EmailJS: The Pros and Cons of Using it in Your Web App

In modern web applications, email functionality is essential for user authentication, notifications, and contact forms. EmailJS is a popular choice for developers who want to send emails without setting up a backend mail server. But is it the right choice for your project? This article explores the benefits and drawbacks of using EmailJS in a website or web app.

What is EmailJS?

EmailJS is a service that allows developers to send emails directly from client-side applications without requiring a dedicated backend. It integrates with various email providers, such as Gmail, Outlook, and custom SMTP servers, and operates through API calls.

Key features include:

• No backend required
• Support for multiple email providers
• Compatibility with popular front-end frameworks like React, Next.js, and Vue
• A free tier with limited usage

Benefits of Using EmailJS

No Backend Needed

One of the main advantages of EmailJS is that it enables developers to send emails directly from the frontend, eliminating the need for a backend mail server. This is useful for static sites, JAMstack applications, or projects where setting up a backend just for email functionality would be unnecessary.

Easy Integration with Frontend Frameworks

EmailJS provides straightforward integration with React, Next.js, Vue, and other frontend frameworks. Its simple API allows developers to quickly implement email functionality without complex configurations.

Works with Free and Custom SMTP Providers

EmailJS supports multiple email providers, giving developers the flexibility to use an existing email service. This means it can work with personal email accounts as well as professional SMTP servers.

Secure API Key Handling

Instead of exposing SMTP credentials in frontend code, EmailJS provides a User ID that functions as an API key. While this does not eliminate security risks entirely, it is a safer alternative to directly embedding email credentials in client-side applications.

Template Management

EmailJS allows developers to create and customize email templates within its dashboard. This feature makes it easy to update email content without modifying code, which can be especially useful for non-developers managing email communications.

Drawbacks of Using EmailJS

Limited Free Tier

The free plan allows for only 200 emails per month, which may be insufficient for applications that require frequent email communication. Higher-volume usage requires upgrading to a paid plan, making it less cost-effective for businesses that need to send a large number of emails.

Client-Side API Exposure

Since EmailJS operates entirely from the frontend, the API key is exposed in client-side code. Although it is not as sensitive as SMTP credentials, it can still be misused if leaked. Developers can mitigate this risk by restricting the API key to specific domains or using server-side API routes to handle email requests securely.

Spam and Bot Risks

Because EmailJS is frontend-based, it is vulnerable to spam bots submitting forms and triggering emails. To prevent abuse, developers should implement spam protection measures such as Google reCAPTCHA, honeypot fields, and rate limiting.

Not Ideal for High-Volume Emailing

EmailJS is well-suited for transactional emails, such as contact form submissions and basic notifications. However, it is not the best option for businesses that need to send thousands of emails per month, such as newsletters or automated marketing campaigns. Services like SendGrid, Resend, and Amazon SES may be more cost-effective for high-volume email sending.

No Built-In Email Tracking

Unlike services such as Resend, Mailgun, or SendGrid, EmailJS does not offer detailed analytics on email deliveries, open rates, or click tracking. If advanced email tracking is required, additional tools or alternative email services may be necessary.

When Should You Use EmailJS?

Best For:

• Small projects that do not require a backend
• Contact forms on static sites
• Quick email implementation in frontend-heavy applications
• Simple email templates that can be managed without coding

Not Ideal For:

• Large-scale email campaigns requiring thousands of emails per month
• Applications that need email analytics and tracking
• Projects where security is a major concern, such as password resets
• Businesses that require cost-effective bulk email solutions

Final Thoughts

EmailJS is a convenient solution for frontend-based email functionality, especially for small projects and static websites. Its ability to send emails without a backend makes it an attractive option for developers looking for a quick and simple implementation. However, its limitations, including security risks, API exposure, and lack of tracking features, may make it unsuitable for larger-scale applications.

For those who need a simple, easy-to-use email solution, EmailJS is a solid choice. However, for businesses that require high-volume email sending, better security, or advanced analytics, alternatives like SendGrid, Mailgun, or Resend may be more appropriate.