Best Signal Alternatives
The top-ranked Signal alternative is WhatsApp (Free). The best free option is Telegram.
Signal is a privacy-focused messaging app offering end-to-end encrypted texts, calls, and media. Users seek alternatives for larger user bases, more features, business integration, or different privacy trade-offs.
1Widely used messaging app with end-to-end encrypted chats and calls.
2Cloud-based messaging app known for speed, bots, and large groups.
3Session
Open SourceDecentralized, anonymous messenger requiring no phone number.
Threema
PaidPrivacy-first messenger requiring no phone number or email.
Wire
FreemiumSecure, end-to-end encrypted collaboration and messaging platform.
Element
FreemiumDecentralized, secure messenger built on the open Matrix protocol.
Wickr
FreemiumAn end-to-end encrypted messaging app now owned by AWS for secure comms.
Cross-platform messaging and VoIP app for calls and texts.
Matrix (matrix.org)
Open SourceAn open protocol for decentralized, secure real-time communication.
SimpleX Chat
Open SourceA messaging app with no user identifiers for maximum privacy.
Briar
Open SourcePeer-to-peer encrypted messenger designed for activists and high-privacy use.
iMessage
FreeApple's end-to-end encrypted messaging service for its ecosystem.
Signal alternatives: FAQ
What is the best alternative to Signal?
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 Signal?
The highest-ranked free or open-source options here are WhatsApp, Telegram and Session.
Which Signal alternatives work on Mac?
WhatsApp, Telegram, Session and Threema run on macOS.
Which Signal alternatives work on Linux?
Telegram, Session, Threema and Wire run on Linux.
Are there Signal alternatives for Android?
Yes: WhatsApp, Telegram, Session and Threema have Android apps.
Know a Signal alternative we missed? Suggest it — we review submissions before they go live.