Gmail SMTP vs WP OAuth Server (OAuth Authentication) (2026)
Detailed side-by-side comparison of two WordPress plugins, based on real-time data from WordPress.org.
WP OAuth Server (OAuth Authentication)
3.0K+ active installs
Free
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 3.0K+). Both are free WordPress plugins. Gmail SMTP has accumulated 723K+ total downloads while WP OAuth Server (OAuth Authentication) has 174K+.
Detailed Comparison
| Metric | Gmail SMTP | WP OAuth Server (OAuth Authentication) | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Rating | 4.1/5 | ◄ | 3.8/5 |
| Total Reviews | 101 | ◄ | 41 |
| Active Installs | 10K+ | ◄ | 3.0K+ |
| Total Downloads | 723K+ | ◄ | 174K+ |
| Support Resolution | 50% | N/A | |
| Last Updated | 1 month ago | ◄ | 2 months ago |
| First Released | 2015 | 2013 | |
| Age | 11 years | 13 years | |
| WP Requires | 6.9+ | 4.7.2+ | |
| PHP Requires | 5.6+ | 7.4+ | |
| Business Model | Free | Free | |
| Latest Version | 1.2.3.18 | 4.5.0 |
Rating Breakdown
Gmail SMTP
WP OAuth Server (OAuth Authentication)
Download Trends
Over the past 30 days, Gmail SMTP averaged approximately 118 daily downloads while WP OAuth Server (OAuth Authentication) averaged 42.
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
WP OAuth Server (OAuth Authentication) Reviews
Serious security flaw — tokens remain valid after logout
I tested WP OAuth Server (OAuth Authentication) in integration with a client application and found a serious issue: even after the user logs out from WordPress, the issued access token is still accept
Abandoned plugin
It looks like the plugin is abandoned. Moreover, I bought a Pro version but it doesn’t work and nobody replies via the support email. I can’t even access my license key because the password restore do
This plugin is really fantastic
I just want to say thank you to the developer, you have done a great job and saved me a tonne of time 🙂
More Oauth Worth Comparing
Top alternatives in the same category as Gmail SMTP and WP OAuth Server (OAuth Authentication)
Extends the WP REST API using JSON Web Tokens Authentication as an authentication method.
Simple secure login and user management through your Google Workspace for WordPress (using oAuth2 and MFA if enabled).
Minimal plugin that allows WordPress users to log in using Google.
Authorizer limits login attempts, restricts access to specific users, and authenticates against external sources (OAuth2, Google, LDAP, or CAS).
IMPORTANT - Please choose the WPO365 | MICROSOFT 365 GRAPH MAILER plugin instead. This plugin is no longer supported and does not receive updates.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Gmail SMTP or WP OAuth Server (OAuth Authentication) more popular?
Which has better ratings — Gmail SMTP or WP OAuth Server (OAuth Authentication)?
Are Gmail SMTP and WP OAuth Server (OAuth Authentication) free?
Which plugin has better support — Gmail SMTP or WP OAuth Server (OAuth Authentication)?
Which plugin is updated more frequently?
Plugin data sourced from WordPress.org. Comparison and analysis by PluginSift.