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Skim is a free, open-source AI email client for Windows that keeps mail local, stays lightweight, and uses a bring-your-own-key AI assistant for drafting, search, unread recaps, and mailbox questions.

Added on July 30, 2026

Skim Screenshot

Product Information

What is Skim?

Skim is a minimalist Windows email client built for users who want speed, privacy, and fewer interface distractions. It uses a Rust core with a system WebView2 interface, stores mail locally, and works offline with instant full-text search. Its AI features are optional and run with the user's own model key instead of a Skim subscription. The product fits Windows users, open-source adopters, and privacy-conscious professionals who need a calmer email workflow.

How to use Skim?

  1. Install Skim on a Windows 10 or Windows 11 device.
  2. Connect a Gmail, Outlook, Yahoo, iCloud, or standard IMAP and SMTP mailbox.
  3. Use the keyboard palette and compact interface to search, compose, archive, reply, or triage mail.
  4. Add an Anthropic, OpenRouter, OpenAI-compatible, or local model key if AI help is needed.
  5. Ask questions across the mailbox, draft replies, or generate unread recaps while keeping mail stored locally.

Core Features

  • Native Windows app — Uses a Rust core and system WebView2 instead of bundling a full browser.
  • Local-first mail storage — Syncs email into a local SQLite database for offline access and fast search.
  • Keyboard command palette — Lets users search, navigate folders, compose, and run quick commands without reaching for menus.
  • Bring-your-own-key AI — Supports Anthropic, OpenRouter, OpenAI-compatible endpoints, and local models without a built-in AI subscription.
  • AI drafting — Writes and refines replies in the user's voice based on mailbox context.
  • Mailbox Q&A — Searches email and answers questions with clickable source messages.
  • Open-source license — Ships as a free MIT-licensed project that users can inspect and extend.

Use Cases

  • Windows email management — Replace a heavy desktop email suite with a small focused client.
  • Private AI assistance — Draft replies and summarize unread messages while controlling the model provider.
  • Offline mailbox search — Find old emails quickly from a local cache even when the network is unreliable.
  • Open-source workflow — Use or customize an email client without subscriptions, accounts, or telemetry.