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WhatsApp vs Signal
WhatsApp vs Signal
A side-by-side look at WhatsApp (the paid SaaS) and Signal (the open source alternative). Use this page to decide if the switch fits your team and workflow.
| Signal | ||
|---|---|---|
| Tagline | Global mobile messaging. | Encrypted messaging for individuals and small groups. |
| License | Proprietary SaaS | AGPL-3.0 / GPL-3.0 |
| Pricing | Free. | Free to self-host · optional paid hosted plan |
| Self-host option | No | Yes — difficulty 5/5 |
| Hosted cloud available | Yes (only option) | Yes |
| Desktop apps | Varies by product | Windows, macOS, Linux |
| Mobile apps | Official apps typically available | iOS, Android |
Ad slot — between tables
Best for
The gold-standard encrypted 1-to-1 and small group messenger.
Signal strengths
- Gold-standard end-to-end encryption.
- Non-profit governance.
- Clean, minimal UX.
Signal weaknesses
- Requires phone number for registration.
- Self-hosting the server is effectively impossible in practice.
- Not designed for large teams or admin controls.
What's the catch with WhatsApp?
- Owned by Meta; metadata and backup privacy concerns.
- No federation — you are locked into the platform.
- Mandatory phone number for account.
Still unsure?
Check the full list of alternatives to WhatsApp: see WhatsApp alternatives, or learn more about Signal on its project page.