Side by side
Irssi vs LAN Messenger
Both stand on team chat apps. Which one you can start free with, which one lets you read the code, and what each costs once you pay.
Free plan LinuxWindows
Irssi offers a scriptable, themeable text client with broad protocol integrations and Linux support. Windows users need Cygwin or WSL, and source compilation has stated build requirements.
Visit Irssi Free plan LinuxMacWindows
LAN Messenger focuses on local-network communication with messaging, broadcasts, file transfers, and archives. Its free availability across three desktop platforms may fit teams that do not need internet-based chat.
Visit LAN MessengerThe facts
| Irssi | LAN Messenger | |
|---|---|---|
| Free plan | Yes | Yes |
| Open source | Not published | Not published |
| Runs on | Linux, Windows | Linux, Mac, Windows |
| Lowest paid plan | Free or on request | Free or on request |
| Plans published | 1 | 1 |
| Maker | Irssi | Not published |
| Website | irssi.org | lanmessenger.github.io |
| On team chat apps | #48 of 63 | #44 of 63 |
Irssi: what it does well
- Free and open-source
- Built-in IRC with ICB and SILC modules
- Runs on Linux and Windows through Cygwin or WSL
- Themeable messages with true colours
- Supports scripting and automated channel joins
What to know first
- Windows use requires Cygwin or WSL
- Source builds require Ninja 1.5 and Meson 0.49
- Volunteer support may not be immediately available
- Third-party modules lack developer warranty
LAN Messenger: what it does well
- Works without a server or internet connection
- Broadcasts messages to everyone or selected users
- Transfers files across the local network
- Archives conversations for later access
- Supports Windows, macOS, and Linux
What to know first
- No free trial is offered
- Requires users to share a local network
- Encryption details come from the maker's statement
Alternatives to Irssi Alternatives to LAN Messenger The whole list