Compare software

Signal vs WeChat: catalog facts
Signal	WeChat
Free Free; developed by a nonprofit funded by grants and donations	Free Free to download and use.
Android, iOS, Windows, macOS, Linux	Windows, macOS, Android, iOS
End-to-end encryption on every message and call using the open source Signal Protocol No ads, affiliate marketers or tracking	Very large user base, especially in China Chat, calls, social feed and payments in one app
Requires a phone number that can receive an SMS or phone call to register Desktop app requires Signal to be installed on a phone first	Closed source and run by a single company Many features go beyond messaging, which makes the app large
Downloadable app	Downloadable app
Open source	Closed source
License: AGPL-3.0	License not stated
Account needed	Not stated if an account is needed
Needs internet	Not stated if it works offline
Official website Full listing and sources Checked September 20, 2026	Official website Full listing and sources Checked September 23, 2026

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