The best messaging and chat apps for Android

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This article was updated and checked for accuracy in April 2024. It was originally published in 2015.

The evolution of communication has witnessed a shift from traditional SMS and MMS messaging to an era dominated by feature-rich messaging apps. In this article, we explore instant messaging and the best messaging apps that have revolutionized the way we connect, share and stay in touch with friends and family. From encrypted security to multimedia features, these apps offer many options for modern communication enthusiasts.

The best messaging and chat apps for Android

Band

Price: Free/In-App Purchases ($1.68 – $53.09 per item)

The Band application stands out in the world of group communication. Its seamless blend of essential features such as messaging, calendaring and file sharing within one platform sets it apart from others. Users can effortlessly coordinate events, share updates and manage group activities all in one place. Its intuitive interface and robust security ensure a smooth and secure experience. The Band app simplifies group collaboration, making it an exceptional choice for teams, clubs and communities.

Strife

Price: Free / $9.99 per month / $99.99 per year

Discord ranks among the best messenger apps for gamers thanks to its impressive cross-platform compatibility spanning various mobile and computer operating systems. Moreover, it offers a web client that serves platforms that lack a dedicated native application. The app also offers voice chat, multiple text chats, GIF support and more. People on the service can create their own servers or join others as needed. It’s mostly for games. However, some use it for its fantastic organization system and above-average voice chat capabilities. The service is free to use for everyone. However, you can unlock some cosmetic add-ons with a Discord Nitro subscription.

messenger
Facebook Messenger allows users to communicate without a Facebook account, all they need is a phone number. It supports messaging, voice and video calling, and sends photos and videos using Snapchat-like filters. Conversations can be more secure with the additional “Secret Chat” feature. Despite the lack of end-to-end encryption by default, Messenger’s widespread use – reaching more than a third of the global population – makes it a versatile platform for contacting almost anyone.

Signal Private Messenger

Price: Free

Screenshot of Signal Private Messenger 2022 2

Signal Private Messenger is a full-featured and private messaging service. Its features include text and picture chatting, voice and video calling support, and end-to-end encryption. The app was one of the first to include it by default, along with Telegram. Some plugins include a basic image editor, a dark theme, and more. It saw a surge in users in 2021 after WhatsApp’s privacy policy shenanigans and is a good option for privacy if you need it.

Slack

Price: Free / $4.38 per month for the first three months

Slack is one of the better chat apps for business. It has a flawless and professional appearance. Groups can create channels, make voice calls, and more. The app also supports third-party apps like Giphy, Google Drive, Asana, and other entertainment or productivity tools. Users can also join multiple Slack servers. It’s kind of like a more professional version of Discord. Like Discord, it is also completely free with no in-app purchases. Those with larger teams who need more features can pay an additional subscription for additional things.

Skype

Price: Free/In-App Purchases ($2.99 ​​- $96.79 per item)

Skype - the best applications for sending messages

Skype is one of the most recognizable messaging apps ever. Everyone knows what Skype is and what it does. You can send text messages, video calls and voice calls to other members. You can even call people on a real phone number for a nominal fee. The app includes a few extra features that may or may not be useful. It depends on what you need. Still, this has excellent cross-platform support, support for multiple conversations, and support for most file types, including documents, GIFs, and stuff. It’s a solid option, and there’s a Lite version if you like Skype but don’t need all the features.

Screenshot of Snapchat 2021

Snapchat stands out as a distinctive messaging app, offering a range of features such as voice calls, video and photo messages, and text communication. Its unique message deletion feature sets it apart, ensuring that no message history remains except for the string counter. In addition, Snapchat stories allow users to share temporary status updates that are visible to all followers and expire in 24 hours. While other apps, notably Instagram, have imitated its features, Snapchat remains popular among younger users, offering a refreshing and special experience.

Telegram screenshot 2021

Telegram, known for its unwavering commitment to user privacy, boasts end-to-end encryption across all its communication channels. Messages, calls and files are protected from unauthorized access, ensuring confidentiality. Telegram’s optional “Secret Chat” feature enhances security by enabling self-destructing messages for ultimate privacy. Its robust encryption protocols make Telegram a fortress against prying eyes, making it a reliable choice for those who value privacy and data protection in their messaging app.

Viber Messenger

Price: Free/In-App Purchases ($0.99 – $109.99 per item)

Viber screenshot 2022

Viber is not big in some parts of the world. However, it is among the most popular messaging apps ever. It boasts a full experience, including messages, calls, self-destructing chat, group chats, video messaging and more. It also includes some extras like stickers, news from around the world and more. Most sticker packs are charged extra, hence in-app purchases. This is a relatively well-rounded conversational experience. However, it is a little heavier than most chat apps. Those who want a cleaner, more minimal experience might want to avoid this one.

Screenshot of WhatsApp 2021

Everyone knows WhatsApp. After all, it is the most popular messaging app in the world. It has many features, gets frequent updates and competes favorably with all other chat apps. It includes voice and video chats, text messages, group chats and support for most multimedia formats like GIFs, videos, etc. It is powerful, affordable and popular. It’s also free with no in-app purchases.


If we’ve missed any great messaging apps for Android, tell us about them in the comments.

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