Compare software

VK MessengerTelegram Desktop
Free

Free to use; the app is proprietary.

 Freemium

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

Linux, Web Windows, macOS, Linux
  • Audio and video calls alongside messaging
  • Transcription of voice and video messages
  • Official client with published source and build instructions
  • Cloud chats sync instantly across every device you sign in on
  • Proprietary and tied to a VK account
  • Mainly useful if your contacts are on VK
  • Ordinary chats are not end-to-end encrypted and Telegram holds the keys
  • Secret chats are not available in the desktop client
Downloadable app, Web application Downloadable app
Closed source Open source
License: Proprietary License: GPL-3.0
Account needed Account needed
Needs internet Works offline

Checked October 1, 2026

Checked September 21, 2026

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