Telegram review
Fast cloud messaging with huge groups, channels and bots
- Telegram FZ-LLC
- Free + paid plans
- iPhone & iPad, Android, Mac, Windows, Linux, Web
Does it deserve #3?
The verdict
Telegram is the most feature-packed messenger around. Chats sync instantly across every device, groups can grow enormous, and channels, bots and mini apps turn it into a platform. The apps are fast and polished. The catch is privacy: regular chats live on Telegram's servers and are not end-to-end encrypted unless you start a one-on-one secret chat. Great for communities, not for secrets.
- Cloud sync across all devices
- Huge groups and broadcast channels
- Bots and mini apps
- Optional secret chats
Score breakdown
Overall = features 30% · design 20% · speed 20% · value 15% · privacy 15%. Why these weights?
What we like
- Instant sync across phone, desktop and web
- Channels and huge groups suit communities and creators
- Generous free tier with large file sharing
What could be better
- Regular chats are not end-to-end encrypted
- Spam and scams are common in public groups
Communities, creators and power users who want channels, bots and multi-device sync
you need end-to-end encryption on every chat by default
Questions about Telegram
Is Telegram free?
Yes, all core features are free. Telegram Premium is an optional subscription that adds extras like faster downloads, larger uploads and no sponsored messages in channels.
Is Telegram end-to-end encrypted?
Only partly. Regular cloud chats are encrypted between your device and Telegram's servers, while end-to-end encryption covers calls and optional one-on-one secret chats.
What are the best alternatives to Telegram?
The closest alternatives are Signal, WhatsApp and Discord. See all of them ranked on our Telegram alternatives page.
Where does Telegram rank?
Telegram ranks #3 of 8 in our Messaging & Calls ranking, with an overall score of 8.9 out of 10.