Side by side
Cwtch vs Jami
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
Choose Cwtch for free encrypted peer-to-peer conversations over Tor v3, especially if an open protocol matters. Look elsewhere if you need peer chats to work while one person is offline or want group messaging outside experimental settings.
Visit Cwtch
Free plan Open source AndroidAPIExtension+6
Jami brings messaging, calls, and conferencing together in a peer-to-peer communication app. Check client-specific feature availability, particularly if you rely on extensions or bot and API access.
Visit JamiThe facts
| Cwtch | Jami | |
|---|---|---|
| Free plan | Yes | Yes |
| Open source | Not published | Yes |
| Runs on | Android, Linux, Mac, Windows | Android, API, Extension, iPhone, Linux, Mac, Self-hosted, Web, Windows |
| Lowest paid plan | Free or on request | Free or on request |
| Plans published | 1 | 1 |
| Maker | Not published | Not published |
| Website | cwtch.im | jami.net |
| On encrypted messaging apps | #4 of 43 | #1 of 43 |
Cwtch: what it does well
- Free plan across Android, Linux, macOS, and Windows.
- Peer chats use Tor v3 onion services.
- Communication is end-to-end encrypted by default.
- Open protocol supports third-party bots, services, and interfaces.
- History can be enabled for individual conversations.
What to know first
- Both participants must be online for peer-to-peer chats.
- Groups require enabling experimental settings.
- No global display-name registry increases impersonation risk.
Jami: what it does well
- Free/libre software with end-to-end encrypted communications.
- Messaging, calls, group chats, and conferences are included.
- Account creation does not require personal information.
- Supports file sharing, screen sharing, and media streaming.
What to know first
- Extensions are unavailable to iOS users.
- Feature availability varies by client.
- Bot account and API access are limited to desktop Linux, macOS, and Windows.