EvolutionLinux
vs
Windows CalendarWindows
Evolution as a Linux alternative to Windows Calendar
Updated
Our verdict
Evolution is a capable replacement for Windows Calendar if you also want email and contact management in one tool. It supports Google Calendar, Microsoft Exchange, and iCloud via CalDAV or EWS, so syncing works reliably. The monthly view is available, and event creation with reminders is solid. However, it’s heavier than Windows Calendar and has a steeper learning curve. If you only need a simple calendar, it might be overkill. But for users wanting a full PIM suite on Linux, Evolution is a strong fit.
- License
- GPL-2.0+ and GFDL-1.3
- Price
- Free
- Latest version
- 3.62.1 (October 9, 2026)
- Rating
- —
What works the same
- Syncs with Google Calendar using CalDAV
- Supports Microsoft Exchange and Outlook.com via EWS
- Can connect to iCloud Calendar through CalDAV
- Offers monthly calendar view
- Allows event creation with customizable reminders
What is different
- Evolution is part of a full PIM suite, not a standalone calendar
- Heavier resource usage compared to Windows Calendar
- No native Windows version, so not cross-platform
- Interface is more complex, less minimalist
- Requires manual setup for some accounts, especially iCloud
Opening your Windows Calendar files
Windows Calendar doesn't export data in a standard standalone file format like .ics by default, and Evolution relies on account-level syncing rather than file imports. If you export calendar data from Outlook.com or Google Calendar as .ics files, Evolution can import them without issue. Direct file compatibility between Windows Calendar and Evolution isn't documented, but syncing through supported services is the intended method and works reliably.
Switching from Windows Calendar to Evolution, step by step
- Export your calendar data from Google, Microsoft, or iCloud if needed
- Install Evolution via your distribution's package manager or Flathub
- Open Evolution and add your Google, Microsoft, or iCloud account
- Use CalDAV for Google and iCloud, EWS for Microsoft Exchange/Outlook.com
- Verify that events and reminders appear correctly in the monthly view
- Set up reminders and check integration with contacts if needed
Key features of Evolution
- Integrated mail, calendar, contacts and tasks in one window
- Full support for IMAP, POP3, SMTP, CalDAV, and EWS
- Standard data formats (MIME, iCalendar, vCard)
- Built‑in encryption with GnuPG and S/MIME
- Address book with LDAP and local storage
- Calendar sharing and scheduling via CalDAV
- Mail filtering rules and search
- Customizable keyboard shortcuts
How to install Evolution on Linux
flatpak install flathub org.gnome.Evolutionsudo apt install evolutionsudo apt install evolutionsudo dnf install evolutionsudo pacman -S evolution-bogofiltersudo zypper install evolutionFrequently asked questions
Can Evolution sync with iCloud Calendar?
Yes, via CalDAV. You need to enable the calendar in iCloud settings and add the account in Evolution using your Apple ID and app-specific password if 2FA is on.
Does Evolution support Google Calendar?
Yes, Evolution syncs with Google Calendar using CalDAV. No additional plugins are required.
Is Evolution as lightweight as Windows Calendar?
No, Evolution is a full PIM and uses more memory. It's not designed to be minimalist, but rather comprehensive.
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