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Top Alternatives to Empathy

Looking for Empathy alternatives? We've curated 50 top alternatives that offer similar functionality. Whether you need options, free plans, or open source solutions, explore our comprehensive list to find the perfect fit for your needs.

Open Source

Empathy Alternatives

Below you'll find the best alternatives to Empathy. We've analyzed these options based on features, user ratings, and compatibility to help you find the right solution. Each alternative offers unique advantages that might better suit your specific needs and budget.

Skype

Skype

Freemium Office & Productivity VoIP Client

Skype is a versatile communication platform offering free voice and video calls to other Skype users, as well as affordable calls to landlines and mobile phones worldwide. It provides instant messaging, file sharing, and screen sharing features, making it a comprehensive tool for personal and professional connectivity across various devices.

Unique Features

  • Free voice and video calls to other Skype users.
  • Affordable calls to landlines and mobiles worldwide.
  • Available on a wide range of platforms and devices.

Compared to Empathy

Free voice and video calls to other Skype users. compared to Empathy
Performance can sometimes be inconsistent. unlike Empathy
Pidgin

Pidgin

Open Source Online Services Instant Messaging Client

Pidgin is a free and open-source multi-protocol instant messaging client designed to connect users across various chat networks with a single application. It's highly extensible through plugins and supports a wide range of protocols including XMPP, ICQ, and IRC.

Unique Features

  • Supports a wide range of instant messaging protocols, consolidating multiple networks into one application.
  • Highly customizable and extensible through a robust plugin system.
  • Generally lightweight and efficient on system resources.

Compared to Empathy

Supports a wide range of instant messaging protocols, consolidating multiple networks into one application. compared to ...
User interface is dated compared to modern messaging applications. unlike Empathy
Hangouts

Google Hangouts was a versatile communication platform offering instant messaging, voice and video calls, and SMS capabilities directly from web browsers and mobile devices. Integrated deeply with Gmail and other Google services, it provided a convenient way to connect and collaborate across various platforms.

Unique Features

  • Strong integration with Gmail and other Google services.
  • Supports multiple communication methods in one app.
  • Seamless conversation synchronization across devices.

Compared to Empathy

Strong integration with Gmail and other Google services. compared to Empathy
Development and focus shifted to other Google products. unlike Empathy
Adium

Adium

Open Source Social & Communications Desktop Application

Adium is a free and open-source instant messaging client for macOS, designed to connect to multiple chat networks simultaneously. Supporting protocols like Jabber (XMPP), Google Talk, AOL Instant Messenger (AIM), ICQ, MSN Messenger, and Yahoo! Messenger, Adium provides a unified interface for all your conversations.

Unique Features

  • Connects to multiple instant messaging networks within one application.
  • Highly customizable interface and behavior through themes and settings.
  • Supports OTR encryption for enhanced conversation privacy.

Compared to Empathy

Connects to multiple instant messaging networks within one application. compared to Empathy
Does not support newer popular messaging platforms like WhatsApp or Slack. unlike Empathy
Tox

Tox

Open Source File Sharing Instant Messaging

Tox is a free, open-source, and secure peer-to-peer instant messaging and video calling protocol designed for strong privacy and censorship resistance. It provides end-to-end encrypted communications without reliance on central servers.

Unique Features

  • Decentralized architecture enhances privacy and censorship resistance.
  • End-to-end encryption for all communication types by default.
  • No central servers mean no central point of failure or data collection.

Compared to Empathy

Decentralized architecture enhances privacy and censorship resistance. compared to Empathy
User experience can be inconsistent depending on the client used. unlike Empathy
Trillian

Trillian

Freemium Office & Productivity Instant Messaging Client

Trillian is a versatile, multi-protocol instant messaging client that unifies various communication platforms like IRC, XMPP, and more into a single, user-friendly interface. It's designed for both personal and team collaboration, offering features like encrypted chats, group collaboration tools, and extensive customization options.

Unique Features

  • Unifies multiple chat services into one application.
  • Supports a wide range of messaging protocols.
  • Includes features for team collaboration.

Compared to Empathy

Unifies multiple chat services into one application. compared to Empathy
Performance can be dependent on the stability of connected external networks. unlike Empathy
Jitsi

Jitsi

Open Source Business & Commerce Video Conferencing

Jitsi is a free and open-source suite of secure, flexible communication tools. It offers multi-platform support for voice (VoIP), video conferencing, and instant messaging, emphasizing privacy and ease of use with no account required to start a meeting.

Unique Features

  • Free and open source.
  • No account required for quick meetings.
  • Browser-based access, no download needed.

Compared to Empathy

Free and open source. compared to Empathy
Performance can depend on the hosting environment. unlike Empathy
Digsby

Digsby

Open Source Social & Communications Desktop Application

Digsby was a multi-protocol instant messaging client that unified connections to various chat networks and social media platforms. It allowed users to manage their conversations and updates from services like Aim, Msn, Yahoo, Twitter, Facebook, and Myspace all within a single, integrated application.

Unique Features

  • Consolidated multiple communication services into one application.
  • Allowed management of IM, social networks, and email in a unified interface.
  • Supported a wide range of popular instant messaging protocols.

Compared to Empathy

Consolidated multiple communication services into one application. compared to Empathy
Service is discontinued and no longer available or supported. unlike Empathy
Miranda IM

Miranda IM

Open Source Online Services Instant Messenger

Miranda IM is a lightweight, open-source, multi-protocol instant messaging client designed specifically for Microsoft Windows. Known for its extensibility and resource efficiency, it allows users to connect to various chat networks simultaneously through a flexible plugin-based architecture.

Unique Features

  • Supports multiple chat protocols via plugins.
  • Extremely light on system resources.
  • Highly customizable through a vast plugin library.

Compared to Empathy

Supports multiple chat protocols via plugins. compared to Empathy
Requires plugin installation for most functionality. unlike Empathy
Imo

Imo

Free Social & Communications Communication

Imo is a free instant messaging and video calling application designed for global reach, prioritizing reliability, particularly in regions with unstable network conditions. It offers features like voice and video calls, chat, group messaging, and various multimedia sharing options.

Unique Features

  • Excellent performance on low-bandwidth networks.
  • Reliable voice and video call quality in challenging conditions.
  • Lightweight and resource-efficient.

Compared to Empathy

Excellent performance on low-bandwidth networks. compared to Empathy
Feature set may be less extensive than some competitors. unlike Empathy
Facebook Messenger

Facebook Messenger is the official messaging application from Facebook, enabling users to connect with friends and family through text, voice, and video calls, as well as group conversations and media sharing.

Unique Features

  • Vast user base due to Facebook integration.
  • Supports text, voice, and video communication.
  • Good functionality for group chats.

Compared to Empathy

Vast user base due to Facebook integration. compared to Empathy
Can be resource-intensive. unlike Empathy
IM+

IM+

Freemium Online Services Instant Messaging Client

IM+ is a versatile instant messaging application designed to unify communication across multiple platforms. It supports a wide array of popular services, including Google Talk, Twitter DMs, Yahoo!, AIM/iChat, ICQ, Jabber, and even Slack. IM+ simplifies staying connected with friends, family, and colleagues, offering a centralized hub for all your chat needs.

Unique Features

  • Supports a wide range of instant messaging protocols.
  • Consolidates multiple chat accounts into one interface.
  • Unified contact list for easier management.

Compared to Empathy

Supports a wide range of instant messaging protocols. compared to Empathy
Advanced features specific to native clients might not be fully supported. unlike Empathy
Linphone

Linphone

Open Source Social & Communications SIP Client

Linphone is a free and open-source Voice over IP (VoIP) application and SIP client available on multiple platforms. It enables encrypted voice and video calls, instant messaging, and file sharing, offering a privacy-focused communication solution.

Unique Features

  • Free and open-source with strong privacy features
  • Supports end-to-end encryption for calls and chat
  • SIP standard compliant, allowing connection to various VoIP providers

Compared to Empathy

Free and open-source with strong privacy features compared to Empathy
User interface can feel dated on some platforms unlike Empathy
LINE

LINE

Freemium Network & Admin Communication

LINE is a versatile communication platform offering free voice and video calls, messaging, and a wide array of interactive features to connect with friends and family globally. It goes beyond basic chat with unique stickers, timeline posts, and integration with various services, providing a comprehensive social and communication experience in one app.

Unique Features

  • Free voice and video calls globally.
  • Large and expressive sticker collection.
  • Features like Timeline and Public Groups enhance social interaction.

Compared to Empathy

Free voice and video calls globally. compared to Empathy
Interface can feel slightly cluttered due to many features. unlike Empathy
mIRC

mIRC

Commercial Social & Communications Desktop Application

mIRC is a classic Internet Relay Chat (IRC) client for Windows, providing a robust and highly customizable interface for connecting to IRC networks and participating in online chat communities.

Unique Features

  • Extremely powerful and flexible scripting language.
  • Highly stable and reliable performance.
  • Extensive customization options.

Compared to Empathy

Extremely powerful and flexible scripting language. compared to Empathy
Dated user interface. unlike Empathy
Psi

Psi

Open Source Social & Communications Instant Messaging Client

Psi is a robust, open-source instant messaging client built on the XMPP protocol. It's known for its focus on speed, efficiency, and adherence to XMPP standards, offering a clean interface and strong privacy features for secure and reliable communication.

Unique Features

  • Dedicated XMPP support ensures compliance and reliability on the network.
  • Strong emphasis on security and privacy with support for encryption protocols like OMEMO and OTR.
  • Lightweight and efficient, performing well on various systems.

Compared to Empathy

Dedicated XMPP support ensures compliance and reliability on the network. compared to Empathy
User interface can appear dated compared to modern applications. unlike Empathy
Wire

Wire

Free Photos & Graphics Messaging

Wire is a secure, cross-platform messaging and collaboration client offering end-to-end encryption by default for all communication types including messaging, voice and video calls, and file sharing across desktop and mobile devices.

Unique Features

  • Strong, always-on end-to-end encryption for all communication.
  • Available on multiple platforms including desktop and mobile.
  • Open source code for transparency and security auditing.

Compared to Empathy

Strong, always-on end-to-end encryption for all communication. compared to Empathy
Smaller user base compared to some mainstream alternatives. unlike Empathy
Kopete

Kopete

Open Source Online Services Desktop Application

Kopete is a versatile, free and open-source instant messaging client designed initially for the KDE Plasma desktop. It distinguishes itself by supporting a multitude of protocols, allowing users to connect to various chat networks from a single application.

Unique Features

  • Supports multiple instant messaging protocols in one application.
  • Free and open source software.
  • Extensible through a plugin system.

Compared to Empathy

Supports multiple instant messaging protocols in one application. compared to Empathy
Some supported protocols are less widely used now. unlike Empathy
Franz

Franz

Free Social & Communications Desktop Application

Franz is a free, open-source application that consolidates multiple messaging and chat services into a single, convenient interface. It allows users to manage conversations across platforms like WhatsApp, Telegram, Slack, and more without switching between different apps.

Unique Features

  • Centralizes multiple messaging services into one application.
  • Supports a wide variety of popular and niche chat platforms.
  • Allows adding multiple accounts for the same service.

Compared to Empathy

Centralizes multiple messaging services into one application. compared to Empathy
Performance can be impacted by the number of active services. unlike Empathy
Ring

Ring

Open Source Social & Communications Softphone

Ring (SFLphone) is a free and open-source communication platform offering secure messaging, voice, and video calls. It leverages decentralization and end-to-end encryption for enhanced privacy across multiple operating systems including Linux, Windows, macOS, and Android.

Unique Features

  • Strong emphasis on privacy and security with end-to-end encryption.
  • Decentralized architecture increases resilience and prevents central control.
  • Open-source and free to use.

Compared to Empathy

Strong emphasis on privacy and security with end-to-end encryption. compared to Empathy
User interface can be less polished than commercial alternatives. unlike Empathy
ICQ

ICQ

Free Social & Communications Desktop Application

ICQ is a veteran instant messaging platform offering a wide range of communication features, including text chat, voice and video calls, screen sharing, and group chats. It aims to provide a reliable and feature-rich messaging experience with a focus on privacy and security.

Unique Features

  • Offers end-to-end encryption for enhanced privacy.
  • Provides voice and video calling features.
  • Supports group chats with threaded conversations.

Compared to Empathy

Offers end-to-end encryption for enhanced privacy. compared to Empathy
User base may be smaller compared to leading messengers. unlike Empathy
FaceTime

FaceTime

Freemium Social & Communications Communication

FaceTime is Apple's integrated video and audio calling service, providing a seamless communication experience across Apple devices. It allows users to connect with friends and family through high-quality video and audio calls, including group conversations.

Unique Features

  • Excellent video and audio quality
  • Seamless integration with Apple devices
  • Strong privacy and security with end-to-end encryption

Compared to Empathy

Excellent video and audio quality compared to Empathy
Exclusive to Apple devices (cannot call Android or Windows users) unlike Empathy
appear.in

appear.in offers effortless, browser-based video conferencing with no downloads, PIN codes, or registration required. Instantly create and join video rooms, perfect for quick meetings, chats, and screen sharing.

Unique Features

  • Extremely easy to use with no installation or registration required.
  • Quick and effortless room creation for instant meetings.
  • Supports screen sharing and text chat.

Compared to Empathy

Extremely easy to use with no installation or registration required. compared to Empathy
Free tier has limitations on participant numbers and features. unlike Empathy
Kik

Kik

Free Social & Communications Instant Messaging

Kik Messenger is a popular instant messaging application designed for smartphones. It enables users to send text messages, photos, videos, and participate in group chats. Known for its user-friendly interface and focus on the social aspect of messaging, Kik offers a space for communication and connection.

Unique Features

  • No phone number required for registration.
  • Good selection of stickers and animated stickers.
  • Chat bot integration provides interactive content.

Compared to Empathy

No phone number required for registration. compared to Empathy
User interface can feel somewhat dated. unlike Empathy
Gajim

Gajim

Open Source Social & Communications Desktop Application

Gajim is a free and open-source instant messaging client for the XMPP protocol. Built using the GTK+ toolkit, it offers a wide array of features for secure and flexible communication, including encrypted chat, group conversations, multi-protocol support via gateways, and extensive customization options.

Unique Features

  • Strong focus on security and privacy with OMEMO/OTR encryption.
  • Based on the open and decentralized XMPP protocol.
  • Highly extensible through a comprehensive plugin system.

Compared to Empathy

Strong focus on security and privacy with OMEMO/OTR encryption. compared to Empathy
Steeper learning curve for users new to XMPP concepts. unlike Empathy
Miranda NG

Miranda NG

Open Source Online Services Desktop Application

Miranda NG is a highly extensible, multi-protocol instant messaging client for Windows. A successor to the popular Miranda IM, it offers a modular architecture supporting numerous chat networks, allowing users to consolidate their conversations into a single interface. It's designed for resource efficiency and deep customization.

Unique Features

  • Connects to a wide range of chat networks
  • Highly customizable through plugins and settings
  • Extremely lightweight and uses minimal system resources

Compared to Empathy

Connects to a wide range of chat networks compared to Empathy
User interface can feel dated without customization unlike Empathy
Quassel IRC

Quassel IRC

Open Source Social & Communications IRC Client

Quassel IRC is a powerful, distributed, and cross-platform IRC client designed for continuous connectivity and efficient management of multiple IRC networks and conversations.

Unique Features

  • Persistent connection and message history through distributed core.
  • Access your IRC session from multiple devices.
  • Excellent logging capabilities.

Compared to Empathy

Persistent connection and message history through distributed core. compared to Empathy
Requires setting up and running a separate core component. unlike Empathy
iMessage

iMessage

Free Social & Communications Instant Messaging

iMessage is a secure instant messaging service developed by Apple, seamlessly integrated across its ecosystem of devices. It allows users to send text messages, photos, videos, audio messages, and more, with end-to-end encryption for enhanced privacy.

Unique Features

  • Strong emphasis on user privacy through end-to-end encryption for iMessages.
  • Seamlessly integrated across all Apple devices for a consistent user experience.
  • Rich set of features including media sharing, group chats, and message effects.

Compared to Empathy

Strong emphasis on user privacy through end-to-end encryption for iMessages. compared to Empathy
Limited to Apple users for full functionality and encrypted communication. unlike Empathy
Xabber

Xabber

Open Source Social & Communications Mobile Application

Xabber is a free and open-source XMPP (Jabber) client for Android. It provides secure and reliable instant messaging with support for various XMPP features, including encryption, group chat, and decentralized communication. Leveraging the open XMPP protocol, Xabber offers a privacy-friendly alternative to centralized messaging platforms.

Unique Features

  • Strong focus on security and privacy through encryption and decentralized architecture.
  • Supports a wide range of XMPP features, including group chat and federation.
  • Lightweight and resource-efficient on Android devices.

Compared to Empathy

Strong focus on security and privacy through encryption and decentralized architecture. compared to Empathy
User interface could benefit from a more modern design. unlike Empathy
Matrix.org

Matrix.org

Open Source Development Messaging

Matrix is an open network for secure, decentralized real-time communication. It provides a flexible protocol for developers to build collaborative applications like instant messaging, VoIP, and video conferencing, enabling seamless communication across different service providers.

Unique Features

  • Decentralized architecture increases resilience and prevents single points of failure.
  • Strong emphasis on end-to-end encryption for enhanced privacy and security.
  • Open standard and protocol fosters innovation and avoids vendor lock-in.

Compared to Empathy

Decentralized architecture increases resilience and prevents single points of failure. compared to Empathy
User experience can vary depending on the selected client and server. unlike Empathy
Spark

Spark

Open Source Social & Communications Desktop Client

Spark is a free, open-source instant messaging client optimized for businesses and organizations. It integrates seamlessly with Openfire servers and supports a wide range of features including group chat, file transfers, and screen sharing, making it a versatile communication tool.

Unique Features

  • Free and Open Source
  • Robust Group Chat and File Sharing
  • Extensive Plugin Support

Compared to Empathy

Free and Open Source compared to Empathy
Outdated User Interface unlike Empathy
Tango

Tango

Freemium Photos & Graphics Communication App

Tango is a comprehensive communication platform that offers free messaging, high-quality video and voice calls, and features for discovering and connecting with new people. It integrates social elements like photo sharing and groups, alongside essential security and privacy features.

Unique Features

  • High-quality free video calls.
  • Free messaging and voice calls.
  • End-to-End Encryption for privacy.

Compared to Empathy

High-quality free video calls. compared to Empathy
User interface can feel less refined than competitors. unlike Empathy
qutIM

qutIM

Open Source Social & Communications Desktop Application

qutIM is a free and open-source, multi-protocol instant messenger designed for connecting to various networks including ICQ, Jabber, Mail.Ru, IRC, and VKontakte. It offers a unified interface for managing multiple accounts and conversations.

Unique Features

  • Connects to multiple popular messaging protocols
  • Free and open-source with a focus on privacy
  • Customizable user interface

Compared to Empathy

Connects to multiple popular messaging protocols compared to Empathy
The project is discontinued, meaning no official updates or support unlike Empathy
KakaoTalk

KakaoTalk

Freemium Social & Communications Instant Messaging

KakaoTalk is a popular mobile messaging service offering free text, voice, and video calls. Primarily used in South Korea, it provides a comprehensive communication platform with features like group chats, stickers, and a strong emphasis on user privacy and security.

Unique Features

  • Free voice and video calls
  • Comprehensive group chat features
  • Engaging sticker collection

Compared to Empathy

Free voice and video calls compared to Empathy
Smaller user base outside of South Korea compared to global competitors unlike Empathy
Psi+

Psi+

Open Source Social & Communications Desktop Application

Psi+ is a robust, cross-platform XMPP/Jabber client tailored for users who prioritize control, privacy, and extensibility. As a development branch of the classic Psi client, it offers advanced features for secure and customizable instant messaging.

Unique Features

  • Strong focus on privacy and security with OTR support.
  • Decentralized communication using the open XMPP protocol.
  • Highly extensible through a comprehensive plugin system.

Compared to Empathy

Strong focus on privacy and security with OTR support. compared to Empathy
Can have a steeper learning curve for new users. unlike Empathy
Conversations

Conversations is a privacy-focused, open-source XMPP/Jabber client for Android. It offers robust end-to-end encryption using OMEMO and OTR, supports modern XMPP extensions, and provides a secure, decentralized messaging experience without relying on proprietary servers. It's an ideal choice for users prioritizing security and open standards.

Unique Features

  • Strong end-to-end encryption (OMEMO, OTR).
  • Decentralized, open-source architecture.
  • Adherence to open XMPP standards.

Compared to Empathy

Strong end-to-end encryption (OMEMO, OTR). compared to Empathy
Requires contacts to also use XMPP clients for seamless communication. unlike Empathy
Rambox

Rambox

Open Source Social & Communications Desktop Utility

Rambox is a FOSS and portable messaging and emailing application that consolidates numerous web services into a single, convenient interface. It supports a wide array of communication and collaboration platforms, including popular chat, email, and social media services, offering a unified experience with features like unified inbox and notifications.

Unique Features

  • Consolidates numerous communication services into one application.
  • Supports multiple accounts for the same service.
  • Portable version available for use on different machines.

Compared to Empathy

Consolidates numerous communication services into one application. compared to Empathy
Can be resource-intensive, especially with many services. unlike Empathy
Zoiper

Zoiper is a versatile and easy-to-use SIP softphone designed for clear voice and video communications. It offers excellent audio quality, robust security features, and seamless integration with various communication protocols, making it ideal for personal and business use.

Unique Features

  • Excellent voice quality for clear conversations.
  • Robust security with encryption options.
  • Supports video calling and screen sharing.

Compared to Empathy

Excellent voice quality for clear conversations. compared to Empathy
Initial SIP configuration can be complex for some users. unlike Empathy
Google Duo

Google Duo is a high-quality video calling application designed for simplicity and reliability. Available across multiple platforms, it offers crisp video and clear audio, making it ideal for connecting with friends and family securely.

Unique Features

  • Excellent call quality on various networks
  • Simple and user-friendly interface
  • End-to-end encryption provides strong security

Compared to Empathy

Excellent call quality on various networks compared to Empathy
Fewer advanced features compared to some competitors unlike Empathy
Blink

Blink

Freemium Office & Productivity Softphone

Blink is a robust, real-time communications client leveraging the SIP protocol for secure and private instant messaging, voice, and video calls. It emphasizes features like end-to-end encryption, file sharing, and screen sharing across various platforms.

Unique Features

  • Strong end-to-end encryption for privacy.
  • Based on the open and decentralized SIP protocol.
  • Includes comprehensive communication features (voice, video, chat).

Compared to Empathy

Strong end-to-end encryption for privacy. compared to Empathy
Requires a SIP account or server setup. unlike Empathy
Jitsi Meet

Jitsi Meet

Open Source File Sharing Video Conferencing

Jitsi Meet is a free, open-source video conferencing platform enabling secure and scalable group calls directly in your browser. It prioritizes privacy and offers features like screen sharing, chat, and collaborative editing without requiring account creation or software downloads.

Unique Features

  • Free and Open Source
  • No Account Required
  • Browser-Based Access

Compared to Empathy

Free and Open Source compared to Empathy
Scalability can depend on instance resources unlike Empathy
Bit Chat

Bit Chat

Open Source File Sharing Instant Messaging

Bit Chat is a secure, open-source, peer-to-peer instant messenger platform that prioritizes user privacy and security through robust end-to-end encryption and a decentralized network architecture. It empowers users with direct, encrypted communication, bypassing central servers and enhancing resistance to surveillance and censorship.

Unique Features

  • True peer-to-peer architecture enhances privacy and resilience.
  • Robust end-to-end encryption for all communication.
  • Open-source code enables security audits and builds trust.

Compared to Empathy

True peer-to-peer architecture enhances privacy and resilience. compared to Empathy
May require both parties to be online simultaneously for direct communication. unlike Empathy
Coccinella

Coccinella

Open Source Network & Admin Desktop Application

Coccinella is a free and open-source, cross-platform XMPP/Jabber client. It offers secure instant messaging, group chat, voice chat, and a unique interactive whiteboard feature. Designed with privacy and security in mind, Coccinella provides encrypted communications and supports various communication protocols for a flexible messaging experience on Windows, macOS, and Linux.

Unique Features

  • Strong focus on security and privacy with end-to-end encryption.
  • Supports the decentralized XMPP protocol.
  • Includes a unique interactive whiteboard feature.

Compared to Empathy

Strong focus on security and privacy with end-to-end encryption. compared to Empathy
User interface feels dated compared to modern messengers. unlike Empathy
Zulip

Zulip

Open Source Development Web Application

Zulip is a powerful open-source group chat application designed for team collaboration. It uniquely structures conversations around topics, enabling users to easily catch up on important discussions and manage information overload. Zulip facilitates secure communication with integrated file sharing and various integrations.

Unique Features

  • Excellent at organizing complex conversations with its unique topic-based structure.
  • Helps in managing information overload compared to flat chat systems.
  • Open-source and offers a self-hosting option for greater data control and privacy.

Compared to Empathy

Excellent at organizing complex conversations with its unique topic-based structure. compared to Empathy
The topic-based model may require an initial adjustment period for new users. unlike Empathy
Disa

Disa

Open Source Social & Communications Mobile Application

Disa is a unified messaging hub that consolidates conversations from various services like SMS, Facebook, and WhatsApp into a single interface, simplifying communication management.

Unique Features

  • Consolidates messages from multiple services into one app.
  • Ability to merge conversations from different services with one contact.
  • Extensible through plugins for adding more services.

Compared to Empathy

Consolidates messages from multiple services into one app. compared to Empathy
Reliability and availability of third-party plugins can vary. unlike Empathy
Dialog Messenger

Dialog Messenger

Free Personal Office & Productivity Web Application

Dialog Messenger is a robust, feature-rich enterprise messaging solution designed for businesses prioritizing security, privacy, and control. Available for both private server deployment and cloud hosting, it facilitates secure text, voice, and video communication across multiple devices, enabling seamless collaboration and real-time interaction within organizations.

Unique Features

  • Strong focus on security and privacy with encryption and self-hosting options.
  • Provides complete control over data for compliance and sovereignty.
  • Includes essential communication features like text, voice, and video chat.

Compared to Empathy

Strong focus on security and privacy with encryption and self-hosting options. compared to Empathy
Implementation and maintenance of self-hosted solutions can require technical expertise. unlike Empathy
Shout

Shout

Open Source Social & Communications Web Application

Shout is a modern, self-hosted web-based IRC client designed for ease of use and accessibility. It allows users to connect to IRC networks and channels directly through their web browser, offering continuous connectivity even when the browser is closed.

Unique Features

  • Persistent IRC connection even when browser is closed.
  • Full control over your data and environment through self-hosting.
  • Modern and responsive web interface accessible from any device.

Compared to Empathy

Persistent IRC connection even when browser is closed. compared to Empathy
Requires technical knowledge to set up and maintain a server. unlike Empathy
Tkabber

Tkabber

Open Source Online Services Desktop Application

Tkabber is a free and open-source instant messaging client specifically designed for the XMPP protocol. Built with the Tk toolkit, it offers a lightweight yet extensible platform for text-based chat, group conversations, and various interactive functionalities supported by XMPP.

Unique Features

  • Dedicated client for the XMPP protocol, ensuring strong compatibility.
  • Highly extensible through a robust plugin system.
  • Lightweight and efficient in terms of system resource usage.

Compared to Empathy

Dedicated client for the XMPP protocol, ensuring strong compatibility. compared to Empathy
User interface is functional but dated compared to modern clients. unlike Empathy
Dasher Messenger

Dasher Messenger is a feature-rich instant messaging application designed for connecting with friends and groups. It goes beyond basic text messaging, offering capabilities to share various forms of media, integrate external content, and even facilitate peer-to-peer transactions.

Unique Features

  • Integrated money transfer feature
  • Seamless YouTube video sharing and viewing
  • Support for animated GIFs

Compared to Empathy

Integrated money transfer feature compared to Empathy
Smaller user base compared to established platforms unlike Empathy
YakYak

YakYak

Open Source Social & Communications Desktop Client

YakYak is an unofficial desktop client for Google Hangouts, providing a dedicated application experience outside of a web browser with features focused on convenience and improved usability.

Unique Features

  • Provides a dedicated desktop application for Google Hangouts.
  • Offers native system notifications for incoming messages.
  • Portable option available, no installation required.

Compared to Empathy

Provides a dedicated desktop application for Google Hangouts. compared to Empathy
Does not support voice or video calls. unlike Empathy

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