Best Telegram Alternatives
The top-ranked Telegram alternative is Signal (Free). The best free option is WhatsApp.
Telegram is a cloud-based messaging app known for large groups, channels, and bots. Users seek alternatives for stronger default encryption, better privacy, open-source clients, or different feature sets.
1Privacy-focused messenger with encrypted voice and video calls.
2Widely used messaging app with end-to-end encrypted chats and calls.
3Session
Open SourceDecentralized, anonymous messenger requiring no phone number.
Element (Matrix)
FreemiumOpen-source, decentralized messenger built on the Matrix protocol.
Threema
PaidPrivacy-first messenger requiring no phone number or email.
Voice, video, and chat platform popular for communities and groups.
Cross-platform messaging and VoIP app for calls and texts.
Wire
FreemiumSecure, end-to-end encrypted collaboration and messaging platform.
Meta's messaging app integrated with Facebook for chats and calls.
Keybase
FreeSecure messaging and file sharing app with encryption and identity proofs.
Briar
Open SourcePeer-to-peer encrypted messenger designed for activists and high-privacy use.
Messaging app with calls, stickers, and services popular in Asia.
Telegram alternatives: FAQ
What is the best alternative to Telegram?
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 Telegram?
The highest-ranked free or open-source options here are Signal, WhatsApp and Session.
Which Telegram alternatives work on Mac?
Signal, WhatsApp, Session and Element (Matrix) run on macOS.
Which Telegram alternatives work on Linux?
Signal, Session, Element (Matrix) and Threema run on Linux.
Are there Telegram alternatives for Android?
Yes: Signal, WhatsApp, Session and Element (Matrix) have Android apps.
Know a Telegram alternative we missed? Suggest it — we review submissions before they go live.