Nowadays, when you send messages from your smartphone, the most common thing is to resort to Whatsapp, the most widely used instant messaging app in the world. However, despite its popularity, not the only option available, neither the most innovative nor the most secure. In fact, the world of messaging apps has grown exponentially, and there are alternatives that stand out in fields such as privacy, collaborative features, cross-platform support, and the complete absence of advertising and sensitive data collection.
In this comprehensive article, you will discover All the best free alternatives to WhatsApp that you can try on your mobile, PC, or other devices. We analyze their advantages, disadvantages, security levels, unique features, and the ideal user profile for each. This way, you can decide whether to upgrade to one of these apps to enjoy more secure, private, and feature-rich communication.
Get ready to learn all the options, because instant messaging goes far beyond WhatsApp..
Why look for alternatives to WhatsApp?
La privacy and to maximise security and your enjoyment. have become key aspects when choosing a messaging app. WhatsApp is under scrutiny due to its privacy policies, data collection, and integration with other messaging platforms (Facebook, Instagram). Additionally, the emergence of new features, greater group controls, and the demand for cross-platform options are driving user demand for alternatives.
- Distrust in privacy. WhatsApp collects metadata such as phone numbers, locations, and usage patterns, and these may be shared with Meta for advertising or analytics.
- Technical limitations. Maximum file sizes, group chat restrictions, and a closed architecture limit WhatsApp's potential compared to cloud-based or decentralized apps.
- Search for innovation. Features like ephemeral chats, bots, broadcast channels, group video calls, quizzes, and email integration aren't always available on WhatsApp.
- True cross-platform. If you need to work seamlessly from your mobile, PC, or browser and keep everything synchronized, some apps do it better.
Telegram
If there is an app that has managed to challenge WhatsApp for leadership, it is TelegramIts growth has been unstoppable, and it has managed to attract users thanks to its constant updates, multiplatform orientation, and its wealth of collaborative and privacy features.
- Custom encryption and privacy: Telegram allows you to choose between normal and secret chats with end-to-end encryption. Regular chats use client-server encryption and are stored in the cloud, while secrets are only stored on participating devices and can self-destruct after a defined time.
- Scheduled messages, deletion and full control: You can schedule messages to be sent or deleted automatically on both ends.
- Unlimited file sharing: On Telegram you can share large files (up to 2 GB per file) without the typical limitations of WhatsApp.
- Channels and supergroups: Allows you to create large communities, broadcast channels, and groups of up to 200.000 people, facilitating management with bots and advanced moderation tools.
- Anonymity: : You don't need to share your phone number to be contacted, just your nickname or username.
- True cross-platform: Full access on mobile, tablet, web, or desktop apps. Everything syncs automatically.
- Bots and extensions: You can create bots (automations) that manage communities, conduct surveys, notifications, integrations, etc.
- Quality of photos and videos: Images or videos sent maintain higher quality compared to WhatsApp.
- Video calls and group calls: Increasingly complete, with good quality on modest connections.
Telegram is free and doesn't include intrusive ads. Its only privacy weakness is in regular (non-secret) chats, as messages are stored in the Telegram cloud and aren't end-to-end encrypted, allowing the company, in theory, to access them under legal or security requirements.
Ideal for: Advanced users, businesses, large communities, and those looking for maximum flexibility and a seamless transition from WhatsApp.
Signal
If the privacy and to maximise security and your enjoyment. are the most important thing for you, Signal It is the most recommended application by cybersecurity experts, ethical hackers, and digital rights defenders.
- Open Source: The entire app and its encryption protocol are publicly auditable.
- End-to-end encryption by default: Everything you send (messages, calls, videos, documents...) is protected and nobody No one other than the participants can access the content, not even Signal itself.
- No ads, no trackingSignal is a non-profit foundation, does not sell your data, does not display ads, and is funded exclusively by donations.
- Auto-delete messages: Possibility of self-destructing messages after reading or after a set period.
- Locking captures and extra security: Prevents screenshots from being taken in chats and provides PIN access.
- Video calls and encrypted calls: Excellent quality and guaranteed security on all platforms.
- Phone number required for registration only: Although it is required to create an account, it already allows you to create usernames that make it easier to chat without sharing your number.
- Multiplatform: Perfectly synchronized mobile and desktop apps.
- Reputation: Recommended by figures such as Edward Snowden and human rights organizations, and used by journalists, activists, and all types of users who desire maximum privacy.
The interface is simple, the user experience is similar to WhatsApp, and you can easily migrate if you can convince your contacts. Its weak points: a smaller user base, lack of stickers or games, and menus that are less "fun" than other apps.
Ideal for: Those who prioritize total privacy, journalists, professionals, activists, businesses, and any user who doesn't want their data to pass through Meta or Google servers.
Messenger (Facebook Messenger)
Messenger is the Official Meta alternative for those seeking independence from WhatsApp, as it works as a separate app and allows you to communicate without having to give out your number.
- Integration with Facebook: You can connect with any contact on the social network.
- Voice and video calls: Includes group calls of up to 50 people and high-quality video calls.
- Stickers, GIFs and games: Many fun features like video filters, social games, stickers, and chat customization.
- Dark mode, temporary messages: Allows you to change the visual appearance and send disappearing messages.
- Business chats: Facilitates communication with companies and services through bots.
- Works on PC and mobile: You can use Messenger on the web or in Android/iOS apps.
- Privacy bases similar to WhatsApp: Being under Meta, their privacy policies are similar, so data and metadata can be used internally.
Ideal for: Active Facebook users who want to avoid giving out their number and are looking to easily call large groups.
WeChat is the most widely used app in China and parts of Asia. It has become a superapp that integrates messaging, electronic payments, and social media.
- Chats, groups and calls: Allows huge rooms of up to 500 members and secret chats.
- Payments and transfers: You can securely send money, pay for purchases, book services, or split dinner bills with friends.
- Stories (Moments): In the Instagram style, it is possible to publish temporary statuses and photos.
- Integrated games: Social mini-games for group interaction.
- QR codes: Used to add contacts quickly and easily.
- Web and multiplatform version: Available on PC and mobile.
- Weight and account management: It can be annoying, and after a period of inactivity, WeChat may require account reactivation for security reasons.
It is especially recommended for those who have personal or professional relationships with users in China. Outside of Asia, its use is limited and the privacy depends on local legislation.
Viber
Viber is another robust alternative, especially popular in Eastern Europe, parts of East Asia, and Latin America. Its greatest strength lies in the combination of calls, cats and the ability to exchange multimedia messages securely.
- End-to-end encryption by default on all messages and calls.
- Unlimited group chats: You can have groups with hundreds of participants and broadcast channels.
- Auto delete: You can set messages to self-destruct after reading them.
- International calls: Using the Viber Out service (paid), you can call any landline/mobile phone in the world.
- Advertising: Viber includes ads within the app to fund itself, so you may see banners or promotional messages.
- Compatible with all platforms: Windows, Mac, Linux, iOS, Android, etc.
Ideal for: those who want affordable international calls, huge groups, and maximum ease.
Threema
Threema is an alternative based in Switzerland, a country known for its strict privacy laws. privacyIt is ideal for those seeking maximum protection and anonymity.
- No phone number required: You can register completely anonymously.
- End-to-end encryption throughout, including text messages, voice, video, files and calls.
- Does not store metadata: Nothing is stored on the servers once the message is delivered.
- PIN-protected chat: You can block chats with a secret code.
- Voting and survey function: Perfect for making decisions in groups.
- Apps for Android, iOS and web.
- It is not free: Requires a one-time payment to download the app (approx. €5-6).
Ideal for: businesses, professional environments, users with high concerns about data protection and anonymity.
Wire
Wire is a European option that prioritizes the security with advanced encryption and offers many features focused on professional and business use, although any user can use the free version.
- End-to-end encryption on all messages, files and calls.
- Modern, cross-platform interface: Apps for Windows, Mac, Linux, Android, iOS and web.
- Synchronization on multiple devices at once.
- Does not necessarily require a phone number: You can register with email only.
- Temporary messages and self-destruction of files.
- Group calls, video calls, and sending all types of files.
- Free account for individuals and premium options for businesses.
Wire has been audited by independent experts and maintains a transparent metadata policy.
Ideal for: businesses, remote teams, those using multiple devices and wanting professional privacy.
Element (formerly Riot)
Element is built on Matrix, a decentralized messaging protocol that allows for complete control over data and interoperability with other platforms.
- Total decentralizationYou can host your own server or use public ones. No one can shut down the service or access your data.
- End-to-end encryption for chats and calls.
- No phone number or email required: You can create a completely anonymous account.
- Use bridges to communicate with WhatsApp, Signal, Telegram, and more.
- Apps for Android, iOS, Windows, Linux, Mac and web access.
- Ideal for geeks, tech companies, developers, and users who want complete independence from large companies.
SimpleX
SimpleX is an emerging alternative that takes decentralization and privacy to the extreme: it is the only app that It does not require a number, username, or email. to create an account. A QR code is used to add contacts, which prevents tracking.
- End-to-end encryption by default
- Decentralized network:Without central servers, you can host your own node if you want.
- Does not use DNS, which prevents external monitoring.
- Unable to track metadata
- Still small user base and advanced configuration.
Session
Session also focuses on decentralized and anonymous messaging, and is increasingly valued by those seeking maximum privacy, without data collection or dependence on a central server.
- no phone number, nor email.
- Anonymous network based on a Tor-like network.
- Group chats, encrypted calls and video calls.
- Apps for Android, iOS, desktop.
- Ideal for: users seeking maximum anonymity in communication.
Spike
Spike is an app that redefines communication by integrating chat, email, collaboration y video calls on a single platform. Aimed at professionals and teams, it stands out for:
- You don't need a phone number: You only need an email address.
- Group and private chats with text and voice.
- Video calls, audio calls, and “Magic AI”: An artificial intelligence-based communication assistant.
- AES-256 encryption by default.
- Unlimited history and cloud storage.
- Apps for Android, iOS, Windows and Mac.
- Free plan for individual users.
Skype or Whatsapp
Skype or Whatsapp, now part of Microsoft, is a classic of global communication. Although its approach is more professional, it remains one of the best alternatives for international calls, video calls, and group chats.
- Available on mobile, desktop and web.
- Allows calls to landlines/mobile phones worldwide (paid feature).
- Call recording, real-time translation, and group meetings.
- Managing large files, sharing screens, and more.
- Requires Microsoft account, you can chat using email, no phone number required.
Ideal for: professional meetings, family meetings abroad, online classes, and those who value track record and easy integration with Microsoft tools.
Discord
Originally used in the gaming community, Discord It has become a messaging and voice platform for all types of groups, communities, and collaborative teams.
- Servers organized by topic with multiple chat and voice channels.
- Group video calls, screencasting, and texting.
- Customizable bots for moderation and games.
- Compatible on mobile, desktop and web.
- Design focused on collaboration and communities.
Ideal for: online communities, gamers, work teams, student clubs, and users who want to personalize the social experience with bots or integrations.
iMessage
Apple's messaging system, iMessage, is the native option for iOS and macOS device users.
- Works exclusively between Apple devices (iPhone, iPad, Mac).
- Secure end-to-end encryption, including quantum-resistant protocols.
- FaceTime integration for video and voice calls.
- Sending images, videos, files, stickers, and payments between Apple users.
- Limitation: Only works between Apple users, and messages to Android are sent as insecure SMS.
Ideal for: Those who use only Apple devices and want maximum integration and security.
Google Messages (Messages/RCS)
Google's native alternative for Android is Messages, which adopts the RCS protocol, an evolution of the old SMS/MMS.
- Rich chats with end-to-end encryption between Android users.
- Sending photos, videos, voice notes and documents.
- Transfers and groups similar to WhatsApp.
- Compatible with PC via web.
- It is not fully cross-platform: If the recipient is iOS, the message is sent as a conventional SMS without encryption.
Ideal for: Users who want to chat without installing additional apps on Android and who are looking for maximum integration with Google.
Other popular and emerging alternatives
- LineKnown for its stickers and social features, it allows for quality voice and video calls and is very popular in Asia.
- Who: Focused on anonymity, it doesn't require a number and offers a social experience where you can meet new people.
- GroupM: Widely used for group chats and sending messages to mobile phones and emails.
- Snapchat: Focused on sharing temporary images and videos, with ephemeral chats and fun filters.
- twin me: No registration or phone number required, maximum privacy and encryption in all communications.
Frequently asked questions about alternatives to WhatsApp
- Is it safe to stop using WhatsApp?
Yes, as long as you choose a trusted alternative, check their policies. privacy y encryption, and notify your contacts of the change so as not to lose communication. - Do I lose my chats when I switch apps?
Generally yes, unless the destination app allows you to import messages (Telegram, for example, offers import tools). Make backups if you don't want to lose your data. - Is any alternative better than WhatsApp?
It depends on your needs. If you prioritize privacy, Signal or Threema. If you're looking for large group management, Telegram or Discord. If you want professional integration, Wire or Slack. - What happens if my contacts don't use the alternative?
It's common for many people to stay on WhatsApp. You can install several apps at once and gradually move your circle to the alternative you prefer. - Does encryption guarantee anonymity?
Encryption protects the content of messages, but the real privacy/anonymity It depends on whether identifying data (number, email, IP, etc.) is requested or stored.
Opting for one or more alternative messaging apps to WhatsApp is an increasingly advisable decision. This way you can protect your privacy. privacy, choose the app that best suits your interests, and have greater control over your data and communications. From ultra-secure options to others geared toward group collaboration or email integration, there are alternatives for all types of users and needs. The future of messaging lies in diversity, decentralization, and user empowerment. Now you have all the options available to choose the one that suits you best!