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Threema

Swiss encrypted messenger that can be used without personal data

80.5
Score in best messaging apps
Visit threema.com AlternativesCompareShare

Ranked 6 of 10 in best messaging apps

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.

Best for Privacy-focused messaging with a one-time fee

About Threema

Threema is an end-to-end encrypted messenger for chats, group chats, voice and video calls, polls and emoji reactions. Its website says it minimizes metadata and can be used anonymously, and the company positions it as a privacy-first alternative to mainstream messengers. The Private app is for personal use only.

The Private app is a one-time purchase, with the price set by each app store, so there is no free tier. Threema also sells Work and OnPrem editions for companies, which add user management, broadcast messaging and air-gapped or self-hosted operation. The download page lists mobile and desktop versions. Because its Android code is public under AGPL-3.0, the app can be checked more easily than closed messengers, though its core use requires a purchase.

Key features

  • End-to-end encrypted chats and calls
  • Anonymous use with minimal metadata
  • One-time purchase for personal use
  • Self-hosted OnPrem edition

Strengths

  • Can be used anonymously, with minimal metadata
  • Android app source code published under AGPL-3.0
  • OnPrem edition supports self-hosting and air-gapped use

Limits

  • The Private app is paid, with no free tier
  • Fewer everyday features than the largest messengers

Where Threema ranks

How Threema compares

ProductScorePricePlatformsEnd-to-end encrypted by default
#4Messages84.0FreeiOS, iPadOSmacOSYes
#5Element82.0Free plan, paid upgradesAndroidiOSWindowsmacOSLinuxWebYes
#6Threema80.5One-time purchaseAndroidiOSYes
#7Session79.5Free and open sourceAndroidiOSWindowsmacOSLinuxYes
#8Discord78.5Free plan, paid upgradesWindowsmacOSLinuxiOSAndroidWebNo

The full comparison table for best messaging apps has all 10 products.

Alternatives to Threema

All 9 alternatives

Compare Threema

Questions about Threema

Is Threema free?
Threema is a paid product (one-time purchase). Private app is a one-time purchase; price varies by app store.
Is Threema open source?
Yes. Threema publishes its source code under the AGPL-3.0 license.
Which platforms does Threema support?
Threema is available on: Android, iOS.
What is Threema best for?
Privacy-focused messaging with a one-time fee. In our ranking of messaging apps it is number 6 of 10 with a score of 80.5.
What are the best alternatives to Threema?
The highest-ranked alternatives on listme.name are Signal, WhatsApp, Telegram, Messages.

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Ranked #6 of 10 messaging apps on listme.name
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