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The Ultimate Guide to Messaging Apps – Explore the best messaging apps for 2025, from WhatsApp and Telegram to Signal and iMessage. Learn about their features, security, and how they compare to find the perfect chat app for your needs.
With so many messaging apps available, choosing the best one depends on your priorities. Whether privacy, a large user base, advanced features, or decentralization matters most, this guide will help you find the right option.
Privacy-focused messaging apps should minimize data collection, provide strong encryption, and ideally avoid metadata logging. The best options ensure anonymity and secure communications without relying on centralized servers. Key factors to consider include the need for phone numbers during registration, metadata protection, and resistance to surveillance.
Briar is highly privacy-focused and does not request user data, making it ideal for those concerned about surveillance. It disables screenshots and screen recording by default, enhancing security. Briar operates without a central server, which is beneficial for activists, journalists, and others who need to avoid data centralization. Additionally, Briar can function offline using Bluetooth or Wi-Fi direct, making it crucial for users in restrictive environments. However, it is currently limited to Android devices and is text-only, which may make it less suitable for casual use with family and friends.
SimpleX provides direct messaging, group chats, and end-to-end encrypted (E2EE) calls secured with the SimpleX Messaging Protocol, which uses double ratchet encryption with quantum resistance. It offers metadata protection through unidirectional "simplex queues" and requires users to verify contacts out-of-band via QR codes or invite links, protecting against man-in-the-middle attacks. SimpleX does not use any identifiers, not even for message routing, and users create profiles and databases stored on their devices. The app has been independently audited, adding to its credibility. It also supports Tor routing via a SOCKS proxy, further enhancing anonymity.
Session is another strong contender for privacy. It uses a decentralized network for message routing, which means user data isn't stored on a central server. The app does not request personal information during signup, making it easier to chat anonymously. Session also disables in-app screenshots and recording by default, though this can be turned off in settings. While its calling features are still in beta, it is excellent for anonymous texting.
Keet uses a peer-to-peer (P2P) architecture, eliminating central servers and reducing the risk of surveillance. However, it lacks Tor routing, making it less anonymous than Briar or Session. While Keet offers strong encryption, it has not been widely audited like some of the other privacy-focused options.
If reaching the most people is your priority, these apps dominate in active users. A larger user base means better accessibility but often comes with compromises on privacy.
With over 2 billion users, WhatsApp is the most widely used messaging app. It offers end-to-end encryption (E2EE) but collects metadata and is owned by Meta, which raises privacy concerns.
Telegram has over 800 million active users. While it supports large group chats and public channels, its default messages are not end-to-end encrypted, making it less private than WhatsApp or Signal.
Originally designed for gamers, Discord now serves a broader audience. It offers voice channels, screen sharing, and community features but lacks end-to-end encryption, making it unsuitable for privacy-conscious users.
For those looking beyond basic messaging, apps with advanced capabilities such as decentralized hosting, multi-device support, and enhanced security features offer the best experience.
Built on the Matrix protocol, ElementX is a decentralized messaging app with end-to-end encryption, voice and video calls, file sharing, and self-hosting options. It is ideal for users who want more control over their data.
Jami is a peer-to-peer (P2P) messaging app with strong encryption and no central servers. It supports high-quality video calls and direct file sharing, making it an alternative to mainstream messaging apps.
Decentralized messaging apps operate without a single controlling entity, reducing the risks of censorship and data breaches. These options provide the highest level of resilience against centralized control.
SimpleX is a decentralized messaging app with no central server, making it one of the most private and censorship-resistant options. It also supports Tor routing via a SOCKS proxy, further enhancing anonymity.
Session routes messages through an onion routing network, enhancing anonymity. Unlike federated systems, it operates in a fully decentralized manner without a single point of failure.
Cwtch operates similarly to Briar, utilizing Tor-based networking to enhance anonymity and prevent metadata leaks. It is a fully decentralized, peer-to-peer messaging app designed for privacy-conscious users.
In regions with poor internet access or during emergencies, lightweight messaging apps that use minimal data are essential. These apps ensure communication remains possible even with limited connectivity.
Briar works offline using Bluetooth or Wi-Fi direct, making it essential for users in disaster-stricken or highly restrictive regions. It is one of the few messaging apps that can function without an internet connection.
Zangi is optimized for low-bandwidth use, offering efficient voice and video calls while maintaining strong encryption. It is ideal for users who frequently experience poor network conditions.
The best app depends on your needs:
If you prioritize privacy, Briar and SimpleX are top choices. For mainstream usability, Signal offers a strong balance of privacy and accessibility. If your goal is to reach as many people as possible, WhatsApp and Telegram are your best bet.
Ultimately, your priorities will determine the best messaging app for you.
