Choose Signal if you want
Private one-to-one and group messaging.
Encrypts chats and calls by default, publishes its client apps under AGPL-3.0 and runs on Linux, Windows and Mac. Reaching a contact means they must install it, so its reach is smaller than WhatsApp's.
Choose Threema if you want
Privacy-focused messaging with a one-time fee.
Encrypts chats and calls by default, can be used without personal data and publishes its Android code under AGPL-3.0. The Private app costs money, so it reaches fewer people than the free mass-reach apps.
The main differences
- Only Signal runs on Linux.
- Only Signal runs on Windows.
- Only Signal runs on macOS.
- Signal can be used for free; Threema requires payment.
Side by side
 Signal |  Threema | |
|---|---|---|
| Score | 92.5 | 80.5 |
| Rank in list | #1 of 7 | #6 of 7 |
| Price | FreeFree for everyone; the nonprofit is funded by donations | One-time purchasePrivate app is a one-time purchase; price varies by app store |
| Free to use | Yes | No |
| Open source | Yes | Yes |
| Platforms | AndroidiOS, iPadOSWindowsmacOSLinuxAndroid, iOS, iPadOS, Windows, macOS, Linux | AndroidiOSAndroid, iOS |
| Made by | Not stated | Not stated |
| End-to-end encrypted by default | Yes | Yes |
| Best for | Private one-to-one and group messaging | Privacy-focused messaging with a one-time fee |
| Strengths |
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| Limits |
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| Links | Visit site | Visit site |
Questions about Signal vs Threema
- Is Signal better than Threema?
- Signal ranks higher in our list of messaging apps (#1 against #6, score 92.5 against 80.5). Signal is best for: private one-to-one and group messaging. Threema is best for: privacy-focused messaging with a one-time fee.
- Which is cheaper, Signal or Threema?
- Signal: Free for everyone; the nonprofit is funded by donations. Threema: Private app is a one-time purchase; price varies by app store.
- Do Signal and Threema run on the same platforms?
- Signal supports Android, iOS, iPadOS, Windows, macOS, Linux. Threema supports Android, iOS.