Side by side
Briar vs Delta Chat
Both stand on encrypted messaging apps. Which one you can start free with, which one lets you read the code, and what each costs once you pay.
Free plan AndroidLinuxMac+1
Pick Briar for free, open-source messaging with device-to-device synchronization, offline connections, and default end-to-end encryption. Consider another tool if you need full feature parity on desktop, account backup, file attachments, or dependable Android background operation.
Visit Briar
Free plan AndroidiPhoneLinux+3
Delta Chat offers default end-to-end encryption and broad platform support at no charge. Note the visible server metadata and the stated limitations around browser access, classic email, and calls.
Visit Delta ChatThe facts
| Briar | Delta Chat | |
|---|---|---|
| Free plan | Yes | Yes |
| Open source | Not published | Not published |
| Runs on | Android, Linux, Mac, Windows | Android, iPhone, Linux, Mac, Self-hosted, Windows |
| Lowest paid plan | Free or on request | Free or on request |
| Plans published | 1 | 1 |
| Maker | Not published | Not published |
| Website | briarproject.org | delta.chat |
| On encrypted messaging apps | #3 of 43 | #7 of 43 |
Briar: what it does well
- Peer-to-peer synchronization avoids a central server
- Works offline over Bluetooth, Wi-Fi, or memory cards
- Uses Tor when Internet access is available
- End-to-end encryption is enabled by default
- Stores messages on the device, not in the cloud
What to know first
- Desktop lacks several Android features
- The maker reports high battery usage
- Android background operation can be unreliable
- No account backup or file attachments
Delta Chat: what it does well
- Messages and attachments are encrypted by default.
- Available across mobile and desktop platforms.
- Chats support interactive web apps.
- Free plan; no trial required.
What to know first
- Servers can see addresses and message size.
- No immediate plans for a web client.
- Calls remained behind a debug setting in March 2026.
- Classic email relays have limited support and no typical push.
Alternatives to Briar Alternatives to Delta Chat The whole list