The 3 Best Alternatives to WhatsApp (That actually work)
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WhatsApp has long been the default messaging app for millions of users worldwide. However, its run as king of the hill could be coming to an end, as recent concerns over data privacy, an increase in bugs and overall limited features, are all incentivising people to find better options for messaging.
Honestly, it's completely understandable.
In this blog we're going to discuss quality over quantity, showcasing what we thing are the 3 best alternatives to the WhatsApp monopoly.
1. Telegram – Private, Functional and Easy to use
Telegram has steadily emerged as one of the most powerful and flexible messaging platforms on the market. Unlike WhatsApp, Telegram is cloud-based, which means your messages, files, and media sync instantly across all devices—no need for backups or worrying about switching phones.
From having around 300 million active users in pre-Covid 2019, Telegram is now closing in on 1 billion active monthly users in May 2025.
Why are so many people switching to Telegram specifically? Well it simply provides what people are looking for, privacy and control. Unlike WhatsApp, which stores backup data in the cloud (often unencrypted), Telegram offers secure cloud-based chats that sync instantly across devices. You never have to worry about losing your messages when switching phones, and everything is accessible from your laptop, tablet, or desktop too.
Secret Chats also use end-to-end encryption and can be set to automatically delete messages after a certain time. You also have the ability to hide your phone number, manage who can contact you, and prevent others from adding you to random groups without permission.
Telegram also supports massive group chats of up to 200,000 members, making it ideal for communities, clubs, and growing audiences, hence why so many influencers and marketers are setting up camp there. It offers unique broadcasting features through its Channels, allowing creators and businesses to reach unlimited followers with updates, promotions, or content—without relying on social media algorithms.
And it’s not just about chatting. You can join interest-based channels, follow content creators, listen to podcasts, share large media files, or explore niche communities—all within the same app. It’s like a hybrid between a messaging platform and a social network, without the ads or algorithmic noise.
For many users, the switch to Telegram comes down to this: they’re tired of feeling boxed in by limited features and unclear data policies. Telegram feels more open, more transparent, and more respectful of its users. It doesn’t assume how you want to communicate—it gives you the tools and lets you decide.
In short, Telegram is becoming the smart choice for people who value privacy, flexibility, and simplicity, whether you're tech-savvy or just looking for a better messaging app that respects your time and attention.
Our own platform is built around Telegram for a reason. We’ve seen first-hand how effective it is for building authentic engagement, growing communities, and delivering content at scale. If you’re looking for a messaging app that adapts to your needs rather than limiting them, Telegram is hard to beat.
Signal – Privacy and Simple Communication
Signal has built its reputation on one simple promise: complete privacy. For many users, especially those concerned about how their personal data is handled, Signal is the go-to app for secure communication.
What sets Signal apart is that every message and call is end-to-end encrypted by default. That means no one—not even Signal itself—can read your conversations. The app collects virtually no metadata, doesn't store backups on external servers, and is fully open-source. It’s backed by a non-profit foundation and has become a favourite among journalists, human rights workers, and privacy-conscious individuals.
For the average user, Signal offers a clean, straightforward interface with all the essentials—text messaging, voice and video calls, media sharing, and disappearing messages. There are no ads, no bots, and no distractions. The app is designed to do one thing exceptionally well: keep your conversations private.
However, Signal does keep things intentionally minimal. It doesn’t offer much in the way of customization, community building, or automation tools. This simplicity is ideal for users who value a pure messaging experience without the bells and whistles, but it may feel limited to those who want more flexibility.
If your primary concern is staying off the grid and keeping your conversations truly private, Signal delivers on its promise without compromise. It’s a strong, focused option for people who prefer simplicity and peace of mind over added features.
Viber – The Practical, Long-Lost Cousin of WhatsApp.
Viber has quietly remained one of the most reliable messaging apps over the years, especially in regions like Eastern Europe, Southeast Asia, and the Middle East. Many people consider it the Android version of WhatsApp.
It offers a balanced mix of features that make it a solid WhatsApp alternative for both personal and international communication.
Viber includes also end-to-end encryption, as well as voice and video calling, group messaging, and multimedia sharing. Where it really stands out is with Viber Out, a feature that allows users to make affordable international calls to people who aren’t on the app—something that’s particularly helpful for those staying in touch with friends or family abroad.
The app also includes public communities and interest-based channels, similar to Telegram, though they’re not as widely adopted. Viber’s user interface is friendly and familiar, making it easy to get started for anyone coming from WhatsApp.
While Viber is a dependable platform, it doesn’t offer quite the same level of customization, cloud-based syncing, or large-scale group management that Telegram does. For users who want a straightforward, no-fuss messaging app with some global calling benefits, Viber is a practical and easy-to-use choice.
In short, Viber may not push boundaries like Telegram or prioritize privacy like Signal, but it provides a stable and effective experience for everyday communication—especially across international borders, so do not count it out.
The Verdict: Which Messaging App Should You Choose?
Each of these apps—Telegram, Signal, and Viber—offers something valuable depending on what you need.
But for users and businesses who want a flexible, scalable, and feature-rich platform that supports everything from one-on-one chats to large-scale communities, Telegram stands out as the best alternative to WhatsApp in 2025. It isn’t just a messaging app—it’s an ecosystem built for growth, engagement, and control.
If you're an entrepreneur ready to grow your presence and connect with real, targeted members on Telegram, we’re here to help. Our platform is designed to help you unlock Telegram’s full potential—securely, quickly, and effectively.