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Top Alternatives to Tox

Looking for Tox alternatives? We've curated 28 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

Tox Alternatives

Below you'll find the best alternatives to Tox. 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.

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 Tox

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 Tox
Telegram

Telegram

Free Security & Privacy Instant Messaging

Telegram is a fast and secure cloud-based instant messaging platform offering robust privacy features, large group support, file sharing, and cross-platform synchronization, making it a versatile communication tool.

Unique Features

  • Strong focus on privacy and security features.
  • Fast and reliable message delivery, even on weak networks.
  • Generous file size limit and cloud storage.

Compared to Tox

Strong focus on privacy and security features. compared to Tox
Default encryption for regular chats is not end-to-end. unlike Tox
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 Tox

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

Mumble

Open Source Games Communication Software

Mumble is a free and open-source voice communication application designed with low latency and high audio quality in mind, primarily for gamers. It offers features like positional audio, an in-game overlay, and strong privacy through encryption.

Unique Features

  • Extremely low latency for real-time communication.
  • High-quality audio output.
  • Strong encryption for privacy and security.

Compared to Tox

Extremely low latency for real-time communication. compared to Tox
Server hosting can be technically demanding for beginners. unlike Tox
Discord

Discord

Free Games Community Platform

Discord is a versatile free communication platform designed initially for gamers but now widely used for communities of all types. It offers voice and text chat, video calls, and robust server customization for groups of any size, providing a centralized hub for real-time interaction and community building.

Unique Features

  • Excellent voice quality and low latency.
  • Highly customizable servers with detailed permissions.
  • Wide availability across multiple platforms.

Compared to Tox

Excellent voice quality and low latency. compared to Tox
Managing multiple servers can become overwhelming. unlike Tox
Signal

Signal

Open Source Security & Privacy Secure Messaging

Signal is a secure, open-source messaging application that uses end-to-end encryption to protect user communications. It offers text messaging, voice and video calls, group chats, and file sharing, all with a strong focus on privacy and security. Available on multiple platforms, Signal is a leading choice for individuals prioritizing confidential conversations.

Unique Features

  • Strongest end-to-end encryption by default for all communication types.
  • Open source and regularly audited by security experts.
  • Minimal data collection and transparent privacy policy.

Compared to Tox

Strongest end-to-end encryption by default for all communication types. compared to Tox
Requires a phone number for registration. unlike Tox
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 Tox

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

Empathy

Open Source Social & Communications Instant Messaging Client

Empathy is a versatile multi-protocol messaging client designed for text, voice, and video communication across numerous IM networks. It offers features like file transfers, location sharing, and integration with various services, providing a unified communication experience.

Unique Features

  • Supports a vast range of messaging protocols in one application.
  • Includes voice and video calling capabilities.
  • Provides file transfer and screen sharing features.

Compared to Tox

Supports a vast range of messaging protocols in one application. compared to Tox
User interface may feel dated compared to newer clients. unlike Tox
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 Tox

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

RetroShare

Open Source File Sharing File Sharing Software

RetroShare is a secure, decentralized, and open-source communication platform built on a friend-to-friend network, offering encrypted file sharing, serverless email, instant messaging, and forums.

Unique Features

  • Strong emphasis on privacy and security through end-to-end encryption.
  • Decentralized friend-to-friend network architecture eliminates central servers.
  • Offers a comprehensive suite of communication tools (messaging, email, voice, video).

Compared to Tox

Strong emphasis on privacy and security through end-to-end encryption. compared to Tox
Network size and content availability depend on the number of connected friends. unlike Tox
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 Tox

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

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

ChatSecure

Open Source Social & Communications Instant Messaging Client

ChatSecure is a privacy-focused messaging application for iOS that leverages the robust and decentralized XMPP protocol. It offers strong end-to-end encryption using OTR and OMEMO, ensuring confidential communication.

Unique Features

  • Excellent end-to-end encryption with OTR and OMEMO.
  • Decentralized architecture enhances privacy and resilience.
  • Open source for transparency and security audits.

Compared to Tox

Excellent end-to-end encryption with OTR and OMEMO. compared to Tox
Requires familiarity with the XMPP protocol. unlike Tox
Off-the-Record Messaging

Off-the-Record Messaging

Open Source Social & Communications Cryptographic Protocol

Off-the-Record Messaging (OTR) is a cryptographic protocol designed to provide secure, end-to-end encrypted instant messaging conversations for enhanced privacy and security.

Unique Features

  • Provides strong end-to-end encryption.
  • Offers perfect forward secrecy, enhancing security against future key compromises.
  • Includes deniable authentication for plausible deniability.

Compared to Tox

Provides strong end-to-end encryption. compared to Tox
Requires compatible instant messaging clients for use. unlike Tox
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 Tox

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

Threema

Commercial Social & Communications Instant Messaging

Threema is a secure and private messaging application that prioritizes user anonymity and data protection. It offers end-to-end encryption for all messages, calls, and files, requiring no phone number registration to enhance privacy.

Unique Features

  • Strong end-to-end encryption for all communication types.
  • Does not require a phone number for registration, enhancing anonymity.
  • Focused on user privacy with minimal data collection.

Compared to Tox

Strong end-to-end encryption for all communication types. compared to Tox
Requires a one-time purchase. unlike Tox
Bitmessage

Bitmessage

Open Source File Sharing Secure Messaging App

Bitmessage is an open-source peer-to-peer encrypted messaging system designed to provide robust privacy and security. It operates without central servers, ensuring decentralized communication and offering anonymity by design. Ideal for those prioritizing secure and private digital interactions, it leverages strong encryption to protect messages from eavesdropping.

Unique Features

  • Highly resistant to censorship and surveillance due to decentralized nature.
  • End-to-end encryption ensures message content privacy.
  • No central server means no single point of failure or control.

Compared to Tox

Highly resistant to censorship and surveillance due to decentralized nature. compared to Tox
Message delivery can experience delays compared to real-time chat. unlike Tox
Torchat

Torchat

Open Source File Sharing Desktop Application

TorChat is a defunct decentralized anonymous instant messenger leveraging Tor hidden services for secure text communication and file sharing without central servers.

Unique Features

  • Strong anonymity through deep Tor integration.
  • Truly decentralized, no central servers.
  • Portable, leaves minimal trace on host systems.

Compared to Tox

Strong anonymity through deep Tor integration. compared to Tox
Project is discontinued, no longer updated or maintained. unlike Tox
BlackBerry Messenger

BlackBerry Messenger (BBM) was a pioneering instant messaging and videotelephony application, originally exclusive to BlackBerry devices, which expanded to support iOS, Android, and Windows Mobile. It facilitated secure text messaging, voice calls, and video calls.

Unique Features

  • Historically strong security focus.
  • Reliable message delivery with distinct read receipts.
  • Early cross-platform support.

Compared to Tox

Historically strong security focus. compared to Tox
Lacked the feature-richness of some later competitors. unlike Tox
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 Tox

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

Firefox Hello was a simple, browser-based video and audio communication tool built directly into the Firefox browser. It allowed users to connect with others quickly and easily through sharable links, requiring no registration or account creation. Its core focus was on immediate, privacy-conscious communication.

Unique Features

  • No account or registration required for use.
  • Integrated directly into the Firefox browser for convenience.
  • Focused on user privacy and utilized peer-to-peer technology.

Compared to Tox

No account or registration required for use. compared to Tox
Suffered from limited features compared to competitors. unlike Tox
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 Tox

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

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

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

Wickr

Free Social & Communications Instant Messaging

Wickr is a secure and private instant messaging platform designed for individuals and teams who prioritize confidentiality. It offers end-to-end encryption, self-destructing messages, and a focus on anonymity to ensure that conversations and shared data remain protected.

Unique Features

  • Strong end-to-end encryption for all communication types.
  • Self-destructing messages offer control over data lifespan.
  • Emphasis on user anonymity and minimal metadata collection.

Compared to Tox

Strong end-to-end encryption for all communication types. compared to Tox
User base might be smaller compared to mainstream messengers. unlike Tox
Ricochet

Ricochet

Open Source File Sharing Instant Messaging

Ricochet is a peer-to-peer instant messaging application designed for maximum privacy and anonymity. It leverages the Tor network to connect users directly, eliminating the need for central servers and reducing metadata leakage.

Unique Features

  • Highly resistant to surveillance and censorship due to serverless and Tor-based design.
  • Excellent anonymity features, masking user identity and location.
  • End-to-end encryption ensures message content privacy.

Compared to Tox

Highly resistant to surveillance and censorship due to serverless and Tor-based design. compared to Tox
Performance can be slow due to reliance on the Tor network. unlike Tox
Pidgin-Encryption

Pidgin-Encryption

Open Source Pidgin Plugin Pidgin Plugin

Pidgin-Encryption is a plugin for the popular Pidgin instant messaging client that provides transparent, end-to-end encryption for your conversations using RSA.

Unique Features

  • Provides strong end-to-end encryption for Pidgin.
  • Transparent operation after initial setup.
  • Utilizes the well-regarded RSA algorithm.

Compared to Tox

Provides strong end-to-end encryption for Pidgin. compared to Tox
Requires manual key exchange with each contact. unlike Tox
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 Tox

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

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