Gmail SMTP vs Better Avatars (2026)
Detailed side-by-side comparison of two WordPress plugins, based on real-time data from WordPress.org.
Quick Verdict
As of April 2026, Gmail SMTP has a higher user rating (4.1/5 from 101 reviews) and leads in active installations (10K+ vs 10). Both are free WordPress plugins. Gmail SMTP has accumulated 723K+ total downloads while Better Avatars has 2.4K+.
Detailed Comparison
| Metric | Gmail SMTP | Better Avatars | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Rating | 4.1/5 | ◄ | 2/5 |
| Total Reviews | 101 | ◄ | 1 |
| Active Installs | 10K+ | ◄ | 10 |
| Total Downloads | 723K+ | ◄ | 2.4K+ |
| Support Resolution | 50% | N/A | |
| Last Updated | 1 month ago | ◄ | 13 years ago |
| First Released | 2015 | 2012 | |
| Age | 11 years | 14 years | |
| WP Requires | 6.9+ | 3.3+ | |
| PHP Requires | 5.6+ | false+ | |
| Business Model | Free | Free | |
| Latest Version | 1.2.3.18 | 1.0 |
Rating Breakdown
Gmail SMTP
Better Avatars
Download Trends
Recent Reviews
Gmail SMTP Reviews
Good when it works, only for small sites installed at root
The plugin is great when it works. The plugin suddenly stopped working. I contacted support, they checked the site, and stopped answering. They did not say yes, no, we can or cannot fix it. They st
Works well, simple clean interface.
It’s wonderful when you can find a plugin that is not bloated. Thank you to the developer for this great, easy to use and easy to follow instructions!
Worked Like Magic!
this plugin works like magicdirectly to the inboxDaaamn its really goodif you are using your own vps – dont forget to open port 587 and 465 in tcp protocolotherwise it wont work – open them also in yo
Better Avatars Reviews
No reviews yet
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Gmail SMTP or Better Avatars more popular?
Which has better ratings — Gmail SMTP or Better Avatars?
Are Gmail SMTP and Better Avatars free?
Which plugin has better support — Gmail SMTP or Better Avatars?
Which plugin is updated more frequently?
Plugin data sourced from WordPress.org. Comparison and analysis by PluginSift.