Apps Like Telegram: Best Messaging Telegram Alternatives

Telegram’s been my go-to messaging app for years.

Group chats that can host thousands? ✔️
Custom stickers and bots for literally everything? ✔️
Faster than WhatsApp? Absolutely.

But even with all that, there comes a point when you start asking: is Telegram really the best we can get when it comes to privacy and control?

See, Telegram’s regular chats aren’t actually end-to-end encrypted by default. You need to switch to Secret Chats — and even then, the features are kinda limited. Not to mention, the app still asks for your phone number. For a lot of us who care about privacy, that’s a red flag.

That’s why I started looking around for apps like Telegram that:

• Keep the privacy level high without making it complicated

• Let you message without needing to hand over your number

• Offer the same vibe — fast, modern, and customizable

And trust me, there are solid options out there.

In fact, if you’re also into social messaging apps that feel less like chatrooms and more like chaotic friend-making zones, you should definitely check out these Telegram-style picks with Gen Z vibes like Wizz or even visual-first apps like Snapchat that keep convos quick and fun.

Whether you’re switching for security or just want a cleaner UI with fewer distractions, this guide breaks down the top 10 Telegram alternatives — based on features, privacy, open-source access, and how real they feel in daily use.

Best Telegram Alternatives That I have Tested And Prefers:

1. Signal

• Security: Offers end-to-end encryption by default for all communications.

• Privacy: Minimal metadata collection; does not store user data.

• Open Source: Yes; code is publicly available for scrutiny.

• Unique Features: Disappearing messages, screen security, and no ads.

Signal is renowned for its uncompromising stance on user privacy and security. It’s a favorite among journalists, activists, and privacy enthusiasts.

2. Threema

• Security: End-to-end encryption for all message types.

• Privacy: Does not require a phone number or email for registration.

• Open Source: Yes; clients are open source.

• Unique Features: Anonymous usage, QR code contact verification, and Swiss-based servers.

Threema is ideal for users valuing anonymity and data protection, offering a paid service to ensure no reliance on advertising revenue.

3. Element (formerly Riot)

• Security: End-to-end encryption using the Matrix protocol.

• Privacy: Decentralized architecture; users can host their own servers.

• Open Source: Fully open source.

• Unique Features: Bridging to other platforms (e.g., Slack, IRC), and support for widgets and bots.

Element is suited for tech-savvy users and organizations seeking a customizable and decentralized communication platform

4. Wire

• Security: End-to-end encryption for messages and calls.

• Privacy: Minimal data retention; GDPR compliant.

• Open Source: Yes; code is available for audit.

• Unique Features: Supports guest rooms for external collaboration without account creation.

Wire is a strong choice for businesses and teams requiring secure collaboration tools.

5. Session

• Security: End-to-end encryption with no central servers.

• Privacy: No phone number or email required; operates on a decentralized network.

• Open Source: Yes.

• Unique Features: Routing messages through an onion network for enhanced anonymity.

Session is perfect for users seeking maximum privacy and resistance to censorship.

6. SimpleX Chat

• Security: End-to-end encryption by default.

• Privacy: No user identifiers; does not require phone numbers or emails.

• Open Source: Yes.

• Unique Features: Peer-to-peer architecture with no metadata collection.

SimpleX Chat is gaining attention for its radical approach to privacy, making it appealing to users desiring complete anonymity.

7. Olvid

• Security: End-to-end encryption with a unique cryptographic protocol.

• Privacy: Does not collect any personal data; no phone number required.

• Open Source: Client-side is open source; server-side is proprietary.

• Unique Features: Certified by French cybersecurity agency ANSSI; used by French government officials.

Olvid is tailored for users and organizations requiring high-assurance secure communications.

8. Tox

• Security: End-to-end encryption using the NaCl cryptographic library.

• Privacy: Peer-to-peer network with no central servers; no user registration required.

• Open Source: Yes.

• Unique Features: Supports voice and video calls, file sharing, and group chats.

Tox is suitable for users comfortable with decentralized technologies and seeking a serverless communication platform.

9. Viber

• Security: End-to-end encryption for calls and messages.

• Privacy: Requires phone number; offers disappearing messages.

• Open Source: No.

• Unique Features: Public chats, stickers, and integration with other services.

Viber is a user-friendly option for those seeking a balance between functionality and security.

10. BiP

• Security: Offers encrypted messaging and calls.

• Privacy: Requires phone number; data policies vary by region.

• Open Source: No.

• Unique Features: Instant translations, exchange rates, and integration with various services.

BiP is popular in certain regions and offers a range of features beyond messaging.

Choosing the right messaging app depends on your specific needs and priorities.

• For Maximum Privacy: Signal, Session, or SimpleX Chat are top contenders.

• For Business Collaboration: Wire or Element offer robust features.

• For Anonymity: Threema or Tox provide options without requiring personal identifiers.

• For Regional Features: Viber and BiP offer localized services and integrations.

Always consider the trade-offs between usability, privacy, and feature sets to find the app that best aligns with your communication needs.