. But use IMAP (not POP3) for receiving. POP3 is outdated - it downloads email and deletes from server. IMAP syncs across devices.
Frequently Asked Questions
Why not use POP3?
POP3 downloads email to ONE device and deletes from server. If your device dies, you lose all email. IMAP keeps email on server and syncs everywhere.