10 tools compared
Best Tox Alternatives in 2026
Tox (Send messages, files, create groups and make Tox to Tox audio and video calls. Securely) isn't the right fit for everyone. Below are 10 real alternatives, including free options, pulled straight from our Tox profile.
| # | Tool | Pricing | Platforms |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Pidgin | — | |
| 2 | Slack | — | |
| 3 | Discord | Open source | |
| 4 | Element.io | Open source, Free | — |
| 5 | Signal | Open source | |
| 6 | Telegram | Open source | |
| 7 | Wire | Open source | |
| 8 | WhatsApp | Free | |
| 9 | Facebook Messenger | — | |
| 10 | Jitsi | — |
1. Pidgin
Pidgin is an easy-to-use chat client well-suited for users who need to connect to multiple chat networks simultaneously. Its key strength lies in multi-protocol support, allowing you to manage accounts across AIM, MSN, Google Talk, Jabber/XMPP, ICQ, and IRC from a single interface. Additionally, the software is open-source, cross-platform for Windows, macOS, and Linux, and lightweight enough to run efficiently without consuming excessive system resources.
Full Pidgin profile →2. Slack
Slack is a messaging app classified under Project Management for teams who see through the Earth! It facilitates quick decision-making and immediate problem solving through features like Real-Time Communication and Channel Organization. Users can also utilize Integration Capabilities with tools like Google Drive, Trello, and GitHub, powerful Search Functionality, Custom Notifications, and Cross-Platform Availability on desktop, web, and mobile.
Full Slack profile →3. Discord
Discord is a communication tool built for online communities and users looking for a free-to-use option. It features high-quality voice and video chat, customizable servers with channels, roles, and permissions, and rich media integration for images, videos, and links. Users can also utilize bots and integrations to automate tasks, provide information, and entertain members through a user-friendly interface.
Full Discord profile →4. Element.io
Element.io is well-suited for users in the Communication category who prioritize privacy, security, and open-source transparency. Built on the Matrix open network, it provides end-to-end encryption for messaging, advanced group chat privacy settings, and secure video calls for teams. Key features include cross-platform accessibility across web, desktop (Windows, macOS, Linux), and mobile (iOS, Android), along with the ability to set up your own server for full data control.
Full Element.io profile →5. Signal
Signal is a communication tool built for users who prioritize privacy and security across iOS, Android, and Web platforms. Its standout capabilities include End-to-End Encryption, Open Source code transparency, and a User Privacy policy that does not store metadata about contacts, messages, or activity. Beyond text messaging, it supports voice calls, video calls, and file sharing for versatile day-to-day use.
Full Signal profile →6. Telegram
Telegram is a Communication app built for users who need a free, ad-free messaging platform with a focus on speed and security. It stands out through features like end-to-end encryption for Secret Chats using the MTProto protocol, cloud storage for messages and files, and large group chats supporting up to 200,000 members. Users also get access to file sharing up to 2GB, custom bots for automation, multi-platform support across iOS, Android, Windows, macOS, and Linux, and extensive appearance customization.
Full Telegram profile →7. Wire
Wire is a private and secure messenger tailored for teams and individuals in the Communication category who prioritize strong data protection. It stands out with end-to-end encryption for all messages, calls, and files, alongside open-source code that allows anyone to audit the system for security vulnerabilities. Users also benefit from full compliance with European GDPR data protection laws.
Full Wire profile →8. WhatsApp
WhatsApp is a Communication tool used by over 2 billion users across more than 180 countries to stay in touch with friends and family. It stands out with end-to-end encryption for all messages and calls, cross-platform availability on iOS, Android, and Windows, and multimedia sharing for photos, videos, documents, and locations. Users also benefit from high-quality voice and video calls and group chats.
Full WhatsApp profile →9. Facebook Messenger
Facebook Messenger is suited for users looking to connect with a large network, as it is used by billions of people worldwide and integrates seamlessly with Facebook without needing to exchange phone numbers. Key capabilities include free messaging for unlimited text and voice messages, voice and video calls over an internet connection, multimedia support for photos, videos, GIFs, stickers, and location sharing, plus group chats, games, bots, and app integrations. It is available on iOS, Android, and desktop platforms, and includes business features such as customer support, appointment scheduling, and advertising opportunities, alongside an option for secret conversations using end-to-end encryption.
Full Facebook Messenger profile →10. Jitsi
Jitsi is a communication platform suited for users looking for open-source video calling and chat capabilities. It stands out by offering end-to-end encryption, the ability to host your own instances, and a user-friendly interface that does not require an account to start or join meetings. Its source code is freely available for inspection and modification, and it supports integration with various platforms.
Full Jitsi profile →