Telegram
Fast. Secure. Powerful.
Telegram is a cloud-based messaging app for mobile and desktop devices, focused on speed and security. It lets users send messages, photos, videos and files of any type, create groups for up to 200,000 members, and broadcast to channels with unlimited audiences. Chats sync across multiple devices simultaneously, and the app supports end-to-end encrypted voice and video calls, group calls for up to 200 participants, and voice chats in groups.
Key capabilities include Secret Chats with self-destructing messages, 2-Step Verification, bots and mini apps, a Bot API for building integrations and accepting payments, and an open API and source code. Telegram offers apps for Android, iPhone/iPad, Windows, macOS, Linux, and the web, along with TDLib for building custom clients. AI features are available, including AI Guardians for groups.
Telegram is intended for personal use as well as business users and small teams who need large groups, usernames, desktop apps, and file sharing. Private messaging is free with no subscription fees; the platform also offers Sponsored Messages as a monetization option.
12 alternatives to Telegram
Ranked by how well each tool replaces Telegram: shared features, audience, price and popularity.
A complete XMPP messaging solution. Enterprise alternative to WhatsApp and Slack for large
Covers 3 of 15 key features.
75 out of 100 match—Free private messaging and calling app for individuals and businesses.
Covers 4 of 15 key features.
Free plan73 out of 100 matchFreeFast and secure desktop app, perfectly synced with your mobile phone.
Covers 3 of 15 key features.
Free planOpen source71 out of 100 matchFreeThree kinds of APIs for developers: Bot API, Telegram API with TDLib, and Gateway API.
Covers 5 of 15 key features.
Free planOpen source70 out of 100 matchFree- 66 out of 100 match$3/mo
- 66 out of 100 matchFree
- 66 out of 100 matchFree
- 65 out of 100 matchFree
- 65 out of 100 match$8.25/mo
- 64 out of 100 match$9.99/mo
- 63 out of 100 matchFree