Secure, private messaging for everyone. No ads, no tracking
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475 reviews trackedThe Bottom Line
Entry price
Free, no paid tier
Biggest pro
Strongest available end-to-end encryption for all communication types.
Biggest con
Requires recipients to also use Signal for encrypted communication.
TL;DR - Signal
- Provides state-of-the-art end-to-end encryption for all messages and calls.
- Operates as an independent nonprofit with no ads, trackers, or data monetization.
- Supports secure text, voice, video, and group messaging across devices.
Pricing: Free forever
Best for: Individuals & startups
4.4/5 across review platforms
What is Signal?
Signal is a privacy-focused messaging application that provides end-to-end encryption for all communications, including text messages, voice messages, photos, videos, GIFs, and files. It operates as an independent nonprofit organization, ensuring that user data is never tracked, monetized, or sold to third parties. The platform is designed for individuals and groups who prioritize privacy and security in their digital conversations, offering a robust alternative to conventional messaging services.
Utilizing the open-source Signal Protocol, the application guarantees that only the sender and intended recipient can access message content, preventing Signal itself or any other entity from reading messages or listening to calls. It supports crystal-clear voice and video calls, group chats, and encrypted stickers, all without ads or trackers. Signal leverages a phone's data connection to avoid SMS and MMS fees, making it a cost-effective and secure communication tool for global use.
Pros & Cons
Pros
- Strongest available end-to-end encryption for all communication types.
- Operates as a nonprofit, ensuring no commercial interests in user data.
- Completely free to use with no hidden costs or subscriptions.
- Open-source Signal Protocol provides transparency and auditability.
Cons
- Requires recipients to also use Signal for encrypted communication.
- Does not offer cloud backup of message history, which can be a limitation for some users.
Ratings Across the Web
4.4(475 reviews)
Ratings aggregated from independent review platforms. Learn more
Preview
Key Features
End-to-end encrypted messagingEncrypted voice callsEncrypted video callsEncrypted group chatsEncrypted file sharingEncrypted sticker packsCustomizable sticker creationNo ads or trackers
Pricing Plans
Pricing checked Jun 10, 2026
Free
Free
- End-to-end encryption
- Share text, voice messages, photos, videos, GIFs and files
- Voice and video calls
- Encrypted stickers
- Group chats
- No ads
- No trackers
Reviews
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4.4/5
Across 475 verified user reviews on G2, Capterra
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Signal FAQ
How does Signal ensure the privacy of user communications?
Signal ensures privacy by providing end-to-end encryption for all communications, meaning only the sender and intended recipient can access message content. It operates as an independent nonprofit organization, guaranteeing that user data is never tracked, monetized, or sold to third parties.
Which teams would benefit most from using Signal?
Teams that prioritize security and privacy in their digital conversations would benefit most from Signal. It is suitable for groups needing secure communication for text messages, voice messages, photos, videos, and files without concerns about data tracking or monetization.
How is Signal's approach to user data different from Telegram?
Signal operates as an independent nonprofit organization, which means it has no commercial interests in user data and does not track, monetize, or sell user information. Unlike some other platforms, all communications on Signal are end-to-end encrypted by default.
What kind of user would find Signal most suitable for their communication needs?
Signal is most suitable for individuals who prioritize privacy and security in their digital conversations. It offers a robust alternative to conventional messaging services by ensuring that user data is never tracked, monetized, or sold.
How is Signal priced?
Signal is completely free to use, with no hidden costs or subscriptions. It operates as a nonprofit organization, ensuring that there are no commercial interests in user data and no paid plans are required.
What are the main limitations users should consider when choosing Signal?
A primary limitation is that all recipients must also use Signal for encrypted communication to occur. Additionally, Signal does not offer cloud backup of message history, which might be a consideration for some users.
Can Signal be used for secure group discussions?
Yes, Signal supports secure group chats, with all communications, including text, voice, photos, and videos, protected by end-to-end encryption. This ensures that only members of the group can access the content.
Source: signal.org