Session
Private messenger that routes messages through onion-routed paths
- #7 of 10 in best messaging apps
- Free and open source
- Free to use
- Open source
- AndroidiOSWindowsmacOSLinux
Ranked 7 of 10 in best messaging apps
An open-source messenger that routes traffic through onion-routed paths on a decentralized network, with desktop apps for Windows, macOS and Linux. Most contacts are not on it yet, unlike WhatsApp, so it suits privacy-first groups.
Best for Private messaging with metadata protection
About Session
Session sends end-to-end encrypted messages through a decentralized network of service nodes. The site says onion-routed paths protect conversations and reduce metadata collection, and anyone can audit the code on GitHub.
The apps run on Android and iPhone, and the desktop client runs on Windows, macOS and Linux. The desktop code is published under GPL-3.0, and the app is free to use. Most contacts will not already be on the network, unlike WhatsApp or Telegram, so the app suits groups that agree to switch together.
Key features
- Onion-routed messages
- Decentralized service nodes
- End-to-end encryption
- Apps for mobile and desktop
- Open source
Strengths
- Onion-routed paths and end-to-end encryption
- Open source with GPL-3.0 desktop code
Limits
- Most contacts are not already on the network
Where Session ranks
How Session compares
| Product | Score | Price | Platforms | End-to-end encrypted by default |
|---|---|---|---|---|
#5 Element | 82.0 | Free plan, paid upgrades | AndroidiOSWindowsmacOSLinuxWeb | Yes |
#6 Threema | 80.5 | One-time purchase | AndroidiOS | Yes |
| #7Session | 79.5 | Free and open source | AndroidiOSWindowsmacOSLinux | Yes |
#8 Discord | 78.5 | Free plan, paid upgrades | WindowsmacOSLinuxiOSAndroidWeb | No |
#9 SimpleX Chat | 78.0 | Free and open source | LinuxmacOSWindowsiOSAndroidCommand line | Yes |
The full comparison table for best messaging apps has all 10 products.
Questions about Session
- Is Session free?
- Session can be used without paying: Free and open source; onion-routed, end-to-end encrypted messages. Check the vendor’s pricing page for current limits.
- Is Session open source?
- Yes. Session publishes its source code under the GPL-3.0 license.
- Which platforms does Session support?
- Session is available on: Android, iOS, Windows, macOS, Linux.
- What is Session best for?
- Private messaging with metadata protection. In our ranking of messaging apps it is number 7 of 10 with a score of 79.5.
Show this ranking on your site
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