Facebook Messenger

Telegram

Telegram is a cloud-based messaging app known for speed, large group chats, broadcast channels, and bots, with optional end-to-end-encrypted secret chats. It is popular for communities and information broadcasting.

Skype

Microsoft retired Skype on 5 May 2025 and now redirects skype.com to Microsoft Teams; new sign-ups are no longer available and this entry is kept for reference. Skype is a versatile telecommunications application that specializes in providing video chat and voice call services between devices. Users can communicate across the globe through internet connections with features designed for both personal conversations and business meetings. Owned by Microsoft, the platform also offers instant messaging, file sharing, and affordable international landline calling options. It remains a staple tool for long-distance communication, remote work collaboration, and virtual family gatherings.

Signal

Signal is a nonprofit messaging app focused on privacy, with end-to-end encryption for all messages and calls by default and minimal metadata collection. It is the recommended choice for private communication.

WhatsApp

WhatsApp is a globally dominant messaging app offering end-to-end-encrypted text, voice, and video, plus business tools. Its ubiquity makes it the default communication channel in many countries.

Discord

Discord is a communication platform organized around servers and channels, hugely popular with gaming and online communities but increasingly used by all kinds of groups. It combines text, voice, and video with rich bots and integrations.