Compare software

SignalWhatsApp
Free

Free; developed by a nonprofit funded by grants and donations

 Free

Free to use for personal messaging and calls.

Android, iOS, Windows, macOS, Linux Windows, macOS, Android, iOS, Web
  • End-to-end encryption on every message and call using the open source Signal Protocol
  • No ads, affiliate marketers or tracking
  • End-to-end encrypted messages and calls
  • Available on phones, desktop and the web
  • 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
  • Proprietary and tied to a phone number account
  • Relies on a central service run by the developer
Downloadable app Downloadable app, Web application
Open source Closed source
License: AGPL-3.0 License not stated
Account needed Account needed
Needs internet Needs internet

Checked September 20, 2026

Checked September 24, 2026

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