Best Facebook Messenger Alternatives
The top-ranked Facebook Messenger alternative is Signal (Free). The best free option is WhatsApp.
Facebook Messenger is Meta's messaging app for chats, calls, and media sharing tied to Facebook accounts. Users seek alternatives for stronger privacy, encryption, or freedom from a social network account.
1Privacy-focused messenger with encrypted voice and video calls.
2Widely used messaging app with end-to-end encrypted chats and calls.
3Cloud-based messaging app known for speed, bots, and large groups.
Voice, video, and chat platform popular for communities and groups.
Cross-platform messaging and VoIP app for calls and texts.
Element
FreemiumDecentralized, secure messenger built on the open Matrix protocol.
Session
Open SourceDecentralized, anonymous messenger requiring no phone number.
Threema
PaidPrivacy-first messenger requiring no phone number or email.
Google Messages
FreeGoogle's default SMS and RCS messaging app for Android.
Long-standing video and voice calling app for personal use.
Wire
FreemiumSecure, end-to-end encrypted collaboration and messaging platform.
Messaging app with calls, stickers, and services popular in Asia.
Facebook Messenger alternatives: FAQ
What is the best alternative to Facebook Messenger?
Signal is ranked first on this list (Free). The ranking combines our base score with readers' votes, so it can change.
What is the best free alternative to Facebook Messenger?
The highest-ranked free or open-source options here are Signal, WhatsApp and Telegram.
Which Facebook Messenger alternatives work on Mac?
Signal, WhatsApp, Telegram and Discord run on macOS.
Which Facebook Messenger alternatives work on Linux?
Signal, Telegram, Discord and Viber run on Linux.
Are there Facebook Messenger alternatives for Android?
Yes: Signal, WhatsApp, Telegram and Discord have Android apps.
Know a Facebook Messenger alternative we missed? Suggest it — we review submissions before they go live.