When setting up email automation in GoHighLevel, one of the first decisions you’ll face is whether to use GoHighLevel’s built-in email service (powered by LeadConnector) or connect a third-party service like SendGrid, Mailgun, or Amazon SES. This choice can impact deliverability, control, cost, and ease of setup. Let’s break down both options so you can decide what’s best for your business.
Option 1: Using GoHighLevel’s Built-in Email (LeadConnector)
GoHighLevel offers a native email delivery option under Settings, Email Services. Here, you can either connect your own email service (like SendGrid or Gmail) or add a dedicated sending domain using LeadConnector, GoHighLevel’s own email infrastructure. This option is beginner-friendly and simplifies setup.
Once you add a dedicated sending domain under LeadConnector, you are still sending through LeadConnector’s infrastructure, but under your own verified domain. This does not mean you have a dedicated IP unless you upgrade specifically for that—otherwise, you are still using LeadConnector’s shared IP pool.
Benefits:
No external setup required, easy to get started
Includes basic analytics and deliverability monitoring
Dedicated sending domain improves branding and compliance
Ideal for those who want speed over customization
Downsides:
Shared IPs can affect inbox placement, especially for high-volume senders
Less control over deliverability settings and sender reputation
Cannot directly manage IP reputation
Option 2: Connecting Your Own Email Provider (e.g., SendGrid, Mailgun, Amazon SES)
If you prefer more control, you can connect your own SMTP provider. GoHighLevel supports direct integration with major services like:
SendGrid
Mailgun
Amazon SES
Gmail, Yahoo, and others
These platforms offer advanced email delivery infrastructure and granular control over sender reputation.
Benefits:
Full control of your sender and IP reputation
Access to advanced reporting, bounce logs, and compliance settings
Scalable for high-volume email marketing
Can use dedicated IPs if needed
Downsides:
Requires technical setup (DNS records, authentication, API keys)
Some platforms (like Amazon SES) require pre-approval and stricter compliance
What’s Best for You?
Use LeadConnector with a dedicated domain if you’re just getting started, want something simple, and are sending a moderate volume of emails. Your domain improves branding but you’re still using a shared IP unless otherwise upgraded.
Use your own provider if you need tighter control, send high volumes, or want better analytics and scalability with the option of a dedicated IP.
Choosing between GoHighLevel’s built-in email service and an external provider comes down to your needs. Beginners will appreciate LeadConnector’s ease, while advanced users will benefit from external SMTP customization.
Still not sure? I help clients evaluate and configure the right email setup based on their business model and email goals. Reach out if you want guidance. [Send a message here]
