Telegram is one of the popular messaging apps with 550+ million active users. It has undoubtedly easily made it to the list of the top 10 active social media networks in the world. Although Telegram has maintained its popularity, it still needs improvement in all areas. So you should know about some Telegram alternatives.
While Telegram offers many convenient features, some drawbacks can keep you from using it. It can be challenging to find if you download any file in this app. There are some apps like telegram which can satisfy you more.
I have already researched some Telegram alternatives, and after long research, I have compiled the 7 best alternatives. I recommend reading about everything that can give you a better experience.
What is Telegram?
Telegram is a cloud-based messaging application that was founded in March 2013. Initially, it was available for IOS and Android, but later, users could use it on their desktop devices. Since its inception, it has had some setbacks due to which customers needed to show interest. In addition, many people use it to send large files as opposed to other apps conveniently.
In Telegram, you can freely manage a group of 200,000 members. Since its launch in 2013, it had 50 lakh users by 2015, which grew to 500 million in the next 5 years. There is no doubt that Telegram occupies a massive place in the market, but it lacks some aspects that any other platform can fill. That’s why you should know about its options.

Why Do You Need a Telegram Alternative?
You may have a profound question about why you should look for alternatives to Telegram despite its popularity. It’s true that Telegram may only sometimes be the best because it also has some drawbacks. However, the reasons why for looking for alternatives are mentioned below.
- Business conversations inconveniences: Business needs to send and receive instant messages. But sometimes, the app needs to be opened to receive telegram messages.
- Lacks voice message option: This is inconvenient for those who prefer to send voice messages as there is no such option.
- Can’t send multiple files: Telegram allows you to send multiple files simultaneously. Each time you have to pick and send one.
- All messages are not encrypted: All messages sent through Telegram are not encrypted. Only messages sent through secret chat are encrypted.
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Top Telegram Alternatives: #2023
Now it’s time to learn more about your top Telegram options. I will tell you about my selected top messaging apps at this stage. Perhaps here is what you are looking for. Either one will undoubtedly help you avoid some of the pitfalls of Telegram.
1. Viber
A great alternative to the Telegram app is Viber which is used for free secure calling and chatting. With just an internet connection, you can communicate at any distance by sending audio and video calls, group chats & calls, stickers, and GIFs. Moreover, it is compatible with mobile & desktop.
One of the main features of this app is that it allows the user to contact landline and mobile numbers around the world. But if you want to create a huge group chat, your expectations will probably not be met here, as Viber only allows a group chat of 1000 people.
Viber features and pricing
Price | Free (5.99 USD for 60 countries in Viber out – 7 days free trial) |
Calls & chatting | Yes (It’s free for audio and video chatting) |
Device compatibility | Mobile and desktop. |

2. Signal
Signal is known to users as a simple messaging app. Most users appreciate its clean interface. Also, unlike Telegram, Signal can meet your instant messaging needs. As a free option, it offers several important features such as chatting, making video and audio calls, sending images and video files, and sharing your current location with other users. It is also one of the most secure apps designed with adequate security features for privacy-conscious people.
Unlike Telegram, its main advantage is that all conversations are encrypted by default, so it is not possible for anyone to track one’s conversation. Moreover, Signal itself cannot read any user’s messages. No Signal access is required when you want to communicate with others from your Signal account, just type in the number and start a conversation.
Signal features and pricing
Price | It’s completely free to use. |
Calls & chatting | Yes (It’s free for audio and video chatting) |
Device compatibility | Android, iPhones, Windows PCs, Macs, and Linux. (Not compatible with some IOS, Android, and Windows versions.) |

3. Skype
Skype is a notable alternative which is mainly known as a calling app. As of 2021, the estimated number of Skype users worldwide was 35.2 million, which will reach billions by 2024. Skype has several unique features compared to Telegram, although it is not entirely free. Its free version has some features that will meet most of your needs.
Skype also works well for community meetings. That’s why most users use this software for secure messaging and instant meetings for business needs. Also, you can record any important meeting if necessary. While Telegram has a lot of advantages, it lacks some of the advantages that Skype carries.
Skype features and pricing
Price | It’s free for another Skype call (Calls to domestic or international numbers incur a charge.) |
Call & chatting | Yes (It’s free for audio and video chatting with other features) |
Device compatibility | iPhone, Android, and Windows 10. |
4. WeChat
WeChat is a free calling and messaging app that is an alternative to Telegram. With it, you can communicate with friends and family hassle-free. It was initially designed for Windows but later made available on other platforms. Besides, a unique aspect of this is that you can discover new friends from here.
On WeChat, you can do group chats, private messaging, multimedia sharing, and more. It works as a messaging platform, and you can also take it as a great social media. This lightweight software is easy to install and set up and has a straightforward interface.
WeChat features and pricing
Price | Free to download and use |
Call & chatting | Yes (It’s completely free) |
Device compatibility | iOS, Windows, Android, and macOS. |
5. Slack
Slack is well-known as an expensive alternative. Slack is a Telegram alternative for conversations needed to manage office tasks. It also works as a chatting platform and forum, such as where users used to discuss various topics through threads. But it is not entirely free software.
So when you are on the free version, you have to live with limited features. But its upgraded version has lots of features and benefits for you. However, if you’re looking for an excellent alternative to free apps, Slack is definitely worth considering.
Slack Pricing
Price | There is a free version with some paid plans |
Call & chatting | Not available |
Device compatibility | iOS, Mac, Android, and PC. |

6. Google Meet
A great platform for video conferencing is Google Meet which is used by many for professional reasons. A suitable option for businesses of all sizes that cater to large meetings. A link is provided to those who join the discussion, and they join the meeting by clicking on this link.
However, you must get permission from the host to enter the central meeting. Up to 30 users can join per meeting in the free version. But if you want to meet with more people, it is better to go for the upgraded version.
Google Meet features and pricing
Price | There is a free version. Starting at 6.00 USD/mo. |
Call & chatting | Best for a business meeting |
Device compatibility | iOS 14 and above + Android 5.0 and above. |
Related: 8 Best Google Pay Alternatives For Fast, Secure Payments
7. Microsoft Teams
The last option on my list is Microsoft Teams which is mostly used for video conferencing. It allows multiple people to perform official work efficiently at the same time. Apart from video conferences, you can also communicate through text messages, voice chat, and video chat.
It has a free version that comes with several features. These features are sufficient for any small business. But for larger businesses, it is a good idea to go for the upgraded plan. Also, the free version needs some security features.
Microsoft Teams features and pricing
Price | Free version available (premium starting at 4.00 USD/mo) |
Call & chatting | Yes, it’s free. |
Device compatibility | Linux, iOS, Windows, macOS, and Android. |
Ending Thought
If you want online conversations with the desired features, you must get the right platform. Telegram is a great messaging app, but it lacks some features. Besides, it is not as good as a private option. That’s why you need to know about some Telegram alternatives.
Personal and business need something more secure, so I have discussed some top apps like telegram in detail. Here you will find both free and paid options. But almost every app has a free version that can meet your basic needs.
I hope this article will help you to choose the best apps like telegram. Whether you are looking for improved usability or more privacy. There are plenty of options to choose from, Try out new alternatives, you might find them interesting. You also may also check my list of best Coursera alternatives and zwift alternatives to grow your productivity.
If you find this article helpful please comment and let me know. if you have any questions or concerns. don’t hesitate to reach out.
FAQs on Telegram Alternatives
How can I open Telegram on my PC?
You can use Telegram on a PC by downloading the Telegram desktop app or by accessing the web version of Telegram through your web browser. Here’s how to do it:
To use Telegram on a PC, you can download the Telegram desktop app for Windows, macOS, or Linux from the Telegram website. Once downloaded, run the installer and follow the instructions to install the app on your computer. After installation, open the app, enter your phone number, and follow the on-screen prompts to sign in to your account.
Note that in order to use Telegram on a PC, you will need to have a Telegram account set up on your mobile device and have your phone nearby as you’ll need to verify your account via a text message or phone call.
Is Signal safer than Telegram?
Both Signal and Telegram offer end-to-end encryption for their messaging services, which means that your messages are only visible to you and the person you’re communicating with, and they cannot be intercepted or decrypted by third parties, including the messaging service provider.
The signal is generally considered to be more secure than Telegram due to its focus on privacy and security. Signal is an open-source messaging platform that has been audited by independent security experts, and it collects very little metadata about its users.
What are some best alternatives to Telegram?
Here are the best apps like Telegram available.
- Viber
- Signal
- Skype
- Slack
- Google Meet
- Microsoft Teams
Who uses Telegram the most?
As of August 2022, Indians have installed this app 70 million times. According to the same period, users in Russia have more than 24 million. Besides, US users are in the third position.
Which is cheaper, Viber or Skype?
Viber can be a better option than Skype in terms of cost. The Viber account is linked to a mobile number, so it is entirely free if you want to call another Viber from Viber.
Skype, on the other hand, is associated with a Microsoft account. So calling the phone number will cost you.
Reference
2. Telegram – a new era of messaging
3. Signal is testing Instagram-like Stories feature
4. Worldwide visits to Skype.com from December 2021 to May 2022
5. https://telegram.en.softonic.com/android/alternatives
6. https://www.quora.com/What-are-the-best-alternatives-to-Telegram-in-2021-for-free-movies-and-shows
7. https://www.similarweb.com/website/telegram.org/competitors/