Best LINE Alternatives

The top-ranked LINE alternative is WhatsApp (Free). The best free option is Telegram.

LINE is a hugely popular messaging app in Japan and parts of Asia, but users outside those regions, or those wanting stronger privacy or fewer ads, often look for alternatives. Options range from encrypted messengers to feature-rich chat platforms.

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1
#1

WhatsApp

Free

Widely used messaging app with end-to-end encrypted chats and calls.

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2
#2

Telegram

Free

Cloud-based messaging app known for speed, bots, and large groups.

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3
#3

Signal

Free

Privacy-focused messenger with encrypted voice and video calls.

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#4

WeChat

Free

All-in-one messaging, social, and payment app popular in China.

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#5

Viber

Free

Cross-platform messaging and VoIP app for calls and texts.

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#6

KakaoTalk

Free

Popular Korean messaging app with chat, calls, and payments.

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Meta's messaging app integrated with Facebook for chats and calls.

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#8

Discord

Freemium

Voice, video, and chat platform popular for communities and groups.

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#9

Kik

Free

A messaging app that lets users chat without sharing a phone number.

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#10

Threema

Paid

Privacy-first messenger requiring no phone number or email.

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#11

Zalo

Free

A popular Vietnamese messaging app with calls and social features.

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#12

Skype

Freemium

Long-standing video and voice calling app for personal use.

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LINE alternatives: FAQ

What is the best alternative to LINE?

WhatsApp 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 LINE?

The highest-ranked free or open-source options here are WhatsApp, Telegram and Signal.

Which LINE alternatives work on Mac?

WhatsApp, Telegram, Signal and WeChat run on macOS.

Which LINE alternatives work on Linux?

Telegram, Signal, Viber and Discord run on Linux.

Are there LINE alternatives for Android?

Yes: WhatsApp, Telegram, Signal and WeChat have Android apps.

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