JWT Authentication for WP REST API vs Gmail SMTP (2026)
Detailed side-by-side comparison of two WordPress plugins, based on real-time data from WordPress.org.
JWT Authentication for WP REST API
60K+ active installs
Free
Quick Verdict
As of April 2026, JWT Authentication for WP REST API has a higher user rating (4.4/5 from 53 reviews) and leads in active installations (60K+ vs 10K+). Both are free WordPress plugins. JWT Authentication for WP REST API has accumulated 902K+ total downloads while Gmail SMTP has 723K+.
Detailed Comparison
| Metric | JWT Authentication for WP REST API | Gmail SMTP | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Rating | 4.4/5 | ◄ | 4.1/5 |
| Total Reviews | 53 | ► | 101 |
| Active Installs | 60K+ | ◄ | 10K+ |
| Total Downloads | 902K+ | ◄ | 723K+ |
| Support Resolution | N/A | 50% | |
| Last Updated | 1 month ago | ► | 1 month ago |
| First Released | 2015 | 2015 | |
| Age | 11 years | 11 years | |
| WP Requires | 4.2+ | 6.9+ | |
| PHP Requires | 7.4.0+ | 5.6+ | |
| Business Model | Free | Free | |
| Latest Version | 1.5.0 | 1.2.3.18 |
Rating Breakdown
JWT Authentication for WP REST API
Gmail SMTP
Download Trends
Over the past 30 days, JWT Authentication for WP REST API averaged approximately 489 daily downloads while Gmail SMTP averaged 112.
Recent Reviews
JWT Authentication for WP REST API Reviews
Simple and Great
I currently have the free version, and it’s great and simple to use. I never had an issue with it.
it’s just sales
they make it confusing and confounding on purpose
Works Very well & Paid support is great
The support guy is not a non-techie, so the support was actually helpful! The plugin works great and let me really extend the user system of my WP so it can act in a auth/auth capacity for the servic
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
More Oauth Worth Comparing
Top alternatives in the same category as JWT Authentication for WP REST API and Gmail SMTP
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).
Adds Authentication through OAuth 2. Provides the ability for Single Sign On for websites & Mobile Applications.
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 JWT Authentication for WP REST API or Gmail SMTP more popular?
Which has better ratings — JWT Authentication for WP REST API or Gmail SMTP?
Are JWT Authentication for WP REST API and Gmail SMTP free?
Which plugin has better support — JWT Authentication for WP REST API or Gmail SMTP?
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Plugin data sourced from WordPress.org. Comparison and analysis by PluginSift.