MXToolbox is a solid DNS and email delivery diagnostic suite, but marketers often need more than technical checks. Here are the best alternatives and why they may fit better for end‑to‑end email testing and optimization.
What is MXToolbox?
Comprehensive DNS and email delivery diagnostics including:
- MX record lookups and DNS diagnostics
- Blacklist checking/monitoring (limited in free tier)
- SMTP testing and delivery diagnostics
- Network connectivity tests (ping, trace, TCP)
Limitations to consider:
- Limited free features (one free monitor, top 30 blacklists)
- No AI analysis or actionable content recommendations
- No accessibility testing (WCAG)
- Paid plans required for advanced monitoring
- Focuses primarily on technical diagnostics vs. marketing insights
Top MXToolbox Alternatives
MailMoxie — Our Top Pick
AI-powered email testing that goes beyond diagnostics to provide specific, marketing-aware recommendations.
Key features:
- AI analysis and recommendations
- Unlimited email tests
- 50+ spam trigger testing
- WCAG 2.1 AA accessibility testing
- Subject line optimization
- Personal agent email for instant testing
Pricing:
- Free Trial — $0 (1 test), no credit card required
- Pro — $20/month, unlimited email tests, priority support
Other Alternatives
- DNS Checker — Free DNS lookup and diagnostics
- WhatIsMyIPAddress — IP lookup and blacklist checking
- IntoDNS — DNS health checks and diagnostics
Why Choose MailMoxie Over MXToolbox?
- AI-powered insights to improve emails (not just diagnose issues)
- Comprehensive testing across content, technical, and accessibility
- Unlimited testing with Pro ($20/month) vs limited free tiers and sales-driven upgrades
Final Verdict
If you need technical DNS checks, MXToolbox is great. If you need comprehensive, AI-driven testing, accessibility support, and practical optimization guidance, MailMoxie is the better fit.