What are Mailto Links?
Mailto links are HTML hyperlinks that open the user's default email client when clicked. They follow the format mailto:email@example.com and can include additional parameters like subject, body, CC, and BCC. These links make it easy for website visitors to send emails without copying email addresses or opening their email manually.
Why Use Mailto Links?
- User Convenience: Users can email you with a single click
- Pre-filled Information: Subject and message can be pre-populated
- Mobile Friendly: Opens the default email app on phones
- Spam Protection: Hides email addresses from crawlers compared to plain text
- Easy Implementation: Simple HTML without complex JavaScript
Mailto Link Syntax
Basic syntax: mailto:email@example.com. With subject: mailto:email@example.com?subject=Hello. With body: mailto:email@example.com?subject=Hello&body=Message. Special characters must be URL-encoded, and multiple recipients are separated by commas.
Common Mailto Parameters
- cc: Carbon copy recipients (visible to all)
- bcc: Blind carbon copy (hidden from other recipients)
- subject: Email subject line (pre-filled)
- body: Email message body (pre-filled)
- Multiple parameters: Joined with & symbol
Best Practices
- User-Friendly Text: Use descriptive link text like "Email Us" not just the email address
- Privacy: Avoid exposing email addresses in plain HTML for spam prevention
- Test Before Deploy: Test links in various email clients
- Clear Expectations: Let users know what will happen when they click
- Mobile Optimization: Ensure links work on both desktop and mobile devices