Chat & Instant Messaging (23 programs)

Pros: Robust end-to-end encryption for privacy. Free voice and video calls globally. Seamless group chat and multi-media support. Availability on mobile and dedicated desktop apps.

Cons: Data charges can apply depending on your provider.

Pros: Allows you to access all your conversations in your web browser. Has all the functionalities of the mobile WeChat app. Gives users the option to transfer files. Does not use normal username and password login.

Cons: Still uses its mobile version as a server. Scanning the QR code sometimes takes ages.

Pros: Anonymous chatting. Mobile app available. Interest tags. Dorm chat mode.

Cons: Not cut out for serious chatting. Questionable adult content. Unmonitored video section. Bots could be an issue.

Pros: Strong focus on security and speed. Seamless synchronization across devices. Categorized emojis. Can translate chats.

Cons: Must have a Telegram account on a mobile app.

Pros: User-friendly interface. Compatible with multiple platforms. Free to use.

Cons: Unfair censoring. Untrustworthy policies. The search field is restricted to registered users only.

Pros: Free download. Simple contact solution.

Cons: Some sites not supported. Low user recognition.

Pros: Intuitive interface for all users. Compatible with multiple devices. Supports large group chats and calls.

Cons: Exclusive to Gmail users.

Pros: Message Dashboard. Customization and Commands. Spam Filters. Chat Logs.

Cons: Requires an account. Requires constant usage to maintain account. May conflict with other open chatbot applications.

Pros: There is no charge to use this handy application. Registration will take only a few minutes to complete.

Cons: As this is new software there may be some minor bugs present. Voice chat is not currently supported by Text Free.

Pros: Claims to be very secure. Extremely easy to use once signed-up.

Cons: Not clear exactly how it encrypts. Beta may be unstable.

Pros: Easy-to-use interface. Up to 50 participants in a single call. Allows file sharing. Can screen-share.

Cons: Screen-sharing is only available on PC. Can’t set meetings in advanced. No configurable settings.

Pros: 60 supported languages. Functions to translate offline. Good voice recognition. You can hear the pronunciation.

Cons: The translations are not always perfect.

Pros: Good integration with other Google apps. Accessible via mobile, computer or web.

Cons: How many Google chat apps do we need?. Cannot assign tasks to chat participants.

Pros: Supports a huge range of networks. Easy to use. Supports audio and video chat. Records chat history. Customizable interface. Set up your own chat rooms.

Cons: Doesn't support Skype accounts. Media sharing feature doesn't work well.

Pros: End-to-end data encryption. Collaboration tools. Matrix Protocol for cross-communications. Option for private servers.

Cons: Some features require additional setup. Plain UI that lacks customizability.

Pros: Chat with contacts from Facebook or Google Talk within app. Video chat is simple to use. Nice, clean interface.

Cons: Potential security issues with remotely stored chat histories. Not as many users as on other IM clients.

Pros: Supports multiple accounts. Supports conference chats. Lots of personalization options.

Cons: Lots of ads. Chat opens in new window.