Looking for apps like Telegram that offer secure and seamless communication in 2025? With over 800 million users, Telegram is a top messaging choice, but privacy concerns and feature limitations drive many to alternatives.
Statistics reveal that WhatsApp remains the most used messaging app globally, with over 2.7 billion users, followed by WeChat with 1.3 billion and Telegram with 800 million. In contrast, Signal’s user base has grown significantly, crossing 100 million downloads due to its strong emphasis on privacy.
For those seeking apps like Telegram, multiple alternatives offer secure messaging, better privacy, or unique features such as decentralised servers, peer-to-peer communication, and blockchain-based security.
Instant messaging has become an essential part of daily life, whether for personal conversations, business communication, or large-scale group interactions. Telegram, launched in 2013, has grown rapidly, surpassing 800 million monthly active users by mid-2023. Its popularity stems from its cloud-based messaging, large group capabilities (up to 200,000 members), and end-to-end encrypted secret chats. However, some users seek alternatives due to privacy concerns, country-specific restrictions, or additional features not available on Telegram.
Governments and organisations have increasingly scrutinised messaging apps for data privacy and security issues. For instance, the European Commission has recommended the use of Signal for official communications due to its strong encryption policies. Similarly, journalists, activists, and businesses are shifting towards privacy-focused platforms like Session and Briar to avoid surveillance and data tracking.
This article explores 8 alternative apps like Telegram for secure messaging and communication.
Why is Telegram popular?
Telegram has gained immense popularity with over 800 million active users as of 2024, making it one of the fastest-growing messaging platforms. Its success can be attributed to a combination of speed, security, and scalability, catering to both personal and business communication. Unlike WhatsApp, which is limited to 1024 members per group, Telegram allows groups with up to 200,000 members and supports unlimited subscribers in channels. This makes it an ideal choice for large communities, influencers, and organisations.
One of the standout features of Telegram is its cloud-based storage, which allows users to access messages from multiple devices without the need for backups. Unlike WhatsApp, which relies on local storage for messages, Telegram keeps everything synced in the cloud. Additionally, users can send files up to 2GB in size, significantly larger than WhatsApp’s 100MB limit. This feature makes Telegram a preferred platform for professionals who need to share high-quality media and documents efficiently.
Privacy and security are also key reasons behind Telegram’s growing popularity. While its secret chats offer end-to-end encryption, all regular chats are protected using MTProto encryption, making them secure from external threats. Telegram’s username-based communication allows users to chat without revealing their phone numbers, providing an added layer of privacy. This feature is particularly beneficial for activists, journalists, and individuals who wish to remain anonymous.
Telegram’s continuous innovation further drives its popularity. Features such as voice-to-text transcription, custom themes, and advanced bots set it apart from competitors. With the introduction of Telegram Premium, offering faster downloads and exclusive stickers, the platform continues to expand its revenue model while keeping the core app free. Its ad-free experience for general users ensures that Telegram remains a user-friendly alternative to other messaging apps.
8 Alternatives Apps Like Telegram
1. Signal – The privacy-focused alternative
Signal is often regarded as one of the most secure messaging apps available. Like Telegram, it offers end-to-end encryption for messages, ensuring that only the sender and recipient can access the content. However, Signal takes privacy a step further by encrypting not only text messages but also voice and video calls. This makes it a preferred choice for users who prioritise security above all else.
Key Features:
- End-to-end encryption using the Signal Protocol.
- Self-destructing messages for added privacy.
- Open-source codebase, making security audits possible.
- No ads or trackers.
- Secure voice and video calls.
Why Choose Signal: For users prioritising privacy and security, Signal is one of the best apps like Telegram. Unlike Telegram, where only secret chats are end-to-end encrypted, Signal encrypts all communications by default.
2. WhatsApp – The popular choice
WhatsApp is one of the most widely used messaging apps globally, boasting over two billion users. Like Telegram, it offers end-to-end encryption for messages, ensuring secure communication. WhatsApp also supports voice and video calls, group chats, and file sharing, making it a versatile platform for both personal and professional use.
Key Features:
- End-to-end encryption for messages, calls, and media.
- Supports voice and video calls, including group calls.
- Status updates for sharing pictures and text.
- Large user base, making it convenient for communication.
Why Choose WhatsApp: While WhatsApp offers encryption for all chats, it is owned by Meta (formerly Facebook), leading to concerns over data privacy. However, for users looking for an easy-to-use and widely adopted alternative to Telegram, WhatsApp remains a strong option.
3. Wire – Secure Communication for Individuals and Businesses
Wire is a secure messaging app that combines enterprise-grade security with a sleek, modern design. Like Telegram, it offers end-to-end encryption for messages, voice and video calls, and file sharing. Wire also supports group chats and allows users to create guest rooms for temporary collaborations, making it a versatile platform for both personal and professional use.
Key Features:
- End-to-end encryption for text, voice, and video communications.
- Open-source and independently audited security.
- Secure conference calling for teams.
- No ads or data tracking.
Why Choose Wire: Wire provides a high level of security similar to Signal while also catering to business users. It is one of the top apps like Telegram for those needing a professional-grade communication tool.
4. Threema – anonymous and secure messaging
Threema is a lesser-known but highly secure messaging app that prioritises user privacy. Like Telegram, it offers end-to-end encryption for messages, voice calls, and file sharing. However, Threema goes a step further by allowing users to register without providing a phone number or email address. Instead, users are assigned a unique Threema ID, ensuring complete anonymity.
Key Features:
- End-to-end encryption for messages, calls, and files.
- No phone number required for registration.
- Open-source and independently audited.
- Self-hosting option for businesses.
Why Choose Threema: Threema offers complete anonymity, unlike Telegram, which requires a phone number for sign-up. This makes it a great choice for users who value privacy over social connectivity.
5. Viber – feature-rich messaging app
Viber is another popular messaging app that offers a range of features similar to Telegram. It supports text messaging, voice and video calls, group chats, and file sharing. Like Telegram, Viber also offers public channels, allowing users to follow and interact with their favourite brands, celebrities, or communities.
Key features:
- End-to-end encryption for one-on-one chats and calls.
- Group messaging and calling features.
- Public chats and community channels.
- Stickers and GIFs for interactive communication.
Why Choose Viber: For users looking for apps like Telegram with enhanced voice and video calling capabilities, Viber is a good alternative. It also offers secure messaging with additional social features.
6. Element – decentralised and open-source messaging
Element is a messaging app built on the Matrix protocol, an open-source standard for decentralised communication. It is designed for both personal and professional use, offering end-to-end encryption for secure messaging, voice calls, and file sharing. Element stands out for its focus on interoperability, allowing users to communicate across different platforms and services that support the Matrix protocol.
Key Features:
- End-to-end encryption for messages and calls.
- Decentralised servers for added security.
- Open-source and customisable for developers.
- Supports file sharing and integrations.
Why Choose Element: Element is ideal for users looking for apps like Telegram that offer decentralised and customisable messaging solutions.
7. Session – blockchain-based secure messaging
Session is a privacy-focused messaging app that takes anonymity and security to the next level. Built on the Oxen Privacy Protocol, Session does not require users to provide a phone number, email address, or any personal information to create an account. Instead, users are assigned a unique Session ID, ensuring complete anonymity.
Key Features:
- No phone number required for sign-up.
- End-to-end encryption for all chats.
- Decentralised servers to prevent tracking.
- Secure file and media sharing.
Why Choose Session?: Session is perfect for users who want apps like Telegram but with additional layers of security, anonymity, and decentralisation.
8. Briar – offline and peer-to-peer messaging
Briar is a unique messaging app designed for secure communication in environments where internet access is restricted or monitored. Unlike most messaging apps, Briar does not rely on centralised servers. Instead, it uses peer-to-peer (P2P) technology to connect users directly, either over the internet, Bluetooth, or Wi-Fi.
Key features:
- Peer-to-peer messaging using Wi-Fi or Bluetooth.
- No central server, making tracking difficult.
- Encrypted messaging for complete security.
- Works in offline environments.
Why Choose Briar: Briar is useful for activists, journalists, and individuals who need an ultra-secure messaging app that functions even in restricted internet conditions.
Choosing the best alternative to telegram
While Telegram is known for its speed and group chat functionalities, many users seek alternatives with better privacy and security features.
Each of these applications offers unique features that make them viable alternatives to Telegram. Users can select the best option based on their privacy concerns, communication needs, and platform preferences.
Choosing the right apps like Telegram depends on individual priorities:
- For ultimate privacy – Signal, Wire, or Threema.
- For decentralised communication – Element, Session, or Tox.
- For large user bases and easy accessibility – WhatsApp or Viber.
- For offline messaging – Briar.
Final thoughts
While Telegram remains a popular choice for secure and feature-rich messaging, there are several apps like Telegram that offer similar or even enhanced functionalities. Whether you prioritise privacy, simplicity, or versatility, there is a messaging app out there to suit your needs. Signal, WhatsApp, Threema, Viber, Wire, and Wickr Me are just a few of the many alternatives available, each with its unique strengths and features.
Ultimately, the best messaging app for you will depend on your specific requirements and preferences. By exploring these alternatives, you can find a platform that not only meets your communication needs but also aligns with your values and priorities. Whether you are a privacy enthusiast, a business professional, or simply someone looking for a reliable way to stay connected, there is an app like Telegram that is perfect for you.
Himani Verma is a seasoned content writer and SEO expert, with experience in digital media. She has held various senior writing positions at enterprises like CloudTDMS (Synthetic Data Factory), Barrownz Group, and ATZA. Himani has also been Editorial Writer at Hindustan Time, a leading Indian English language news platform. She excels in content creation, proofreading, and editing, ensuring that every piece is polished and impactful. Her expertise in crafting SEO-friendly content for multiple verticals of businesses, including technology, healthcare, finance, sports, innovation, and more.
