Messaging and video call apps are struggling to replace the nefarious Whatsapp. Which one in the best one ?
Contents
Secure messaging and video call apps
Messaging apps reviewed
We have reviewed 8 messaging services:
Criteria of choice
We have identified several criteria. Most apps are free (of not very expensive with no recurrent subscription).
Some will prefer anonymous app, which won’t ask for any information, like a phone number or an e-mail address.
Some will focus on open source code, to make sure there is no back-door.
Some will find convenient to receive messages or call on their mobile, but also on their computer.
… We have listed those criteria to help you find the best app for you and your relatives.
Comparison of messaging and video call apps
| Signal | Telegram | Threema | Wickr Me | Wire | Element | Keybase | twinme | |
| Jurisdiction | US | UAE | Swiss | US | Swiss | n/a | US | France |
| Price | free | free | 4 euros | free | free | free | free | free |
| Mobile app | ✓ | ✓ | ✓ | ✓ | ✓ | ✓ | ✓ | ✓ |
| Desktop app | ✓ | ✓ | ✓ | ✓ | ✓ | |||
|
Anonymous signup
|
✓ | ✓ | ✓ | ✓ | ||||
| Minimal metadata logged | ✓ | ✓ | ✓ | ✓ | ✓ | |||
| End to End encryption | ✓ | ✓ | ✓ | ✓ | ✓ | ✓ | ✓ | |
| Open Source | ✓ | ✓ | ✓ | ✓ | ✓ | ✓ | ✓ | |
| Openly audited | ✓ | ✓ | ✓ | ✓ | ✓ | |||
|
Owns own server
|
✓ | ✓ | ✓ | ✓ |
Best apps
Signal
Signal security features:
- End-to-end encryption
- Open Source
- Disappearing messages
- Minimal data storage
- Password security
Wickr
Wickr Me security features:
- End-to-end encryption
- Screenshot detection
- Screen overlay protection
- Third party keyboards
- Secure Shredder
Apps to avoid
- Be aware that Keybase is no longer recommended since is it now owned by Zoom with deep ties to China (privacy concerns).
- Google Hangout