10 Best Signal Alternatives (Compared)

Signal, which is popular for its privacy-first approach, now has close to 70 million monthly active users globally as of 2025.

The video calling app has earned the Mozilla “Best Of” privacy label alongside Threema.

Yet, users are searching for Signal alternative apps for reasons that include (but aren’t limited to) lack of advanced features, broader multi-device support, or varied user experiences. 

Below are ten alternatives that strike the right balance between security and usability.

Let’s get started.

Comparison Table: Signal vs Alternatives

AppCore StrengthEncryptionUnique AdvantageBetter Than Signal Because…
FaceCallPrivacy + video-first usabilityE2EECaller ID previews, adaptive bitrateAdvanced controls + usability
WhatsAppGlobal adoptionE2EE3B+ users, payments, AI toolsLarger base, richer features
TelegramCommunity + featuresPartial200K groups, bots, cloud syncScalable + flexible
ThreemaAnonymity + complianceE2EENo phone #, Swiss jurisdictionMore anonymous
Wickr MeEphemeral + enterpriseE2EEScreenshot deterrence, expirationStronger self-destruct tools
ViberCalling + communitiesE2EEViber Out, public channelsMore global accessibility
WireEnterprise complianceE2EEGDPR + enterprise toolsBusiness-ready
ElementDecentralized protocolE2EEFederated, bridges to other appsOpen + interoperable
SessionBlockchain privacyE2EENo phone #, metadata protectionStronger anonymity
DustEphemeral socialE2EEAuto-delete + screenshot alertsCasual + ephemeral-first

1. FaceCall

FaceCall is a private video caller ID app that combines video calling and messaging into a single platform that marries strong privacy with smart usability. 

Launched recently, it emphasizes end-to-end encryption (E2EE), transparent funding (no data mining), multilingual support, and intelligent call controls. 

Designed for global users who want both privacy and advanced calling features, FaceCall is emerging quickly as one of the best WhatsApp alternatives.

Features

  • Video Caller ID previews before you pick up
  • Adaptive bitrate for stable low-bandwidth video/audio
  • Full privacy control over profile visibility and message access
  • No ads
  • Lightweight mobile performance and multilingual UI

Why FaceCall is Better than Signal?

  • More usable: You’re not limited to text and calls. FaceCall prioritizes intelligent video-first experiences.
  • Advanced privacy controls: Fine-tuned visibility options for profile and messages that Signal lacks.
  • Global readiness: Built for high-quality video in varied network conditions.
  • Funding model: No data mining; more ethical than reliance on donations.

Try FaceCall Now – The most secure communication app with Video Caller ID.

2. WhatsApp (Privacy-Friendly Use)

WhatsApp remains the most downloaded messaging app globally, with over 3 billion monthly active users.

Owned by Meta, it now integrates a wide array of features: AI-powered tools, payment modules, and chat filters, but still retains E2EE for messages by default.

Features

  • End-to-end encryption across messages, calls, and media
  • Rich chat features: voice notes, stickers, file sharing, and more
  • Broad global usage across demographics and markets
  • Multi-device capabilities (recently improved)

Why It Beats Signal for Some Users?

  • Scale: WhatsApp’s huge user base makes it easier to connect without onboarding hurdles.
  • Rich features: More media formats, payments, and filters for daily use.
  • Cross-device UX: Better support than Signal’s more limited multi-device approach.

Also Read: Best Coomeet Alternatives

3. Telegram

Telegram has crossed the 1 billion active users mark by 2025.

Known for its powerful features like mega-groups, bots, channels, and flexible settings, Telegram is quickly becoming one of the most popular communication apps. 

While cloud-based messages aren’t end-to-end encrypted by default, it remains popular among users who prioritize community-building and control.

Features

  • Massive group and channel support (up to 200K members)
  • Bot automation, scheduled messaging, customizable themes
  • Cloud-based sync across devices
  • Optional Secret Chat for full E2EE

Why It Could Outclass Signal

  • Scalability: Superior for managing large communities or brand presence.
  • Productivity tools: Bots and automation features are not in Signal.
  • Cross-device synchrony: Smooth, cloud-synced experience across platforms.

Also Read: Telegram vs WhatsApp vs FaceCall

4. Threema

Threema, which is a Swiss app, earned Mozilla’s “Best Of” privacy label due to its strict focus on anonymized usage and strong security standards.

Unlike Signal, Threema doesn’t require a phone number, which ultimately offers greater user privacy.

Features

  • E2EE for all communication forms
  • No phone number or email required, anonymous by design
  • GDPR-compliant, based in Switzerland
  • Paid one-time license with no ads or subscriptions

Why It’s a Better Signal Alternative for Privacy Purists?

  • Anonymity: You don’t need to provide a phone number.
  • Compliance: EU-friendly, ideal for corporate or regulatory environments.
  • One-time cost: No pressure to upgrade or subscribe.

5. Wickr Me

Wickr Me is a secure messaging platform favored by IT professionals and privacy-conscious users. 

Features include E2EE, ephemeral messaging, and secure group collaboration. While not mainstream, it holds a strong position in enterprise and activist communities worldwide.

Features

  • Self-destructing messages with custom expiration timing
  • E2EE with forward secrecy
  • Anonymous guest rooms and group sharing
  • On-camera privacy watermarking for screen capture deterrence

Why It Surpasses Signal for Advanced Security Needs?

  • Ephemeral by default: Strong message expiration controls.
  • Anonymous sharing: Useful for guest interactions.
  • Unauthorized screenshot protection: Adds a layer Signal lacks.

6. Viber

Viber, owned by Rakuten, has over 820 million registered users worldwide. 

It’s especially popular in Eastern Europe and parts of Asia, combining strong messaging with voice and video calls. 

E2EE is standard for private chats, and Viber also supports public communities.

Features

  • E2EE for private messages and calls
  • Free and paid international calling options
  • Stickers, GIFs, and file sharing
  • Viber Out: cheap VoIP calls to non-users

Why It’s Better than Signal?

  • Global adoption: More mainstream in certain regions, easier to find contacts.
  • Calling plans: Signal doesn’t offer international call credits.
  • Community support: Public channels expand reach beyond personal chats.

7. Wire

Wire, headquartered in Switzerland, is tailored for businesses and secure collaboration. 

It offers enterprise-grade encrypted conferencing. Wire has positioned itself as a trusted solution for regulated industries.

Features

  • E2EE across messaging, calls, and file transfers
  • Self-hosting option for enterprises
  • Conference calls with strong compliance features
  • Supports guest access and ephemeral chats

Why It Beats Signal?

  • Enterprise readiness: Signal doesn’t provide enterprise-level admin controls.
  • Regulatory compliance: Wire aligns with strict European data laws.
  • Team collaboration: Stronger group management features.

8. Element (Matrix)

Element, built on the open-source Matrix protocol, has grown in adoption thanks to its decentralized architecture. 

Matrix boasts over 115 million accounts globally. 

Element allows full data ownership, bridging with Slack, WhatsApp, and others.

Features

  • Federated communication—choose your own server
  • E2EE with cross-signing
  • Bridges for cross-platform messaging
  • Open-source and auditable

Why It’s Stronger than Signal?

  • Decentralization: You own your data; Signal relies on its servers.
  • Interoperability: Bridges connect to multiple apps.
  • Enterprise hosting: Self-hosted secure option for organizations.

9. Session

Session is an open-source messenger using the Oxen blockchain for decentralized message routing. It avoids central servers, ensuring metadata privacy. 

While niche, it’s valued by activists and privacy extremists.

Features

  • No phone number required
  • Onion routing via Oxen Service Nodes
  • Encrypted group chats and file sharing
  • Open-source with regular audits

Why It’s Superior to Signal for Some?

  • No metadata: Signal still requires phone numbers, Session doesn’t.
  • Blockchain-backed privacy: Adds resilience against central outages.
  • Community-driven: Independent from large corporations.

10. Dust

Dust (formerly Cyber Dust, backed by Mark Cuban) focuses on ephemeral messaging. 

It deletes messages within 24 hours or after they’re read, leaving minimal trace. While not as popular as Signal, it’s useful for private exchanges.

Features

  • Ephemeral messages with auto-delete
  • Screenshot detection
  • Group chats and link previews
  • Minimal data retention

Why It Outshines Signal for Ephemeral Chats?

  • Default expiration: Built for disappearing conversations.
  • Extra screenshot alerts: Helps maintain confidentiality.
  • Lightweight: More casual and fast-paced than Signal.

Which Signal Alternative Fits You?

If privacy is your baseline, all these apps are solid contenders. But your choice depends on use case:

  • FaceCall → Best all-rounder with privacy + advanced video-first experience.
  • WhatsApp → If ubiquity matters most.
  • Telegram → For communities and productivity.
  • Threema/Session → For anonymity purists.
  • Wire/Element → For businesses needing compliance.
  • Dust/Wickr → For ephemeral, confidential messaging.

For most global users seeking a modern, privacy-first, but usable Signal alternative, FaceCall is the clear leader. It balances usability, security, and global readiness better than any other platform.

Download FaceCall now and experience one of the most secure forms of video communication.