Signal review
Private messaging and calls, encrypted by default
- Signal Foundation
- Free
- iPhone & iPad, Android, Mac, Windows, Linux
Does it deserve #1?
The verdict
Signal is the messenger to pick when privacy matters. Every message, call and group chat is end-to-end encrypted by default, and the nonprofit behind it collects almost no data. Usernames let you chat without sharing your phone number. The catch is reach: fewer of your friends may use it, and it lacks extras like channels and bots. Use it for anything sensitive.
- End-to-end encryption by default
- Usernames that hide your number
- Disappearing messages
- Encrypted backups and group calls
Score breakdown
Overall = features 30% · design 20% · speed 20% · value 15% · privacy 15%. Why these weights?
What we like
- Strongest privacy of any mainstream messenger
- Free, with no ads, and run by a nonprofit
- Clean, fast apps on phone and desktop
What could be better
- Fewer of your contacts are likely to use it
- No channels, bots or large community features
Anyone who wants private chats and calls without trading data for convenience
you need large public communities, bots or broadcast channels
Questions about Signal
Is Signal free?
Yes, Signal is free, has no ads and is funded by donations. The only paid option is extra storage for encrypted backups of older photos and videos.
Can Signal read my messages?
No. Messages and calls are end-to-end encrypted, so only you and the people you talk to can read them, and Signal keeps very little metadata.
What are the best alternatives to Signal?
The closest alternatives are WhatsApp, Telegram and Slack. See all of them ranked on our Signal alternatives page.
Where does Signal rank?
Signal ranks #1 of 8 in our Messaging & Calls ranking, with an overall score of 9.2 out of 10.