Tox Alternatives for Linux

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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

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.