Apple ID Login Apple ID - 3rd party mail / iCloud mail

[macbuzzr]

Hi,

I never created or used iCloud mail, that is why my Apple ID is a third party mail address (Gmail). If I create an iCloud mail address in the iCloud settings on my iPhone, how will I be able to login to my Apple ID in the future? Premise: I will NOT change my Apple ID mail address (Gmail) to the new iCloud one.

1. Only with the Gmail address?
2. With both Gmail AND iCloud mail address?

Case #1 would be good for security since no one could access my Apple ID by knowing my iCloud mail address.

 

[macbuzzr]

Maybe I should ask differently:
Once I create an iCloud mail address under my existing Apple ID, can I login to the Apple ID / iCloud with the new iCloud mail as well or still only with the existing 3rd party mail address?