Compare software

Quassel IRCThe Lounge
Free

Free and open source under the GPL.

 Free

Free and open source under the MIT licence.

Windows, macOS, Linux, Android, Self-hosted Web, Self-hosted
  • Core stays online and keeps history while clients disconnect
  • Several clients can attach to the same core
  • Always connected, no separate bouncer needed
  • Responsive interface for phones and desktops
  • Running a core requires a server or always-on machine
  • Stable releases are infrequent, with long gaps between them
  • Requires running your own Node.js server
  • IRC only
Downloadable app, Self-hosted Self-hosted
Open source Open source
License: GPL-2.0 License: MIT
No account needed Not stated if an account is needed
Not stated if it works offline Not stated if it works offline

Checked October 2, 2026

Checked September 23, 2026

Catalog facts only. Anything “not stated” is unconfirmed. Check full listings for details.