Tool profile
Telegram
Telegram is a messaging app with a focus on speed and security. It’s superfast, simple and free.
What is 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.
While the facts list Telegram as open source and free to use with no advertisements, they do not provide specific details on any paid tier or pricing plans beyond its free status, so check their official site for current plans. The platform relies on Web access alongside its listed device applications and requires weighing its specific security protocol and large group capacity against other collaboration tools.
Features
Privacy and Security
Telegram offers end-to-end encryption for its Secret Chats and uses its MTProto protocol to ensure secure communication.
Multi-Platform Support
Telegram is available on multiple platforms, including iOS, Android, Windows, macOS, and Linux, ensuring seamless access across different devices.
Cloud Storage
Users can store and access their messages, files, and media in the cloud, making it easy to retrieve conversations from any device.
Large Group Chats
Telegram supports large group chats with up to 200,000 members, making it suitable for communities and public discussion groups.
Bots and Automation
Developers can create custom bots to automate tasks, provide customer service, or deliver content, enhancing the utility of the platform.
Customization
Users can customize the app's appearance with themes, chat backgrounds, and other visual settings to suit their preferences.
Free and Ad-Free
Telegram is free to use and does not show advertisements, which enhances the user experience.
File Sharing
Users can share various types of files, including videos, documents, and images, with a generous file size limit of up to 2GB.
Screenshots
Telegram vs. its alternatives
| Telegram |  Slack |  Discord |  Element.io |  Tox | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Pricing | Open source | — | Open source | Open source, Free | Open source |
| Platforms | — | ||||
| Listed features | 8 | 6 | 8 | 6 | 5 |
Frequently asked questions
How much does Telegram cost?
Telegram is free to use and does not show advertisements.
What is Telegram used for?
Telegram is used for fast and secure messaging, supporting large group chats with up to 200,000 members, file sharing up to 2GB, and task automation through custom bots.
What platforms is Telegram available on?
Telegram is available on iOS, Android, Windows, macOS, Linux, and the Web.
How does Telegram handle privacy and security?
Telegram offers end-to-end encryption for its Secret Chats and utilizes its MTProto protocol to ensure secure communication.
Can I store files in Telegram?
Yes, Telegram provides cloud storage so users can store and access their messages, files, and media from any device, with individual file sharing up to 2GB.
What are the best alternatives to Telegram?
Some known alternatives to Telegram include Slack, Discord, Element.io, Tox, and Signal. You might choose an alternative depending on your specific requirements for team collaboration, open-source protocols, or alternative security models.
Alternatives to Telegram
Read the full comparison →Slack
A messaging app for teams who see through the Earth!
Discord
Step up your game with a modern voice & text chat app. Crystal clear voice, multiple server and channel support, mobile apps, and more.
Element.io
Secure messaging app with strong end-to-end encryption, advanced group chat privacy settings, secure video calls for teams, encrypted communication using Matrix open network. Riot.im is now Element.
Tox
Send messages, files, create groups and make Tox to Tox audio and video calls. Securely.
Signal
Fast, simple & secure messaging. Privacy that fits in your pocket.
Wire
Private & Secure Messenger
