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Telegram DesktopWhatsApp
Freemium

Free to use. Telegram Premium is an optional subscription for larger uploads, faster…

 Free

Free to use for personal messaging and calls.

Windows, macOS, Linux Windows, macOS, Android, iOS, Web
  • Official client with published source and build instructions
  • Cloud chats sync instantly across every device you sign in on
  • End-to-end encrypted messages and calls
  • Available on phones, desktop and the web
  • Ordinary chats are not end-to-end encrypted and Telegram holds the keys
  • Secret chats are not available in the desktop client
  • 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: GPL-3.0 License not stated
Account needed Account needed
Works offline Needs internet

Checked September 21, 2026

Checked September 24, 2026

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