6 Open Source Alternatives to Telegram

A list of 6 carefully selected open-source alternatives to Telegram.

Adrian
Created by
Adrian
Mar 9, 2025Updated6 min read

The open-source alternatives are ranked based on our custom ranking system and score. This system takes into account various factors to determine the best alternatives.

If you’re looking for alternative features or workflows, here is a prepared detailed list of Telegram open-source alternatives — each with its own distinctive strengths and key features.

#1
Cinny logo

Cinny

2,131
288

Cinny is a Matrix client built with a focus on simplicity, elegance, and secure communications. Designed with an intuitive interface and end-to-end encryption, it offers a clutter-free and organized chat experience for users who value privacy and ease of use.

Cinny screenshot

Key Features

  • Open source Matrix client
  • Simple, elegant, and secure interface
  • End-to-end encryption for privacy
  • Separated navigation for DMs and channels
  • Clutter-free and calm visual design
  • Adaptive user input system

Cinny provides a user-friendly interface for Matrix-based communication, combining modern design principles with efficient navigation. The tool separates direct messages from channels to enhance organization and minimizes visual clutter, ensuring that only important details are highlighted. Its adaptive input system and calm layout contribute to a seamless, secure chatting experience, making it a compelling choice for anyone seeking a reliable open source communication platform.

#2
Session logo

Session

1,595
191

Session Desktop is an onion routing based messenger that delivers end-to-end encrypted communications with an emphasis on absolute privacy. Offering anonymous sign-up with no phone number or email required, it provides secure, censorship-resistant messaging for both individuals and groups.

Session screenshot

Key Features

  • End-to-end encrypted messaging with onion routing
  • Anonymous sign-up without phone numbers or emails
  • Minimizes metadata to leave no digital trace
  • Supports group chats, voice messages, and file attachments
  • Fully open source for transparency and community contributions
  • Censorship resistant with no central point of failure

Session uses a decentralized network and advanced onion routing techniques to ensure that messages are sent without leaking metadata. It offers features such as voice messaging, group chats supporting up to 100 participants, and secure file attachments, all built on a fully open source framework. Designed to prevent data breaches and tracking, Session empowers users to communicate freely without leaving digital footprints.

#3
Lokinet logo

Lokinet

1,833
235

Lokinet is a decentralized, anonymous, and IP-based overlay network that enables private internet access. It ensures that users browse securely without surveillance or censorship while concealing both user and destination IP addresses.

Lokinet screenshot

Key Features

  • Anonymous internet access
  • Decentralized, staked node network
  • Onion-routed traffic for enhanced privacy
  • IP address concealing
  • Censorship-resistant architecture
  • Cross-platform support (Windows, Linux; macOS and mobile in development)
  • Easy integration with existing tools

Lokinet leverages a decentralized network of staked nodes to provide anonymous internet access. Traffic is onion-routed, ensuring that your browsing remains secure, private, and uncensored. The network is designed to hide your IP and the IPs of the sites you visit, making it an effective solution for evading surveillance and censorship. With native clients for Windows and Linux and ongoing developments for macOS and mobile, Lokinet integrates seamlessly with the applications you already use.

#4
Speek logo

Speek

744
73

Speek is a privacy-focused messenger that ensures complete anonymity, decentralization, and censorship resistance. It safeguards your communications by never exposing your identity, contact list, or messages.

Speek screenshot

Key Features

  • 100% anonymous and decentralized communication
  • End-to-end encryption with no metadata storage
  • Messages routed via the Tor network to hide IP addresses
  • Anonymous file sharing capabilities
  • No phone number or personal ID required
  • Censorship-resistant and serverless design

Speek enables secure, end-to-end encrypted messaging by creating a Tor hidden service on the user's device. Messages are routed through the Tor network, ensuring IP addresses remain hidden and no metadata is stored. With a decentralized structure requiring no phone number or identity verification, Speek also supports anonymous file sharing, making it ideal for sensitive conversations.

#5
Coyim logo

Coyim

597
81

CoyIM is a secure, multi-platform chat client built exclusively for XMPP. Designed for users who prioritize privacy, it delivers robust security measures without the clutter of unnecessary features.

Coyim screenshot

Key Features

  • End-to-end encryption using OTR v3
  • Automatic anonymization through Tor and TLS support
  • Minimal configuration for enhanced security
  • Multi-platform support (Windows, Linux, macOS)
  • Secure account migration from other chat clients

CoyIM provides a straightforward chat experience with end-to-end encryption and built-in support for Tor, OTR, and TLS. The application minimizes the attack surface by offering only essential security features while avoiding plugins and excessive configuration. Available for Windows, Linux, and macOS, it maintains a clean and focused user interface for secure communication on the XMPP protocol.

#6
Berty logo

Berty

7,770
395

Berty is a secure peer-to-peer messaging app designed for seamless, censorship-free communication. It enables you to exchange messages without relying on centralized networks, ensuring your conversations remain private and anonymous.

Berty screenshot

Key Features

  • Secure peer-to-peer messaging
  • Censorship-resistant communication
  • End-to-end encryption by default
  • No internet or cellular data required
  • Distributed and decentralized network architecture
  • Easy contact sharing via QR codes and public keys

Berty leverages a fully distributed, decentralized network to facilitate messaging without the need for SIM cards or internet connectivity. With end-to-end encryption enabled by default, your conversations are protected even in restrictive environments. The app supports Bluetooth Low Energy (BLE) for uninterrupted communication and offers simple ways to add contacts via QR codes, public keys, or invite links.

About Telegram

Telegram is a messaging app that offers a wide range of features and services to its users. It is a popular choice for people who value privacy and security in their online communications. With Telegram, you can message anyone who has the app, and they can message you as well. You can also invite friends to join Telegram and easily connect with them. One of the unique features of Telegram is the ability to hide your last seen status, giving you more control over your online presence. Additionally, Telegram offers voice, video, and group calls, allowing you to communicate with others in different ways. The app also allows you to create and join groups and channels where you can share information and engage with like-minded individuals. With Telegram, you can have a username to identify yourself, and t.me provides a simple way to share your profile with others. Overall, Telegram provides a secure and versatile messaging experience for all its users.
This comparison data was compiled with AI assistance.
Telegram logo

Telegram

Telegram is a cloud-based mobile and desktop messaging app with a focus on security and speed.

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Location

London, United Kingdom

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