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TelegramWhatsApp
Free

The apps are free to download and use.

 Free

Free to use for personal messaging and calls.

Windows, macOS, Linux, Android, iOS Windows, macOS, Android, iOS, Web
  • Chats sync across phones and desktop computers
  • Large groups, channels and bot platform
  • End-to-end encrypted messages and calls
  • Available on phones, desktop and the web
  • Relies on Telegram's central servers
  • Apps are open source but the server software is not published
  • Proprietary and tied to a phone number account
  • Relies on a central service run by the developer
Downloadable app, Hosted service Downloadable app, Web application
Open source Closed source
License: GPL-3.0 License not stated
Account needed Account needed
Needs internet Needs internet

Checked October 2, 2026

Checked September 24, 2026

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